MRQ Burdekin is community run and community focused – just like we have been since our establishment back in 1971.
We began with community vessels and a caravan for a base which was towed to Alva Beach every weekend.
Over decades of hard work and dedication, we grew into Marine Rescue Burdekin, before transitioning into MRQ as Marine Rescue Queensland Burdekin.
Our volunteers are a close-knit team of family, friends and neighbours who are all committed to keeping people safe on the water.
Our base operates a dedicated listening watch on weekends and public holidays from 08:00 to 17:00 and we’re operationally ready 24/7. We monitor VHF channel 16, as well as channel 80.
We run an additional VHF repeater on channel 05 which broadcasts the latest weather forecast and observations, every hour on the hour.
Our area of operations covers to Cape Cleveland in the north, and south to Abbott Point. We also cover the many shallow estuaries of the Burdekin River and the Barrattas.
MRQ Burdekin has road registered trailers that allow us to quickly and safely drop off or collect vessels from different landing areas depending on tides or flood events.
Our unit works closely with other emergency services in the region, including the Qld Water Police, Qld Fire and Rescue, Qld Ambulance Service, and the SES.
We also operate in conjunction with local marine rescue units to provide support to the regional boating community. If you require support when travelling outside our area, contact QF8 Townsville, MRQ Bowen, and MRQ Whitsunday.
We’re always looking for new members to join our team. Volunteering brings many benefits – from the satisfaction of helping the local on-water community, to friendship and comradery in being part of a team, and a sense of belonging and connection to the wider marine rescue family. Find out more about volunteering with MRQ.
Remember to always follow the marine safety rules and continue to Log on and Log off via your local unit or VHF radio.
Notice of Establishment - MRQ Burdekin
For now, your local marine rescue service provider is still VMR. You can contact them on the details below.
Unit details
Call sign
Marine Rescue Burdekin
VMR 481