Sphere Drones secures $1.89m deal with NSW National Parks

Sphere Drones has secured a significant contract with the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) as part of the state's Natural Hazards Technology Program.

Under the agreement, Sphere Drones will supply its HubX drone-in-a-box systems, valued at $1.89 million, to bolster the region's natural hazard management capabilities.

The project will enable real-time aerial monitoring of events like bushfires from remote command centres, with initial deployments planned across several national parks, including the Yirraldiya Park, Tugalong, Nattai, Yathong, and Kosciuszko National Parks. These installations aim to assist NPWS in preserving biodiversity, managing natural hazards, and maintaining feral-free zones by utilising the advanced HubX technology.

The HubX system is designed for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations and is equipped on a 4WD-capable trailer. This configuration is particularly suited to remote and rugged landscapes, providing seamless drone operations where needed. Sphere Drones has been working closely with NPWS and Gareth Pickford, the Chief Remote Pilot, to ensure comprehensive understanding and compliance with BVLOS approvals.

Paris Cockinos, CEO of Sphere Drones, stated, "We're proud to partner with NPWS to safeguard some of the most ecologically important regions in New South Wales. HubX's innovative technology will allow NPWS to deploy drones quickly in remote areas, boosting their capability to monitor high-risk zones, prevent bushfires, and conserve endangered wildlife."

"Following our success with WA Police, this win reinforces our commitment to providing practical, impactful solutions for public safety and environmental conservation across Australia."

The partnership extends beyond NPWS, as Sphere Drones will also collaborate with the Forestry Corporation NSW and the NSW Reconstruction Authority. This joint effort aims to maximise the deployment and effectiveness of the HubX system across different sectors, thereby enhancing public safety and environmental protection throughout the state.

The operational advantages offered by the HubX system include expedited response times to natural events like bushfires, improved conservation practices using advanced monitoring tools, and increased efficiency in monitoring extensive, hard-to-reach areas.

The NSW Natural Hazards Technology Program will run from January 2024 to June 2025 and includes a 12-month pilot phase. During this period, HubX will be tested under real-world conditions to help reinforce NPWS's hazard management capabilities.

This achievement for Sphere Drones follows its recent collaboration with the Western Australian Police Force's Drones as First Responder (DFR) program, marking continued growth and recognition in applying drone technology for governmental operations across Australia. The company's suite of innovative solutions continues to position it as a reputable figure in enhancing public safety, increasing operational efficiencies, and supporting environmental initiatives.