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Tuesday 9am - 6pm Wednesday 6am - 6pm Thursday 6am - 6pm

Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20, Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20, Keppel Sands (2026)

What We Do
Coast Guard CQ cover an area from as far south to Cape Capricorn, north to Percy Group, east to the Swains and the bounds of the Fitzroy river and waterways. Australian Volunteer Coast Guard - Keppel Sands - Monitoring Marine Radio:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
06:00 to 18:00

Coast Guard Yeppoon will respond to any radio calls to Coast Guard Keppel Sands 06:00 - 18:00 all othe

r days

Call Sign: VMR 471 Coast Guard Keppel Sands

Radio Frequencies Monitored:
VHF 16, 21, 22
27Mhz 86, 88
Resuming soon:
MF/HF 2182, 2524, 4125, 6215, 8291

QF20MarineAssist
The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, Keppel Sands is staffed entirely by volunteers providing radio monitoring and a marine search and rescue service. In addition to some State Government funding, we raise our funds from interested members of the public including our Marine Assist Contributors, major sponsors and fund raising. CONTRIBUTOR LEVELS:
•PWC – Limited Personal Water Craft (Jet-Skis; Kayaks; & Boats under 3 metres) - an area bounded by Waterpark Point, Keppel Islands to Cape Keppel.
•LR – Limited Recreational (traditional membership level) - an area bounded by Cape Manifold, Perforated Island, Barren Island, Hummocky Island to Cape Capricorn.
•OR – Open Recreational - an area bounded by Island Head Creek, North West Island, Masthead Island to the southern end of Curtis Island. MARINE ASSIST FEATURES:
Unique identifying number, no longer required to provide a trip sheet provided you log on and off by radio. Assistance on the water

Weather forecasts on request.
15% discount on Suncorp Boat insurance. UPGRADE:
Contributors may upgrade to another category at any time by paying a pro-rata fee. CONTRIBUTION:
Your contribution will apply to a single boat owner or joint owners for a specific vessel and is not transferable on change of ownership of the vessel. Contribution commences on lodgement of an application and payment of the chosen fee. TRAINING:
Coast Guard Yeppoon is an accredited training centre for Marine Radio. Marine Assist contributors may undertake a one-day training course and the examination to obtain a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency. Marine radios do not require registration but VHF operators are required to hold a Certificate of Proficiency. SPONSORSHIP
Our current major sponsor is: Central Highlands Safety Services

WHAT WE DO
Coast Guard plays an extremely important role in the safety of mariners around our vast Australian coastline, far out to sea, and in many of our inland waterways. Each year Coast Guard volunteers perform thousands of activations. Rescues range from assisting sinking vessels, vessels with flat batteries and other mechanical problems, vessels that have run aground and often towing these disabled vessels back to safe harbour. As well, when emergencies arise, Coast Guard is often called upon to perform Medivac responses from hard to reach islands and beaches and to provide crucial search and rescue functions for persons who may be lost or missing at sea or in other waterways. Our vessels must be maintained to commercial standards and be ready to respond 24 hours per day, every single day of the year. This takes a great deal of dedication from our volunteers to fundraise the money needed to keep these vessels ready to respond at any time. Coast Guard also maintains radio safety watches along many parts of the coastline and some inland waterways on VHF, 27MHz and HF frequencies with weather reports available on request.

04/08/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260802

Windy conditions kept boating down over the weekend with only ninety vessels on TripWatch across the four Central Queensland Flotillas.

UPCOMING COURSES: There are no further courses scheduled for August.
Just Held (See photos): On Saturday 1 August, the Safe Boating Course attracted ten participants who enjoyed the information session and the opportunity to set off flares.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands holds a regular weekly raffle fundraiser each Saturday and alternate Sundays at the Keppel Sands Hotel, and thanks are extended to them for their ongoing support. If you would like to support the fundraising efforts through the purchase of raffle tickets (multiple gift card or meat voucher prizes) or Marine Assist cover for your vessel, please call 07 4934 4906. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.

Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
Activations: This week Yeppoon Flotilla performed two activations and two public service engagements. The weather was largely blustery again on the weekend.
* Wednesday 29 July: At 0816 the owner and one of two adults on board a 6.4m half cabin cruiser requested assistance due to engine breakdown. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with three volunteer crew members and met the vessel at Man & Wife rocks, towing it back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. The crew returned to base at 1000
* Saturday 01 August: Saturday brought an early wake up call for four volunteer crew members with a 0100 request to undertake a medivac from Great Keppel Island (Woppa). With winds over 20 knots conditions were at sea state five, but the night was at least clear and bright with a 92% full moon. Yeppoon Rescue One transported two Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) paramedics and their equipment over to Fisherman’s Beach, where they disembarked onto the sand via the bow ladder. This requires clear communication and safe, effective teamwork to first set up the metal boarding ladder off the bow, and to then bring the vessel bow up onto the beach and to hold it firmly against wind and current. One patient was then brought off the island and transported back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, which provided a shallower ramp angle for moving the stretcher and gear rather than the Coast Guard ramp at low tide. Coast Guard volunteers assisted the QAS paramedics with the gear and patient, returning to base at 0440.

Public Service: During the week Coast Guard Yeppoon undertook two public service activations to support Konomie Island Environmental Education Centre on North Keppel Island (Konomie). On the morning of Monday 27 July, four volunteer crew members aboard Yeppoon Rescue Two towed several small tinnies over to the island for Yeppoon State High School, and on Wednesday afternoon three volunteer crew members towed them back again.

Night Training (see photos): On Thursday 30 July at 1800 the second night training session was held with four crew members on board Marine Assist Rescue heading over to Considine Beach. These night time sessions are invaluable in equipping crew with the skills needed to perform rescues under all conditions.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Weather conditions
We have continued windy conditions predicted for the week ahead, with unpredictable gusts and morning fog. It is crucial to check weather conditions before heading out to sea, and to monitor the weather during your trip in case of unforeseen changes.

Important considerations include:
* Marine weather warnings: As well as checking the forecast for the duration of your trip, look also for changing conditions in the hours afterwards. There are many reasons why your return home can be delayed or prolonged, and if seas and winds are rising this can present safety risks.
* Wind and gusts: Gusts can be as much as 40% stronger than sustained wind speeds. Know the safe limits of your vessel; for example, for small vessels the safe upper limit for wind speed may be 15kts. For sailing vessels it is vital to also consider crew capacity and experience.
*Waves and swells: Wind speed directly impacts sea conditions, and wind is a primary driver of waves and swell. Keep this in mind too when crossing coastal bars, where unpredictable steep and breaking waves may arise. Heavy rain and winds can impact tidal ranges.

Multiple resources exist for checking marine weather:
* Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Marine Forecasts: Provides detailed forecasts, warnings, and other marine information.
* MetEye: A BoM tool for viewing weather maps, including wind and wave forecasts.
*MarineLite: A service for downloading weather information in remote areas or for users with limited internet access.
* VHF Radio: Coastal radio stations transmit weather reports every day. In Capricornia, the Coast Guard weather reports are provided three times daily at 07:10, 12:10, and 17:10.
* It is also possible to call the Coast Guard over the phone or radio to receive weather information at other times.

Finally, if you are ever in doubt as to your capacity to make it home or to safe waters due to changing conditions, call for advice or assistance.
# Safetybyallmeans
IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT US:
QF24 Coast Guard Thirsty Sound Ph: 07 4937 3155
QF20 Coast Guard Keppel Sands Ph: 07 4934 4906
QF19 Coast Guard Rockhampton Ph: 0428 580 646
QF11 Coast Guard Yeppoon Ph: 07 4933 6600

22/07/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260719
The winds came up on Thursday and stayed for the weekend with strong wind warnings for Saturday and Sunday. With a windy weekend approaching it seems many boaters were out before the wind got up, but some required help to get home again. While 101 boats logged a trip over the week only 20 of these occurred over the weekend. Bait fish were about and a flock of pelicans with some cormorant hangers on were making the most of it in the Rosslyn Bay harbour.
UPCOMING COURSES: The courses below will be held at the Coast Guard Yeppoon Operations Centre. To register or enquire, please call 07 4933 6600, or visit in person.
July:
• General Purpose Hand Theory Saturday 25 July - The focus is on the mandatory components for the General Purpose Hand qualification to become boat crew for Coast Guard vessels.
August:
• Safe Boating Saturday 01 August 08:30 - 11:30 (closed in shoes required): The Safe Boating Course is free and a great introduction for new boaters or those new to the area. It covers general safety and provides information on local boating areas. Enjoy a fun morning where you can learn how to safely use flares and different lifejackets and improve your boating skills and knowledge.
Just Held: Radio Course Saturday 18 July (see photos): Seven people used the radio course to gain their certification this weekend. They consisted of two members of Coast Guard Yeppoon, two from Coast Guard Keppel Sands, and one member of the public. Many thanks to Jim Goodsell who continues to provide his expertise in running this course.
FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands holds a regular weekly raffle fundraiser each Saturday and alternate Sundays at the Keppel Sands Hotel, and thanks are extended to them for their ongoing support. If you would like to support the fundraising efforts through the purchase of raffle tickets (multiple gift card or meat voucher prizes) or Marine Assist cover for your vessel, please call 07 4934 4906. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.
* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.
* Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
Activations: A very busy week for Yeppoon Flotilla with multiple activations from last Sunday afternoon and through the following week.
* Sunday 12 July: At 1443 Yeppoon Flotilla responded to a request for assistance from a boater located out at Pinnacles Reef. The half cabin cruiser, with three adults on board, suffered engine failure due to issues with the fuel injectors. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with four volunteer crew members on board and took the vessel under tow, bringing them back into Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. After this long job the crew returned to base at 1800. Total distance for this activation was 39 nautical miles (72km).
* Sunday 12 July: At 1610 assistance was requested by the owner and one of two adults on board a 13.4m flybridge cruiser. This vessel had suffered engine failure in one of its two engines, and whilst it had been able to reach Statue Bay on its remaining engine, it required assistance to safely enter and manoeuvre within the marina. Yeppoon Rescue One responded with four volunteer crew members and towed the vessel into a berthing at Keppel Bay Marina. The crew returned to base at 1645.
* Sunday 12 July: At 1730 the same crew headed back out in Yeppoon Rescue One to assist a 7.9m commercial fishing vessel that had broken down. This boat, with five adults on board, was located Northwest of Miall Island in Keppel Bay. The vessel was towed back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, with the crew returning to base at 1845.
* Monday 13 July: At 1015 a boater requested assistance with their 6.6m half cabin cruiser. This boat was located at Putney Beach, Great Keppel Island (Woppa), and the engine would not start. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with three volunteer crew members and towed the vessel with two adults on board back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. Yeppoon Rescue Two returned to base at 1150.
* Wednesday 15 July: At 0953 assistance was requested for a 7m cuddy cabin with three adults on board. The boat had lost power and required towing. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with four volunteer crew members on board and towed the vessel back into Rosslyn Bay Harbour, returning to base at 1145.
* Wednesday 15 July: At 1530 two adults aboard a 6.7m cabin cruiser requested assistance due to suspected battery issues and inability to start the engine. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with three volunteer crew members and located the vessel at Big Sandhills Beach (Butterfish Bay) on Great Keppel Island (Woppa). The engine was able to be jump started with a battery pack, so the vessel was shadowed back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. The crew returned to base at 1700.
* Thursday 16 July: At 0800 the owner and one of three adults on board a 10m half cabin cruiser requested assistance from Keppel Bay. The vessel was returning from Finlay’s Reef when it ran out of fuel. Yeppoon Rescue One responded with four volunteer crew members and towed the boat to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, returning to base at 1010.
* Thursday 16 July: At 1023 assistance was requested by two adults for a half cabin cruiser located at Great Keppel Island (Woppa). The vessel had become swamped and was beached at Fisherman’s Beach, requiring a tow off the sand and back to the mainland. Yeppoon Rescue One responded with four volunteer crew members, and recovered the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, returning to base at 1220.
* Public Service: Level up Program (see photos): On Monday 13 July ten participants and two supervisors were taken through the Safe Boating program accompanied with a tour of the facilities and equipment to generate an interest in the Maritime industry as a potential avenue for employment.
SAFETY MESSAGE: Safety under tow
Most rescues involve towing the disabled vessel back to safety. There are several things that will ensure a safer transit. Keep in mind that your vessel will not behave normally whilst under tow, even in calm conditions, and will not be as stable as normal if you move around.
• The tow line may be thrown to you via a heaving line, which you must pull in to obtain the attachment hook
• Connect the tow line to the tow hook at the bow of your vessel (a yacht may need to fit a towing bridle first, which we will provide)
• Keep outboard motors down and centred, and helm / rudder straight ahead
• Pull up any excess ropes or lines hanging off from or around the vessel, and ensure that fishing lines & hooks are tidied up and put away
• Inflatables and small watercraft should be stowed and lashed down, e.g. SUPs stored along the cabin must be secured
• All boaters remaining aboard the vessel must wear lifejackets, and must be seated
• Distribute weight to keep the vessel evenly trimmed
• Ensure that your phones are charged and radios are turned up; you may be asked to switch to a specific channel
• Follow all instructions issued by the Coast Guard Skipper and immediately clarify anything that you do not understand.
# Safetybyallmeans
IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT US:
QF24 Coast Guard Thirsty Sound Ph: 07 4937 3155
QF20 Coast Guard Keppel Sands Ph: 07 4934 4906
QF19 Coast Guard Rockhampton Ph: 0428 580 646
QF11 Coast Guard Yeppoon Ph: 07 4933 6600
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dennis Bryant Coast Guard Central Qld Squadron Commodore 0467 211 802
Merv Studt Coast Guard Yeppoon Flotilla Commander 0419 794 812

16/07/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260712

Windy weather for most of the week gave way to calmer weather on the weekend with 149 vessels taking to the water mostly over the weekend. Saturday saw fifty vessels logged on with seventy-two vessels logged on Sunday. The ramp was a terribly busy place at Coast Guard Yeppoon with sixty vessels logged on and returning mainly in the afternoon (see photos).

UPCOMING COURSES: July/August - The courses below will be held at the Coast Guard Yeppoon Operations Centre. To register or enquire, please call 07 4933 6600, or visit in person.
* Radio Course Saturday 18 July 08:15 to 14:15 - Under federal regulations, you need an operating certificate to use a VHF and HF radio. This course will provide you with this certification. There will be a cost for the course to cover the licence with an examination at the end.
* General Purpose Hand (GPH) Theory Saturday 25 July - The focus is on the mandatory components for the General Purpose Hand qualification to become boat crew for Coast Guard vessels.
* Safe Boating Saturday 01 August 08:30 - 11:30 (closed in shoes required): The Safe Boating Course is free and a great introduction for new boaters or those new to the area. It covers general safety and provides information on local boating areas. Enjoy a fun morning where you can learn how to safely use flares and different lifejackets and improve your boating skills and knowledge.

Just Held: Shipboard Safety Skill Set (SSSS) Training 11/12 July (see photos) - Yeppoon Flotilla hosted this training for three new recruits (two from QF11 and one from QF24) looking to obtain their GPH qualification. This training combines theoretical learning with practical assessment to ensure emergency preparedness, covering firefighting, life raft use, safety equipment, and survival swimming with life jackets. The water component was undertaken off North Keppel Island (Konomie).

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands holds a regular weekly raffle fundraiser each Saturday and alternate Sundays at the Keppel Sands Hotel, and thanks are extended to them for their ongoing support. If you would like to support the fundraising efforts through the purchase of raffle tickets (multiple gift card or meat voucher prizes) or Marine Assist cover for your vessel, please call 07 4934 4906. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.

Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
Activations: There were two activations this week.
* Saturday 11 July: At 0806 Yeppoon Flotilla responded to a request for assistance received from a half cabin cruiser out at the Pinnacles. The 6m vessel, with three adults and two children on board, had broken down and required a tow. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with four volunteer crew members on board, and towed the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour, returning to base in time for lunch at 12 noon.
* Sunday 12 July: At 1049 assistance was requested by one of two adults that had been riding a jet ski at Great Keppel Island. This jet ski had broken down and could not be started. Yeppoon Rescue Two responded with four volunteer crew members on board and towed the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, returning to base at 1300.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Requesting assistance.
The Coast Guard service in Central Queensland operates with stand by volunteer crews that need to be called in if needed to assist vessels in distress. This means that there will always be a wait before we can be underway. The exception to this is that Coast Guard Yeppoon has crews at the Operations Centre on weekends which can respond quicker.
When requesting Coast Guard assistance, please have the following valuable information ready:
* Primarily, your location, ideally with GPS coordinates:
Ensure that these are correct and that you are not looking at a saved location or a cursor location.
Ensure that your GPS unit is calibrated correctly - this can be done at the Rosslyn Bay Harbour boat ramp https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/Safety/Gps-verification-marks
If you do not have a GPS unit you may be able to use your phone to obtain the coordinates - Emergency Plus App (it’s free), Compass App
Use landmarks if you do not have GPS or refer to your chart.
* Nature of the problem and what service you are requesting e.g. tow, jump start, shadowing back to the harbour due to safety concerns.
* Number of people on board - adults and children. Are there any injuries?
* Vessel type, size, and weight for larger vessels
* Vessel registration and/or Marine Assist membership number
* Do you have a radio and/or a mobile phone on board? Give the mobile phone number.
If you are already registered with us as Marine Assist members, or you have logged your trip with us, the process is much faster as we simply need to look you up to gain all pre-existing information! Whilst awaiting rescue ensure that you are safely anchored, if possible, display your V Sheet, and monitor the security of that anchor during longer waits.
# Safetybyallmeans
IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT US:
QF24 Coast Guard Thirsty Sound Ph: 07 4937 3155
QF20 Coast Guard Keppel Sands Ph: 07 4934 4906
QF19 Coast Guard Rockhampton Ph: 0428 580 646
QF11 Coast Guard Yeppoon Ph: 07 4933 6600

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dennis Bryant Coast Guard Central Qld Squadron Commodore 0467 211 802
Merv Studt Coast Guard Yeppoon Flotilla Commander 0419 794 812

08/07/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260705
With gentle winds and fair weather, the boats were out in force this week. Even the heavy fog could not deter them with the car park overflowing on Friday morning. There was a steady procession of vessels down the ramp, and it was great to see that common sense and courtesy prevailed. It was encouraging to see people logging their trip with the various Coast Guards to enhance their safety and the radio rooms were kept busy during the week with 197 trips logged across the flotillas.

UPCOMING COURSES: July - The courses below will be held at the Coast Guard Yeppoon Operations Centre. To register or enquire, please call 07 4933 6600, or visit in person.
* Shipboard Safety Skill Set (SSSS) Training 11/12 July - focus on the mandatory components for the General Purpose Hand qualification to become boat crew for Coast Guard vessels.
* Radio Course Saturday 18 July - Under federal regulations, you need an operating certificate to use a VHF and HF radio. This course will provide you with this certification. Registration opens at 08:15 with the course beginning at 08:30 and finishing at 14:15. There will be a cost for the course to cover the licence and there will be an examination at the end.
* General Purpose Hand Theory Saturday 25 July - held at Coast Guard Yeppoon’s Operations centre. Focus is on the mandatory components for the General Purpose Hand qualification to become boat crew for Coast Guard vessels.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands holds a regular weekly raffle fundraiser each Saturday and alternate Sundays at the Keppel Sands Hotel, and thanks are extended to them for their ongoing support. If you would like to support the fundraising efforts through the purchase of raffle tickets (multiple gift card or meat voucher prizes) or Marine Assist cover for your vessel, please call 07 4934 4906. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to aid vessels in the Keppel Bay area.

Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: Thursday 1 July - At 13:00 a call was received from the skipper of a 4.5m tinnie saying they were disabled approximately two nautical miles downstream of Thompsons Point after contacting the submerged rock wall. The collision had destroyed the bottom section of the motor leg. The skipper was advised to display his V sheet to get the attention of any passing vessel who may be able to assist while the Coast Guard gathered a crew and prepared to launch. Whilst a crew of three volunteer QF19 members was towing Bluefin Sports to launch at Thompsons Point a call was received from the skipper to say that another vessel had taken them in tow, and QF19 assistance would no longer be required.

Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24
QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
Yeppoon Flotilla had a busy time as a large number of boaters took advantage of the fine weather and glassy conditions over Friday and Saturday. Crews were out on the water conducting three rescues, safety boat duties, and helicopter training.
* 30 June Helicopter Training Keppel Bay: On Tuesday, the CapRescue helicopter team underwent training in correct winching of gear, crew, and stretchers between the Rescue300 helicopter and Yeppoon Rescue One with seven volunteer crew members keen to hone their rescue skills. This training is intensive and always requires careful coordination and communication between the helicopter and rescue boat, as well as teamwork between flight and Coast Guard teams. This training helps to ensure safe and effective rescue practices. Coast Guard Yeppoon Flotilla frequently supports CapRescue with various forms of maritime rescue training for helicopter crews.
* 3 July Public Service: Early on Friday morning, three volunteer crew members aboard Yeppoon Rescue Two assisted with safety cover for two screwed surf boats from Emu Park Surf Life Saving Club as they rowed from Rosslyn Bay harbour over to North Keppel Island (Konomie) Education Centre. The rescue crew were out for around two hours providing this public service.

Activations: There were three activations this week.
* Friday 03 July: At 12:49 Yeppoon Flotilla responded to a call for assistance for boaters located near Considine Beach, North Keppel Island (Konomie). The 4.5m bowrider, with two adults on board, could not use its outboard as the engine was overheating and smoking. Four volunteer crew members aboard Yeppoon Rescue Two responded and towed the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. Once in the harbour the bowrider owner was able to start its engine again and idle over to the ramps. Yeppoon Rescue Two returned to base at 15:15.
* Friday 03 July: Around 16:30 the owner of a 7.3m half cabin cruiser called for assistance from Middle Island. The vessel had suffered steering failure, and the outboard engine could not be stabilised to transit safely across Keppel Bay. The owner advised that eight people were aboard, including four children, and that they had managed to limp over to the western aspect of Middle Island and safely anchor there to await rescue. Yeppoon Rescue Two went back out with three volunteer crew members on board and towed the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. The rescue crew returned to base at 18:20.
* Saturday 04 July: At 16:25 five volunteer crew members aboard Yeppoon Rescue Two (YR2) responded to aid a boater stranded at Fishermans’ Beach, Great Keppel Island (Woppa) due to a non-starting engine. This vessel, a 5.5m cuddy cabin, had two adults and three children on board. Upon arrival the crew found that the owner had continued working on the problem and had successfully started the engine just prior to YR2’s arrival on scene. The boater was able to motor back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, shadowed by the rescue boat in case the engine failed again. The crew returned to base at 18:00.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Navigating in Fog
Foggy conditions on the water present unique challenges for boaters. Fog is more than just a visual barrier. It distorts sound, making it difficult to pinpoint the direction of other vessels or navigational aids. The lack of visible landmarks can lead to disorientation, and even modern electronics like GPS and radar require skill to interpret correctly.
Check the weather before you go.
Turn on navigation lights. Fog counts as “restricted visibility.” See https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/safety/navigation-lights for further information.
Equip and practice with electronics e.g. GPS, Radar
Reduce your speed to avoid collisions - this increases your reaction time and reduces engine noise making it easier to hear other vessels.
Maintain a constant lookout.
Anchor if necessary if navigation becomes too risky - show your all round white light while at anchor.
# Safetybyallmeans

IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT US:
QF24 Coast Guard Thirsty Sound Ph: 07 4937 3155
QF20 Coast Guard Keppel Sands Ph: 07 4934 4906
QF19 Coast Guard Rockhampton Ph: 0428 580 646
QF11 Coast Guard Yeppoon Ph: 07 4933 6600
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dennis Bryant Coast Guard Central Qld Squadron Commodore 0467 211 802
Merv Studt Coast Guard Yeppoon Flotilla Commander 0419 794 812

30/06/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260628
TRANSITION TO MARINE RESCUE QUEENSLAND (MRQ):
You may have already heard the news that an agreement has been signed between the Australian Coast Guard Association and Marine Rescue Qld which will see the transition of Coast Guard members to the new entity by year’s end, possibly around November. MRQ comes under the control of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Commissioner and as such will benefit our members in a number of ways and will make us more available in times of natural disasters.

What does this change mean for our boaties?
* What stays the same:
How we operate - We will continue to operate as usual. Your local crews will still be there the same as they are now and providing the same service - e.g. performing rescues, broadcasting the weather and notices to mariners, providing information, radio checks, logging trips.
* The need to fundraise - Even though MRQ will fund a large part of our costs, there will still be a need for us to fundraise for the extra things not covered in the QPS budget. Any donations that are kindly offered can still be accepted with gratitude.

What will change:
* Our branding - We will be wearing new uniforms, and the familiar yellow vessels will be rebranded. Any new vessels will become white with MRQ branding.
* Our Marine Assist Programme - once we become MRQ the Marine Assist Programme will cease to exist, as under the MRQ mantra we will be able to assist any person needing help at no cost.
To ease this transition CQ flotillas engaged in the Marine Assist Programme will cease charging from Wednesday 1 July 2026. The cutoff date has been made July 1st as this is the six months we promised we would give notice of transition. We do not charge for something you are not receiving.
If you are in the program and require renewal after July 1st, you will get automatic renewal at no cost carried forward to a date just before transition. We are doing this because it will be inside the six month renewal period and therefore unfair for us to charge the fee. New members will be accepted for Marine Assist for no charge. This will ensure that we maintain all your details in the event you require assistance.
For the people who have renewed in June, we thank you and this will be the final renewal needed.
The Coast Guard is pleased to be able to do this small thing as a way of thanking our members, most of whom have been with us for a long time.
If you would like more information or have questions, please contact your local base.

UPCOMING COURSES: July - Both courses below focus on the mandatory components for the General Purpose Hand qualification to become boat crew for Coast Guard vessels.
* * Shipboard Safety Skill Set (SSSS) Training 11/12 July
General Purpose Hand Theory 25 July - held at Coast Guard Yeppoon’s Operations centre.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands holds a regular weekly raffle fundraiser each Saturday and alternate Sundays at the Keppel Sands Hotel, and thanks are extended to them for their ongoing support. If you would like to support the fundraising efforts through the purchase of raffle tickets (multiple gift card or meat voucher prizes) or Marine Assist cover for your vessel, please call 07 4934 4906. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.

Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: Earlier in June
* Coxswains Training Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 June: This was undertaken on Thirsty Sound Rescue and Thirsty Sound Rescue Two. It included emergency drills and manoeuvres i.e. launching and retrieving vessels onto trailers as well as refuelling both vessels. As part of the weekend training all the Stanage Emergency Services worked together: i.e. Rural Fire coming down for training exercise keeping their equipment in working order pumps, hoses etc. washing down Thirsty Sound Rescue after the tow assist.
* Activation Saturday 12 June: A call was received at 10:00 via mobile phone that a 5.5 meter Centre Console with three people on board had broken down with a throttle cable issue resulting in no power above idle. They requested a tow from the Red Bluff area in the Thirsty Sound Passage. As Thirsty Sound Rescue was already on the water for training, they were dispatched with five volunteer crew members, and the vessel was towed back into Thirsty Sound ramp arriving at 1200 hours.

Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
* Upcoming Helicopter Training: At this stage Central Queensland Helicopter Rescue Service would like to conduct their training with Yeppoon Rescue One on Tuesday 30 June in the morning with Wednesday 1 July as a backup if the weather is not suitable. Keep an eye out around Wreck Point or perhaps the Keppel Islands for this crucial training for their pilots and responders.

*Activations: There were two activations this week.
** Monday 22 June - A call was received from the owner of a 5m Cuddy Cabin vessel with two people on board which was unable to have its engine started. He was unsure if it was battery or fuel issues and requested a tow from Keppel Bay back to Rosslyn Bay harbour. Yeppoon Rescue Two with four volunteer crew members was dispatched at 1700, towed the vessel back, and arrived at the ramps at 1800.
** Saturday 27 June - A call was received from a 12m sailing catamaran which was anchored in Statue Bay which had lost the propulsion needed to enter and manoeuvre in the harbour. Yeppoon Rescue One was dispatched at 1440 in rough and windy conditions with six volunteer crew members. The vessel was taken under tow, rafted up in the harbour, with the helmsman then using the wind to his advantage to place the vessel expertly on the red arm of the marina at 1615. The owner made a donation for the service.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Whales are about - know your whale rules.
The Great Barrier Reef is a vitally important breeding ground for about thirty species of whales. The most sighted whales are humpbacks, which migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park each year from May to September - to court, mate, give birth or rear their calves.
We all have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.
* Stay at least 100m away.
* Do not block their path in either direction.
* From 100m - 300m is the Caution zone.
* Speed must be less than 6 knots.
* Minimise noise.
* Create negligible wake.
Only three vessels are allowed in this zone at any one time. Watch and then move out to allow other vessels to come in.
If a whale approaches you - switch your engine off or slowly move away at less than 6 knots.
There are different rules for jet skis and aircraft.
Whale sightings can be recorded on the Eye on the Reef app.
For full information please refer to: https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/about-us/legislation-and-polices/whale-dolphin-dugong-watching-regulations
# Safetybyallmeans

IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT US:
QF24 Coast Guard Thirsty Sound Ph: 07 4937 3155
QF20 Coast Guard Keppel Sands Ph: 07 4934 4906
QF19 Coast Guard Rockhampton Ph: 0428 580 646
QF11 Coast Guard Yeppoon Ph: 07 4933 6600
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Dennis Bryant Coast Guard Central Qld Squadron Commodore 0467 211 802
Merv Studt Coast Guard Yeppoon Flotilla Commander 0419 794 812

Address

Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20
Keppel Sands, QLD
4702

Opening Hours

Tuesday	9am - 6pm
Wednesday	6am - 6pm
Thursday	6am - 6pm

Telephone

+61749344906

Website

http://www.coastguard.com.au/flotilla/41-qf20

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