Ahoy there, matey!
Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) has officially set sail in Mackay. They are launched and rescue ready!
Tony Wulff, Chief Officer of Marine Rescue Queensland
Representatives from across the community were present for the launch, including Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert.
Other attendees included Mackay Whitsunday Police District Superintendent Graeme Paine and local police officers, local senior representatives from the Queensland Fire Department, Mackay residents, media and importantly, the volunteers themselves with their families and friends.
The large crowd gathered to show their respect for the role of Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland (VMRQ) in Mackay over a period of almost 60 years and the considerable efforts in recent times to bring about the launch of MRQ Mackay in its place.
All the speakers at the launch unanimously reinforced just how critical MRQ will be moving forward.
Who is Marine Rescue Queensland?
MRQ is Queensland's first integrated marine rescue volunteer organisation, bringing together Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland (VMRQ) and Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA).
"While MRQ is a new service, VMRAQ and AVCGA have a long and proud history of providing lifesaving services to the local community, and I am proud to be continuing that service with these units as MRQ," said MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff.
In October 2020, the Queensland Government announced establishment of a single marine rescue service for the State, bringing together volunteers from the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland under an integrated service called Marine Rescue Queensland.
The combination of marine rescue operations allows MRQ to provide improved support at local and regional levels, with better access to replacement vessels, operating under a single marine rescue service and safety network.
What is the connection between MRQ and Queensland Police Service?
MRQ has been established within the Queensland Police Service, further strengthening relationships between marine rescue volunteers and Queensland's Water Police.
The establishment of MRQ forms part of the Queensland Government landmark reform to boost its world-class disaster and emergency response and recovery services.
Whilst Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski was unable to attend the launch, he looks forward to the partnership with MRQ.
"The relationship and connection with Queensland Police, in particular the Water Police, has always been strong and we will continue to maintain and support these valuable relationships," said Commissioner Steve Gollschewski.
