Volunteer Marine Rescue in push for protection
Marine rescue volunteers are calling for recognition under legislation in a bid to better protect them while on the job.
Townsville
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Marine rescue volunteers are calling for recognition under legislation in a bid to better protect them while on the job.
The call for a “middle ground” comes just months out from the state election with Volunteer Marine Rescue fearing the recommendations from a Blue Water Review could become a political football.
The review — announced two years ago — has been completed with recommendations now before cabinet.
Currently legislation recognises volunteers from organisations such as the SES and Rural Fire Brigade.
Volunteer Marine Rescue state vice-president Vince Papale said recognising marine rescue volunteers would be a “show of good faith”.
“After we strip away everything else and look at the real issues that could confront our volunteers, there are some significant gains to be made by being recognised under legislation,” Mr Papale said.
“For example a Rural Fire Brigade first officer may need to destroy a fence or a building to get at the heart of a fire. He can do so if he is protected under legislation to do his role.
“We’re looking for the same protection for our own officers.”
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The call for volunteer recognition comes just two months after an investigation was launched into an incident where a boat sank while under tow behind a VMR Burdekin vessel.
Mr Papale said officers currently had to seek authorisation to prevent damage to property in an event such as a drifting boat in a flood or marina.
“It is not a good position to put volunteers in.
“We ensure they have the highest amount of protection they can in insurance however until somebody tests a clause in legislation or insurance case, we’re never sure … (they are) in fact completely covered.”
Mr Papale said marine rescue volunteers had a fantastic following within the community but were now calling for backing from government as well.
Originally published as Volunteer Marine Rescue in push for protection