New Emergency Vehicle and Jet Skis Boost Marine Rescue Capabilities in the Lake

9 July 2025

newy.com.au – Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie has bolstered its emergency response capability with the launch of a new vehicle purpose-built to rapidly deploy lifesaving jet skis in critical situations across the Hunter region.

Unveiled today at Pelican, the new Emergency Response vehicle is equipped to tow a double jet ski trailer, allowing volunteers to respond more efficiently to water rescues, boating incidents and flood emergencies. Until now, logistical constraints had limited the speed and reach of jet ski deployments during emergencies.

The vehicle has been made possible through a new three-year partnership with Glencore, which has come on board as a Platinum Partner. The mining company’s funding will support the volunteer organisation’s ongoing efforts to protect local communities.

Unit Commander Jim Wright said the vehicle represents a major operational improvement. “Having this purpose-built Emergency Response vehicle means we can mobilise quickly when an emergency call comes in, without delays caused by vehicle limitations,” he said. “This upgrade significantly enhances our ability to respond to emergency events, saving lives across the Hunter. It also importantly supports our vital fundraising teams in the community.”

Glencore Social Performance Manager Craig Strudwick said the company was proud to assist the nearly 200 volunteers who keep the service running around the clock. “Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie is run entirely by almost 200 dedicated volunteers who give their time 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to protect the community. When they needed help, we saw an opportunity to support those who continually help others,” he said.

The new vehicle arrives shortly after a series of flood rescues in the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions, where Marine Rescue teams provided critical on-the-ground support.