Volunteer Marine Rescue Bundaberg Incorporated

Volunteer Marine Rescue Bundaberg Incorporated is a dedicated volunteer organisation committed to providing marine search and rescue services along the Central Queensland coast. Established in 1972, it operates from its base at Burnett Heads near the mouth of the Burnett River, covering an extensive area of approximately 5,500 square nautical miles. This area includes offshore waters extending 50 nautical miles from the Fairfax Group of Islands to the Burrum River, as well as inland waterways. The organisation plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of recreational and commercial vessels, including being the first point of contact for overseas vessels entering Australia through Bundaberg.

Mission and Vision

The core mission of Volunteer Marine Rescue Bundaberg is “saving lives at sea”. It aims to provide prompt and effective rescue services to vessels in distress, promote marine safety awareness, and support the boating community. The vision is to be a leader in marine rescue operations, fostering a culture of safety and preparedness among all water users in the region.

Main Objectives

• Maintain continuous surveillance and readiness to respond to marine emergencies within their operational area.
• Provide accredited training for volunteers in marine radio operation, navigation, first aid, firefighting, and search and rescue techniques.
• Support and assist vessels requiring clearance and coordination with Australian Border Force and Biosecurity authorities.
• Engage with the community to raise awareness about boating safety and encourage responsible marine practices.
• Ensure the upkeep and readiness of rescue vessels and equipment through regular drills and maintenance.

Benefiting Groups

Volunteer Marine Rescue Bundaberg primarily benefits:

• Recreational boaters and fishers operating in the Bundaberg region.
• Commercial vessels and overseas boats entering Australian waters via Bundaberg.
• Local communities relying on safe marine environments for livelihood and leisure.
• Emergency services and maritime authorities through coordinated rescue efforts.

Services and Activities

• 24/7 radio monitoring and communication support for vessels in the area.
• Search and rescue operations using their primary offshore rescue vessel, an 11.9-metre alloy catamaran equipped with advanced navigation and infrared technology.
• Regular training sessions for volunteers, including practical drills and simulations to maintain high operational standards.
• Community engagement events such as the Family Fishing Classic to promote marine safety and volunteer recruitment.
• Providing accredited radio courses and safety briefings to boaters to encourage the practice of logging on and off before and after trips.