Marine Rescue Queensland launches Training Academy on the Gold Coast
QPS Media on May 14, 2026 @ 2:05pm
A state-of-the-art, marine rescue training facility has officially opened near Jacobs Well in southeast Queensland, today, marking an important milestone in the history of Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).
The new facility will prepare volunteers to take on the unique challenges of marine rescue operations, serving as a central hub for delivering consistent, high-quality training programs as part of the MRQ Training Academy.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said the opening of the facility and the commencement of the MRQ Training Academy marks a historic moment for MRQ, as Queensland continues the transition to one coastal marine rescue organisation.
“This facility will help us deliver consistent and high-quality training as we move into this new stage of transition for the organisation,” Chief Officer Wulff said.
“Our volunteer members are our greatest asset, and we are committed to ensuring they have the skills to keep Queenslanders safe on the water.”
MRQ established its own Registered Training Organisation in 2025, to offer volunteer members nationally recognised, commercially qualified training accreditation. The launch of the MRQ Training Academy marks the next chapter in supporting a highly regarded team of ‘volunteer professionals’ who are dedicated to saving lives at sea.
The location of the MRQ Academy is strategically important. It is in a diverse navigational area that can showcase almost all elements of the International Association of Lighthouse Authority buoyage system, including easy access to smooth, partially smooth and open waters along with three very different bar crossings.
“We are excited for this facility to foster the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and research in maritime safety,” Chief Officer Wulff said.
MRQ was established on 3 June 2024 to deliver Queensland’s first single, integrated, and state-funded volunteer marine rescue service. It will bring together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland (VMRAQ) to improve safety for Queenslanders on the water and enhance emergency response capabilities under the QPS.
QPS Deputy Commissioner of Disaster and Emergency Management, Chris Stream, highlighted the facility’s role in helping keep Queenslander’s safe on the water.
“The brand-new facility will support MRQ in providing world class responses across our coastline,” Deputy Commissioner Stream said.
“By equipping volunteers with advanced training and resources, the MRQ Academy enhances the overall capacity to respond to emergencies at sea and on the water, potentially saving more lives and reducing the impact of maritime incidents,” he said.
The facility features training rooms, shared office spaces, a secure, dedicated hardstand area for vessel maintenance and training activities, as well as three dedicated marina berths for 8,10 and 14 metre vessels.
MRQ volunteers are the lifeblood of the organisation, carrying on a proud tradition of more than 50 years of service to their community through their legacy organisations, keeping people safe on Queensland oceans and waterways.
For assistance with a life-threatening situation phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For assistance with non-life-threatening situations — such as help with a damaged roof or storm damage — phone SES on 132 500.
Keep up to date with the latest weather advice at Queensland Warnings Summary (bom.gov.au)..