Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Southport, one of Queensland’s most respected and long-serving marine rescue units, has today, officially joined Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
The transition recognises and honours the legacy built by the dedicated volunteers who have served the boating community on the Gold Coast since 1969, while positioning the unit for an even stronger future within Queensland’s unified marine rescue service.
VMR Southport has long been a trusted presence on local waterways, providing emergency assistance, education and support to recreational and commercial mariners.
The commitment, professionalism, and community spirit demonstrated by its volunteers has saved lives and assisted countless people in need.
From today, the unit will be known as MRQ Southport East.
MRQ Southport East Unit Commander Martin Walsh said the transition represented an exciting next chapter for the organisation’s volunteers.
“Our people have built an incredible legacy of service, commitment and community connection, and we are immensely proud of what has been achieved over the years,” Mr Walsh said.
“Joining Marine Rescue Queensland allows us to build on that foundation while remaining focused on what matters most: supporting our volunteers and keeping people safe on the water.
“While the name may change, our commitment to the Gold Coast community remains as strong as ever.”
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said the occasion was both a celebration of the past and an investment in the future.
“The dedication and expertise of these marine rescue volunteers have earned the trust and respect of countless mariners,” Chief Officer Wulff said.
“Now a part of Marine Rescue Queensland, that legacy will remain at the heart of everything they do.
“MRQ is stronger because of the volunteers joining us from Southport, and together we will continue delivering the highest standards of marine safety and rescue services for the Gold Coast community.”
For local volunteers, members and supporters, the transition represents continuity as much as change.
The local knowledge, operational experience and strong community partnerships that have defined VMR Southport will continue to play a critical role in supporting marine safety outcomes across the region.
About Marine Rescue Queensland
Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) is Queensland’s first state-wide volunteer marine rescue service, dedicated to saving lives at sea.
As part of the Queensland Police Service (QPS), MRQ supports the state’s coordinated disaster and emergency services response.
MRQ brings together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland, building on more than 50 years of marine rescue across Queensland.
The transition is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Volunteer-focused, government-supported, and community-backed, MRQ provides marine search and rescue, assistance to people and vessels in difficulty, support to other emergency service agencies, and maritime safety education.
As a Queensland Government-funded service, all MRQ units provide free rescue services to the boating community.
To find your local marine rescue unit visit mrq.qld.gov.au or call 131 MRQ (677).
In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000) or radio VHF 16.
One Coast. One Crew. One MRQ.
