Marine Rescue Eden has strengthened its on-water response capability, taking delivery of its own dedicated rescue vessel for the first time following the generous donation of a 10.4-metre Steber cabin cruiser by the NSW Water Police.
The vessel, known as Eden 30 (ED 30), replaces the Marine Rescue NSW state asset XRAY 30, which had been on loan to the unit since late 2022.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the arrival of ED 30 marked a significant milestone for the unit.
“This vessel is a much-needed addition to the unit, which will enhance its capability.
“It is wonderful for this unit to have a vessel they can now call their own.
“ED 30 is a highly capable vessel and is similar to the Steber vessels operated by Marine Rescue Bermagui and Batemans Bay.
“This vessel is an important asset for the region and will serve the Far South Coast boating community at any time of day or night,” Inspector Sullivan said.
The 2006-built vessel was donated to Marine Rescue NSW in March and has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, to ensure it met the operational demands of Marine Rescue NSW.
Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin (pictured above) said the extensive works have transformed the vessel into a modern, and effective rescue asset.
“Marine Rescue NSW thanks the NSW Water Police for its generosity in donating this vessel, south coast boaters will appreciate its new lease on life as a vital lifesaving rescue vessel.
“The next chapter for this vessel will be assisting boaters on Twofold Bay and surrounding offshore waters.
“A full refurbishment of both the interior and exterior has been completed, with the vessel stripped back and refurbished to meet operational requirements.
“The electronics suite has been completely upgraded, including new Raymarine navigation and communications systems, new wiring, switching systems and operating consoles,” Parkin said.
Extensive external works were also completed, including resealing of the roof and decks, new livery, hull repairs and antifoul renewal.
Volunteer safety and comfort have also been prioritised, with the installation of ergonomic shock mitigating seating to reduce fatigue during extended operations.
Following refurbishment, the vessel was transported by truck to Eden where local Marine Rescue NSW volunteers took delivery of the vessel and commenced induction.
Parkin said the reaction from crew had been overwhelmingly positive.
“The volunteers at Marine Rescue Eden have been extremely supportive throughout the refurbishment process.
“The vessel has undergone extensive sea trials with the crew continuing their induction.
“This is a significant capability uplift for the unit and the community it serves,” he said.
Marine Rescue Eden Coxswain Dave Pruckner, who undertook additional familiarisation training at Marine Rescue Bermagui, said the vessel was both capable and user-friendly.
“We are very familiar with the search and rescue and navigation technology on board, having used similar systems previously.
“The induction is about learning where everything is and how the vessel handles on the water.
“ED 30 also has plenty of power, with twin Yanmar diesel inboard engines capable of speeds up to 25 knots,” Pruckner said.
The vessel is expected to entre active service later next serving, assisting boaters on Twofold Bay and surrounding waters, extending south to NSW/Victoria border.
The refurbishment has been supported by the ongoing financial contribution of the NSW Government, reinforcing its commitment to Marine Rescue NSW and its 3,500 volunteers.
