Who Are We?
VMR Bribie Island Incorporated is a volunteer organisation dedicated to:
- Promoting, fostering and supporting boating safety amongst members and the boating public generally by arranging training and education programs
- Providing a rescue service, a rescue base and such equipment deemed necessary for the operation of the rescue service and the Association generally.
The sole reason for the existence of Volunteer Marine Rescue groups is the saving and preservation of life at sea. Any other work we do – towing of disabled vessels, transporting persons or assisting with boating events etc. – is a secondary and discretionary service we provide to the public. It is important to note we do NOT carry out salvage works (such as vessels sunk, damaged or beached).
VMR Bribie is 100% volunteers, there are no paid staff at VMR Bribie.
How did We Evolve?
The unit arose from the Bribie Island Boating and Fishing Club, which in 1970 assumed responsibility for assisting mariners in distress.
It became Bribie Island Air Sea Rescue in 1982 and changed its name to VMR Bribie Island Incorporated in March 1997.
Since then we have evolved through the continued efforts of our volunteers and the support of the Bribie community to be one of the premier Marine Rescue services in Queensland.
Structure of VMR Bribie
VMR Bribie Island is one of 25 squadrons affiliated with Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland and operates under the umbrella of the State Emergency Service with some responsibilities to the Department of Transport.
We liaise with the Water Police while major Search and Rescue (SAR) activities are generally controlled by the Search and Rescue Mission Co-ordinator (SARMC) who is a police officer. On occasions activities may be controlled by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, based in Canberra.
VMR Bribie Island active members are all volunteers and the organisation, in addition to receiving government funding, depends on community support and fundraising to meet its operational and training needs. Active members are covered under the Workcover scheme, whilst on duty.
Primary emphasis is placed on safety with the safety of crew members and members of the public being the first priority in all we do. The master of the Rescue Vessel has responsibility for his crew and vessel as the primary consideration before carrying out rescue work.
How are we Funded?
VMR Bribie Island is NOT a government funded organisation. We do receive some grants and subsidies from the Queensland Government, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland and the generosity of our sponsors and supporters. This however does not cover our running/capital expenses so ongoing fundraising efforts by our members is necessary to ensure our continued operational capability.