Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) have reached an agreement that will see Queensland's Coast Guard flotillas begin activities to transition to MRQ from this month.

The agreement marks a milestone in the establishment of a single, integrated, government-funded marine rescue service for Queensland.

In a coordinated transition process, all 21 Coast Guard flotillas currently operating in Queensland will progressively join MRQ, strengthening volunteer marine rescue capability across the state.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed the announcement, saying it reflects months of collaborative work and a shared commitment to public safety.

“This is an important step forward for marine rescue services in Queensland, bringing us closer to the vision of a single, unified service that supports all Queenslanders on the water, no matter where they are,” he said. 

“We are proud to welcome Coast Guard volunteers into MRQ and to build on their legacy of service to local communities.”

The transition will be supported with a strong focus on local engagement, continuity of service, and volunteer support.

AVCGA National Commodore Terry Langford said the agreement ensures that Coast Guard volunteers in Queensland will continue their service under a new banner.

“Coast Guard volunteers are the heart of marine rescue in Queensland, and that will remain true under MRQ.

“The Coast Guard tradition is in safe hands," he said.

Once complete, MRQ will include 2700 volunteers across 47 locations, responding to more than 4,000 marine incidents each year.

“Our transition process prioritises the creation of safe environments for our staff, volunteers and those in our care while embracing local cultures in the formation of a new, unified service," Mr Wulff said.

Marine Rescue Queensland was established in 2024 as part of the Queensland Government’s commitment to improve emergency marine response through a unified model under the Queensland Police Service.