Brisbane Rescue Crew Joins State Service

Marine rescue volunteers from the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association’s Brisbane Flotilla have joined Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), beginning operations as MRQ Manly. The transition is part of Queensland’s plan to establish a single, statewide volunteer marine rescue service.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff praised the volunteers’ professionalism and acknowledged the Brisbane unit’s longstanding contribution to the boating community. The unit will remain based locally, continuing to respond to emergencies and assist people and vessels on the water.

Unit Commander Christian Hager said the team would bring more than 50 years of experience, along with its existing volunteer relationships, into the new organisation. Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association National Commodore Matthew Semmens also thanked past and present volunteers for their service during the transition.

MRQ brings together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland under the Queensland Police Service. The statewide transition is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The government-funded service provides free marine rescue assistance, emergency support and maritime safety education across Queensland.