THE NOW complete renovations at the Raby Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue base means faster response times.
While external wall rendering and fresh coats of paint have updated the 30-year-old building’s appearance, VMR’s Carsten Thomsen said extensions had improved the site’s utility.
Boats can be deployed quicker thanks to improved water access.
The $600,000 makeover included the installation of a new boat ramp and extra vessel holding space, which has meant stored boats can be launched directly onto the water.
Mr Thomsen said a refuelling station and regional skipper training room were also welcome additions.
“The ageing VMR building was recently upgraded and modernised considerably,” he said.
The public can view the upgraded building at an open day on Saturday, April 29.
The building was updated thanks to funds raised by the Raby Bay VMR and materials supplied by Dulux Paint Australia.
The day will include an official opening at 11am, tours of vessel RBII and medivac boat RBIII, monster raffle, barbecue, life raft drills and more.
Mr Thomsen said visitors could also learn about marine flares, lure fishing, how to cross a bar safely, and knot tying and splicing in lessons delivered from 10am.
Representatives from the TS Norfolk Naval Cadets, Bayside Outriggers, Wellington Point Marine, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and local and federal government will also be there.
Mr Thomsen said those interested in signing up to become a volunteer should also attend.
He said 586 people were returned to safety by the Raby Bay VMR last year.
Logged jobs included 189 island Medivacs, 195 breakdowns and a number of searches and assistance call-outs for vessels grounded, drifting or out-of-fuel.
Crew were also dispatched 253 times for patrols and training.
Mr Thomsen said the Raby Bay VMR supported various marine-related organisations and community training events.
For more, visit vmrrabybay.org.au.
