This is my opportunity to thank the Flotilla members for allowing me to lead them over the next two years as we move towards joining Marine Rescue Queensland in July 2024.
I manage by seeking advice from subject matter experts and others and then making decisions that best suit the needs of the Flotilla and its members.

I will continue to maintain the procedures and processes already in place, take every opportunity to ensure the financial position of the Flotilla and replace aged and faulty equipment
as necessary. I will manage the occurrence of change in a simplistic manner so that it is easy for all members to transition to MRQ when invited.

Vessel Replacement
The executive has already decided to upgrade Maroochy RSL from a 4.7m RIB to a 6 to 7m RIB.
At the July General Meeting, members, with one exception, voted to pass the motion to upgrade Maroochy RSL and not to exceed the expenditure of $85,000. The Vessel Replacement Committee have made inroads to find a suitable vessel for replacement.

Rotary III
RIII has received an upgrade to its seating with two new suspension seats for the skipper and helmsperson.
Rotary International Mooloolaba

During June, the handover from one Commander to another was an interesting exercise and a steep learning curve in responsibilities. I take this opportunity to thank Ian Hunt for leaving QF6 in a sturdy position. I will continue his fine examples of leadership and management.During the final week of Ian’s administration, Ian, Rod Ashlin, and I attended the Rotary Mooloolaba Change Over Dinner, where Ian was made a Paul Harris Fellow for his services to the community through QF6.
Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management Group
We also attended the Sunshine Coast Council Local Disaster Management meeting at the Nambour chambers. Ian advised the meeting of his progression to Squadron Deputy Commodore and my advancement to QF6 Commander.

MRQ
As many of you are aware, the VMRQ Squadrons and AVCGA Flotilla will have an opportunity to transition to the state-operated and controlled Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) from the 1st of July 2024. MRQ has invited all Squadrons and Flotillas to volunteer for an early transition to MRQ to trial policies and procedures before the 1st of July 2024. All five Sunshine Coast Squadron flotillas enthusiastically volunteered and left the Squadron Executive to pass on our returns for MRQ’s decision-making.

Please see PDF in the post for full details