Frequently asked questions
Q. Who is Search and Rescue Queensland
A. We are a private commercial business started out of the need for an improved ocean rescue service, after a review was done highlighting the current issues and failings of existing services.
Q. Do I have to sign up to the registration program, or can I just pay for the SAR membership fee.
A. In order to pay the membership fee for waterside assistance, you have to already be a member with the registration service, although it costs no more than you currently pay direct to the Queensland government. It’s an important part of our system.
Q. If I’m not a member, will you still rescue me?
A. Why wouldn’t you be a member of our system, it’s fantastic. We are not an insurance company, but I would suggest to you that we are similar in the way you should be a customer before your accident, or that you brush your hair before using hair spray, or use deodorant before you exercise. I suggest that you call the people you pay, if that only leaves the water police from the tax you pay, they’ll work out a solution for you.
Q. I have a boat but it doesn’t require registration with the government, can I still join.
A. Hell yes, go to the Australian Watercraft Registry page and sign up as a member in the online shop. If you’re a boat, you can then sign up for waterside assistance.
Q. I have a kayak, but want want waterside assistance if I get tired.
A. If you’re in a kayak you should join our AustWR I.D. tag system which is available in the www.AustWR.com.au/shop. If you have an issue in South east Queensland once we start Phase 2 of operation, simply contact us and we’ll come and get you.
Q. If I have 3 boats, can I just pay the one waterside membership.
A. No you tight arse, your waterside membership is connected to your vessel, not you.
Q. If I’m out on my friends boat, but I’m a member with my boat, can I still get waterside assistance.
A. Call your “friend” who gave you a busted boat, and get him (it’s going to be a him 🙄) to call us. We’ll talk to him about responsibility.
Q. We are running a paddle sports event, can you provide safety boats, and how much will that cost.
A. Hell yes we can provide safety boats, we’ve been doing that for years. We can also supply race turn buoys, we love paddle sports and can do the event for free once we start Phase 2 of operation. We will also have terms around marketing of the event.
Q. If I’m a member with the Coast guard, or the VMR, but they are all closed because it’s mid week, and I have a flat battery, what do you suggest.
A. Call them and get them to come rescue you, after that, join with us for a premium experience.
