The new base would bring the volunteer radio crew down from Whitbread Drive, a kilometre away, to the water’s edge and closer to its lifeboat.

The old facility would continue to serve Marine Rescue for all other functions including recreational boat licensing.

Unit commander Richard Osborne said the new base could feasibly sit atop the toilet block at Henderson Park.

“It would include a chart table, toilets and showers for the volunteers,” he said.

“We could then set up a [radio] repeater to the top of Whitbread Drive.”

Port Stephens councillor Steve Tucker said it was the logical next step since the public boat ramp and nearby facilities had been upgraded.

“If you put in on top of the toilet block you’ve already got sewer, water and power there which saves money,” he said.

“It’s only on the drawing board at the moment.”

The marina and park have grown in popularity in recent years.

Council has installed a new play ground, solar lights and a watering system to improve the area.

“We’re expecting traffic to increase by 50 percent on the boat ramp,” Cr Tucker said.

“Having the radio base there would give Marine Rescue a better profile and they could keep an eye on the place.

“It’s something the mayor [Bruce MacKenzie], myself and a few people have been talking there.”