General News
25 August, 2026
All aboard emergency boat
HUNDREDS have gathered at Hull Heads to witness a defining moment for the Tully Flotilla (QF12), as the organisation celebrated its transition to Marine Rescue Queensland and officially commissioned its new $1 million primary rescue vessel, TU21 ‘Jim McQuillan,’ named in honour of the flotilla’s founder and first commander.
The ceremony began with a Welcome to Country by Gulynay Elder Clarence Kinjin, followed by an address from Marine Rescue Queensland operations manager Mark Anderson.
Local parish priest Fr Nathan McKay delivered prayers and blessed the vessel, before Anderson formally handed over command, passing the symbolic ‘boat bat’ to current flotilla commander Marcus Thomas.
The naming of TU21 was a deeply emotional moment for the McQuillan family.
Jim’s children, Susan, Kevin and Barbara said seeing their father’s name carried forward in a vessel dedicated to saving lives was profoundly meaningful.
They said their father believed strongly in “people helping people,” in showing up when others were in need, giving time willingly and building something that would endure.
His commitment in the 1970s and 1980s “was never about recognition – it was about purpose, teamwork and community,” they said.
They added that the vessel’s mission reflects everything he valued.
“Jim had a deep respect for the sea and for those who dedicate themselves to keeping others safe.
“He understood that rescue work demands courage, commitment and sacrifice and was proud to stand alongside volunteers who gave so much of themselves.”
Knowing the vessel would continue that mission in his name, they said, would leave him “humbled, surprised and immensely proud” of the Tully Coast Guard and all who continue to serve with dedication and compassion.
The family presented the flotilla with a framed memorabilia collection featuring Jim’s Coast Guard hat, shirt, epaulets, speech notes, booklets and historic photographs.
A video tribute followed, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping QF12.
The champagne christening was carried out by his children in honour of their late mother Peg, who had been scheduled to perform the tradition but sadly died in May 2026.
Guests toured the new vessel with deputy commander Rod Fittock before enjoying the flotilla’s famous fish and chip night, where volunteers served 320 meals.
The Lower Tully State School P&C Association ran drinks and fundraising boards, with live entertainment by Jane Barnes.
Jim McQuillan served as QF12’s first commander from 1977-79 and remained an active volunteer for more than 40 years.
His legacy includes securing the freehold title of the Tully Heads base in 1988, the only Coast Guard base in Queensland with such status and serving as trustee until his death on 24 December 2024.
The new 9.1-metre TU21, powered by twin 300-horsepower engines, replaces the long-serving ‘Mary Liddle,’ which operated for 25 years.
It features state-of-the-art rescue technology including autopilot, automatic tilt/trim, thermal imaging, radar, GPS and radio detection.
The commissioning coincided with the signing of a deed of transition between the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and Marine Rescue Queensland, with QF12 scheduled to transition between October and December 2026, ahead of AVCG’s cessation of Queensland operations on 30 June 2027.
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