THE Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue was paid a visit by Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen, who congratulated the VMR on their successful grant application.

The VMR have received $15,189 from the government's Stronger Communities program and will be using the

money to fund equipment

purchases and maintenance.

"This money will be going towards the new outboard motor, air-conditioning, new fenders and a de-humidifier to protect our electronics," said committee member and fund raising manager Tom Manning.

"I'm so grateful to George Christensen for putting me on to this grant and encouraging me to apply.

"It allows us to help purchase our new vessel, which is priced around $900,000," he said.

"We have to find that money somehow and this really helps us on our way."

Mr Christensen said he was always happy to help, and was glad that VMR had been successful in their application.

"This money will help with the purchasing of new equipment to assist with their rescuing efforts," he said.

Tom Manning said the money was a "God-send" and thanked Mr Christensen for reminding him to apply.

"As soon as this is all over, I will be applying for round two of the Stronger Communities Program, and hopefully we will be successful again."