Search and rescue capability on the state's North Coast has received a significant boost with Marine Rescue NSW officially commissioning Wooli 30, a new rescue vessel that will support volunteers responding to emergencies along one of the state's most exposed stretches of coastline.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews and Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib officially welcomed the $770,716 vessel into service during a commissioning ceremony at Wooli.
The NSW Government contributed significantly towards the cost of the vessel, with Marine Rescue Wooli also helping fund the project through its own community fundraising efforts.
Built in Yamba, the 10-metre Naiad rescue vessel replaces the unit's previous rescue vessel after almost 15 years of service.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said Wooli 30 represented the NSW Government's ongoing investment in volunteer marine rescue capability while supporting regional manufacturing.
"It's pretty special that this vessel was built just 50 kilometres from here in Yamba. This isn't just an important investment in our emergency services, we're also supporting local jobs right here on the North Coast.
"Communities like Wooli rely on their waterways for recreation, tourism and local livelihoods. The NSW Government is proud to support our dedicated Marine Rescue NSW volunteers with the equipment they need to respond whenever and wherever they're needed.
"I thank every Marine Rescue Wooli volunteer for their ongoing commitment to protecting lives on the water and serving their community."
Powered by twin 300-horsepower outboard engines, Wooli 30 is capable of speeds up to 42 knots and has an extended operational range supported by a 900-litre fuel capacity.
The vessel is equipped with the latest marine search and navigation technology, including a full Raymarine electronics suite, FLIR thermal imaging camera, side-scan sonar, radar, radio direction finder for locating distress signals and a Public Safety Network radio. Ergonomically designed seating will also help reduce crew fatigue during lengthy search and rescue operations.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said Wooli 30 would give the dedicated volunteers at Marine Rescue Wooli the capability they need to respond effectively across their area of operations.
"Our volunteers are at the heart of Marine Rescue NSW's search and rescue capability, and this replacement vessel supports their vital work," Commissioner Andrews said.
"We are grateful to the NSW Government for its continued investment in Marine Rescue NSW and our more than 3,400 volunteers, whose commitment keeps boaters safe right along the NSW coastline."
"The previous rescue vessel served the Wooli community with distinction for almost 15 years and played a vital role in saving lives. The new Wooli 30 builds on that proud legacy with greater capability, enhanced technology and improved crew safety."
Marine Rescue Wooli Unit Commander Richard Taffs ESM, who has volunteered with the unit for almost 25 years, said the new vessel had exceeded expectations.
"This is the third rescue vessel I've seen come into service during my time at Marine Rescue Wooli, and without question it's the best we've ever had," Unit Commander Taffs said.
"It's incredibly agile, exceptionally capable and gives us greater speed and range, allowing us to respond more effectively across our entire area of operations."
"The vessel has been designed with our crews in mind. The improved seating helps reduce fatigue during long searches, while the practical layout and advanced technology make every deployment safer and more efficient."
Unit Commander Taffs said he hoped the arrival of Wooli 30 would inspire more people to join the volunteer organisation.
"We hope Wooli 30 encourages more members of our community to become part of Marine Rescue Wooli," he said.
"Whether you'd like to crew our rescue vessels, become a radio operator or support the unit ashore, there's a volunteer role for everyone. We provide all the training, and you'll be making a genuine difference by helping keep our boating community safe."
