New multi-purpose vessel stationed at Tuggerah Lakes

Marine Rescue NSW has taken delivery of its eighth and final multi-purpose vessel (MPV) to enhance flood response capability across the state.

The new 6m vessel, known as MR 26, will be stationed at Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes.

Like the seven other MPVs already in operation, it can be rapidly deployed locally or across NSW in the event of a weather emergency.

The multi-purpose vessel fleet forms part of Marine Rescue NSW’s response to recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, with the service receiving $3.748M in state government funding to build capacity and capability to support NSW SES and other agencies during major emergencies.

When not required for flood rescue and support, the Marine Rescue NSW multi-purpose vessels assist boaters and paddlers on local waterways.

Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes received the new bow-loading vessel following sea trials and senior crew induction at Marine Rescue NSW headquarters in Cronulla.

Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin said the Tuggerah Lakes-based vessel featured a Raymarine nine-inch multi-function display, radio communications, and was powered by twin Suzuki 90-horsepower outboard engines, capable of reaching speeds of up to 38 knots.

“This vessel is really comfortable cruising at around 20 knots, which is ideal for accessing remote areas and isolated places,” Parkin said.

“The draft on these boats is only 0.3m, so it’s very shallow and will allow us to reach areas we’ve never been able to access before.”

Parkin also highlighted the importance of the bow-loading door, especially for flood support.

“The utility capability of this vessel allows us to carry various items, whether it’s restocking remote communities, evacuating large groups of people, or transporting livestock and feed,” he said.

“There’s plenty of space on the deck for easy loading and transportation.”

Marine Rescue NSW Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer said the placement of the MPV at Tuggerah Lakes would enable its use for general operations when not supporting the NSW SES.

“This boat will be active on Tuggerah Lake, Budgewoi Lake, Lake Munmorah, and surrounding waterways, conducting routine patrols and assisting boaters and paddlers,” Duemmer said.

“The shallow draft nature of the vessel will allow our crews to access local shallow waterways.

“This trailerable vessel is a year-round asset for Marine Rescue NSW and will enhance search and rescue capability on the Central Coast.”

MR 26 is the second MPV to be based in the Hunter Central Coast region, with Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage housing a new vessel since July.

The other MPVs are located at Point Danger, Nambucca, Port Macquarie, Port Kembla, Shoalhaven, and Tuross Moruya units.