Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Alex Barrell has thanked the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation for their support of the life-saving work of Marine Rescue volunteers in protecting and assisting the North Coast boating community after they donated $50,000 to purchase a new 3.88 metre Zodiac Milpro inflatable rapid response emergency rescue boat and emergency equipment for the Marine Rescue Brunswick unit.

“This robust new rapid response rescue vessel will give our volunteers the ability to respond quickly to emergencies, and to access areas of shallow river water and coastal lakes inaccessible to the unit’s primary response vessel,” Mr Barrell said.

“With a weight of just 55 kilograms, a key feature of the rescue vessel is its ability to be quickly and easily transported to where it is needed, enabling our members to better support other agencies such as the NSW SES during flood responses.”

“James Frizelle Charitable Foundation representative Trish Harris said that the devastating floods in the Northern Rivers in 2022 highlighted the need for local first responder volunteers to have immediate access to life saving marine equipment in order to reach & evacuate residents”

Marine Rescue Brunswick Unit Commander Jonathan Wilcock said that the rescue vessel will be a great asset for the unit’s volunteers, and will provide additional protection to the many local and visiting boaters who regularly enjoy this beautiful section of the state’s coastline.

“We’re grateful for the support of the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation for the vital work carried out by our members.”

“With another busy summer expected on our waterways, this rescue vessel will provide the Marine Rescue Brunswick unit with additional rescue capability at the peak of the boating season just when it’s needed the most.”