Queensland Water Police on the Gold Coast and members of Volunteer Marine Rescue groups from South East Queensland and Northern NSW have conducted an offshore training exercise to test and enhance Search and Rescue capability and coordination.
Eight vessels from five Volunteer Rescue Organisations and Queensland Police undertook a simulated offshore operation to hone their skills in offshore Search and Rescue Operations.
The exercise focused on the navigational and vessel handling components critical to successful search and rescue operations.
Queensland VMR (Volunteer Marine Rescue) groups from Jacobs Well, Southport and Currumbin were represented along with Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Southport and Point Danger Marine Rescue NSW.
A total of 45 personnel were involved in a variety of roles designed to enhance response capabilities and ensure search skills are maintained.
The operation utilised some of the latest technology available enabling coordinators to track vessels and monitor search patterns in real time, providing enhanced management of Search and Rescue Units within the nominated search area.
Queensland Water Police acknowledge the commitment and level of professionalism displayed by the volunteer organisations who devote significant time to providing this essential community service.