Coast Guard Queenscliff welcomes new vessel

THE arrival of a new search and rescue vessel will help Coast Guard Queenscliff keep more people safe in and around the water.

Minister for Emergency Services Vicki Ward and Bellarine MP Alison Marchant presented the new 12-metre boat to marine search and rescue volunteers earlier this week.

The vessel will support search and rescue operations to those in distress, assist and tow damaged or disabled boats, help with shore-based recovery operations, and transport sick and injured people.

It features state-of-the-art navigation and operating systems, including GPS, forward-looking infrared radar, and radio direction finding equipment.

Ms Ward said the Victorian government was thrilled to be giving back to the hardworking volunteers of Coast Guard Queenscliff.

“With so many Victorians holding recreational vessel licenses and enjoying the water, it’s essential that we do all we can to keep them safe.

“I’m proud to say that this vessel was designed and built right here in Victoria, helping local businesses deliver for our communities.”

Coast Guard Queenscliff is 100 per cent volunteer based and responds to more than 90 jobs per year.

In the past 12 months, 17 of those jobs have involved a direct threat to the life of one or more persons.

Coast Guard Queenscliff flotilla commander Chris Smith said the group was proud to launch the new Rescue 203 boat.

“Rescue 203 is a cutting-edge Marine Search and Rescue vessel purpose-built to enhance life-saving operations on the water.

“The new vessel significantly boosts our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies in challenging marine environments.

“The capability provided by Rescue 203 ensure reliable performance and response when it matters most.”

Operational both day and night, the boat will support police and the CFA.