9 A state-of-the-art, marine rescue training facility has officially opened near Jacobs Well. The new facility will prepare volunteers to take on the unique challenges of marine rescue operations, serving as a central hub for delivering consistent, high-quality training programs as part of the MRQ Training Academy. MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said, “This facility will help us deliver consistent and high-quality training as we move into this new stage of transition for the organisation. “Our volunteer members are our greatest asset, and we are committed to ensuring they have the skills to keep Queenslanders safe on the water.” MRQ established its own Registered Training Organisation in 2025, to offer volunteer members nationally recognised, commercially qualified training accreditation. The launch of the MRQ Training Academy marks the next chapter in Marine Rescue Queensland launches Training Academy supporting a highly regarded team of ‘volunteer professionals’ who are dedicated to saving lives at sea. The location of the MRQ Academy is strategically important. It is in a diverse navigational area that can showcase almost all elements of the International Association of Lighthouse Authority buoyage system, including easy access to smooth, partially smooth and open waters along with three very different bar crossings. MRQ was established on 3 June 2024 to deliver Queensland’s first single, integrated, and state-funded volunteer marine rescue service. It will bring together the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) and Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland (VMRAQ) to improve safety for Queenslanders on the water and enhance emergency response capabilities under the QPS. The facility features training rooms, shared office spaces, a secure, dedicated hardstand area for vessel maintenance and training activities, as well as three dedicated marina berths for 8,10 and 14 metre vessels. MRQ volunteers are the lifeblood of the organisation, carrying on a proud tradition of more than 50 years of service to their community through their legacy organisations, keeping people safe on Queensland oceans and waterways. Domestic violence is one of the most serious social issues affecting families and communities across Queensland. Public discussion, government campaigns, and media reporting have traditionally focused on violence committed by men against women. While violence against women remains a major and very real problem, there is another side of domestic violence that often receives far less attention — the growing number of male victims who suffer abuse in silence. Domestic violence is not defined by gender. It is defined by behaviour — behaviour that is controlling, threatening, manipulative, emotionally damaging, financially abusive, or physically violent. Abuse can occur in any relationship regardless of gender, age, sexuality, or cultural background. In Queensland, domestic and family violence laws recognise that anyone can be a victim. Men, women, children, same-sex partners, elderly parents, and other family members can all experience abuse within the home. Yet despite this recognition in law, social attitudes often make it difficult for male victims to come forward. Many men who experience domestic violence remain silent because they fear embarrassment, ridicule, or disbelief. Society has long expected men to appear strong, emotionally resilient, and physically capable of defending themselves. Because of these expectations, some people struggle to believe that a man could be intimidated, controlled, or assaulted by a partner. As a result, male victims may feel ashamed to seek help or report abuse to police and support services. While Queensland has made progress in expanding domestic violence awareness and services, many support systems have historically been designed primarily for female victims. This can leave men uncertain about where to seek help or whether services will take their experiences seriously. Some male victims report feeling isolated because there are fewer shelters, support groups, and public campaigns directed toward them. Acknowledging male victims does not reduce the seriousness of violence against women. Domestic violence is not a competition between genders, nor should support for one group come at the expense of another. Every victim deserves protection, compassion, and access to support services. Recognising male victims simply means recognising the reality that abuse can affect anyone. Breaking the silence surrounding male victims is an important step toward creating safer communities. Domestic violence should never be dismissed because of a person’s gender. Whether the victim is a woman or a man, abuse leaves lasting emotional, psychological, and physical scars. If you are experiencing domestic violence please feel free to reach out to us so that we can assist you. Ormeau Legal - 5540 7198 - See advert P. 8 - Ormeau Legal - Domestic Violence
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