Fraser Coast boaties the winners in electrical safety program

HERVEY BAY: Electricity and water don’t usually mix but when it comes to staying safe it’s a winning combination.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson today (29 June) joined Ergon Energy in presenting cheques for $2510 each to local groups - Hervey Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue and Sandy Straits Coast Guard.

Minister Wilson is in Maryborough and Hervey Bay this weekend with the Premier, her Cabinet and the state's senior public servants for the Bligh Government's seventh Community Cabinet.

"It’s part of our commitment to listen to Queenslanders’ concerns on their own home turf. It is part of taking on board their views as the Premier and Government plan for the future,” he said.

The donations to the Volunteer Marine Rescue and Sandy Straits Coast Guard were made through Ergon’s Power Aid initiative, where staff raise money for local worthwhile causes by working safely.

“Staff teams earn points for safe work practices. Ergon converts the points into dollars and the staff members donate the dollars to organisations like the Hervey Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue service and the Sandy Straits Coast Guard.

“I take my hat off to Ergon workers. Its great to see their efforts to maintain a safe workforce bring tangible benefits to the community,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the Searle Street depot transmission services group in Maryborough chose to support the two groups that look after the safety of Fraser Coast boating enthusiasts.

Hervey Bay Volunteer Marine Rescue secretary John Fisher said the donation would help them run their two search-and-rescue boats and maintain their marine radio service.

“From our base at Urangan, we are there to protect boating enthusiasts setting off from Hervey Bay and Fraser Island, so this donation will be extremely valuable and we appreciate the support of the Ergon Energy staff,” Mr Fisher said.

Sandy Straits Coast Guard, based at Boonooroo, will do likewise for the thousands of small craft operators who use the waterways between Inskip Point and River Heads.

Commander Bill Towers said the donation would help them maintain their rescue boats, radio and training activities.

“We’re very grateful to Ergon Energy staff for their contribution.”

Media inquiries: Minister’s office 3224 7332.