Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island has formally transitioned into Marine Rescue Queensland, marking a significant change for the island’s long-standing rescue service.
Transition to Marine Rescue Queensland
Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island has become the 17th unit of Marine Rescue Queensland. The move was marked on 14 August 2025 and reflects the integration of more than 100 local volunteers into the state-funded service.
The Bribie Island unit operates across a 500-square-mile area, responding to numerous calls for assistance each year. Volunteers dedicate more than 22,000 hours annually to patrols, radio operations, training, and rescue services.
Background of the Bribie Island Unit
The service was established in 1970 through the Bribie Island Boating and Fishing Club, later becoming Bribie Island Air Sea Rescue in 1982. It adopted the name Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island in 1997.
Over more than five decades, the unit has relied on community support and volunteer commitment to maintain its operations. It has consistently provided a 24/7 search and rescue service, along with daily radio monitoring from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Role in Community Safety
In addition to emergency responses, the unit delivers training and education programs to promote safe boating practices. Volunteers also provide support at community events, offer safety boat coverage, and work closely with police, ambulance, and fire services during emergencies and major search and rescue operations.
The unit emphasises that its focus is on the safety of people at sea rather than the recovery of property, with salvage operations excluded except in life-threatening circumstances.
Continuing Services under MRQ
While the Bribie Island unit now operates under the Marine Rescue Queensland identity, its services remain unchanged. The transition includes updated uniforms and branding. The commitment of its volunteers to supporting the boating public across Pumicestone Passage and Moreton Bay continues.
Marine Rescue Queensland currently consists of 17 units and more than 760 volunteers across the state. Further units are expected to join during 2025.
Published 16-Aug-2025
Photo Credit: QPS
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