In an emergency, always radio VHF 16 or call Triple Zero (000)
MRQ Mackay volunteers

Join MRQ

Every day, Queenslanders give their time, skills and experience to help keep people safe on our oceans and waterways. From rescue boat crews and radio operators to the people working behind the scenes, our volunteers are at the heart of Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).

They’re everyday Queenslanders doing extraordinary things for their communities. And there’s a place for you among them. Whether you’re an experienced boatie or have never set foot on a rescue vessel, we’ll help you develop the skills and confidence to make a difference.

Be part of something bigger. Become an MRQ volunteer.

MRQ Mackay volunteers
There’s more than one way to make a difference
When someone needs help on the water, it takes a whole team to respond. While our rescue crews are often the most visible part of MRQ, there’s much more happening behind the scenes. From keeping watch over the radio to maintaining vessels, supporting training and connecting with local communities, every volunteer has an important role to play.
Whatever your background, experience or interests, there’s an opportunity to contribute.
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Express your interest - Become a volunteer
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More than volunteering

Joining MRQ is an opportunity to become part of something bigger.

You’ll meet people who share your commitment to helping others, build friendships, learn valuable skills and make a genuine difference in your community.

You’ll also become part of Queensland’s statewide marine rescue service, built on generations of volunteer experience, local knowledge and a shared commitment to keeping people safe.

Our volunteers come from different backgrounds, but they’re united by one purpose: being there when people need them most.

About volunteer roles

It takes a big effort to coordinate Queensland’s marine rescue network and our support teams are as important as our frontline responders, coordinating the training, management, maintenance, and administrative tasks that ensure we are always rescue ready.

If you already have some boating or emergency service knowledge, that’s great. If not, our professional training courses are specifically designed to give you the skills and qualifications you’ll need.

This may include first aid, sea survival, a marine radio operator’s certificate of proficiency and, on completion of the relevant training and sea time requirements, a Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal AMSA (AMPA) certificate of competency. 

MRQ guarantees full coverage of operational costs, ensuring our members can focus on their crucial roles and spend more time engaging with the community.

Boat crew

Be there when your community needs you most. Our rescue boat crews respond to incidents on the water, assist boaties in difficulty and support marine search and rescue operations.

You’ll work alongside experienced volunteers, develop practical skills and become part of a team that Queenslanders can depend on.

If you enjoy being on the water, working with others and learning new skills, this could be the role for you.

MRQshirt
Radio Operator

Sometimes, the most important person in a rescue is the one behind the radio.

Our volunteer radio operators provide a vital connection between boaties and marine rescue crews. They monitor marine communications, record vessel movements, share important safety information and help coordinate responses when assistance is needed.

You’ll be a reassuring voice for people on the water and an essential part of keeping your local boating community safe.

A radio room volunteer looks out onto the harbour
General member (Support and community roles)

You don’t need to head out on a rescue vessel to make a difference.

Behind every successful marine rescue unit is a dedicated team of volunteers helping to keep everything running.

From administration and vessel maintenance to community education, events and other support activities, there are plenty of opportunities to put your existing skills to good use or learn something completely new.

Every role matters. Every volunteer makes a difference.

general member
No experience? No problem

You don’t need a boating background or previous emergency services experience to volunteer with MRQ. 

We welcome people from all walks of life, bringing different skills, experiences and perspectives to their local units. 

We’ll provide the training, equipment and support you need to get started, with opportunities to develop your skills and take on new challenges as you gain experience. 

Depending on your role, you may receive training in marine radio communications, first aid, sea survival, rescue operations and vessel handling.

Whether you’re looking to learn something new, meet people or give back to your community, there’s a place for you at MRQ.

A career with MRQ
We're building the MRQ team throughout Queensland with paid roles in areas like operations, training, coordination, and administration and marine rescue volunteers are encouraged to apply.
To find MRQ’s current vacancies, visit smartjobs.qld.gov.au and search ‘MRQ’ or ‘Marine’ in the keywords and ‘Queensland Police Service’ in the department or organisation section.
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Visit smartjobs.qld.gov.au
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