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Christmas came early for the Volunteers at Marine Rescue Jurien Bay. After enduring numerous delays due to supply issues and technical problems the big day finally arrived and our new rescue vessel went into service on Saturday, 18 December 2021 at the Jurien Bay Marina. Our new craft is a 7M rigid hull inflatable (RHIB) from Southerly Designs and built by Dongara Marine. It is powered by twin 150hp Yamaha outboards and has a full suite of state-of-the-art electronics. It will complement our existing rescue vessel, the much larger powered Catamaran, “Crikey”. Being trailer-able allows for rapid response to places like Cervantes and also provides support for neighbouring Groups at Leeman, Lancelin and Port Denison.
Our Commander, Chrissy Heu, opened proceedings with a 'Welcome to Country', followed by the welcoming of our honoured guests - Ron Snook (Inaugural Life Member of Marine Rescue Jurien Bay), Reverend Renald (Parish of Moora), Peter Scharf (Shire of Dandaragan Deputy President), representatives of Marine Rescue Groups and the wonderful Jurien Bay community.
After the speeches and Blessing of Rescue 2 by Reverend Renald, those present were introduced to the Jurien Bay District High School winner of our Boat Naming Competition - Marcus Robartson (5 years old) who delivered the winning name “Bay Watch”. Instead of champagne, Marcus christened “Bay Watch” with water - well done Marcus! Our Deputy Commander Wayne, Marcus and Chrissy then cut the ribbon together!
At the end of the ceremony, attendees were invited to have a closer look at “Bay Watch” and to partake in our Sausage Sizzle (many thanks to IGA for donating the sausages!), while Marcus and his Dad enjoyed a ride on “Bay Watch” as his prize.
Thank you to everyone who helped to set up and dismantle the equipment, those who organised, those who served up the sausage sizzle, and of course to our wonderful BBQ cooks Allan and Pat - THANK YOU EVERYONE!
A HUGE THANK YOU to the wonderful crowd who came along on the 18th December to help us celebrate the launch, blessing and naming of our new Rescue 2 Vessel – “BAY WATCH” - it was a fantastic turnout and a wonderful celebration!
Our first official tow in for “Bay Watch” occurred on 28 December when she was deployed to assist a vessel with fuel issues located 20 n.miles out. Well done to Toby and Michael on their first big tow in which also occurred on the morning of their crew inductions.
Remember, we may have a flash new boat with every bit of technology money can buy to find you, but wearing your life jacket is what will save your life should anything suddenly happen out there.
THANK YOU to Rob Wood, Jurien 122, who installed the north side veranda light on our Marine Rescue Tower Building. Thank you heaps Rob!
Do you need a RST Provider who is happy to travel to Jurien Bay for Skipper tickets? Please contact Neil on mobile 0413 735 726.