Work is commencing today on a $1.7 million communications centre for Lake Macquarie Marine Rescue.
Around 150 volunteers are signed up to the areas marine rescue team, with Lake Macquarie consistently one of the busiest marine rescue unit's in NSW, launching 396 rescue missions, including 50 in response to life-threatening emergencies in 2019.
The two-storey building replacing the unit’s existing facility on Swansea Heads, will be equipped with the latest generation marine communications technology, supporting the volunteers’ ability to detect distress calls and respond swiftly and effectively to boaters in need of help 24/7.
It will also include a new training and meeting space, storage for essential rescue equipment, offices, amenities and kitchen facilities, a viewing platform and a lift to improve access for volunteers with a disability.
Lake Macquarie MP, Greg Piper, says the new facilties are sorely needed.
“The volunteers have been operating in outdated and
cramped conditions for a long time and I was very pleased to see the State
Government announce funding to provide this new world-class facility as part of
a $37.6 million four-year funding boost to MRNSW," he says.
“It’s a shame that under the current pandemic restrictions
the members can’t all be present to mark the start of construction but I know
they would not want to wait one extra day for work to begin.”
The new base was designed by TorrenBell Building Design
and is being built by Cowyn Building Group, which has a base at Charmhaven. The
project is scheduled for completion by the end of the year, depending on
weather.
The building schedule means the unit can continue its radio operations in the current base until October, when it will temporarily relocate to its Pelican boat facility until the new base is completed.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Mal Wardrop
said the start of work on the project was the culmination of extensive planning
and input by unit members.
“This new centre will enhance our operations and provide
our members with a safe, secure working environment. We are confident that
first-rate facilities such as this will also encourage new members to join the
unit.”
