On Queensland Day, you may have seen MRQ’s celebratory post that showcased the work of Sam Summers, Senior Coxswain at MRQ Sandgate, who penned the lyrics of a catchy tune celebrating the work of our crews, while also reminding listeners how to call for assistance.
Read on to learn more about the man behind the song, and his journey to becoming a marine rescue volunteer …
Sam is a First Nations songwriter, aligned to the Butchulla people through his mother, with South Sea Islander heritage through his father.
One of nine children, he grew up on Cribb Island in Moreton Bay and joined the Royal Australia Navy after finishing Grade 10. It’s clear that Sam has always had salt in his veins – he loves being out on the water.
He was in the navy for an incredible 46 years and worked for customs on patrol boats. He held a range of roles during this time, working his way from deckhand to navigator.
An injury forced him shoreside for a while, which led to a role as a Marine Ranger, where he looked after Moreton Bay Marine Park a territory from Caloundra to the Southport seaway, including offshore green zones.
Hearing his story, it sounds as though Sam has secured nearly every ticket or competency going across maritime, conversation, and surveying that allows him to do more and see more of our amazing waterways.
In 2017, after completing full time employment, Sam was missing the water and looking for a way to use the skills he’d honed at sea and connect to his local community.
Joining Volunteer Marine Rescue Brisbane was an easy decision, and he was part of the crew who transitioned as MRQ Sandgate when they joined the state-wide organisation.
In January 2023, he attended the Tamworth Country Music Festival. This may have been the event that awoke his creative talents, as just a few months later in July … the words started to flow.
His first foray into writing lyrics was an anthem celebrating Queensland’s mighty maroon State of Origin team. He gave this to his son in-law, an accomplished musician in his own right, who put this to music.
Inspiration for his lyrics can, and has, come from many different places. Following a tour of battlefields of World War 1 and 2 in Europe, Sam penned two different pieces.
Excitingly, one of Sam’s works has already been professionally completed and publicly presented. He’s written a complete song cycle forming the basis of this first Indigenous album, Still Here, Still Strong. This project represents his first formal journey into recorded music.
Now, at 67 years of age, he brings a lifetime of experience to his creative practice. This background has shaped a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and commitment to truthful storytelling.
We’re lucky to have such accomplished and talented volunteers as Sam at MRQ. It’s true that there’s a place for everyone, and regardless of where they started – their destination is to be part of the blue and yellow crew.
He says that a highlight of his time with MRQ as been the opportunity to impart his skills – using his background, sharing his experiences, and contributing to the stellar work of the unit.
There’s only one way that we could close out this profile; by sharing our favourite of the many songs he’s penned lyrics for (the 89th in his impressive catalogue!).
Lyrics:
Verse 1
When you’re on the water, enjoying your day,
And something goes wrong to spoil your stay –
Be assured, help’s just a call away,
We’re here to keep you safe, come night or day.
Chorus
Dial One-Three-One, Six-Seven-Seven,
Help’s on the way, from sea to heaven!
That’s what we’re here for – your lifeline at sea,
Marine Rescue Queensland – we’re here, we’re free!
Verse 2
A brand-new name, but the mission’s the same,
Helping mariners – that’s our aim.
Ready to go when you’re in dismay,
Volunteers serving – the Queensland way!
Tagline
Marine Rescue Queensland – always there when you call!