Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) welcomed aboard its fourteenth rescue unit, with Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) 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 members were excited for this next chapter in the unit’s story and called on local residents to consider volunteering to boost their rescue capability and continue the rich history of the organisation in the region.
“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.”
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.”
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Bowen into the service and supported calls for volunteers to join the unit.
“MRQ Bowen has a committed and inclusive volunteer team, and we’d love to see their numbers grow,” Mr Wulff said.
“Even if you don’t have marine experience, there are ways you can help the unit to deliver their vital services to keep Queensland’s on-water community safe.
“From coordinating rescues, to providing safety education to the boating community, or helping with admin at the base – everything makes a difference.
“MRQ provides all the uniform, kit and training you need to be able to make a difference and grow our network of volunteers who serve their communities with professionalism and care.”
Interested volunteers can lodge their interest by the MRQ website or emailing: contactus@mrq.qld.gov.au
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 14 units and more than 600 volunteers, with additional marine rescue units expected to follow in 2025.
- Further information can be found here: 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, and
- Tell family and friends where you are going.
