Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) proudly celebrated the achievements of its remarkable women at the International Women’s Day (IWD) Awards, held as part of the broader 2026 Queensland Police Service (QPS) IWD event on Friday, 6 March 2026. The event, themed ‘Balance the Scales’, provided a platform to recognise and honour the contributions of women driving change, empowering others, and shaping the future of MRQ.
The awards ceremony, hosted at Victoria Park in Brisbane and livestreamed across the state, highlighted the exceptional leadership, mentorship, and innovation demonstrated by QPS, SES and MRQ members.
Below are the recipients of the Marine Rescue Queensland 2026 International Women’s Day Awards.
Outstanding Leader Award
This award recognises individual women who have demonstrated innovative leadership while supporting, promoting, or improving the interests and wellbeing of women in MRQ.
Congratulations to:
- Kelly Langworthy - MRQ Bribie Island
Kelly is being recognised for her dynamic leadership during Bribie Island’s transition to Marine Rescue Queensland, ensuring clear communication, volunteer support, and operational excellence while excelling in multiple senior roles.
- Jen Parry - MRQ Support Centre
Jen Parry is being recognised for her empowering and inclusive leadership style, fostering collaboration, amplifying diverse voices, and creating a supportive environment that champions women and sustained inclusion in MRQ.
Outstanding Mentor Award
This award celebrates individual women who have gone above and beyond to mentor, coach, and encourage other women, helping them to pursue growth opportunities and achieve their full potential within MRQ.
- Marilyn Harford - MRQ Victoria Point
Marilyn has been awarded the Outstanding Mentor Award for her exceptional 26 years of service as a marine rescue volunteer, during which she has mentored countless junior members, encouraged and supported women to become Coxswains, provided confidence-building training for all crew members, and served as a respected role model and leader within her unit.
Highly Commended Recipients:
- Samara Ey Escobar (MRQ Jacobs Well)
- Liz Radajewski (MRQ Bribie Island)
- Alex Talbot (MRQ Currumbin)
Trailblazer Award
This award honours individual women who have broken new ground by being the first in a particular field or endeavour, making significant contributions and paving the way for others to follow. These women have also supported and inspired others to develop their skills and abilities.
Award Recipient: Samara Ey Escobar (MRQ Jacobs Well)
Samara Ey Escobar has been awarded the Trailblazer Award for breaking new ground as the youngest member of MRQ Jacobs Well, rapidly advancing to become a Skipper with her Coxswain certificate, inspiring others through her leadership, and representing the next generation of volunteers on the inaugural MRQ Advisory Board.
Highly Commended Recipient:
- Mary Brown (MRQ Bribie Island)
Champion of Change Award
This award recognised individuals or teams who have consistently advocated for fairness and inclusion, creating tangible outcomes that promote gender equality within MRQ.
Congratulations to:
- Kelly Langworthy (MRQ Bribie Island)
Kelly Langworthy has been awarded the Champion of Change Award for her unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive culture across MRQ, sharing her HR expertise through presentations, personalised workshops, and an upcoming masterclass to support units statewide in achieving their cultural aspirations.
- Corrin Laurie (MRQ Round Hill)
Corrin Laurie has been awarded the Champion of Change Award for her exceptional leadership and dedication as Unit Support Coordinator, growing her local unit, supporting new members with personalised training, and fostering an inclusive culture that strengthens the MRQ community.
Marine Rescue Queensland extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients and nominees. A special thank you also goes to the MRQ members who took the time to nominate their colleagues for these awards.