Oceanfast is building the largest aluminium private luxury motor yacht in the world for golfer Greg Norman.

Aussie Rules, the first in the series of "Norman Expedition Yachts" has reached a major milestone Ü on Saturday, 13 October 2001 the top deck superstructure was transported from Oceanfast's composite fibreglass factory to the main waterfront facilities to sit alongside the already complete 69.5 metre / 228 ft full displacement hull where it will be pre-fitted with engineering and electrical systems and completely faired and painted before being positioned on the sun deck later this year.

Backing the superstructure into the assembly facility

According to Oceanfast's General Manager Brad Draper, "The move went very smoothly. At 16 metres / 52 ft long and 8 metres / 26 ft wide it has been specifically built as a module in high-tech composite fibreglass. The structure also incorporates an outdoor seating area above and a large communications mast and crow's nest, which can accommodate five people and will provide an excellent vantage point at 17 metres / 56 ft above sea level. It is also one of four places on the yacht where there is a station in which the Captain can control the vessel".

The superstructure is delicately lowered by overhead crane.

The 3 metre / 10 ft mast cannot be fitted until the massive yacht is removed from the construction hall when complete.

On completion of the owner's private sun deck, which also features an outdoor jacuzzi / pool and bar area, this module will be fitted out with a state-of-the-art cinema lounge equipped with all the latest audiovisual gear for the Norman family's entertainment. In the forward section is an observation lounge that features timber dÚcor and will offer superb panoramic views when the yacht is underway.

Constructed in-house by a skilled team of 30 composite specialist tradespeople, "Oceanfast has long pioneered and promoted the use of composite fibreglass for complex superstructure and mast constructions. Not only for weight saving and elimination of any corrosion, but significantly the easy integration of complex shapes and forms requiring minimal fairing materials plus the improved acoustic and thermal properties the product provides", said Brad Draper.

Using the latest 3D-modelling computer technology, Oceanfast's design team "virtually" built the superstructure allowing Oceanfast's composite mould makers the benefit of viewing key areas and curves in their entirety during construction.

An entirely new classification of yacht unlike any other ever built, Aussie Rules will provide the exploration essentials typical of a commercial expedition vessel without sacrificing the luxury of a traditional yacht. Its design and engineering will allow her to undergo a broad range of expeditions and voyages from the shallow waters of the Great Barrier Reef to deep ocean cruising.

Editors Note: Follow the construction of Aussie Rules on the web site: www.oceanfast.com.au which features daily web cam images for public view.