Volunteer crew members might soon be able to undergo mission briefings in a shelter on the water at Nelson Bay Marina.
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Port Stephens Marine Rescue met with the Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC to discuss plans for a pontoon this week.
“At the moment we’re briefing the crews in the rain when the weather is bad,” operations officer Tony O’Donnell said.
The pontoon would have the capacity to brief the crews of two boats – about 10 people – as well as provide some equipment storage and digital archiving.
Mr O’Donnell said the project was worth about $60,000 and he was hopeful the state government might assist with the cost.
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Mr MacDonald said the volunteer crew made a compelling case for the structure.
“While they do receive regular funding support this would really help with their professionalism,” he said.
“They are one of the busier rescue areas, there’s no doubt about it, and they’ve got a good crew and it’s manned 24 hours.”
While Mr MacDonald didn’t make any promises he did agree to escalate the bid.
“They’re looking for some help from the state government,” he said.
“With a little bit more detail I will take it to Premier and Cabinet within a week.”
Among those present for the discussion was former Paterson MP and Marine Rescue patron Bob Baldwin.
