Marine Rescue saved, new boat
BRUNSWICK Volunteer Marine Rescue is the proud new owner of a purpose-built, $390,000 rescue boat.
It arrived at Brunswick Heads last week from Yamba, where it was built, and was welcomed at the bar by an excited group of volunteers who were keen to get a first look.
The boat acquisition is a significant step up from the group's current 12-year-old boat.
It features state-of-the-art navigation and rescue equipment such as infra red cameras.
It will enable quicker response times to emergencies and will also allow the rescue crew to conduct rescues further out to sea.
The cabin and seating mean it will be a lot more comfortable for the crew too.
Boat captain Lazlo Szabo, who was one of the first to try out the boat, described it as "unbelievable."
"It's certainly state of the art.
"It will be a great asset to the Byron region."
The rescue group's old boat is to be sold, with the proceeds going toward building a shed to house the new boat.
The group will also be fundraising to help pay for the new boat.
Marine Rescue NSW covered 65% of the cost, but the Brunswick group will have to cover the rest.
There will be a commissioning ceremony for the boat in February.
Brunswick Marine Rescue is currently seeking new volunteers.
For more information about how you can help, phone 02 6685 0148 or 02 6684 2222.
