It’s a common refrain that ‘there’s a place for everyone at MRQ’. In Marlene’s case, this should be expanded further to include: even if you’re not really into boats. We caught up with Marlene to learn more about her journey with marine rescue and were reminded that MRQ volunteer members are an incredibly diverse group that bring a wide range of skills and experience to our organisation.
When asked about what initially attracted her to join marine rescue, the answer isn’t quite what you’d expect.
“I'm not really into boats, and I get seasick … which really does raise the question as to how and why I've spent a decade volunteering for a marine rescue organisation!”, says Marlene.
Back in 2015 her husband joined VMR Whitsunday and enjoyed the opportunity to be out on the water and helping others. At that time, a sub-committee was being set up to investigate “techy-type” solutions to some of the unit’s issues, like rosters and crew availability. Marlene was invited to participate, based on her work background in educational technology. This was a great outcome for everyone: she sourced an app, trained the crew, and it's still in use today.
In 2017, her husband passed away suddenly. A few months afterwards, she was approached by the VMR Whitsunday management committee with an invitation to join the team. While she was open about her lack of interest in boats, they recognised that her professional background would be useful – as well as recognising the diverse perspective Marlene would be able to contribute.
It’s clear that this professional experience has been an asset in supporting her local unit. “I was a member of that management team for many years, and the role gave me room to apply my background in ways I hadn't expected – including developing our local knowledge content into an online, interactive course”, she said. This has now moved into exciting new territory. Marlene is currently deep in the world of AI models and agents, actively using it day to day, and applying it directly to improve the systems that keep the MRQ Whitsunday unit running.
Despite the seasickness, one of her most memorable moments is far from a computer – on a fast-moving boat with a helicopter hovering directly overhead! Marlene recounts the highlights of an experience from a local SAREX, where the exercise was a medical evacuation from a moving vessel and she was on onboard the primary vessel to capture footage. “The rotors were whipping the waves while I hung on for dear life while keeping the GoPro focused on the man being winched onto the deck. With the boat powering through the chop, it was noisy, I was drenched – and absolutely loving it!”.
It’s clear that no matter what role she’s taking on, Marlene has found great joy and satisfaction in her time with marine rescue. She’s passionate about sharing this with anyone who is considering volunteering – especially those who may not think of themselves as ‘boating people’.
“Volunteering is for anyone with knowledge and experience to share, and a love for their community. Liking boats is optional.”
If you’re keen to learn new skills, give back to your community, gain nationally recognised qualifications, or simply find some new mates along the way, find out more about volunteering with MRQ.