New Rescue Vessel: Alpine Lakes 20
Boating safety and emergency response in the Snowy Mountains has been significantly enhanced with the official opening of a new Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes base and the commissioning of the replacement vessel, Alpine Lakes 20 (GM68), at Lake Eucumbene.
Built by Gray’s Marine in Yamba the Alpine Lakes 20 is a 6.8-metre, rescue vessel purpose-built for the demanding alpine environment. Designed to perform in rapidly changing and at times extreme conditions, the vessel delivers both speed and stability, reaching up to 40 knots thanks to twin 140HP Suzuki engines.
Equipped with a full Raymarine suite, including radar, side scan sonar and FLIR thermal imaging, Alpine Lakes 20 significantly enhances search and rescue capability, giving crews greater visibility and precision during critical operations.
The vessel’s practical design features a strengthened bow for beach landings, a fold-out ladder for safe patient access, and a wide, open deck layout to support efficient casualty care.
With increased fuel capacity for extended missions and the ability to be deployed quickly across challenging terrain, Alpine Lakes 20 is built to respond when and where it’s needed most.
Now operating from its new base at Buckenderra, the vessel plays a key role in supporting Marine Rescue NSW volunteers as they continue their vital work keeping the Snowy Mountains community safe on the water.
