2/11/2025

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant visited the Queenscliff Coast Guard on Tuesday to announce the roll out of new digital radios this month to Marine Search and Resue (MSAR) units and volunteers across the state to improve their communication on the water.

The Labor Government has invested more than 760,000 to support the ongoing maintenance of the radios.

MSAR will also trial the use of satellite capability where there is limited connectivity available. The trial will run with the Portland Coast Guard Flotilla and Water Police for six months, starting next month.

Victoria has an MSAR fleet of 48 marine response vessels across 26 locations, with around 800 volunteers. MSAR units responded to more than 1100 incidents in 2023/24.

Everyone visiting Victoria's waterways should put their safety first by planning your visit by checking the Beachsafe app for hazards and safety ratings, swimming between the flags, never swimming alone or when you've been drinking and wear a lifejacket.

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

"Marine Search and Rescue Units (MSAR) play a critical role in keeping people safe in the water - which is why we're making sure they have the best resources to do that."

"These new digital radios will roll out across Victoria and give volunteers live communication with the Water Police -- ensuring everyone has instant information."

Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent

"Victoria's Marine Search and Rescue volunteers do an amazing job proving assistance to those in need, around our coastline, at sea, and our inland waterways.

"Equipping our volunteers with more than 180 digital radios will support greater coordination and information sharing between units during emergencies - helping to keep our community safe." 

Quotes attributable to Michael Donohue, Flotilla Commander, Coast Guard Queenscliff

"The new radio system has greatly enhanced communication between MSAR and Water Police and enables us to communicate directly with other services such as CFA, Lifesaving Victoria and Ambulance. The statewide coverage enables us to communicate and work statewide if and when required."