Marine Rescue NSW which was registered on Wednesday, July 1 will replace the state’s current marine organisations.

The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol and Volunteer Rescue Association were invited to form the new group, which will be the state’s peak marine rescue body.

The new group will have a blue uniform and the transition will be gradual.

To assist in the new organisation’s establishment, NSW Maritime will provide $3 million in transitional funding, in addition to around $1.4 million in ongoing annual funding.

Marine Rescue NSW spokesperson Ken McManus said none of the previous organisations were forced to join the new marine service but added they were all 100 per cent unified behind the organisation.

Mr McManus said the new organisation would maintain the tradition of excellence and trust built up by the previous marine rescue groups.

He said the community and organisation would benefit from the new structure.

There will be various benefits including a strategic vessel replacement program and huge improvements in the VHF radio network.

The State Government also acknowledged the valued contributions of the volunteers over many years, and believed the new organisation would see that contribution continue well into the future for the benefit of the boating community.

Mr McManus said there would now be a single voice to approach major corporations for sponsorship, instead of three organisations all seeking funding.

There will still be a need for local fundraising ventures, but all money raised locally will stay local.

A board will be formed with three members from each of the former groups and a State Government chairperson who will not have any voting powers.