The volunteers at Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island have seen a lot of changing tides in their 55-year history and today they marked another milestone, joining Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) as the service's 17th unit.
Marine Rescue Queensland, Bribie Island Unit Commander Ces Luscombe praised the efforts of the unit's more than 100 volunteer members, recognising the importance of their role in the local community and the numerous hours of unpaid service they provide each year to assist mariners in distress.
"MRQ Bribie Island covers a 500 square mile area and answers countless calls for assistance each year," Mr Luscombe said.
"In addition to the time spent on callouts, our volunteers invest an enormous number of hours into training, keeping 24/7 radio watch and rescue services, maintaining the fleet and base, and conducting patrols.
"We also engage with our local community to promote boating safety through training and education programs.
"Together, this adds up to more than 22,000 hours of volunteer effort per year to keep the community safe."
Mr Luscombe said while the unit's name and uniforms were different, their commitment to their community remained unchanged.
"We may look a little different now, but we're the same experienced volunteers the boating public of Pumicestone Passage and Moreton Bay have been relying on for many years.
"If you see our new blue and yellow branding out on the water, it will be a sign of expert assistance on the way," he said.
Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Bribie Island into the service, acknowledging the strong role the unit plays in their local community.
"As an island community which experiences a number of different boating conditions, a local marine rescue presence is vital", Mr Wulff said.
"In addition, the area is a mecca for thousands of recreational boaties who flock to the water on weekends and public holidays.
"We're grateful for the dedication and commitment MRQ Bribie Island's volunteers invest into delivery of their services and the connections they have with the thousands of boaties they have supported over the years," he said.
About MRQ:
· MRQ is Queensland's first state-wide, State Government-funded volunteer marine rescue service dedicated to saving lives at sea and supporting those on or near the water
· MRQ is part of Queensland Police Service, which is responsible for coordinating the states disaster and emergency services response - but MRQ is a separate service with its own identity, structure, governance and uniforms
· MRQ currently has 17 units and more than 760 volunteers, with additional marine rescue units expected to follow in 2025. Further information can be found here: Marine Rescue Queensland.
Water safety tips:
· Log your journeys from start to finish
· Always wear your lifejacket
· Remember to pack sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and water (two litres per person)
· If you need help, radio VHF-16 or call Triple Zero (000)
· Check you have extra fuel
· Check the weather forecast before you leave
· Charge your phone and any other devices
· Tell family and friends where you are going.
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