HERALDING a new era for the Redlands’ on-water community, Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Victoria Point is now part of Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
Forming more than four decades ago, the 46-strong volunteer unit is the fourth Volunteer Marine Rescue unit in Queensland to transition to MRQ since July 1.
Marine Rescue Queensland chief officer Tony Wulff said VMR Victoria Point’s move to MRQ was an exciting step for marine rescue in the Redlands.
“This is a milestone for MRQ Victoria Point and the Redlands’ on-water community,” he said.
“We know the community has relied on the Victoria Point volunteers for more than four decades and they will continue to do so and the same, friendly faces will still be there.
“The government’s commitment to marine rescue and the on-water community to keep everyone as safe as possible is testament to the thousands of marine rescue volunteers across our great state.”
MRQ Victoria Point has three vessels available in its fleet: a 9-metre single-hull primary rescue vessel, a 7.5-metre soft-collar vessel and 3.6-metre rubber duck.
VMR Victoria Point typically averaged more than 50 activations a year, ranging from missing swimmers and kayakers, vessels that have run aground, sunk or were sinking, and kite surfers and jet ski rescues.
Volunteers clock more than 250 volunteer hours each week keeping the Redlands on-water community safe including vessel and machinery maintenance, as well as manning hours at the base, water training, and instrument and equipment familiarisation.
MRQ Victoria Point volunteers also host information nights for Scouts, Joeys, Sea Cadets and Girl Guides.
MRQ Victoria Point follows the transition of MRQ Currumbin which transitioned last week and MRQ Gladstone and Mackay units in July.
MRQ Victoria Point Unit Commander Neville Mills said its members were looking forward to being part of the MRQ family.
