A new chapter begins for volunteer marine rescue on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast today, with the Keppel Sands Flotilla of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) joining Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
They will now be known as MRQ Keppel Sands.
While their uniform may change, local boaties can continue to rely on the same dedicated volunteers who have protected the region’s waterways for more than four decades.
The transition marks another important milestone in the delivery of Queensland’s first statewide marine rescue service, bringing together volunteers from across the state under one organisation while maintaining strong local connections.
MRQ Acting Chief Officer Mark Anderson welcomed the unit’s volunteers on their first day of operations as MRQ.
“We are delighted to welcome the volunteers of Keppel Sands into Marine Rescue Queensland and recognise the dedication they have shown their community for more than 40 years,” Acting Chief Officer Anderson said.
“The local knowledge, experience and commitment of these volunteers are invaluable. By joining MRQ, they become part of a statewide marine rescue network while continuing to provide the service their community knows and trusts.”
MRQ Keppel Sands Unit Commander Kevin Prizeman said the transition recognised the important role marine rescue volunteers play along one of Queensland’s most remote stretches of coastline.
“Our volunteers are proud of what we’ve built together over the years. We work as a team, we help one another, and we’re united by a commitment to keeping people safe on the water,” Mr Prizeman said.
“Local knowledge can make all the difference in this region, particularly around challenging areas such as the Pumpkin Creek, Carawall Creek entrances and more remote offshore waters.”
Mr Prizeman said the transition to MRQ would help strengthen marine rescue services for local boaters into the future.
“We’re excited about what this means for the future of marine rescue in our region and we’d like to thank our community for its ongoing support over many years.”
AVCGA National Commodore Matthew Semmens acknowledged the significant contribution members have made through decades of volunteer service.
“They take valuable skills, local knowledge and a strong community spirit into MRQ. We thank them for everything they have contributed to Coast Guard and wish them well in this next chapter,” National Commodore Semmens said.
The Keppel Sands flotilla has supported recreational fishing community, cruising yachts and local boating enthusiasts throughout the Capricorn Coast region for more than four decades.
Today, 26 members transition to MRQ Keppel Sands.
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
