Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott said crews from Marine Rescue Tuross would be able to be on the scene of an emergency more rapidly after the delivery of their new $400,000 rescue vessel today.
Mr Elliott said the 7.5 metre Ocean Cylinder vessel, Tuross 21, had arrived at its new home waters on the Moruya River.
“Tuross 21 is one of 38 new rescue vessels funded by a $37.6 million four-year State Government investment to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers,” he said.
“This brand new rescue vessel is a valuable investment in the safety of the large boating community in this area of the Far South Coast, especially those crossing the hazardous Moruya bar.
“It is moored at Preddys Wharf on the Moruya River, specifically to ensure rescue crews can be on the scene of emergencies on the bar as quickly as possible.
“As well as operating on the river, the boat can also be deployed up to 15 nautical miles out to sea to rescue boaters who find themselves in trouble offshore.”
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the boat, purpose-designed and built to meet local operating conditions, would boost the safety of local and visiting boaters and the unit’s volunteers.
Built by Yamba Welding & Engineering on the NSW North Coast and powered by Suzuki outboards, Tuross 21 boasts a full suite of search and rescue technology and equipment and offers crews greater manoeuvrability and reliability.
Marine Rescue Tuross Unit Commander Alan Blessington said the vessel was a significant upgrade over the unit’s current boat.
“The updated technology and equipment on board will improve our search capability, which is vital to our mission of saving lives here on the coastline,” he said.
“It features a full suite of search and rescue equipment, including radar, a thermal imaging camera and a full first aid fit-out, including a defibrillator and oxygen kit.
“Its enhanced endurance means our volunteers will be able to operate more safely for longer periods and in a wider range of weather and sea conditions.
“After a tough year for the Eurobodalla community, this new Marine Rescue vessel is the perfect start to the 2021 for the region’s many local and visiting boaters.”
