Coast Guard Joins Queensland Rescue Service

The Redland Bay flotilla of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association has begun transitioning to Marine Rescue Queensland, marking the first formal move in a statewide effort to unify volunteer marine rescue services under a government-funded organisation.

Marine Rescue Queensland Chief Officer Tony Wulff described the transition as a significant milestone and welcomed the Redland Bay volunteers, who have provided marine safety and rescue services in the area for four decades.

The Redland Bay unit, based at Redland Bay Marina, will continue operating with the same volunteers and providing rescue and safety services for boaters travelling to North Stradbroke Island, southern Moreton Island and surrounding waterways. Unit Commander David Bell said the change in uniforms would not affect the team’s commitment to the local community.

Marine Rescue Queensland brings together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland as Queensland’s first statewide volunteer marine rescue service. The broader transition is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The service provides marine search and rescue, assistance to vessels in difficulty and maritime safety education. In emergencies, boaters are advised to call Triple Zero (000) or radio VHF Channel 16.