The Queensland Flotillas of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) have officially begun their transition to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), with volunteers of Redland Bay wearing new colours from today.
The event marks a significant milestone in the coordinated effort to bring together Queensland’s volunteer marine rescue capability under one modern, government-funded service, dedicated to saving lives at sea.
Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Tony Wulff said the first Coast Guard transition was a major achievement on the journey to unify marine rescue services across the state.
“This is a historic day for marine rescue in Queensland, where we welcome the first Coast Guard Flotilla into MRQ,” Chief Officer Wulff said.
“So many people have given their time and expertise to reach this momentous occasion, and I commend the volunteer members of Redland Bay for the significant work they have delivered to be the first Flotilla to MRQ.”
“Through their efforts and unwavering commitment to keeping their community safe, we are now one step closer to our vision of being one coast, one crew, and one MRQ.”
“MRQ is excited to welcome Coast Guard volunteers into MRQ and to build on their proud legacy of service”.
AVCGA National Commodore Matthew Semmens said the transition of Redland Bay was a significant moment for Coast Guard.
“This is a big day for our Redland Bay volunteers and for AVCGA. For 40 years, generations of volunteers have given their time to help people on the water and keep their community safe,” National Commodore Semmens said.
“I want to acknowledge all the Redland Bay volunteers for the way they have worked through this transition. Change is never easy, particularly when people have such a strong connection to an organisation they have served for many years.
“On behalf of AVCGA, I thank every past and present Redland Bay volunteer for what they have contributed over the last 40 years, and I wish the team all the very best as they start this next chapter with Marine Rescue Queensland.”
Based at the Redland Bay Marina, the area is a popular destination for boaties in southeast Queensland, providing passage to North Stradbroke Island and southern Moreton Island.
MRQ Redland Bay Unit Commander, David Bell, says he is proud of his team as they celebrate the milestone for the Flotilla.
“It’s important for our community to know that the same dedicated volunteers will continue to operate at Redland Bay, providing the same high level of marine rescue and safety services they’ve always been able to rely on.
“We look forward to continuing serving the Redland Bay community under our new Marine Rescue Queensland colours. Our uniforms may be different, but our commitment to keep the local community safe on the water will never change”, he said.
The full MRQ transition is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
About Marine Rescue Queensland
Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) is Queensland’s first state-wide volunteer marine rescue service, dedicated to saving lives at sea. As part of the Queensland Police Service, MRQ supports the state’s coordinated disaster and emergency services response.
MRQ brings together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland, building on more than 50 years of marine rescue across Queensland. The transition is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Volunteer-focused, government-supported, and community-backed, MRQ provides marine search and rescue, assistance to people and vessels in difficulty, support to other emergency service agencies, and maritime safety education.
As a Queensland Government-funded service, all MRQ units provide free rescue services to the boating community.
To find your local marine rescue unit visit mrq.qld.gov.au or call 131 MRQ (677).
In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000) or radio VHF 16.
One Coast. One Crew. One MRQ.
Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) is the 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 state’s disaster and emergency services response – but MRQ is a separate service with its own identity, structure, governance and uniforms
Water safety tips:
- In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or radio VHF 16
- For assistance or information call 131MRQ (131677)
- Log your journeys from start to finish
- Always wear your lifejacket
- Remember to pack sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and water (two litres recommended per person)
- Check you have extra fuel
- Check the weather forecast before you leave
- Charge your phone and any other devices
- Tell family and friends where you are going
