Marine Rescue Queensland has welcomed aboard its fourteenth unit, with Volunteer Marine Rescue Bowen joining the service.
The unit has been operating in Bowen since 1969, patrolling an area of approximately 8,500 square kilometres from Cape Upstart in the northwest, to Dingo Beach in the south and out to the Great Barrier Reef.
MRQ Bowen’s Unit Commander Gary Howes said the move won’t change their services and it will mean they are free for the community.
“VMR Bowen has a long and proud history in the area and has been keeping locals safe on the water for more than 56 years, and we’re eager to continue this legacy as MRQ,” Mr Howes said.
“We’re excited by the benefits that come with joining a state government funded service and want to continue our strong ties to the local community who have supported us for so long.
“Support from the state government means we are able to provide our rescue services to the community without charge, but we can’t do that without volunteers.”
They have used the opportunity to call on locals to consider volunteering and help boost their rescue capability in the region.
Mr Howes said that the work undertaken by volunteers was varied and interesting and that there was a role for everyone – no matter their level of experience.
“One day we’ll be towing back a broken-down vessel and the next we’ll be practicing our expanded square search technique to further develop our skills,” he said.
“We even participate in the Gilmour Space launch activities, patrolling the safety exclusion area during launch periods.
“No matter what skills you have, you’ll be welcomed with open arms as a volunteer to our close-knit unit.”
Interested volunteers can lodge their interest through the MRQ website.
