A communication link between Marine Rescue (MR) Port Stephens’ dock facility and its Nelson Head radio base will be restored thanks in part to a federal government grant.
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Paterson MP Meryl Swanson recently visited the MR dock at Nelson Bay to present the volunteer crew with a $2500 Stronger Communities program grant.
The money will be matched by Marine Rescue to enable the re-installation of a communication link between the unit’s new dock facility and radio base. The link had been knocked out as a result of a recent storm.
During the presentation Ms Swanson praised the work undertaken by the unit’s dedicated band of volunteers.
“Thank you for your service to the Port Stephens region in helping to keep the many boating visitors safe during their time on the water,” Ms Swanson said.
“With the support of the NSW Department of Industry and Crown Lands, this money will help to attach the radio link equipment to a light pole on the marina breakwall to allow a line of sight to the radio base. This is a tremendous result and a win for all boaters in Port Stephens.”
Unit commander Colin Foote said that the link would enable better communications, particularly for the MR boat crews as they prepare to undertake operations to assist vessels in distress.
“Raising funds to improve our operations is a major job for volunteers and we are always very grateful for any government grants which may come our way.”
The Stronger Communities program provides each of the 150 federal electorates with $150,000 to fund small capital projects that improve local community participation and contribute to vibrant viable communities.
Mr Foote added that as a volunteer organisation, the unit was dependent on community support both financially and with new members joining the unit.
“The first new member information night has been held with 12 people attending. A six-month training program including both theoretical courses and practical training in the radio room commences this month, supporting all new members to achieve the first rating of marine radio operator.”
Mr Foote also commended both the boat crew and radio room personnel for their efforts in 2018 and is confident that with the introduction of the new trainees the unit will be in a strong position to maintain its goal of ‘Saving Lives on Open and Closed Waters’ in and around Port Stephens in 2019.
“In addition to the unit’s operational activities there a number of projects in 2019 that need to be funded over and above the $160,000 needed for operational expenses and community support is required.”
