The state government will fund a new vessel for Noosa Coast Guard under the Vessel Replacement Program by the end of the next financial year, at the same time of transition to a single integrated state-wide organisation, Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton said the outcome followed her advocacy since 2018 for a fairer model for our Bluewater frontlines and the Bluewater review.
“For years our Noosa Coast Guard QF5 had to fundraise to fuel up and maintain their boats, while at the same time paying for their own uniforms and membership to save lives, which was completely unfair,” Ms Bolton said.
To celebrate, Ms. Bolton joined Commander Lindsay Hall and Deputy Commander Michael Rose from QF5 in Noosa.
“The boat, MRQ is funding, is a $1.13 million Naiad rigid inflatable replacing the 10m vessel which is 22 years old. It is starting build now and should be finished in December 2024. It is powered by twin diesel engine and has twin jets which are needed for the shallow Noosa Bar,” Lindsay said.
“We are also receiving a second boat, which is undergoing sea trials as we speak. It is an eight-point five (8.5) metre Naiad powered by 250 horsepower outboard motors. This boat was partially funded by Bendigo Bank, for which we are most grateful, the rest was raised by Noosa Coast Guard QF5 members.”
Whist Ms. Bolton welcomes these long fought for improvements, the Bill that encompassed them was debated at the same time as three other bills including the Disaster Management Bill, for which our Rural Fire Service (RFS) had concerns.
“From talking to our rural firies, there are remaining fears regarding the Disaster Management Bill that are essential to be addressed should their concerns can be realised,” Ms Bolton said.
Concerns expressed have been the need for an independent Commissioner for the RFS, and a separate quarantined budget. Additionally, local control and decision making to remain with the RFS officers and crew when on the ground fighting bush fires, she said.
“Debating four bills at once was inappropriate, severely limiting the time available for Members of Parliament to speak on the issues raised in their communities and disrespects our democracy and Queenslanders.”
“Noosa has incredible volunteers in emergency and disaster management including our local Coast Guard, who have recorded over twenty-seven thousand (27,000) volunteer hours in the last financial year alone. As always, I extend my deep gratitude to everyone from our rural fireys and SES through to our Coast Guard.”
