- Crisafulli Government is expanding boating and fisheries fleet to boost marine animal responses and safety compliance operations across south-east Queensland.
- New vessel launched in honour of highly respected Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) Officer Brendan Burmeister, who died from cancer in December 2022.
- Crisafulli Government has committed more than $3 million in capital funding this financial year for QBFP fleet operation, enhancement and replacement.
The Crisafulli Government has officially launched a purpose-built Fisheries Patrol Vessel (FPV) to boost marine safety operations, including marine animal release and compliance across south-east Queensland.
The FPV BR Burmeister was constructed on the Gold Coast and is a purpose-designed 7.6-metre Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), powered by twin 150-horsepower outboard engines and fitted with state-of-the-art navigation and electronics.
The acquisition is part of the Crisafulli Government's $3 million commitment this financial year to support ongoing operations, fleet enhancements and vessel replacements.
BR Burmeister has been named in honour of Fisheries Queensland officer Brendan Burmeister.
Mr Burmeister was a valued member of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) in the Hervey Bay and Redlands District who died in December 2022 after a lengthy cancer battle.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the naming of the FPV BR Burmeister reflects Brendan's remarkable service and enduring legacy.
"Brendan Burmeister was an exceptional officer and a passionate advocate for Queensland's environment and waterways right up until his final days," Minister Perrett said.
"During his time with QBFP, Brendan contributed greatly to fisheries compliance, marine safety and environmental protection. His dedication and positive impact on both his colleagues and the broader community will always be remembered."
"By naming this state-of-the-art vessel in his honour, we commemorate Brendan's invaluable service and ensure that his legacy lives on."
His mother, Elizabeth Burmeister, shared the profound influence Brendan had on both people and wildlife.
"Brendan was wise, compassionate, and had an incredible affinity for the environment around him," Ms Burmeister said.
"To be a part of protecting the fishing environment and waterways of Moreton Bay was his ideal job, and he realised and appreciated just how blessed he was to enjoy his work so much.
"It is overwhelming to have such a legacy for Brendan. We are just so honoured and proud; words can't describe the emotions."
Brendan is also survived by his wife Erica and his son Ryan.
