New High Speed High Tech Rescue Vessel Strengthens Marine Safety on Lake Macquarie

newy.com.au – A newly commissioned high speed rescue vessel has joined the fleet at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie, boosting response capabilities across the lake and the Hunter Coast as the region prepares for another busy boating season.

The 8.5 metre Naiad vessel, Lake Macquarie 31, was officially welcomed on 21 July 2025 at a commissioning ceremony at the Marine Rescue base in Pelican. The event was attended by Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib, Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell and Unit Commander Jim Wright.

Minister Dib said the vessel represented a significant step forward in marine safety. “Boaters across the state can rest assured that the NSW Government’s investment in Marine Rescue NSW is delivering rapid response rescue vessels with impressive offshore search and rescue capabilities,” he said.

Built in New South Wales by Yamba Welding and Engineering, Lake Macquarie 31 replaces the unit’s older 7.5 metre Sailfish catamaran. The new vessel is powered by twin 250-horsepower Suzuki outboards, capable of reaching speeds up to 42 knots and operating up to 30 nautical miles offshore.

Commissioner Barrell said the vessel enhances the unit’s ability to respond in challenging conditions. “This new vessel features an axe-head bow capable of handling heavy bar crossings, a full Raymarine suite of navigation equipment, FLIR camera, radar and sonar,” he said. “These advanced systems assist our volunteers in operating effectively in all conditions.”

The Lake Macquarie unit, Marine Rescue NSW’s busiest, has already conducted 297 search and rescue missions and safely returned 672 people to shore in the first half of 2025. This is on par with the same period last year, which saw 681 people rescued.

Commander Jim Wright said the unit’s team of 184 volunteers continues to respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, supported by a radio operations team that monitors marine communications around the clock. He thanked the local community and businesses for helping fund the new vessel. “The unit also extends its gratitude to Daracon Group, McDonald Jones, and Trinity Point Marina for their financial contributions towards Lake Macquarie 31. Their ongoing support is greatly appreciated,” he said.

Minister Dib also reminded boaters to Log On and Log Off using the Marine Rescue app or via VHF Channel 16. “Using the Marine Rescue app or contacting Marine Rescue NSW through VHF channel 16 ensures that a search will be initiated for boaters who do not return from a trip as planned,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based organisation committed to protecting lives on the water and supporting coastal communities throughout the state.