The warmer weather saw increased activity in Noosa River and Laguna Bay during September, which resulted in an escalation in radio calls for Coast Guard Noosa.
The volunteers assisted 21 boaties from 4057 radio calls, with mechanical issues likely due to low usage over winter being the cause for some of these rescues.
During the winter months, Coast Guard Noosa used the time to improve training of crews to prepare them for the busy summer period.
New Coastguard signage will be in place shortly on boat ramps, the Bar Tower and the entrance to the Coast Guard Noosa base at Munna Point. The signs will include updated information on radio channels and contact details.
They also launched a successful recruiting campaign for radio operators and crew. Their training has already begun.
Marine assists included a 12m catamaran in the vicinity of Doggy Beach with steering and engine problems; a pontoon boat that was found to have water in its fuel tanks; and a jet ski sinking in Laguna Bay.
All vessels were successfully assisted and where necessary returned to their moorings or boat ramps.
Coast Guard Noosa is currently in discussion with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) in relation to a replacement vessel for its primary rescue vessel John Waddams.
The replacement of the vessel stems from the Blue Water Review that was undertaken by the Queensland Government in 2020/21.
The Marine Implementation Team provided a brief to Coast Guard member in September on the creation of Marine Rescue Queensland, which will operate under QFES. The proposal is still under consideration by Coast Guard.
