Coast Guard Tin Can Bay could be forced to close in 2018…
… without the continued support of the local community. As 2017 approaches its end, QF17 would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who helped make this year so successful.
Without any direct government funding and forced to find 90% of our operating expenses, the public of our region have helped QF17:
- Acquire a replacement Primary Rescue Vessel
- Refurbish our 5.2 rescue and training vessel
- Replace our rusted and unsafe boat trailer
- Acquire new life jackets for our members
- Restock our first aid supplies
- Repair or replace communication equipment
- Train our members in first aid and rescue techniques, and
- Purchase fuel for our vessels (6,220L to 31 October).
Between January 1 and October 31 , 2017 we:
- Logged on 3136 vessels in our area of responsibility
- Assisted 102 vessels in distress (and their crews) between Waddy Point to South of DIP, 35 nm out to sea and within the Great Sandy Straits.
- Participated in seven Search and Rescue Operations requested by police
- Completed 13,007 radio communications with our maritime population
- Logged 4771 phone calls (“land line”)
- Responded to 13 mobile phone distress calls
- Attended more than 54 public events, and
- Offered a seven-days-a-week service to you, by our 43 members volunteering 18,579 hours to help monitor your marine safety.
In 2018, with your support, we will again be offering the local community first aid courses (Feb.), White Water and Bar Crossing courses (Feb.), Marine Radio Operators courses (March), Coastal Navigation (March) and ongoing Boating Safety programmes, and of course Spreading of Ashes services and special events support, due to their popularity in 2017.
Please assist volunteer Coast Guard-Tin Can Bay in 2018 so we can assist you. Offers of your time, expertise, sponsorship, bequeaths, or donations will be gratefully appreciated.
Just contact us on 5486 4290 or stop in at our base at Norman Point. We’re there from 6am to 6pm (and sometimes longer).
From all of us at QF17 to all our friends in the Fraser/Wide Bay/Gympie/Cooloola Regions,
may you have a merry Christmas, a safe and enjoyable holiday season and an outstanding 2018.
Yours in safe boating,
Coast Guard Tin Can Bay