Official Launch of Rescue 1 "Ocean Watch"

There was great excitement for our Group on Saturday, 15 July when our recently completed Rescue One vessel was officially launched.   The launching program was conducted by our Group’s Deputy Commander, Wayne Harston, on behalf of our Commander, Chrissy Heu, who was unable to attend.  Mike Cockburn, Bosun provided the technical details of the 10-metre vessel. Built by Dongara Marine to a Southerly Designs blueprint, she is powered by twin mercury 300 hp V8 outboards and is a larger sister vessel to our Rescue Two “Bay Watch”, which is 8 metres.  

Mr Ron Snook, inaugural Life Member, outlined an interesting story of the history of the Group’s formation and progress through the years, acknowledging the late Jim Earnshaw.  The first radio communications originally started out in a small building where “Top Spot Cottages” is currently located on Bashford Street and has now progressed to our two-storey facilities at the Marina.

The Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC and DFES Commissioner, Darren Klemm also gave speeches.

One of our long-serving volunteers Evelyn (Eve) Trutwein was presented with her 15-year Service Medal Clasp and also the National Medal.   Congratulations Eve!

Guests and officials were invited to make their way to the Pontoon for the official Blessing and Christening Ceremony, which was conducted by Father Simeon San.   Rescue One’s name “Ocean Watch” was also revealed.    Attendees were invited to have a closer look over “Ocean Watch” and participate in a short “run” around the Bay.

The event was well attended with Members of DFES Marine Services Manager, Mark Eatts and Midwest-Gascoyne District Officer, Simon Miller, plus the VMRWA Association as well as members from Port Denison, Leeman, Lancelin and Kalbarri VMR Groups, representatives from the Shire of Dandaragan, DoT, local businesses and all our wonderful volunteers and the Jurien community.  

Delicious light refreshments were provided at the conclusion of the ceremony.   A huge THANK YOU to Family Affair Café for their plentiful catering.  

We would like to express our gratitude for the generous support and donations that we have received from many local businesses, boat members and the public over the years. Thank you also to everyone who helped organise the function to make it such a success!!!