Hullbot

The co-founders' backgrounds are complementary to the company's mission. Tom Loefler, the CEO, is an industrial designer and inventor with a passion for using robotics to improve ocean health. His experience spans multiple industries, including transportation, medical devices, and scientific equipment. The initial idea for Hullbot sparked during his honors year at UNSW Industrial Design. Karl Watfern serves as the CTO. Together, they lead a full-stack robotics company that has developed its technology through at least six iterations.

Hullbot's primary service is a proactive, high-frequency cleaning solution offered on a subscription basis. Rather than allowing heavy biofouling to accumulate, which requires intensive cleaning, Hullbot's robots gently clean slime and early-stage growth frequently, sometimes multiple times a week. This approach maintains the vessel's hull in optimal condition, reducing fuel consumption by as much as 12-20% and minimizing the need for toxic, ablative anti-fouling coatings. The robots, which weigh around 10kg, are equipped with 4K cameras, sensors, and gentle brushes, allowing them to operate autonomously day or night without disrupting the vessel's schedule. Beyond cleaning, the system provides regular hull inspection reports, creating 3D models to detect damage without the need for human divers. The company serves both commercial fleet operators, such as the NRMA's Manly Fast Ferry, and private yacht owners.