Photo: Supplied.
CONTRIBUTED BY REBECCA MITCHELL
VMR Raby Bay proudly announces the installation of a new VHF radio repeater positioned to provide WHF radio coverage over the challenging South Passage Bar and offshore areas. This initiative is a testament to the commitment to safeguarding seafarers navigating these waters.
Since the installation a few months ago, VHF repeater Channel 83 (the working channel available for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore calls) has been covering both channels of South Passage Bar into Moreton Bay, as far south as Victoria Point and offshore of Point Lookout – further than 20 nautical miles. An AIS repeater has also been installed.
Made possible through generous funding from the Port of Brisbane, this state-of-the-art radio repeater serves as a beacon of collaboration between maritime stakeholders. The Port of Brisbane’s dedication to maritime safety reflects its role in fostering a secure and thriving marine environment.
Furthermore, with support from Redland City Council in allocating an ideal location and power supply, this repeater extends the reach of communication networks, providing a lifeline for vessels traversing the intricate waterways. By bridging previous coverage gaps and facilitating swift response, the new radio repeater amplifies the effectiveness of rescue operations and ensures a prompt exchange of critical information. VMR Victoria Point is also thanked for the AIS unit, which extends coverage offshore and into Southern Moreton Bay past Victoria Point. Planning for a webcam of South Passage Bar is now underway.
As VMR Raby Bay embraces this milestone, it reaffirms its dedication to serving the maritime community. Boaties are encouraged to log on with their preferred Marine Rescue organization before and after crossing the bar. Logging on is free. VMR Raby Bay radio room operates 5:00am to 8:00pm every day of the year, monitoring VHF channels 73, 77, 81, 82, 83, 67,16 and 27 MHz channels 88 and 90. A free QR code login from your mobile phone is also available.
