After celebrating their 50th anniversary earlier this year, one of the largest and busiest volunteer marine rescue units in the state starts a new chapter today, with the Mooloolaba Flotilla of Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) joining Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
They will now be known as MRQ Mooloolaba. While their call sign and uniform may change, the local community can still depend on the same experienced team to keep them safe at sea.
This date marks an important milestone for marine safety on the Sunshine Coast, with neighbours Caloundra also making the move to MRQ. Other Flotillas of the local Squadron will join by the end of the week: Noosa; Tin Can Bay; and Sandy Straits.
These transitions significantly strengthen the statewide interoperability of MRQ in delivering Queensland’s first statewide marine rescue organisation.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff praised the skills, capability, and experience of the region’s respected marine rescue volunteers on their first day of operations.
“We are delighted to welcome Coast Guard Flotillas into Marine Rescue Queensland and to recognise the remarkable legacy their volunteers have built over many years of dedicated service.”
“This transition is about people, the volunteers who give their time, skills and experience to help others. Their ongoing commitment will continue to make a real difference in keeping Queenslanders safe on the water”.
Reflecting on the change, Chief Officer Wulff said “As we look to the future, we do so with confidence and optimism. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected marine rescue service for Queensland communities”.
MRQ Mooloolaba Unit Commander Lee Campbell echoed these sentiments, praising the many volunteers who have contributed to their success for half a century.
“Generations of volunteers at Mooloolaba have given their time freely to serve their community. Our people have always been driven by service, by the simple but powerful commitment to keep others safe.”
Mr Campbell reinforced the strength of this legacy as they embraced this change.
“Mooloolaba brings a highly capable team, skilled crews and 50 years of local knowledge to MRQ. We are proud to stand alongside our fellow volunteers across the state as one marine rescue service.”
Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association National Commodore Matthew Semmens said the transition was a significant milestone for the organisation and its members.
“For decades, Coast Guard volunteers across the Sunshine Coast have answered the call when people have needed help on the water,” Commodore Semmens said.
“While the uniforms will change, the dedication of these volunteers and their commitment to protecting the community will stay. Their knowledge, experience and local understanding will continue to be an invaluable part of marine rescue services across the region.”
Commander Semmens also paid tribute to the legacy of the Coast Guard volunteers. “On behalf of AVCGA, I sincerely thank every member, past and present, as well as their families and the local communities and businesses that have supported Coast Guard over many years”.
First established in 1976, the Flotilla has kept a watchful eye on Sunshine Coast waterways for over five decades. Now, with over 140 members, their radio room is open 24/7 to monitor for emergency calls.
