Queensland’s Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) has received a new patrol boat, the Oyster Catcher, as part of a vessel replacement program.
The QBFP used the occasion to honour a veteran officer’s long and distinguished career with the service.
District Manager for the QBFP, Rob McDonald (pictured) said Southport-based QBFP Officer, Mark Saul had celebrated 40 years in the job.
“Named after the well-known shorebird, the Oyster Catcher joins QBFP’s 19-strong fleet of 4.3-metre Quintrex runabouts, which are ideally suited to the important work they perform in making sure fishers are doing the right thing and following the rules,” Mr McDonald said.
“Operating out of the QBFP’s South Coast region, the boat’s name recognises that oystercatchers, just like QBFP patrol officers, are found along the east coast of Queensland.”
Mr McDonald said launching the Oyster Catcher was a fitting way to celebrate Mr Saul’s distinguished career.
“Since joining the QBFP in 1981, when it was under the banner of Harbours and Marine and brown uniforms were the order of the day, Mark has made a truly exceptional contribution,” he said.
“Without doubt, Mark’s greatest contribution has been his ongoing development and stewardship of the Marine Animal Rescue Team (MART) for the past two decades.”
Mr McDonald said Mr Saul’s tireless efforts had seen the MART Program and its members achieve national recognition as leaders in the field.
“He ensured the team remained professional, relevant, highly skilled and safe at all times while responding to marine animals in distress,” he said.
“Mark has also contributed to the patrol’s workplace health and safety program, is a valued mentor and helps to build a healthy culture as the QBFP’s official Social Club barbecue cook.”
