New Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Vessel Passes Sea Trial

A newly commissioned vessel for Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie has successfully completed a sea trial at Yamba, located on the state’s Northern Rivers.

Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager, Kelvin Parkin, confirmed that the new Lake Macquarie 31, an 8.5-metre Naiad built by Yamba Welding and Engineering, performed admirably during testing. “LM 31 is a pleasure to operate and will significantly boost search and rescue capabilities at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie, which is the busiest of our 46 units across New South Wales,” he said.

The new vessel replaces the unit’s previous 7.5-metre Sailfish CAT and boasts an axe head bow for improved handling during heavy bar crossings. It comes equipped with a full Raymarine navigation suite, FLIR (forward-looking infrared camera), radar, and sonar systems. “This vessel will provide vital lifesaving capability, both offshore and within enclosed waters,” Parkin added. “It has excellent manoeuvrability and complements Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie’s existing 10-metre Naiad, LM 30, as well as two rescue watercraft (jet skis).”

Lake Macquarie 31 is powered by twin Suzuki 250 horsepower outboard engines. “With a cruising speed of 20 to 30 knots and a top speed of around 42 knots, it offers quick response times while also being capable of extended periods on the water,” Parkin said. The vessel will be transported by truck to Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie and is expected to arrive by the end of the month. The NSW Government contributed to the cost of this vessel in support of the essential work carried out by Marine Rescue NSW and its 3,400 volunteers.

About Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Rescue NSW is the state’s official volunteer marine rescue organisation, established in 2009 following the merger of three existing rescue organisations: the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, and the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association Marine Branch. With more than 3,400 trained volunteers across 46 units along the coastline, Marine Rescue NSW is tasked with providing emergency assistance to boaters, search and rescue operations, and public education on marine safety.

The organisation operates a fleet of modern rescue vessels and maintains a 24/7 radio network that monitors distress calls. In addition to responding to emergencies, Marine Rescue NSW plays a key role in promoting boating safety and offers vessel tracking services for those venturing out on the water.