Tuesday, 1st September 2020
The dedicated volunteers who risk their own lives to
rescue others off the Whitsundays coast have been given a lifeline of their own
today.
LNP Deputy Leader and Shadow Treasurer Tim Mander has announced the Whitsundays
Volunteer Marine Rescue will receive a financial boost of $400,000 for upgrades
and improvements under a future Deb Frecklington LNP Government.
“This is an exciting announcement for the people of the Whitsundays and most
importantly the hard-working men and women who keep locals and tourists safe
when they get into trouble on the water,” Mr Mander said.
“The LNP understands the value and important work the Whitsundays Volunteer
Marine Rescue does on a daily basis.
“The
Palaszczuk Labor Government oversaw the Blue Water Review and received the
recommendations in January but haven’t acted.
“Annastacia Palaszczuk was the last Premier to announce an economic stimulus
package but was the first and only Premier to cancel her budget during the
Coronavirus pandemic.
“No Budget means Labor is flying blind through the biggest economic crisis in almost a century.
“The Palaszczuk Labor Government has failed to treat
Queensland based VMR squadrons with respect for many years and the volunteers
have been left in the dark about their future.
“The LNP backs our volunteers and appreciate their ongoing efforts to keep us
safe.”
LNP Candidate for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said it’s crucial the region has a
strong volunteer marine rescue service.
“We are lucky to live in a world-renowned part of Queensland and it’s
absolutely crucial this local volunteer service continues,” Ms Camm said.
“I’ve fought so hard to ensure the LNP invests in this local VMR after years of
Labor neglect.
“The LNP’s funding commitment will refurbish and extend the existing VMR
meeting rooms to provide greater capability in times of disaster.”
