Rescue response and capability has been improved in Brunswick Heads, with Marine Rescue Brunswick receiving a new 10-metre, state-of-the-art vessel.
NSW Labor Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, officially commissioned Brunswick 30 last week, and joined Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner, Alex Barrell, in welcoming the $751,877 replacement vessel to the service’s fleet.
Minister Dib said the new vessel will help the 74 dedicated volunteers based at the town’s boat harbour respond quickly to people who need assistance on local waters.
‘This new vessel features the latest in marine search and rescue technology, and is an investment in the highly- skilled volunteers who assist and support boaters at any time, day and night.’
Minister Dib encouraged all boaters to register with Marine Rescue NSW as part of their pre-launch routine, either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app, or the VHF channel 16.
Six kayakers saved
Marine Rescue Brunswick Unit Commander, Jonathan Wilcock, said the new replacement vessel has already proven to be a vital lifesaving asset for the area.
‘Last month, our crew deployed on the new Brunswick 30 for its first rescue mission, and saved six kayakers struggling in strong winds and currents, approximately 1.5 nautical miles off Cape Byron.
‘It is an outstanding vessel, capable of heavy bar crossings with its evolutionary axe head bow, and can rapidly deploy up to 30 nautical miles offshore’.
For more info, visit www.marinerescuensw.com.au.
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