The Shoalhaven area received a significant boost for boating safety, with the presentation of a new $66,000 vehicle to Marine Rescue Jervis Bay back in December 2022.

Funded through a grant from the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) SOLAS Trust, Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Unit Commander Kevin Hill welcomed the keys to the new dual cab Ford Ranger XL, from Chairman of the CYCA SOLAS Trust, David Kellett AM.

In a ceremony at the CYCA, the keys to the vehicle were presented to the volunteers, just ahead of their busiest time of the year.

Mr Hill thanked the CYCA for their donation, saying it would allow the unit to respond more effectively, and help keep local and visiting boaters safer.

“This new vehicle enables us to tow rescue vessels to areas such as enclosed coastal lakes and estuaries to undertake rescues, as well as transport our volunteer members to training, exercises and responses,” Mr Hill said.

“Fitted with a canopy, tapered aluminium underbody box, heavy duty tow bar kit, special lighting and DCN radio, the vehicle has the ability to transport vital equipment as well as act as a mobile command centre during significant incidents.”

“On behalf of the members of the Marine Rescue Jervis Bay unit, I’d like to sincerely thank the CYCA SOLAS Trust for their generous donation and for their commitment to boating safety here on the Shoalhaven.”

Life Member and Past Commodore David Kellett AM, Chair of the CYCA SOLAS Trust, said that the SOLAS Trust had donated over $1.75 million in their 20-year history, and he was delighted they were able to support the vital work undertaken by Marine Rescue Jervis Bay’s dedicated team of volunteers.

“The SOLAS Trust donates to marine search and rescue organisations all over Australia, and we are particularly pleased to support the Marine Rescue Jervis Bay unit in keeping boaters safe on one of the State’s busiest waterways.

“I congratulate the volunteers of Marine Rescue Jervis Bay for their professionalism and dedication, and wish them well in their vital work in helping to save lives on the water,” Mr Kellet said.

Six months in, the vehicle has been put to good use across a range of activities and we share some recent images with Members in appreciation of your support for the great work of the SOLAS Trust.

To make a donation to SOLAS (Saving Our Lives at Sea) Trust click here.