Marine Rescue Bunbury has received a major boost to its lifesaving capabilities with the arrival of a new advanced rescue vessel designed to improve emergency response times and support crews during challenging marine conditions.
The new vessel, named Spirit of Bunbury, replaces the organisation’s previous rescue boat and represents a significant upgrade for volunteer marine rescuers who respond to incidents across the South West of Western Australia. The vessel was funded through the Western Australian Government’s Marine Services Capital Grants Program, with an investment of approximately $1.2 million.
The 12-metre rigid hull vessel has been designed to provide greater stability, improved safety and enhanced performance during search and rescue operations. Its stronger construction, increased buoyancy and improved impact resistance allow crews to operate more confidently during difficult conditions, including rough seas, coastal rescues and close-quarter emergency situations.
For Marine Rescue Bunbury volunteers, the new vessel will provide a major improvement when responding to incidents involving disabled boats, missing people, medical emergencies and other maritime emergencies. The South West coastline attracts thousands of recreational boaters each year, making reliable rescue equipment essential for community safety.
Marine Rescue Bunbury is a volunteer organisation supporting the Greater Bunbury community and works alongside emergency services to provide marine assistance and rescue operations. Volunteers undergo regular training to ensure they can respond quickly and safely when people are in danger on the water.
The vessel continues the long history of the Spirit of Bunbury name, recognising the contribution of previous rescue crews and vessels that have served the local community. The upgrade ensures future volunteers have access to modern equipment capable of handling increasingly demanding rescue situations.
Across Western Australia, governments have recently invested in upgrading marine rescue fleets, with several organisations receiving new vessels featuring improved communications, search capabilities and stronger designs for difficult conditions. These upgrades aim to improve response times and protect boating communities throughout the state.
The arrival of the new vessel is particularly important for Bunbury because of the region’s busy waterways, including coastal areas, fishing locations and recreational boating zones. Faster and safer response capability can make a critical difference during emergencies where every minute matters.
Marine Rescue volunteers say the investment will not only improve operational capability but also provide greater confidence for crews who dedicate their time to protecting the community.
With the Spirit of Bunbury now joining the fleet, Marine Rescue Bunbury is better equipped to continue its role as a vital emergency service provider, helping keep Western Australian waters safer for residents, visitors and recreational boaters.
