New rescue vessel Cape Rose

Shark Bay’s volunteer marine rescue group received a long-awaited new vessel last week which will soon be put to work, complementing the organisation’s larger boat.

The purpose-built new $400,000 rescue vessel, christened Cape Rose, was handed over from Port Denison-based boatbuilder Dongara Marine to the group on Thursday.

Designed in consultation with the volunteer organisation, the new quick-response vessel is expected to cut response times and have greater access to remote areas during emergencies.

Shark Bay VMR commander Drew Wassman said the vessel “handles like a dream” and replaces the organisation’s existing secondary response vessel.

The 8m rigid-hulled inflatable boat was the first built as part of a $19.5 million State Government investment in marine rescue.

Emergency Services Minister Francis Logan said alongside the group’s primary response vessel, the Tamala Rose, the new boat would help volunteers better serve their community.

“By working with our volunteers and local businesses, we are building vessels that benefit our local economies and help our communities with purpose-built vessels,” he said.