Offshore search and rescue capability along the NSW coast has been enhanced with the addition of a cutting-edge, custom-designed vessel to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet.
Named Marine Rescue 30 (MR 30), the new Secure-class vessel was the brainchild of Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin. MR 30 was designed, developed and built in NSW by Yamba Welding and Engineering under the VYCOR brand.
The new 11.4-metre vessel boasts exceptional offshore capability. It is powered by fuel-efficient twin 300-horsepower diesel outboard engines, capable of a top speed of 34 knots (63 km/h), and features a full suite of Raymarine search and navigation technology.
“We’ve got FLIR cameras for infrared and thermal searches, depth sounders and sonar,” Parkin said.
“We have tried to ensure that the layout is familiar across our boats, so that crew can step aboard and instantly recognise everything. They know how to operate the systems, and they understand their parameters.
“The only thing extra to learn is how the boat handles and manoeuvres,” he said.
Image: Marine Rescue Port Jackson’s Julie Barkworth on the helm
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said the vessel’s innovative hull design allows it to glide through the water, improving volunteer safety and comfort in a range of sea conditions.
“As soon as you step aboard, you can feel the quality of the build. The smoothness of the ride, the technology that allows our volunteers to see what lies ahead, navigate safely, communicate effectively — the vision from the helm is fantastic. It’s just an all-round very capable vessel.
“This state-of-the-art design is purpose-built for Marine Rescue NSW and the work that we do,” he said.
Commissioner Barrell said the new $1.072 million state asset could be deployed to any Marine Rescue NSW unit along the state’s east coast from Point Danger to Eden.
“We are aiming to build our vessels so they can be relocated between units. The capability and technology remain consistent, allowing volunteers to move from vessel to vessel, operate them safely, and ultimately assist the boating community of New South Wales,” he said.
MR 30 will also play a key role during the International Maritime Rescue Federation’s Women in SAR (search and rescue) event this August.
“The vessel will be on hand for International Women in SAR, where 16 female participants from around the globe will come here to experience Marine Rescue NSW and Sydney Harbour. To be able to do so on a vessel of this capability not only showcases our organisation, but also the exceptional design talent we have in Australia’s maritime industry,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Parkin said MR 30 was inspired by feedback from volunteer crew across the state and has exceeded Marine Rescue NSW’s expectations.
“The design focuses on Marine Rescue NSW volunteer safety, accessibility, and functional requirements for offshore rescue.
“It was built with innovation, stability, and crew safety at the forefront.
“It’s been exceptional on the water. We have incorporated systems to make the ride smoother. The internal space allows easy movement, the large windows provide excellent visibility, and the comfortable seating is a real bonus.
“The vessel is proving its worth. We have taken it offshore several times now in significant seas. It’s a dry boat. You feel safe and secure inside, and it’s easy to work on,” Parkin said.
Image: Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin on board MR 30
The NSW Government has contributed to the cost of this vessel to support the vital work of Marine Rescue NSW and its 3,500 volunteers. Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
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