The opening followed the Boating Industry Association of Victoria and Emergency Management Victoria Marine Search and Rescue Breakfast, which was addressed by Victoria's Emergency Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsley.

Irene Hoe, President of the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) said the annual Marine Search and Rescue Breakfast provided a major opportunity acknowledge the ongoing contribution of all Marine Search and Rescue Services in Victoria.

Members of Victoria's Marine Search and Rescue Services were recognised at the Melbourne Boat Show this morning.

Ms Hoe said "Boating and water related sports provides opportunities in appreciating the environment and developing an awareness of water safety and boating skills which makes the Victorian Marine Search and Rescue network an indispensable part of Victoria's lifestyle."

The Melbourne Boat Show will feature several displays of Marine Search and Rescue Services including the Volunteer Coast Guard, Victoria Police, Transport Safety Victoria and will actively promote boating safety to the expected 30,000 plus visitors.

Marine Rescue Statistics
Independent and Coast Guard MSAR providers responded to 1031 incidents in 2014/2015 and more than 900 incidents so far this year. The top call out reasons has been for disablement (breakdowns), grounding and capsizing / swamping.
Six independent MSAR providers, Coast Guard, SES, Lifesaving Victoria and Victoria Police provide marine search and rescue in Victoria.

Facts about Boating in Victoria
Currently there are 268,336 current Marine Licences, 172,805 registered boats and 996,000* boating participants in Victoria. (*Morgan Poll 2012 - Victorian and Tasmanian)
90% of Victorian recreation vessels are trailered, less than 8 metres in length with 68% of registered boats being operated on Port Phillip and Western Port Bays.

Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith, Corporate Media Communications, BIAV - Mobile: 0417 329 201