The Queensland Government’s reforms to marine rescue operations in Queensland are delivering real benefits to volunteer units across the state.
An investment of over $22 million by the Miles Government is delivering new vessels for marine rescue units up and down the Queensland Coast.
Several vessels have already been delivered, with recipient unit locations including:
- Thursday Island,
- Tin Can Bay,
- Rockhampton,
- Cairns,
- Currumbin, and
- Mackay.
In addition, the following units will receive a vessel during 2024:
- Redcliffe, and
- Bundaberg.
For the first time, it can be now revealed publicly that the following unit locations are expected to receive a new vessel by the end of next financial year:
- Brisbane (QF2 based at Manly),
- Noosa,
- Mornington Island,
- Weipa,
- Southport,
- Round Hill,
- Midge Point,
- Port Douglas,
- Cardwell,
- Tully,
- Sandy Straits, and
- Yeppoon.
The Vessel Replacement Program is underpinned by an evidence-based decision-making process based on a review of accumulated resource to risk information which includes operational requirements such as activation history and boating population, vessel condition, fit for purpose status, current capability, unit funding and the ability to support the community.
Police Minister Mark Ryan said “The vessel delivery program is one of the key benefits of the historic reforms the government has made to marine rescue operations in Queensland.
“Our marine rescue volunteers do incredible work out on the water every day supporting the community and keeping those on the water safe.
“And our volunteers deserve to have the best possible vessels and equipment to enable them to undertake their life-saving work.”
Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said“I welcome these new vessels that will help ensure our water community keeps safe and feels safe.
“Marine rescue volunteers are dedicated to delivering important local community safety services and supporting their local community.
“These modernised vessels will help provide improved capability for volunteers responding to rescue situations.”
Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Tony Wulff said“Marine rescue volunteers deliver life-saving local community safety services.
“New and modern rescue vessels enhance the services volunteers tirelessly provide, supporting their mission to protect people on our waterways every day.
“Updating and replacing marine search and rescue vessels for communities and the boating public helps us all in our goal to enhance public safety.”
Lytton MP Joan Pease said “Safety on the water is incredibly important for our bayside residents and I know the efforts of our marine rescue volunteers play a vital role in keeping people safe.
“I am proud to be part of a government that makes investments like this in the frontline.
“The Miles Government’s historic emergency services reforms mean our marine rescue volunteers will have access to the best possible vessels to perform their life saving duties.”
