Redland Bay water police to get bigger barge and boat

Redlands MP Kim Richards said she was told a 19m high-speed barge would replace the smaller PV Stewart Kerlin later this year.

The barge is used by Redland Bay water police for patrols to Southern Moreton Bay Islands and across Moreton Bay.

The name will be kept but the replacement vessel, tipped by Ms Richards to cost $3.2 million, will be bigger to fit two large cars and extra officers.

“The vessel replacing the current barge PV Kerlin will be able to ferry two large vehicles and up to 15 officers, double the current capacity, to any of the islands more quickly,” Ms Richards said.

Existing vessel PV Des Trannore will also go, with a 10m replacement boat, costed at $500,000, to be used instead.

“I am advised the vessels will be larger and faster than the vessels currently deployed in the southern Moreton Bay,” Ms Richards said.

“I welcome the Queensland Police Service’s commitment to the Redlands region.

“These new boats increase capability in the southern bay area and reflect the Palaszczuk government’s commitment to deliver for all Queenslanders.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the $5.4 million would be used to buy six large vessels, including a 17m boat for Mooloolaba water police and smaller 5.5m vessels for use across the Cape York region.

Seven jet skis would also be added to the state’s water police fleet.

“The new vessels we are delivering are either faster or have a greater range than the vessels they are replacing,” Mr Ryan said.

“The Palaszczuk government will always ensure the Queensland Police Service has the resources it needs to get the job done.

“I visited the Torres Strait recently and witnessed first hand how critical effective Water Police operations are to the communities on Horn Island and Thursday Island.

“Across the board the Palaszczuk government is ensuring police have up-to-date equipment.”