Victoria Stone-Meadows

Six Mossman High School students joined the team at Marine Rescue Port Douglas (MRPD) for a training session to become qualified crew and skippers.

MRPD President, Ross Wood, said the training is unique to port Douglas and offers the students an experience they are unlikely to get anywhere else.

“MRPD has worked with the teachers of Mossman High School to create an opportunity for students to train for a career in the maritime industry,” he said.

“The course that MRPD delivers is under the auspices of Volunteer Marine Rescue Association of Queensland (VMRAQ) and would cost over $3,000 if undertaken at a college – but though MRPD it is delivered free to the students.” 

The training session was just one of the many exciting items MRPD has been involved in over the last 12 months.

“Last year we received a Salsa-Sorensen Grant for life jackets and related equipment and we were granted a new boat by the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Department through the Office of Minister Craig Crawford,” Mr Wood said.

“In May we received a Queensland Gaming Grant for the purchase of a new tow vehicle. We have purchased an excellent Toyota Land Cruiser and also in May Taubmans and Mossman Hardware donated paint and support to rejuvenate the inside of the entire top floor of our Wharf St Base including our Training Room, Radio Room and Offices.

“Further, MRPD has made a submission to VMRAQ to become a Far North Queensland Training Hub which will bring trainees and trainers from across FNQ to study in Port Douglas.”

Mr Wood said all the activities, learning experiences, and marine rescues they provide would not be possible without the valuable contribution of the community.

“Marine Rescue Port Douglas would like to convey our appreciation to these generous Donors for their great contributions in support of our marine rescue operations,” he said.

Mariners who would like to subscribe to MRPD’s tow-in service and prospective volunteers can find extra details and sign up at www.marinerescueportdouglas.com.au