VMR WHITSUNDAYS LAUNCHES THEIR NEW OPERATIONS AND TRAINING CENTRE
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, officially opened the Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsundays new Operations and Training Centre today, after successfully securing funding for the organisation last year.
“The work that VMR Whitsundays do is crucial when it comes to keeping our boaties and fishers safe on the water, which is why I was incredibly proud when the previous Coalition Government committed to supporting this invaluable organisation and their volunteers, and I am honoured to be here today to officially open the new operations and training centre,” Mr Willcox said.
“I had been working with VMR Whitsundays to secure funding for this expansion, and so to be here and see this incredible facility is an amazing feeling.
“These volunteers deal with high-pressure situations to keep our waters safe, and this new centre means that the team at VMR Whitsundays will be better equipped to handle day-to-day rescue operations, as well as full scale search and rescue operations.
In addition to the opening of the new operations and training centre, VMR Whitsundays celebrated their 60-year anniversary and honoured 4 of their volunteers who were awarded the National Medal for their service.
“The National Medal recognises the service of individuals that risk their lives and personal safety to protect and assist the community in times of a disaster, and the outstanding work done by the volunteers at VMR Whitsundays is a true demonstration of that.
“I want to congratulate and celebrate each recipient of this award, Will Kamsteeg, Paul (Ronnie) Roberts, Ray Lewis, and Mal Priday, who have all dedicated their time, resources, and expertise to keep our people safe, and this recognition of their tireless efforts is well-deserved.
“VMR Whitsundays started out with just six members as the Proserpine Sea Rescue back in 1964, and over the last 60 years they have grown to have an active crew of over 80 volunteers and have attended thousands of rescue missions, as well as helping transport sick or injured individuals to the mainland to receive medical attention.
“I want to personally thank every single volunteer, past and present, who have dedicated their time and who continue to work tirelessly to ensure our boaties and fishers enjoy their time out on the water and get home safely to their families.
“So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you VMR Whitsundays for everything that you do to protect our community.”