One of Queensland's oldest marine rescue services has added a new chapter and a new name to their long and rich history, with Volunteer Marine Rescue Brisbane joining Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) today as MRQ Sandgate.
MRQ Sandgate Unit Commander Neil Sheppard said that while their name may be new, it had ties with the rich boating history of the area.
"Our unit began as the Sandgate Yacht Club Search and Rescue Squad in 1969, but we can actually trace our origins back to the formation of the Sandgate Yacht Club back in 1912," Mr Sheppard said.
"Whether under sail or power, we have a have always strived to keep boaties in Moreton Bay and the neighbouring waterways safe when they are out on the water.
"It's a little bit of a full circle moment for the unit."
Mr Sheppard said that other than a new name, uniforms and branding, the crew of MRQ Sandgate would be the same friendly faces providing the same experienced services to people who run into trouble on the water.
"Our first response services will continue to be provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and we will be on base to maintain vessel monitoring services every weekend and public holiday.
"We also remain focused on ensuring our crews are fully trained in all areas of marine operations, including search and rescue procedures, radio and marine operations, bar crossings and first aid," he said.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed the more than 90 members of the MRQ Sandgate crew to the service, praising the work of all volunteers who devote their time to keeping boaties safe when they are on Queensland waters.
"From the Torres Strait to the Queensland / NSW border, the contributions of each and every volunteer are important and valued," Mr Wulff said.
"In addition to the time they spend on shift providing rescue services, our members devote countless hours each year to learning and practicing their skills to ensure they are rescue ready in any kind of weather or water.
"If you see a MRQ vessel and crew coming to provide you with assistance, you'll know you are in skilled and experienced hands," 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 20 units and more than 900 volunteers, with additional marine rescue units expected to follow in 2025.
- Further information can be found at: 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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