The major funding was announced at Stockton last Friday, where a new $3 million Marine Rescue NSW base was officially opened by Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

Built by a family-owned construction company based in NSW, the new Stockton facility is a purpose-built search and rescue coordination centre funded by a $2 million grant from NSW Crown Lands and an investment from Marine Rescue NSW.

The 600 square metre, two level building features a radio room, crew and training areas, administration areas, vessel and equipment storage and can act as a command centre during major incidents.

The Government is also investing significantly in Marine Rescue NSW’s fleet, including three new multi-purpose vessels currently being built in the Hunter.

These vessels will be used to assist other agencies during significant emergencies, such as floods.

When the vessels are not used for flood response, they will be part of the Marine Rescue NSW fleet assisting boaters in need.

The additional funding will be invested in a new fleet including new rescue vessels for Lake Macquarie, Trial Bay and Brunswick units in the first year.

It will also contribute to the refurbishment of nine other rescue vessels.

Last financial year, Marine Rescue NSW conducted a record 4,548 search and rescue missions, returning more than 10,000 people safely to shore.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said, “The new Marine Rescue NSW base is a welcomed addition to supporting local and visiting boaters to the Newcastle area.

“The Hunter Coast is one the busiest boating regions in the state and it is reassuring for the community to know that the team of highly skilled volunteers are ready to respond.

“Marine Rescue NSW and NSW Police Marine Area Command work closely together to serve the boating community and this building provides a fit-for-purpose base for joint operations.

“On behalf of the people of the Hunter, and all of our boating visitors, I thank the hardworking Marine Rescue Newcastle volunteers for their dedication and commitment to helping keep our beautiful waterways as safe as possible.”

Marine Rescue Newcastle Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh said, “The new base provides a major boost to the region’s boating community.

“This new facility has expanded our search and rescue capabilities and has already played a vital role in numerous emergency responses.”