Marine Rescue Bunbury spirits lifted with new $1.2 million vessel

• State-of-the-art vessel to boost emergency response in the South West
• Name pays homage to rich history of Marine Rescue Bunbury
• $1.2 million funded through Cook Labor Government's Marine Services Capital Grants Program

Marine Rescue Bunbury's emergency response capability has been strengthened with a cutting-edge vessel to keep South West boating enthusiasts safe on the water.

The $1.2 million 12-metre Rigid Hull Vessel was officially launched today by South West Minister and Bunbury MLA Don Punch.

The vessel was funded through the Cook Labor Government's Marine Services Capital Grants Program which protects Western Australians on the water.

It replaces the previous 10.8-metre OceanCat and will continue a rich history of Marine Rescue Bunbury by carrying on the name 'Spirit of Bunbury'.

The new vessel has greater stability, buoyancy and impact tolerance, making it safer for close-quarters work, bar crossings and rescues in rough conditions.

It is on an AirBerth boat lift, which allows it to remain fully afloat and ready for immediate deployment, enabling rapid launch without relying on trailers, boat ramps or tidal conditions - providing a significant improvement in response efficiency.

The new Spirit of Bunbury was built by Dongara Marine in Geraldton - aligning with the Cook Labor Government's Made in WA priority - backing Western Australian businesses and manufacturing.

Comments attributed to Acting Emergency Services Minister Tony Buti:

"This is about harnessing the skills, expertise and ingenuity we have right here in WA to deliver better outcomes for our communities and our frontline emergency services personnel.

"Our emergency services do an extraordinary job protecting Western Australians, and it's important we continue to invest in the tools and technology that help keep them safe."

Comments attributed to South West Minister and Bunbury MLA Don Punch:

"For 45 years, the dedicated volunteers of Marine Rescue Bunbury have played a critical role in keeping our community safe, often serving as the first responders when emergencies occur on the water.

"It is essential that these volunteers have access to modern, reliable vessels and equipment to carry out their lifesaving work effectively, particularly in challenging conditions.

"The Cook Labor Government is committed to supporting emergency response capability across Western Australia, which is why we have invested $1.2 million through the Marine Services Capital Grants Program to ensure volunteer marine rescue groups have the resources they need to protect our communities."