Queenscliff's hardworking Marine Search and Rescue (MSAR) volunteers will soon benefit from a brand-new vessel, with a Victorian business now appointed to carry out the build.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant announced Victorian company Alumarine, based in Inverloch, will build the new search-and-rescue vessel, supported by Chris Tucker Marine Design, following a competitive tender process.
The Allan Labor Government invested more than $2 million as part of the 2023-24 Victorian Budget for the build, helping boost local businesses and delivering safer waters for all Victorians.
There are more than 900 MSAR volunteers in Victoria who respond to around 950 marine incidents annually. Queenscliff volunteers alone respond to more than 80 incidents every year.
The new vessel will help MSAR Unit - Coast Guard Queenscliff volunteers perform a range of vital functions, including helping search and rescue responses, towing damaged or disabled vessels, supporting aerial operations, firefighting, assisting flooding vessels, promoting boating safety and supporting police operations.
It has the capacity to operate up to 60 nautical miles from the MSAR Unit - Coast Guard Queenscliff base and can respond across Port Phillip, Bass Strait, and Port Phillip Heads, a designated hazardous area for vessels.
The vessel will be built and delivered to these committed volunteers in mid-2025.
Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“Supporting Victorian businesses is a win for our economy, and we are pleased Alumarine will build this important vessel for the deserving Queenscliff flotilla.”
“Marine Search and Rescue volunteers operate in a challenging environment, navigating rough waters and changing weather conditions so it is vital they receive the vessels they need to keep people safe on the water.”
Quotes attributable to Michael Donohue, Flotilla Commander, Coast Guard Queenscliff
“This new vessel will significantly enhance our ability to respond to larger vessels, particularly heavy yachts, in difficulty around the southern end of Port Phillip and Bass Strait. It will significantly enhance safety for Coast Guard Queenscliff members and the wider boating community.”
