The crew of Volunteer Marine Rescue Round Hill welcomed their transition into Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) today, taking the opportunity to call for local residents to consider volunteering to help them to deliver their services and keep people safe on the water.
MRQ Round Hill Unit Commander Neale Inskip said that the opportunity for new volunteers was growing every year as the average age of current members continued to increase.
"We're a small but dedicated unit and we've been incredibly lucky to have so many of our members volunteer their time over many years, but we need to bring in some new blood to boost our numbers, Mr Inskip said.
"We have excellent relationships with our neighbouring marine rescue units in Gladstone and Bundaberg, but it's also important for us to have locally trained volunteers available for callouts."
Mr Inskip said that the natural beauty of the Agnes Water area and its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef was a drawcard to the water, but the area also had a number of environmental factors which could be challenging for boaties.
"Our pristine beaches and the surrounding reefs are among the best in the country, but they also come with heavy surf, unpredictable wind conditions and navigational hazards that can get even the most experienced boatie into trouble quite quickly.
"We provide first response services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and while we don't attend hundreds of callouts every year, we want boaties to know that we'll be ready to provide assistance if they ever call for help.
"We'd welcome anyone who can volunteer their time for any role, but we're particularly interested in training people as radio operators.
"Radio operators are a valuable contact point between boaties in distress, marine rescue crews and other emergency services and once you have completed your training, you can adjust your time to suit your schedule.
22 September 2025 MRQ's newest unit calls for new volunteers to continue their vital services
"MRQ Round Hill has been built on a legacy of dedication, courage and community over the past 50 years and we're ready to welcome aboard a new generation of volunteers to continue that legacy into the future," he said.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed the crew of MRQ Round Hill into the service and echoed Mr Inskip's call for new volunteers to step forward.
"MRQ Round Hill has a committed and inclusive volunteer team and they need people willing to put their hand up to help them carry on their vital community services," Mr Wulff said.
"Each volunteer unit is an important link in a chain of marine rescue support which runs from the Torres Strait all the way to the Queensland / NSW border.
"You don't need any marine experience to start, and we'll provide you with the uniform, kit and training to get you started.
"Volunteering is an incredibly rewarding activity, and anyone who has ever got into trouble on the water will tell you how important it is to know that there will be someone ready to provide assistance when it's needed."
Interested volunteers can lodge their interest by the MRQ website or emailing: [email protected]
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 21 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.
