Commercial Feature – VMR Southport – Launch of Marine Rescue 5

On Saturday 2nd November 2019 more than 100 people attended VMR Southport to take part in the festivities surrounding the launch of their new Rescue vessel Marine Rescue 5. Marine Rescue 5 is the 22nd rescue vessel to be purchased by VMR Southport, in its more than 50 year history, and its acquisition will see it replace the smaller rescue vessel Marine Rescue 3, which will be retired.

VIP’s from all around attended the launch, including Commissioners, and Assistant Commissioners from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service, Officers In Charge from the Queensland Police and Ambulance Services, Local Councillors, VMR Sponsors, Suppliers and Supporters, colleagues from other Marine Rescue Squadrons, and VMR Southport members. It is expected that this new vessel will operate for 10 – 12 years, perform between 8,000 – 12,000 hours of use, have at least 5 changes of engines, and carry out at least 1800 rescue activations. The greater majority of attendees present were in awe at these figures presented by Master of Ceremonies, VMR Southport Senior Skipper Greg Turner.

The future Skippers of VMR Southport will all begin their training in Marine Rescue 5. Apart from training being its primary role, the towing of jet-skis and small boats, the transport of people, and public relations roles will also be performed. Life Member John Stanfield had the honour of cracking the champagne over the bow at the launch, and St Peters Parish Southport Father Don gave his blessing of a safe journey for all who travel aboard. This vessel has been some 13 months in the making, and delivery comes at a time when our busiest period of activations occurs.

The VMR Southport Vessel Replacement Committee should be acknowledged for their tireless contributions to this project. VMR Southport has long awaited the arrival of Marine Rescue 5, and may this rescue vessel further contribute to this Organisation fulfilling its obligations in Saving Lives and Property at Sea.

VMR Southport would like acknowledge the following organisations for their financial support of this project:

  • Swift Marine
  • Sanctuary Cove Boat Show
  • ICOM
  • Simrad
  • Gold Coast City Marina
  • Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Marine Rescue 5 Specifications

MANUFACTURER – Swift Marine

LENGTH – 6.8 Metres

POWER – 2 x 115HP Mercury Seapro Outboard Motors

SPECIFICATIONS – Built to Class 2C Survey

CARRYING CAPACITY – 8 People

FUEL CAPACITY – 220 Litres

FEATURES –

  • SIMRAD NSS evo3 GPS Unit
  • 2 x ICOM M23G VHF Marine Radios
  • AIS – Automatic Identification System