Soundings issue 57 - Autumn Winter 2025

s g n i d n u o S Marine Rescue NSW

INTO THE STORM

State Operations Group activated for first deployment

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES?

Shoalhaven Master notches double milestone

TWO COUNTRIES, ONE MISSION

A Hawkesbury volunteer’s experience with South Africa’s National Sea Rescue Institute

RESCUE REACH

RWCs boost Port Kembla’s rapid response capability

Issue 57, AUTUMN/WINTER 2025

Safer boating at your fingertips Make every journey safer.

Log On and Log Off with the Marine Rescue app.

We’ll quickly start a search if you don’t return when expected.

GET IT ON

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers were kept busy over the summer months performing almost 1,800 search and rescue missions

Cover Image Marine Rescue Port Kembla RWC operators (L to R) Stuart Ward, David Mackay and Nick Kuster Publisher Marine Rescue NSW 202 Nicholson Parade Cronulla NSW 2230 Editorial & Advertising Phone: (02) 8071 4841 Email: media@marinerescuensw.com.au Design and Layout Nicole Brown Printing Ligare Book Printers Head office: 138-152 Bonds Road, Riverwood NSW 2210

s t n e t n o C

Issue 57, AUTUMN/WINTER 2025

Commissioner’s Report

2

Chair’s Report

3

In this issue

4

Our members in action

5

Training

25

Our People

31

The Anchorage

49

Marine Rescue NSW is pleased to acknowledge the invaluable support of our Soundings advertisers.

Marine Rescue NSW encourages the use of Soundings articles on boating safety. Permission to use and supply of relevant images can be obtained from the publisher.

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW ABN: 98 138 078 092.

CFN: 21153 (A company limited by guarantee) © Copyright Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales.

Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited without permission of the publisher.

Registered Office & Contact Details Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (Trading as Marine Rescue NSW) Building 1, 202 Nicholson Parade, Cronulla NSW 2230 Mail: PO Box 579, Cronulla NSW 2230 Phone: 02 8071 4848 Web: mrnsw.com.au Email: admin@mrnsw.com.au

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

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From the Commissioner

A

s we farewelled another busy boating season on 25 April, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every Marine Rescue

NSW volunteer and staff. Your dedication — standing watch, responding to distress calls, and supporting operations — has once again helped safeguard thousands of boaters across our state’s waterways. Your professionalism remains the cornerstone of our success.

While we take great pride in the service we deliver, it is

ALEX BARRELL

important to acknowledge the growing pressures we face. Marine

Commissioner

Rescue NSW has not received an increase in core government

Chief Executive Officer

funding since 2019, despite a significant rise in operational costs. We are doing more with less — and although our volunteers continue to bridge the gap with extraordinary commitment, we must confront the reality: our current funding model is not sustainable in the long term.

search and rescue.

As we head into winter, I remain inspired by the resilience,

That is why I have been advocating strongly to the NSW

professionalism, and spirit of our volunteers and staff. Your work

Government for a funding model that grows in line with our

saves lives — and gives every person who sets out on the water the

responsibilities — one that reflects the true cost of delivering

peace of mind that help is always close at hand.

24/7 emergency services across some of Australia’s busiest Alex Barrell

waterways.

We are grateful for the continued financial support of the NSW Government and the generous contributions of our trusted partners. I would like to thank the CYCA Solas Trust and ICAP Charity Day, whose recent funding has enabled vital investments in safety equipment and support systems — ensuring our crews remain safe, well-equipped, and ready to respond.

Looking ahead, May marks an important milestone with our Marine Rescue NSW Leadership Forum — a key opportunity for Unit Commanders and staff to connect, collaborate, and strengthen our service. It is also a vital chance to listen to our frontline leaders and ensure they have the tools and support they need to thrive.

I am also proud that Marine Rescue NSW will host two significant International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) events in August this year: the Women in SAR training programme and the IMRF Regional Seminar. These events showcase our commitment to global leadership, inclusivity, and cross-border collaboration in

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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From the Chair

A

s we move into the cooler months of the year, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the significant achievements of Marine

Rescue NSW members and staff over the past few months. I am continually impressed by the dedication and professionalism of our volunteers, who remain the backbone of our organisation.

Their tireless efforts have ensured the safety of thousands of boaters on NSW waterways.

It is fitting that a number of our selfless volunteers have

JAMES GLISSAN AM ESM KC

recently been recognised for their ongoing commitment to our

Chair, Marine Rescue NSW Board

organisation’s mission of saving lives on the water. At the 2024

General Director

Marine Rescue NSW Annual General Meeting, I had the honour of awarding Life Membership of Marine Rescue NSW to four outstanding members of our Service.

Life Membership is the highest honour that can be bestowed

initially forecast, the operation served as an important test of

upon members of Marine Rescue NSW and the 2024 recipients—

our deployment capabilities and readiness for multi-agency

Elizabeth Watts (Marine Rescue Cottage Point), Noel Parkinson

emergency responses.

(Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking), Father Carmelo Sciberras

Although the official boating season has concluded, the

OAM (Marine Rescue Hawkesbury), and Keven Marshall ESM

inherent risks associated with recreational boating remain ever

(Marine Rescue Ulladulla)—are extremely deserving of the honour.

present. Marine Rescue NSW’s 3,500 dedicated and highly

Together, they have contributed a combined 88 years of service to

trained volunteers remain on constant standby, ready to respond

the boating community of NSW.

to emergencies and assist boaters 24 hours a day, seven days a

In the last edition of Soundings, I announced the appointment of three new Regional Directors to the Marine Rescue NSW Board,

week.

On behalf of the Marine Rescue NSW Board, I extend our

Peter Steigrad (Greater Sydney), John Samulski CSC (Illawarra),

sincere appreciation to our members for their unwavering

and Caron Parfitt ESM (Monaro). Over recent months, the new

commitment to our mission. Countless boaters owe their safe

Directors have deepened their understanding of our business via

return to the professionalism, skill and dedication demonstrated

an in-depth induction with Marine Rescue NSW Executive and

by our volunteers across the state.

Functional Area Leads held at our Service’s Headquarters. Their

Up spirits and splice the mainbrace.

expertise and commitment to advancing Marine Rescue NSW has been evident at recent board meetings and we are fortunate for

James Glissan AM ESM KC

their contribution to the future success of our organisation.

The March weather event in Northern NSW, triggered by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, provided a valuable opportunity to put our State Operations Group to the test. More than 30 specially trained members and staff along with multi-purpose vessels and inflatable rescue boats were deployed to assist affected communities. While the impact was fortunately less severe than

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

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In this issue Read the full story on page 10

Read the full story on page 26

HER EXCELLENCY WITNESSES EXCELLENCE IN ACTION

NAB FOUNDATION BACKS FLOOD RESCUE & SUPPORT TRAINING

Governor of NSW observes rescue unfold during Forster

First ever female focused course a huge success.

Tuncurry unit visit.

Read the full story on page 44

DOUBLE CELEBRATION FOR TWO GREAT MATES Long-serving Cottage Point volunteers honoured.

Read the full story on page 52

RESCUE THREADS A unique partnership between Marine Rescue NSW and a church sewing group has evolved into a mission of creativity, sustainability and community spirit.

Stats 4

SUMMER 2024-25

1,793

Search and rescue missions

72,292

Radio calls

4,358

Boaters returned safely to shore

24,274

Boats Logged On

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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s r e b m e m Our n o i t c a n i

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FLEET AND FACILITIES

Sussex Inlet's Leigh Urquhart, Sussex Inlet Unit Commander Brett Eurell (not pictured) and Shoalhaven's Mark Schwegler were deployed to Urunga along with MR 27 from Marine Rescue Port Kembla

Into the storm: State Operations Group activated for first deployment

I

n early March, New South Wales and its northern neighbours monitored the movement of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The

After more than a year of training and procuring multi-purpose

unpredictable nature of such a large weather system kept

vessels (MPVs), inflatable rescue boats (IRBs), vehicles, and

everyone on their toes. Forecasting suggested the system would

associated protective clothing and equipment, the almost 130

make landfall somewhere along the southeast Queensland coast,

Marine Rescue NSW-endorsed flood rescue and support field

and in the early hours of Saturday 8 March, Alfred reached the

operators received their first call to arms to support the NSW

mainland just north of Brisbane.

Government’s response to communities impacted by Tropical

For New South Wales, the size of the system put the focus

Cyclone Alfred.

on the northern part of the state, from the Tweed down to Port

An Incident Management Team, led by Superintendent

Macquarie, and how emergency services could support those

Dan Duemmer, was established at Marine Rescue NSW State

impacted by the major weather event.

Headquarters, with staff and volunteers placed at numerous NSW

In response to recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW received $3.75 million in State

6

other agencies during significant emergencies.

SES Emergency Operations Centres across the state.

Almost 30 SOG members were sourced from as far south as

Government funding and established the State Operations Group

Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet to be deployed, along with all eight of

(SOG) to build capability and capacity to support NSW SES and

the Service’s newly acquired MPVs and associated vehicles and

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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equipment, including a trailerable IRB housed at Marine Rescue Hawkesbury.

Superintendent Duemmer said Coffs Harbour was the initial staging point for the Service’s flood rescue and support operators and assets from Thursday 6 March.

“Marine Rescue NSW began pre-deploying multi-purpose vessels from the Lemon Tree Passage and Tuggerah Lakes units the day before, with field operators and vessels in place at Marine

“

Rescue Point Danger, Brunswick, and Nambucca Heads.

The Marine Rescue NSW convoy to Lismore was delayed by fallen trees

“Our flood rescue and support operators are highly trained and committed to supporting the multiagency response when tasked by NSW SES,” he said.

“

The following day, Friday 7 March, the Marine Rescue NSW SOG volunteers and vessels departed Coffs Harbour and were tasked to Lismore, Maclean, Grafton, and Urunga, while crews and vessels were positioned at Port Macquarie and Camden Haven. A crew also remained in Coffs Harbour with IRB MR 17.

Marine Rescue Hawkesbury Unit Commander Guy Burge was part of one of three crews tasked to Lismore.

“As we travelled further north from Coffs Harbour, the rain got heavier. I’ve towed plenty of boats before, but getting behind the Lismore's Wilsons River rises in front of Marine Rescue NSW Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin

wheel of a Marine Rescue NSW 4WD in those conditions, towing a six-metre, two-and-a-bit-tonne vessel, was an experience.

“As soon as we arrived in Lismore, we were greeted by an RFS member who took us to our temporary accommodation at the Lismore TAFE campus.

“We were provided with a camping bed, blankets, and toiletries. The RFS personnel were so helpful and accommodating,” Burge said.

As the nation watched the system approach through the media, Burge and his Marine Rescue NSW SOG colleagues

“

experienced the power of the event with their own eyes and ears.

a makeshift tasked to Lismore slept in Marine Rescue NSW crews E TAF ore dormitory at Lism

On the first night, the sound of the rain and wind in our classroom dormitory was deafening. My Apple Watch said it was just over 100 decibels—it was so loud and thunderous, it was like the roof was going to be torn off, but thankfully, it remained intact.

“

“The following morning, we inspected the levee wall and could see the water rising. We were hearing that the wall would be breached. We were expecting the worst and equipping for the Marine Rescue Port Macquarie's Gavin Newbound and Darren Van Der Ley were tasked to Maclean with MR 23

worst, but thankfully, that never eventuated.”

Burge said the Marine Rescue NSW crews had positive engagement with the local community during the deployment.

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Marine Rescue Hawkesbury Unit Commander Guy Burge and the Hawkesbury based IRB were part of the crews deployed to Lismore

Burge assists Australian Defence Force personnel during a Food Bank distribution at Lismore's Southern Cross University

“Many of them told us that they felt more comfortable with the

“Another positive takeaway from Marine Rescue NSW’s

emergency services presence in the area, but they still have scars

response was our ability to pivot and respond decisively to the

from a few years ago,” he said.

ever-changing nature of such a large and unpredictable weather

Superintendent Duemmer said all crews provided valuable

“

support to communities impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

For a week, our volunteers were ready to assist those in need.

They transported supplies and personnel to isolated locations and provided assurance to the affected communities that professional help was in place and ready to respond.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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“

8

Marine Rescue NSW Commissione r Alex Barrell and Deputy Commiss ioner Darren Schott speak with Premier Chris Minns, Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib and SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce at the State Emergency Operations Cent re at Homebush

system.

“We will take learnings from our response to develop actions for future activations.

“The Marine Rescue NSW State Operations Group passed its first test, and we are committed to further developing our resources and volunteers to best serve the communities of NSW,” Superintendent Duemmer said.

As for Burge, he told Soundings that he will be better physically and mentally prepared for future SOG taskings.

“This deployment gave me a greater insight into what could be expected for future weather events. Having now had the on-theground experience, I’ll be expecting the worst but hoping for the best when the next call comes,” he said.

The vessel eventually capsized in shallow waters off the Hole in the wall

Marine Rescue Jervis Bay crew saves four anglers after MAYDAY call

V

olunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Jervis Bay received a MAYDAY call just before 9 am on Wednesday 5

March from a vessel taking on water and at risk of sinking with four males on board. The emergency was unfolding two nautical miles (3.7 km) east of Bowen Island off Jervis Bay. Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the response was swift. A volunteer crew was assembled, and rescue vessel Jervis Bay 41 was launched without delay.

“Jervis Bay 41 arrived on the scene and immediately transferred the four males on board the rescue vessel. They were uninjured.

“The JB 41 crew then rafted the disabled six-metre centre console boat to the rescue vessel and began moving to shallow waters while pumping out excess water.

“An Australian Federal Police (AFP) crew arrived to assist, and while the disabled vessel was being transferred from JB 41 to the AFP boat, it was inundated and capsized in waters off the Hole in the wall, just south of Murrays Beach boat ramp.

“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Jervis Bay 41 then safely returned the four anglers to Murrays Beach boat ramp,” he said.

Inspector Massey said conditions off Jervis Bay were not favourable for boating with a hazardous surf warning in place.

The stricken vessel was rafted alongside Jervis Bay 41

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Her Excellency did not leave the radio room until the emergency was over

Governor of NSW watches rescue unfold during unit visit

H

er Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, and Mr Wilson witnessed

firsthand the professional skills of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers during a visit to the Forster-Tuncurry unit in late March.

Her Excellency and Mr Wilson were enjoying a tour of the radio base, which manages all search and rescue operations conducted by the unit, when an emergency unfolded. Volunteers were alerted to a male stand-up paddleboarder being swept out to sea by the outgoing tide.

Marine Rescue NSW Mid North Coast Inspector Rodney Page said that rescue vessel Forster 30 was already on the Coolongolook River and was immediately tasked with the mission.

“The response by the crew on board Forster 30 was swift.

Forster 30 moves in to rescue the man

“On a powerful run-out tide, our vessel carefully manoeuvred towards the man and successfully brought him on board before returning him safely to shore. He was uninjured.

“The man was fortunate that our vessel was close by when he got into trouble, and it was certainly an eye-opening experience for Her Excellency and Mr Wilson,” Inspector Page said.

Following the rescue, Her Excellency and Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell made a number of presentations to volunteers at the unit.

Marine Rescue NSW Life Member John Lynch ESM was presented with his second MRNSW Service Medal Clasp for 30 years of service, along with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service, by Commissioner Barrell.

Chaplain Alan Bates, Angela Zarb, Therese Breen, Mark Breen, Raymond Wakeling and Rodney Percival were also presented with

The presentation was one to remember for the seven celebrated volunteers

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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their five-year Service Pins.

Radio Operators and Watch Officers have incredible viewing from the Hill 60 radio base

Exceptional observation leads to a kayaker being saved off Port Kembla of an observant Marine Rescue

Port Kembla Watch Officer resulted in a male kayaker being saved off Port Kembla.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said volunteer Watch Officer Phillip Turner was on duty at Marine Rescue Port Kembla’s Hill

Swtiched on, Marine Rescue Port Kembla Watch Officer Phillip Turner

60 radio tower when he noticed an upturned kayak in the waters off Big Island, part of Wollongong’s Five Islands.

“Phillip made the sighting at 5:15 pm

assisted back to Port Kembla Beach,” he said.

Inspector Massey said conditions off Wollongong were windy and unsuitable for non-powered watercraft offshore.

“

Without the keen observation of Marine Rescue Port Kembla Watch Officer Phillip Turner and the response from council lifeguards, the outcome could have been different,” Inspector Massey said.

“

T

he midweek early evening actions

and immediately informed NSW Police Marine Area Command.

Marine Rescue NSW encourages all paddlers and boaters

“A second person was also spotted paddling in the area.

to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW, either via the free

“A multi-agency response was initiated, with rescue vessel Port

Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16.

Kembla 31 tasked. However, Wollongong City Council lifeguards

“Logging On ensures Marine Rescue NSW volunteers keep

from Port Kembla Beach, who were on duty at the time, used a

watch for their safe return, and in the event they go overdue, a

jet ski to rescue the paddler from Martin Islet and return him to

search will be initiated. Logging On saves precious time during an

shore.

emergency. The rescued paddler was not Logged On,” Inspector

“The other man, who was kayaking in the area, was also

Massey said.

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OUR MEMBERS IN ACTION

The six paddlers were assessed by Marine Rescue Terrigal volunteers on board TG 30

Paddlers saved off Spoon Bay by Marine Rescue Terrigal crew Sunday morning shift for volunteers at Marine Rescue Terrigal began with an emergency response after being

tasked to retrieve six paddlers from waters off Spoon Bay on the state’s Central Coast after their outrigger began filling with water and capsized.

Marine Rescue Terrigal Deputy Unit Commander Darren Wright said volunteers at the unit were notified just before 8 am when a member of the Tarragal Outrigger Canoe Club informed Marine

Rescue NSW volunteers of concerns about an overdue outrigger

“

crew.

“

A

We were told their location could possibly be north of Terrigal Haven.

“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Terrigal 30 was immediately

deployed for the search and rescue mission in lumpy and windy conditions," he said.

The rapid response by Marine Rescue Terrigal led to the paddlers being located within 10 minutes of Terrigal 30 departing base.

“The paddlers, who were all wearing lifejackets, were approximately 300 metres off Spoon Bay and when we arrived their outrigger was filled with water, it then capsized.

“The Terrigal 30 crew retrieved all six paddlers and took them on board the Marine Rescue NSW vessel for assessment.

“We provided them with space blankets, three of the paddlers were showing signs of hypothermia.

“We called NSW Ambulance to meet us at Terrigal Haven.

“The six paddlers were safely returned to shore and assessed by paramedics,” Deputy Unit Commander Wright said.

The padders were safely returned to Terrigal Haven

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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The divers were transferred safely on board LM 30 before being met by LM 31 at Swansea Bar

Lake Macquarie volunteers rescue nine people from sinking vessel off Swansea Heads

V

olunteers from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie returned nine people safely to shore after the commercial dive vessel they

were on started taking on water 5.5 kms off Swansea Heads on

“Lake Macquarie 30 then returned to the stricken vessel and assisted the skipper.

“The six-metre commercial vessel was secured and towed to Blacksmiths boat ramp.

Sunday 12 January.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said radio

“This response was a rapid team effort by our dedicated

operators at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie received a call from

volunteers at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie. To have the nine

the skipper of the disabled dive vessel just before 9 am.

people safely on board the rescue vessel and returned to shore

“The commercial vessel was taking on water and at risk of sinking. Multiple assets from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie

in less than 45 minutes shows how highly skilled they are,” Inspector Raymond said.

were tasked for the response with rescue vessel Lake Macquarie 30 and both rescue watercraft (jet skis) arriving on scene within

“

20 minutes.

“Nine people were taken on board Lake Macquarie 30 with the support of both rescue watercraft.

“

“Lake Macquarie 30 was met by rescue vessel Lake Macquarie 31 at the bar where four people were transferred on board the second rescue boat.

“Both Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie vessels then transported the nine people safely back to the Swansea RSL wharf, no injuries were reported.

The dive vessel had taken

arrived on a lot of water when LM 30

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OUR MEMBERS IN ACTION

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers worked closely with colleagues from the NSW SES to undertake the RDAs

Reflections from the field: Serving our community in the aftermath of disaster

By Marine Rescue Port Stephens volunteer Matt Coleborne

I

n late January, I joined an inter-agency emergency task force

Time to sit with people, listen to them, and truly connect. These

disaster-declared zones in the Hunter and Central Coast areas.

people were safe, yes, but many of them were not okay.

It was part of a coordinated NSW Government response to the devastating storms at the beginning of the new year.

I could tell you about how well our agency worked alongside

Over the 300 kilometres I travelled and the 20+ residents I met, I became someone they could talk to—someone who could bear witness to their stories of survival and loss. It became clear

others or the critical importance of these RDAs in understanding

that they weren’t just sharing their experiences—they needed

the scale of the damage and planning for recovery. But instead, I

to. They needed to feel heard, to know they weren’t alone in this

want to share something more personal—an experience I believe

devastation.

many volunteer members across all responding agencies might relate to.

As a Marine Rescue Port Stephens member, I’m trained to encounters people on their worst days, steps in during their emergencies, and helps make them safe. But on these missions, I wasn’t the first responder. I was the last responder.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

I heard from the tradie who, in the dark of night, made the gut-wrenching decision to leave his house with his wife and two

respond. I’m trained to be the first responder—the one who

14

This change in dynamic offered me something I rarely get: time.

to conduct Rapid Damage Assessments (RDAs) across the

Soundings

young kids, only to return at dawn to find a tree crushing the living room and the children’s bedroom.

I sat with a woman who had just come home after a month in hospital, only to face the storm’s destruction at her weakest.

I listened to a mother recount her terror as she tried to comfort

Numerous homes suffered significant damage

Residents were left with a massive clean-up

her children and her elderly mother while the wind tore at their

The storms left a path of destruction across the Hunter Central Coast

roof, flooded their home, and shook the very walls around them.

Days later, she was still visibly shaken, her voice trembling as she spoke.

But I also heard stories of resilience and community spirit—of neighbours working together in the middle of the night to clear debris, secure tarps, and offer each other strength. One retired Air Force member described how his street rallied to chainsaw a fallen tree from his kitchen and used boat anchor ropes to hold down a tarp over the gaping hole. He even managed to laugh about it—a small glimmer of hope amid the chaos.

This storm did not discriminate. It impacted everyone—from Medowie to Merewether—but it seemed to strike hardest at the most vulnerable among us. And yet, time and again, I saw the strength of our community shining through the cracks.

Serving my community is a privilege. Whether on the water or in the aftermath of a disaster, it is about being there for people when they need it most. Sometimes, it is about saving a life, and sometimes, it is simply about listening.

To everyone affected, know that you’re not alone. We’re here for you. And to my fellow volunteers and responders, thank you for your dedication, compassion, and tireless service. Together, we remind people that even in the darkest times, there is light.

Volunteers from Mairne Rescue Lemon Tree Passage, Port Stephens Lake Macquarie and Tuggerah Lakes assisted with the RDAs

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OUR MEMBERS IN ACTION

Coffs Harbour 30 was deployed on sunset

The long tow home: Coffs Harbour crew completes tricky night mission

V

olunteers from Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour completed a

the 36-nautical-mile round trip taking almost five hours.

five-hour rescue mission in late November after receiving a

“We ask all boaters to check the integrity of the cleats on

call for assistance from the skipper of a catamaran whose vessel

their vessels to ensure they are of sufficient size and strength to

became disabled in waters off Corindi on the NSW Mid North

facilitate a tow if required.

“It is pleasing that the skipper of this vessel was logged on with

Coast.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the skipper of

Marine Rescue NSW, and we encourage boaters to log on and

the disabled vessel was logged on with Marine Rescue NSW and

off either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16

contacted radio operators at Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour at 6

every time they hit the water.

“Logging on ensures our dedicated volunteers keep watch for

pm.

“One of the rudders on the 10-metre sail catamaran became

their safe return, and should they go overdue, a search will be

disabled, and one of the engines also lost propulsion, leaving

initiated. It also saves vital time in the event of an emergency,”

the skipper unable to make headway 18 nautical miles (33 km)

Inspector Page said.

northeast of Coffs Harbour,” Inspector Page said.

A volunteer crew was assembled to assist and deployed on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Coffs Harbour 30.

“The Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour crew arrived on the scene and assessed the welfare of the skipper before taking the catamaran under tow.

“There was an issue with the cleat used for the towline on the catamaran, and the line had to be re-established during the tow.

“Because the catamaran was down to one rudder, it was a slow, four-hour tow back to Coffs Harbour International Marina, with the Marine Rescue NSW vessel travelling at seven knots.

“The skipper and his catamaran were safely returned to harbour, with the Coffs Harbour 30 crew logging off just before midnight.

“It was a long night for the crew on board Coffs Harbour 30, with

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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The skipper of the disabled catamaran was Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Rescue NSW vessel Forster 30 reached the injured sailor 15kms offshore

Solo sailor receives medical assist by Forster Tuncurry crew

V

olunteers from Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry assisted a solo sailor after he suffered a head injury on board his yacht

just days before Christmas 2024.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the sailor was eight nautical miles northeast of Forster Boat Harbour when he called for assistance around 7 am.

“The man’s yacht suffered mechanical issues and a torn sail before he sustained a head injury after slipping on board.

board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Forster 30.

“The Forster 30 crew assessed the man’s condition before a crew member was transferred on board the disabled vessel to monitor the injured sailor and secure a tow line to the yacht.

“All Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are proficient in first aid.

“The injured sailor and his vessel were taken to Forster Boat Harbour where the man received further treatment,” Inspector Page said.

“A volunteer crew was assembled and deployed to assist on

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

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OUR MEMBERS IN ACTION

Two crew members from the trawler were taken on board BA 30 before the vessel sank

Marine Rescue Ballina crew rescue two people from sinking trawler off Lennox Head o matter the time of day or night, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are always ready to respond.

For a group of volunteers at Marine Rescue Ballina, their sleep

was abruptly interrupted when a call came through at 2 am from a sinking fishing trawler off the Byron Coast in November.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the vessel with two people on board reported that it was taking on water and sinking approximately eight nautical miles (15 km) east of “Volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, the region’s 24-hour communications hub, received a call from the skipper of a fishing trawler.

“The skipper also advised the vessel had suffered engine

“Wearing lifejackets, they made their way safely into a life raft while Ballina 30 was on route.

“The two people were transferred from the life raft and taken safely on board BA 30.

“The trawler’s crew were then returned to Ballina Boat Harbour,” Inspector Page said.

As the sunken vessel posed a navigational hazard, Inspector

failure.

“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Ballina was deployed on

Page said radio operators at Marine Rescue Ballina issued several Sécurités to advise boaters in the region of its location.

board Ballina 30.

“BA 30 headed into the darkness to provide assistance,” Inspector Page said.

Just before 3:15 am, another call was received from the sinking

“This rescue mission emphasises the importance of Marine Rescue NSW’s rigorous training, which is often put to the test in darkness, and showcases the dedication of the Service’s highly skilled and committed volunteers,” Inspector Page said.

vessel.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

“Water had reached the deck, forcing the two people on board to abandon ship.

“BA 30 spotted lights and closed in to assist.

Lennox Head.

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“

“

N

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Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers assist the kayakers after their craft capsized

Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers make swift rescue during Boating Regatta

M

arine Rescue NSW volunteers sprang into action whilst

MR 13 is one of 16 new flood rescue and support vessels

taking part in February’s Port Hacking Putters Regatta.

recently added to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet. When Marine

Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Brad Whittaker

Rescue NSW flood rescue and support vessels are not tasked

was on board a classic vessel leading the flotilla when he noticed

with weather emergencies, they are used to assist boaters and

two kayakers struggling in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve.

paddlers on local waterways across the state.

“The kayakers had capsized their craft and were finding it very difficult to get back into the tandem kayak due to the outgoing tide and gusty winds, so a rescue was initiated,” Mr Whittaker said.

A new inflatable Marine Rescue NSW state flood rescue and support asset, which was taking part in the regatta, was tasked with assisting the kayakers.

“Rescue vessel MR 13 immediately broke away from the flotilla to go to the aid of the two paddlers in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve,” said Rod Harris, skipper of MR 13.

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking quickly reached the paddlers and took them safely on board MR 13.

“They were uninjured, and their kayak was secured before being towed back to shore,” Mr Harris said.

Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Rod Harris gives the thumbs up following the successful rescue off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

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OUR MEMBERS IN ACTION

The volunteer Marine Rescue NSW crew on board Narooma 30 had not long returned to base before being tasked for a second mission

Narooma crew responds to MAYDAY call near Bermagui

M

arine Rescue NSW volunteers responded to a MAYDAY call

“The skipper of the disabled vessel indicated that all four

from a commercial fishing vessel that had run aground on

people on board would attempt to make their own way to shore.

rocks just east of Bermagui Harbour on the penultimate day of summer.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said volunteer radio operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre received a MAYDAY call from the skipper of the distressed vessel at 4:40am on Thursday 27 February.

“NSW Police Marine Area Command was immediately notified,

20

“Narooma 30 searched for people in the water around the disabled vessel, while volunteers from Marine Rescue Bermagui observed from the headland.

“Thankfully, all four people on board the disabled vessel made their way safely to shore,” Inspector Sullivan said.

It was a busy morning for the Narooma 30 crew. While they were undergoing a debrief back on land, they were tasked with

and a volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Narooma was tasked

assisting a 36-foot vessel with two people on board that had

to respond on board Narooma 30, as Bermagui 30 was undergoing

suffered mechanical failure off Cuttagee. The disabled vessel and

maintenance at the time.

crew were safely returned to Bermagui Harbour.

The crew on board the stricken vessel made their own way to shore

The commercial fishing vessel ran aground on rocks east of Bermagui Harbour

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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The 12-metre sailing catamaran became disabled off Newcastle while transiting from Sydney to Port Stephens

Newcastle volunteers guide disabled sailing boat to safety in challenging night conditions

O

ffshore night rescues are becoming increasingly common

approximately 500 metres off Stockton Beach, just before 9:50

for volunteers at Marine Rescue Newcastle, and their

pm.

training and skills continue to serve them well in assisting boaters.

In late January, Newcastle 30 was deployed in challenging conditions to assist a sailing vessel with three people on board off Stockton Beach.

Marine Rescue Newcastle Deputy Unit Commander Rick Nevile said the 12-metre sailing catamaran became disabled off Newcastle while transiting from Sydney to Port Stephens.

“The skipper of the logged on vessel called for assistance just after 9:30 pm.

“The foresail on the vessel had blown out and could not be furled, and one engine had failed.

“The crew on board the sailing catamaran were also struggling with issues related to their anchors,” Deputy Unit Commander Nevile said.

Newcastle 30 reached the disabled vessel, which was almost four kilometres north-northeast of the harbour entrance and

Deputy Unit Commander Nevile said the Newcastle 30 crew secured a line to the disabled vessel to prevent it from drifting closer to the beach and to assist in recovering its anchors before towing it back to Newcastle Harbour.

“Conditions were challenging. It was dark, there was heavy rain at times and a very strong south-southwesterly wind, making it difficult to manoeuvre around the disabled vessel.

“The swell was also between two and three metres.

“All persons on board the disabled vessel were wearing lifejackets, and the fact that the skipper was logged on with Marine Rescue NSW helped reduce our response time.

“We encourage all boaters to log on with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF Channel 16 so our volunteers can monitor their safe return.

“The disabled sailing catamaran and its three crew were safely placed on a mooring in Newcastle Harbour just after 11:30 pm,” Mr Nevile said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

21

The PK 31 crew arrived to find the skipper standing on the flybridge

Marine Rescue NSW crew saves one of their own from sinking vessel off Wollongong

V

olunteers from Marine Rescue Port Kembla rescued a fellow

“The vessel was almost completely submerged.

volunteer from a sinking vessel in late March.

“The skipper entered the water and swam towards PK 31.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the skipper

“Volunteers on board PK 31 assisted the boater from the

of a motor cruiser reported that his vessel was taking on water

water and returned him to the base for an assessment by NSW

and sinking approximately one nautical mile (2 km) east of

Ambulance,” Inspector Massey said.

Wollongong’s Five Islands.

The vessel sank the following day.

“Volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Kembla’s Hill 60 base received a call from the skipper, advising that his vessel was taking on water and sinking.

“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Port Kembla was deployed on board Port Kembla 31.

“

PK 31 quickly arrived at the scene and located the skipper, who is a volunteer at Marine Rescue Shoalhaven, standing on the flybridge of his vessel.

“

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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The vessel remained submerged for some time before sinking the following day

The tow back to Twofold Bay was limited to just five knots

Eden crew rescues solo sailor in challenging marathon mission olunteers from Marine Rescue Eden safely returned a solo

confirming his location off Black Point, four nautical miles (7.5

sailor and his 10-metre yacht to Twofold Bay following an

km) north of the border.

epic two-part mission, which finished 21.5-hours after it began.

At 2 am on Friday 28 March, radio operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre received a call for assistance from a distressed skipper on board a yacht somewhere on the Far South Coast beyond Green Cape.

Marine Rescue Eden was tasked with the mission, with Unit Commander Roger Barson managing radio communications while

“Marine Rescue Eden was tasked again, with XRAY 30

“

departing Snug Cove at 1:30pm.

“

V

The distressed yacht was, thankfully, sighted by our crew an hour later.

“The XRAY 30 crew conducted a welfare check on the skipper,

a volunteer crew was deployed at 3am on board Marine Rescue

who informed them that he was out of fuel and his mainsail was

NSW boat XRAY 30 to search for the distressed vessel.

jammed.

“Radio contact was initially loud but broken,” said the Unit Commander.

“Coast Guard Mallacoota radio also responded but experienced the same broken transmission. Radio

“With conditions deteriorating and a gale warning forecast for the following day, the disabled yacht was taken under tow, with the return trip to Eden limited to five knots (9 km/h).

“Sea conditions were unfavourable, with two-metre swells, and

communications then ceased, and calls to the skipper’s mobile

there were numerous challenges with the towline. However, after

went unanswered.

an eight-and-a-half-hour tow back to Eden, the disabled yacht

“XRAY 30 proceeded to Green Cape, searching the rugged coastline to the NSW/Victorian border, but no lights were seen, nor was a vessel located,” Barson said.

At 5:30am, XRAY 30 turned and continued the search north, back to Green Cape, before returning to Eden to refuel.

Unit Commander Barson said radio contact was re-established with the distressed yacht just after 11:30am, with the skipper

and its skipper were safely returned and anchored in Twofold Bay at 11:40pm.

“This was an extremely long and challenging rescue mission for the six crew members and three radio operators involved in both legs. It began in the dark and finished in darkness 21-and-a-half hours later. Our training held us all in good stead, leading to a positive outcome in the end,” Unit Commander Barson said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

23

Marine Rescue Port Kembla is actively recruiting volunteer rescue watercraft operators

Marine Rescue Port Kembla enhances capability

M

arine Rescue Port Kembla has enhanced its search and rescue capability not only across Wollongong and

they can be transported across the region when required.

Shellharbour but also throughout the Illawarra Shoalhaven with

“Marine Rescue NSW will be able to deploy them to areas up

the addition of two rescue watercraft (RWC) (jet skis) to the unit’s

and down the coast where they may be needed, particularly for

fleet.

offshore search and rescue,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the two RWCs became operational mid-December and have been

Marine Rescue Port Kembla has been, and continues to recruit volunteer RWC operators.

deployed numerous times to assist people on local waters.

“The training for rescue watercraft is comprehensive, and a

“These rescue watercraft have enhanced our operational

certain level of fitness is required due to the nature of the craft

capability on Lake Illawarra, and offshore.

and the operating environment.

“Lake Illawarra sees a lot of traffic; recreational vessels will

“We have a small, highly capable group of qualified Marine

break down at various times, and people can end up in the water.

Rescue NSW RWC operators at the unit, and we are looking for

“These are rapid-response craft—they are very quick and can

more volunteer members. People simply need to contact Marine

access areas that our normal rescue craft cannot, particularly

Rescue Port Kembla for further information,” Inspector Massey

shallow waters,” he said.

said.

Marine Rescue Port Kembla's RWCs arrived just in time for the summer holidays

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Inspector Massey said the two RWC are trailerable, meaning

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Training Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

25

TRAINING

Marine Rescue NSW Women in Flood Rescue participants familiarise themselves with the multi-purpose vessel

Marine Rescue NSW strengthens flood response with Women in Flood Rescue training arine Rescue NSW now has almost 130 endorsed flood rescue and support field operators within its State

Operations Group (SOG) after 12 female volunteers from ten units took part in intensive training at Marine Rescue NSW’s first-ever Women in Flood Rescue course, held just days before International Women’s Day 2025.

In response to recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW established a State Operations Group and has built capability and capacity to support the NSW Government’s response during weather emergencies.

The Marine Rescue NSW Women in Flood Rescue course was held at Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters in Cronulla and Penrith’s Whitewater Stadium. It included practical on- and offwater training and assessment, as well as a leadership seminar.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said this group

26

“

Now that they have had this specialised training, these women can be deployed either in their local communities or throughout NSW with specialist vessels and equipment to ensure they can support the community.

“

M

“Marine Rescue NSW is committed to the training and development of all its volunteers. Now this core group of women, who have been trained in this specialist skill, can take that

of highly skilled women is an asset to their local communities and

expertise back to their communities to support them in times of

the state.

need,” Commissioner Barrell said.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Marine Rescue Narooma participant Sue Hall said the course was an amazing experience.

“It was incredibly gruelling and very challenging—but it certainly taught us a whole new range of skill sets to survive in floodwater and to rescue ourselves and others.

“We have gained a huge skill set. Working with other agencies and this group of women has been fantastic. I feel privileged to have trained with them and to have become part of such an amazing team,” Hall said.

The three-day Marine Rescue NSW Women in Flood Rescue course was supported through a $25,000 NAB Foundation Community Grant. t in specific training at

unteers took par Marine Rescue NSW vol Whitewater Stadium rith Pen

Commissioner Barrell said the generosity of the NAB Foundation was greatly appreciated.

“The NAB Foundation's support is vital in helping Marine Rescue NSW expand its flood rescue and support capabilities in local communities,” he said.

NAB Private Client Director David Novakovic attended the leadership seminar and was in awe of what the women achieved during the course.

“For them to achieve what they have in three days is incredible.

It is really a testament to them, giving them confidence to take on leadership positions in marine services—that is what it is all about.

“The NAB Foundation chose to support this particular course for two reasons. Firstly, flood and rescue services are so needed in Australia due to the climate and environment in which we live.

“Secondly, it is great to see women gain confidence and be

Marine Rescue NSW Women in Flood Rescue leadership seminar

empowered to take on leadership roles. For those two reasons, this grant submission was received so highly.

“

Flood rescue and support is one of those things—you always want to be prepared but hope you never have to use it. These are exactly the kinds of causes the NAB Foundation loves to support,” he said.

“

Marine Rescue NSW Capability Manager Dave Bowing said participants took part in extensive training before being assessed.

“The women who participated in this course over the last three days undertook prerequisite training in electrical safety, flood rescue awareness, and a range of fitness assessments.

“They attended and completed the self-rescue and land-based flood rescue course at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

“They also completed their induction on multi-purpose vessels (MPVs) and inflatable rescue boats (IRBs), which are the SOG assets, in addition to deployment activities and taskings, as well as vehicle and equipment familiarisation,” he said.

Liz Ellis from Marine Rescue Nambucca said operating the multi-purpose vessel was a great refresher.

Marine Rescue NSW Women in Flood Rescue participants hit the water on an inflatable rescue boat

“We have one of the multi-purpose vessels stationed at Nambucca, so we have done a fair bit of training on it. But it’s

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

27

TRAINING

n, Broken Bay, Port Jackso bucca, Tuggerah Lakes, Nam , ick rse nsw cou Bru , cue ger Res Dan Women in Flood unteers from the Point a units took part in the Marine Rescue NSW vol Bermagui and Merimbul

always good to get on a different vessel and go through the whole

ooma, Botany Port Hacking, Nar

“They took us right out of our comfort zone—it was very

process from the beginning—checking all the equipment is there

challenging going into that white water, not quite knowing what to

and that everything is working as it should.

expect, having to act very quickly to rescue yourself or someone

“It was a really good refresher, driving a vessel that’s basically

else. But I guess that could be the reality in a flood zone, so you

the same construction, but every vessel is a bit different. We were

need to have that experience of how to rescue yourself should

on unfamiliar waters, which is actually a great experience if you

you end up in the water.”

are going to be deployed, as we eventually will be, in unfamiliar

Bowing said understanding the transport and logistical challenges involved with flood rescue and support was also

areas,” she said.

Ellis said the training at Penrith’s Whitewater Stadium was incredibly physically demanding.

crucial.

“SOG members on deployment may find themselves in locations they have never been to before and deployed with people they do not know. They may be driving a vehicle or a vessel that is unfamiliar to them, on roads they have never travelled. Those roads may be damaged or flood-impacted, and the conditions under which they find themselves could be quite strenuous,” he said.

Saffron Bruns-Smits from Marine Rescue Brunswick said the course was very informative.

“It created a lot of awareness around the potential ways water can act in a flood situation.

“I am much better equipped to deal with those situations if I get the call, and I feel confident that the training I’ve received over the past few days will help me support those in need when we are out there,” she said.

Ten participants passed the course, which is gruelling and

(L to R) Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney Inspector Courtney Greenslade, NAB Private Client Director David Novakovic, Commissioner Alex Barrell, Marine Rescue NSW Capability Manager Dave Bowing, Monaro Zone Training Manager Liv Ford and Hunter Central Coast Zone Training Manager Jane Shirriff

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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complex to ensure they are well prepared to assist during real-life flood emergencies.

The average age of the female participants in Marine Rescue NSW’s Women in Flood Rescue course was 49.3.

Kia Sorento

Proud partner of Marine Rescue NSW.

Practical components of the 2025 Women in SAR course will be held on Sydney Harbour

men in fitt ESM at last year's Wo gui Coxswain Caron Par ma Ber cue Res rine F Ma Picture: IMR SAR course in Finland.

Marine Rescue NSW to host International Maritime Rescue Federation events in August

M

arine Rescue NSW will welcome the world to Sydney this

Barrell said Greater Sydney offers many unique boating locations

winter after being named host of two major International

for participants to develop and practise their skills.

Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) events.

iconic bridge and Opera House, to numerous bays, unpredictable

training course will mark the beginning of a historic five days for

heads, and open ocean, Sydney’s maritime environment will be

maritime search and rescue in Australia, as the global maritime

the perfect practical classroom for participants.

SAR community converges on the harbour city for three intense

“The Marine Rescue Middle Harbour base will also be used

days of training and classroom discussions in late August ahead

throughout Women in SAR, where rescue vessels can be rapidly

of the IMRF Regional Seminar.

deployed,” Commissioner Barrell said.

IMRF CEO Caroline Jupe said the Women in SAR training is an

Marine Rescue Bermagui volunteer and Marine Rescue NSW

incredible opportunity for female coxswains or those on the path

Board Member Caron Parfitt ESM attended last year’s training

to becoming coxswains, operating on maritime SAR vessels from

in Finland and is encouraging all female coxswains from IMRF

IMRF member organisations, to enhance their learning.

member organisations to register their interest in the course.

“The training course is limited to just 16 participants and

“The training was excellent. It was well organised and provided

covers several aspects of leadership on SAR vessels, including

a huge opportunity to learn and share ideas with women from

communication, mission handling, and various tools and

other countries.

procedures to assist in leading the unit. It will include both

“There was a strong focus on leadership at the coxswain level,

facilitated classroom discussions and practical exercises

not just technical ability. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,”

conducted on Marine Rescue NSW vessels.

she said.

“The Finnish Lifeboat Institution were wonderful hosts in 2022

The event is part of the IMRF’s Women In SAR initiative, which

and again last year, and the IMRF is excited to be taking Women in

was launched in 2019 at the World Maritime Rescue Congress in

SAR to the other side of the world in 2025.

Canada. Since its launch, the campaign has made great strides to

“Sydney will be the focus, with Marine Rescue NSW also hosting the IMRF Regional Seminar on 25 and 26 August, immediately following the Women in SAR training course,” Jupe said.

The course, which is open to all members of the IMRF, is ideal

bolster the profile and role of women in maritime SAR and making the industry more accessible to women.

Beyond the training events, the campaign has also produced critical best guidance documents for maritime SAR organisations,

for women looking to bolster their leadership and communication

developed an industry-first mentoring scheme, and told the

skills as they rise the ranks in maritime SAR.

stories of dozens of inspiring women in the sector.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner and IMRF Trustee Alex

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“From the heavy traffic areas on Sydney Harbour around the

The third International Women in SAR (Search and Rescue)

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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e l p o e P r Ou Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

31

Keven Marshall ESM

Elizabeth (Beth) Watts

Fantastic four: Long-serving volunteers awarded Marine Rescue NSW Life Membership

F

our Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, with a combined 88 years

Elizabeth (Beth) Watts

of service between them, were awarded Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Rescue Cottage Point

Life Membership in late 2024.

Elizabeth Watts was awarded Life Membership of Marine

Marine Rescue NSW Chair, Mr James Glissan AM ESM KC,

Rescue Cottage Point. She is a highly experienced mariner and

Point), Noel Parkinson (Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking),

serves as a Marine Rescue NSW coxswain and State Operations

Father Carmelo Sciberras OAM (Marine Rescue Hawkesbury), and

Group field operator.

Keven Marshall ESM (Marine Rescue Ulladulla)—were extremely

“

deserving of the honour.

“

“The Marine Rescue NSW Board is grateful for their

commitment to saving lives on the water and the service they have provided to their local communities,” he said.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Elizabeth has fulfilled numerous roles at Marine Rescue Cottage Point, including Deputy Unit Commander, and adds

This incredible group of highly skilled and dedicated volunteers have given decades of exemplary service to the boating community of NSW, and it is a pleasure to award them Life Membership of Marine Rescue NSW.

32

Rescue NSW following almost 30 years of service at Marine

said the four recipients—Elizabeth Watts (Marine Rescue Cottage

Marine Rescue NSW Life Membership to the Unit Life Membership she was awarded in late 2023.

Noel Parkinson Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Noel Parkinson has been volunteering with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking since February 2001 and is a highly respected member of the unit.

As a Marine Rescue NSW coxswain and watch officer, Noel has played a vital role in countless search and rescue missions. He is a former Unit Commander at Botany Port Hacking and is currently serving as Admin Officer.

Noel Parkinson

Father Carmelo Sciberras OAM Marine Rescue Hawkesbury The much-loved chaplain of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury recently celebrated a significant milestone—his Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years of ministry as a Catholic priest.

Since 1996, Father Carmelo Sciberras has been a devoted member of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, serving not only as a crew member but also as the unit's chaplain, offering spiritual support to its members and the wider community.

Father Carmelo’s remarkable life and dedication to both his faith and Marine Rescue Hawkesbury have earned him numerous accolades, including the Medal of the Order of Australia.

At 86, Father Carmelo continues to be an active part of Marine Rescue Hawkesbury. He serves on the first watch team each month and is currently training to become an accredited radio operator, proving that age is no barrier to learning new skills and continuing to serve the community.

Keven Marshall ESM Marine Rescue Ulladulla Keven Marshall ESM has been serving the boating community of Ulladulla and its surrounds since 1998 and was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in 2017.

He has held a variety of positions at the unit, including Deputy Unit Commander. From 2013 to 2023, he served as a Marine Rescue NSW vessel master and is currently a watch officer.

Keven was elected Regional Director, Illawarra, on the Marine Rescue NSW Board in 2017 and proudly served in the role for Father Carmelo Sciberras OAM

seven years before stepping down in November 2024.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

33

OUR PEOPLE

221 of Mike's 400 missions were on board the current Shoalhaven 30

What are the chances? Shoalhaven Master notches double milestone

O

n the penultimate day of 2024, Mike Boadle ESM woke

bombarding her with the details of what was a busy day on the

knowing that he would be spending his 15th anniversary

water and the potential of staying on with Marine Rescue NSW,”

volunteering with Marine Rescue Shoalhaven out on the water, as he was on roster. He also knew he was closing in on another

Mike did stay on, and what he has achieved since is incredible.

“

Fast-forward 15 years.

Mike has kept a record of every search and rescue mission he has been part of since his first day crewing a Marine Rescue Shoalhaven vessel, which was on 16 January 2010.

His first day on board a rescue vessel was extremely busy. Mike recalls reporting at 7 am and, just over an hour later, being tasked with assisting a broken-down vessel five nautical miles east of Crookhaven Heads.

By 1 pm that day, the crew had completed three more missions,

“I knew I was close to 400 rescue missions, but you just take it as it comes. Keeping a record is not about the number; it is about the journey and the learnings,” he said.

“

milestone.

he told Soundings.

including assisting two children without lifejackets who got into trouble kayaking at the Heads.

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It was just after 11 am on 30 December 2024, the day of his

“It is a day I will never forget. I was excited and tired.

15th anniversary, and Mike was skippering Shoalhaven 30, the

“I remember the excitement of coming home to my wife and

unit’s 11.5-metre Steber.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Mike at the helm of SA 30

SA 30 was tasked with assisting a disabled vessel off Currarong with six people on board, including five children.

“They were doing tow sports off Currarong, and the engine on the open runabout stopped working.

“We checked on their welfare, secured a towline, and safely returned all six people and the disabled vessel back to Currarong boat ramp.

“When I got home that night, I realised that was my 400th rescue mission. I was filling my log out, looked at my scratch list,

“

and there it was—number 400.

“It is quite remarkable that number 400 happened on the same day as my 15th anniversary,” he said.

“

Mike’s first log entry was on the evening of 16 January 2010.

“It started off as a diary, like a ‘dear diary’ thing. I was writing what we did and who was on the crew.

“I was meeting new people, and sometimes it is hard to remember their names. Writing them down helped me remember, so when I was on the boat with them again, I knew their names

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

35

OUR PEOPLE

Marine Rescue Shoalhaven crew members (L to R) Mike Boadle ESM, Paul Windfield, Mark Asper, Paul Poulsen and Laurie Patton

and the missions we had done.”

As a retired engineer, Mike likes to count things, and as his log began to grow, he decided to create a spreadsheet to preserve the data and tally up the number of jobs.

“At the time, I thought the tally number would be quite interesting.”

He was not wrong, but it is the detail of his entries that some at the unit now rely on, particularly for history and confirming specific exercises or training.

The Boadle logs are all A5 leather-bound books, and in midOctober last year, he began entering data into his seventh.

Mike joined Marine Rescue Shoalhaven a year and a half before he retired to see if it would suit him when he was no longer working.

It was a perfect fit—just like his blues.

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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“

I’m very proud to pull the uniform on every day; it’s a great organisation to be part of.

“

ony Investiture Cerem gela attended the ey dn Mike and wife An Sy in use at Government Ho

watching crew develop into highly skilled people on the water.

Crew development is very fulfilling.

“It is also sometimes just pure bliss being on the ocean on a calm day—I really enjoy being at sea.”

Four hundred rescues on, Mike is an extremely experienced seaman and knows the importance of his role as a first responder.

“When I get called to a serious incident, I am always thinking about returning those involved safely to shore.”

During the height of the pandemic in 2020, Mike was part of a two-person crew tasked with searching for two missing boaters up the Shoalhaven River at night.

“We went upriver and found a husband and wife suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning.

“The woman was unconscious, and the man had suffered serious burns after collapsing on the engine.

Mike returning to the vessel base at Greenwell Point following a night mission

“Their vessel had drifted onto rocks. The crewman held the boats steady while I went on board the disabled vessel and administered oxygen to the woman.

“Thankfully, she regained consciousness.

“We secured their vessel and arranged for NSW Ambulance to meet us downriver.

“We delivered her to waiting paramedics at a wharf and her husband to a waiting chopper, which flew him to the burns unit in Sydney.

“At the end of that night, I thought, ‘Wow, I earned my stripes tonight.’”

Mike did—and the post-nominal ESM and a Commissioner’s

“

Citation.

Mike has always liked boats and has been a boater in the area for a long time.

“Marine Rescue NSW seemed like a great thing to get my teeth into and contribute as a boatie and engineer.”

Mike has seen it all in his time with Marine Rescue Shoalhaven, including multiple fatalities.

“They make you realise how a good day on the water can so easily turn into tragedy. There is a fine line between a great day and the worst—or possibly last—day of your life. One bad decision

“

Some of Mike's very first log entries

Missions like that one make you think—we can and do make a difference in life-and-death situations.

Our work is very important, and Marine Rescue NSW provides a vital service to communities across the state,” he said.

Mike does not volunteer for the accolades; he does it because he likes helping the community and loves the sea. But he did enjoy receiving the Emergency Services Medal after being named on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2021.

“Attending the investiture ceremony at Government House in

or one bit of poor preparation can turn things against you very

Sydney with my wife Angela was incredible. In fact, the experience

quickly on the water. You’ve got lots of variables with weather,

was the second-best day of my life—behind my wedding.

water, wind, waves, and when all those things line up against you, it can have extremely serious consequences,” he said.

He has also witnessed the fruits of teamwork and enjoys nothing more than seeing a crew come together on a difficult job.

“When the crew performs together as a unit and the mission is a success, there is great satisfaction on the technical side— especially knowing you can take a group of people to sea, do a challenging job, and come back in safely.

“There is a huge amount of job satisfaction, and it is wonderful

“Not many people get a chance to stand in front of the Governor of NSW alongside a group of amazing people and have such nice things said about them. It was such a unique and incredible experience,” he recalls, warmth and a smile in his voice.

Mike has a lot more entries to record in his logs and will not be slowing down any time soon.

“I feel like I have got a lot of years left. I’m not bored, I’m still excited, and I have the same motivations I did just over 15 years ago—helping people and driving boats,” he said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

37

Recently elected Marine Rescue NSW Regional Directors (L to R) John Samulski CSC, Caron Parfitt ESM and Peter Steigrad

New Regional Directors welcomed to Marine Rescue NSW Board

M

arine Rescue NSW Chair, Jim Glissan AM ESM KC, announced the election of three new Regional Directors

following November’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The leadership transition comes as Greater Sydney Regional Director Ken Edwards, Illawarra Regional Director Keven Marshall ESM, and Monaro Regional Director Glenn Felkin ESM stepped down from their positions.

“Together, they have served an impressive 22 years on the Board, shaping and strengthening Marine Rescue NSW during their tenure,” Mr Glissan said.

“Their ability to balance the needs of the organisation with those of unit members has been invaluable.”

Beyond their Board roles, all three have remained steadfast in their commitment to saving lives, dedicating a combined 55

The Board warmly welcomed Peter Steigrad (Greater Sydney), John Samulski CSC (Illawarra), and Caron Parfitt ESM (Monaro) as the newly elected Regional Directors.

“With their extensive leadership experience spanning maritime and corporate sectors, these new Regional Directors bring a

years of service as active members of their local units—Cottage Point, Ulladulla, and Batemans Bay. “On behalf of the Board and our 3,500 volunteers, I extend heartfelt thanks to Ken, Keven, and Glenn for their remarkable service and leadership,” Mr Glissan said.

wealth of expertise to our Board,” Mr Glissan said.

“Their dedication to operational excellence, innovation, and community engagement will be instrumental in advancing Marine Rescue NSW’s mission of saving lives on the water.”

At the AGM, outgoing Directors Mr Edwards, Mr Marshall, and Mr Felkin were recognised for their extraordinary contributions.

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

Soundings

Peter Steigrad Regional Director, Greater Sydney Peter Steigrad has been a committed member of Marine Rescue NSW for over 15 years, dedicating more than half of this time to leadership roles at Marine Rescue Middle Harbour.

Commissioner’s Citation, along with a mention of his service in State Parliament, which was recorded in Hansard.

John Samulski CSC Regional Director, Illawarra John Samulski has been a member of Marine Rescue NSW since 2019. He was elected as Marine Rescue Ulladulla Unit Commander in 2022 and has also held the role of Deputy Unit Commander.

John’s leadership experience is built on an exceptional career in military, government and civilian sectors, including an incredible 35 years in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

His extensive military service includes roles such as Deputy Air Commander Australia, Chief of Defence Force Liaison Officer to Headquarters Central Command (USA), and Commanding Officer of 36 Squadron.

In addition to his operational expertise, John brings significant governance and strategic planning experience. He has operated at board level within Defence, overseeing capability management, organisational training, and current operations. He is Vice President of a charitable foundation and co-owner of a small business, further showcasing his ability to lead and manage across diverse sectors.

John’s expertise in crisis management, risk management, and search and rescue operations is complemented by his commitment to fostering strong, cohesive teams focused on achieving shared goals.

Caron Parfitt ESM Regional Director, Monaro Caron Parfitt has been an active and dedicated member of Marine Rescue NSW for over 11 years, serving as Marine Rescue Bermagui Deputy Unit Commander from 2016 to 2018 and as He served as Unit Commander from 2018 to 2024 following a

Unit Commander from 2018 to 2024. As a Marine Rescue NSW

two-year term as Deputy Unit Commander from 2016 to 2018.

Coxswain and Watch Officer, Caron possesses a comprehensive

Peter is a Marine Rescue NSW Master, holds an AMSA Certificate

understanding of Marine Rescue NSW operations, both on the

of Competence M<24M and a Certificate IV in Training and

water and in the radio room.

Assessment.

Beyond his Marine Rescue NSW experience, Peter brings a

Caron holds a Masters of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Statistics.

wealth of business and governance expertise. A Foundation

Over her 40-year career, Caron gained extensive experience

Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Peter

across information technology, marketing, customer service,

served on the State Council from 1990 to 1996. He has served

strategy and project management. This includes a decade

as Chair and/or Director at various organisations including

as an independent management consultant, where Caron

the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Australian Advertising

frequently advised company boards on strategy and operational

Industries Council, the Australian International Hotel School and

improvements.

the Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Australia. Peter

Her leadership at Marine Rescue Bermagui has been marked

was the Trustee of the Committee for Economic Development of

by a strong focus on communication, stakeholder engagement,

Australia and Chair of Indigenous Community Volunteers.

and risk management. As Unit Commander, Caron successfully

As a member of the Greater Sydney region leadership team for

managed significant changes, including the implementation of

eight years, Peter has developed a deep understanding of the

new technologies like ROIP (Radio Over Internet Protocols) and

challenges facing unit leadership, including financial constraints

Seahawk, as well as updates to operational procedures. Caron

and growing operational demands. He is committed to working

is also an active member of the South Zone Diversity Group,

with the Marine Rescue NSW Directors to support units in

supporting efforts to increase diversity across Marine Rescue

delivering exceptional service to the boating community. In 2021,

NSW. In 2023, Caron was awarded the Emergency Services

Peter was honoured with a Premier’s Citation. His dedication

Medal in recognition of her dedication to saving lives on the

to Marine Rescue NSW was further recognised in 2024 with a

water.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

39

Marine Rescue Evans Head Life Members Karin Brown and Heather Stacey with Marine Rescue NSW Northern Rivers Regional Director Darcy Henriksen

Evans Head volunteers celebrated at unit awards ceremony

T

hree Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, with a combined 58 years of service between them, have been awarded Life

Membership to the Marine Rescue Evans Head unit.

Karin Brown, Heather Stacey, and Nev Hamilton were

Marine Rescue NSW Northern Rivers Regional Director Darcy Henriksen and Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott attended the

presented with the honour during an awards ceremony at the

ceremony, with Mr Schott presenting experienced Coxswain Tony

Evans Head Bowling Club.

McNally with a National Medal for 15 years of service.

“The three people—Brown, Stacey, and Hamilton—who have

The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by

been awarded unit Life Membership have shown exceptional

members of recognised government and voluntary organisations

levels of commitment and dedication to Marine Rescue NSW

who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in

and, as a result, to the community they live in. They provide

times of emergency or natural disaster.

a wonderful example to other members and people in the

“It is important that we pause and reflect on all the great work

community,” said Marine Rescue Evans Head Unit Commander

these people have done. They’ve dedicated years of service,

Greg Blackburn.

and it is vital to acknowledge that,” said Deputy Commissioner

Brown, who has previously held the role of Unit Commander, said she joined the unit in 2010 after learning that it was in need of volunteers.

Schott.

“We have presented a National Medal and also some ratings certificates. It’s great to celebrate this incredible group of

“There was a need for radio operators, so I thought I would give it a go.

people,” he said.

Unit Commander Blackburn said 18 other presentations were

“It is a real honour to receive Life Membership—I feel really chuffed,” she said.

made at the event to acknowledge long service at the unit, as well as the contributions of vessel crew, watch officers, and radio

Former Deputy Unit Commander Hamilton was unable to attend the ceremony in person and instead joined the celebration

operators.

“It is important to hold an awards ceremony because all of our

via video call. Meanwhile, long-serving administrator Heather

members are volunteers. They put a lot of time and effort into

Stacey was recognised for almost 30 years of service as

training and education to ensure they can offer the best service

Treasurer at the unit, having first joined the Coast Guard in 1995.

possible—to serve the public of NSW and bring our boaters home

“We were new to the area. My husband and I were interested in boating and fishing, and we wanted to give back to the community and meet new people in the area.

40

“I enjoy what I do, but I like to stay in the background,” Stacey said.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

Soundings

safely,” Mr Blackburn said.

The Unit Commander said the ceremony was the first of what he plans to make an annual event.

The recently retired Trial Bay 30 was used for the rescue mission

Marine Rescue Trial Bay volunteers honoured for heroic lifesaving rescue

V

al Bay Unit

scue Tri Barrell, Marine Re mmissioner Alex Co i, g an un Yo Me ld vid na Da (L to R) Turner and Ro Commander Ian

olunteers from Marine Rescue Trial Bay, who were involved in the lifesaving rescue of two men in August 2020, were

awarded Commissioner’s Citations during a ceremony at Marine Rescue Trial Bay in December.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell commended the swift response of Marine Rescue Trial Bay Watch Officer Jennifer Edser and the volunteer crew—Coxswain Peter Holyfield, Ronald Young, Robert Hose, and David Meani—who were on board Trial Bay 30 and ultimately saved the men’s lives.

“This group of volunteers from Marine Rescue Trial Bay were deployed to assist the multi-agency search on the morning of 5 August 2020, after two fishermen found themselves in the water about six nautical miles off Nambucca Heads when the hull of their runabout split and sank.

“The crew on board Trial Bay 30 located the two men and retrieved them from the ocean a couple of kilometres from where they had made the distress call.

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“The fishermen were brought back to shore by Trial Bay 30 before being taken to hospital by NSW Ambulance.

“The professionalism and teamwork displayed by the vessel crew and the watch officer in the radio room resulted in a positive outcome.

“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers train for these scenarios, and on this day, their skills saved two men’s lives.

“I thank all five volunteers involved in this successful search and rescue mission for their dedication to saving lives on the water,” Commissioner Barrell said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

41

While the vessel crew assists on water, Jochen manages radio communications from the unit base

Bermagui Watch Officer recognised for 25 years service

By Marine Rescue Bermagui PR Officer Debbie Worgan

A

lot has changed over the 25 years that Jochen Adam has volunteered with Marine Rescue NSW, and he has seen it all!

In January, Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell visited the Bermagui base and presented Jochen with his 25 year

When Jochen began volunteering with the former Coastal

service award. To his credit, Jochen has kept up with the times

Patrol in 1999, there was no radio base like the one used by

and volunteers weekly in the radio room. He can often be seen at

volunteers at Marine Rescue Bermagui today. Back in the day,

the boat ramp, handing out flyers about safety procedures and

Bermagui Coastal Patrol was based in a small timber hut at the

encouraging boaters to Log On and Log Off either via VHF channel

wharf. There was no official uniform except for a cap, and no

16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app. So much has changed,

formal training for either radio operations or vessel handling. Just

yet Jochen remains committed to supporting the local boating

under 30 volunteers monitored the radios at the hut daily, and if

community.

on night shift, they would take a couple of radios home with them to keep beside their bed. In the morning, the log-on sheet was faxed back to the hut for the day operators to take over. If volunteer numbers were low, the radios were only monitored four days a week, and night shifts were abandoned.

In cases where assistance was needed, a radio operator like Jochen would first send out a call to any vessels in the area to provide help. If there was no response, the rescue vessel would be deployed. The small rescue vessel was suitable for close-to-shore assists, but volunteers also occasionally used their own boats or called on the police launch in Eden. Jochen told Soundings, “In those days, we did the job as best we could.”

Jochen acknowledges that technology now is vastly superior to those days of pen, paper, handheld radios, and fax machines. Today, we have highly effective advanced radio systems and tracking technology.

42

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

Soundings

ives the award from A proud moment, Jochen rece Commissioner Alex Barrell

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OUR PEOPLE

Great mates, Christopher Gillett ESM and Paul Millar

Double celebration for two long-serving Marine Rescue Cottage Point volunteers

A

combined half-century of service by two volunteers at

that Marine Rescue Cottage Point has the capability to deliver a

Marine Rescue Cottage Point was celebrated in March, with

professional rescue service.

Christopher Gillett ESM and Paul Millar both honoured during a

his knowledge to other volunteers in his role as the unit’s Trainer

One of Marine Rescue Cottage Point’s longest-serving

and Assessor. He has had a major influence on the performance

volunteers, Christopher Gillett, was acknowledged for more than

and direction of the unit and has made a significant contribution

35 years of dedicated service and was presented with his Second

to the safety of the boating community on NSW waters.

National Medal Clasp. He was also awarded a Commissioner’s

“Chris began volunteering with the Coast Guard back in 1989.

Commendation for Service by Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner

He has saved countless lives over the years, and Marine Rescue

Alex Barrell.

NSW is grateful for his service,” Commissioner Barrell said.

“Chris is an incredible individual who has dedicated more

The Second National Medal Clasp and Commissioner’s

than three decades to serving the local boating community and

Commendation for Service are the latest in a long list of honours

carrying out Marine Rescue NSW’s mission of saving lives on the

for the retired teacher, who was awarded the Emergency

water.

Services Medal in the 2001 Queen’s Birthday Honours list and

“He has played a crucial role in developing and providing

44

“Chris is a highly skilled vessel Master and continues to impart

ceremony at the unit base on the banks of Cowan Creek.

Life Membership of Marine Rescue NSW in 2010. The unit’s

leadership, capability, and professionalism at the unit. The quality

rescue vessel, CP 30, bears his name and is affectionately known

of training and ongoing mentoring of volunteers has ensured

as the Chris Gillett.

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

Soundings

“I really enjoy working with and teaching the people coming through the organisation.

“I also love helping the community; we should never underplay that. When they are having a bad day, we are there to help them.

Sometimes, they are having a really bad day, and we are there to save them.

“The commendation blew me out of the water; I didn’t expect that. I got quite emotional.

“There have been two occasions in the last 10 years when I’ve been emotionally overcome. The first was when Paul was Unit Commander, and he organised, without my knowledge, for the new vessel to be named after me. My family, including my (L to R) Greater Sydney Reg ional Director Peter Steigrad , Chris Gillett ESM, Commissioner Alex Barrell and Central Zone Comman der Dan Duemmer

mother, were present for the naming.

“Then there was the Commissioner’s Commendation. The things that were said about me at the ceremony were incredible; I was quite emotional and embarrassed.

“I am very grateful for the recognition. I don’t do it for the plaudits, I do it because I love it,” Chris said.

Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney Regional Director Peter Steigrad and Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer also attended the ceremony, with Director Steigrad presenting Coxswain Paul Millar with the National Medal for 15 years of service. The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in times of emergency or natural disaster.

“Paul is a valued and trusted member of Marine Rescue Cottage Point. The local community is privileged to have such a highly skilled seaman ready to assist them in their time of need.

l Millar, Marine Rescue e Commander Duemmer, Pau (L to R) Director Steigrad, Zon Commissioner Barrell and r ndle Cha nne Lea mander Cottage Point Acting Unit Com

“Paul knows the operation inside out. He began his journey at the unit with Volunteer Coast Guard and has previously served as Unit Commander and Treasurer. We congratulate him on his diligent service,” Regional Director Steigrad said.

Volunteering is part of Paul’s DNA, with, as he refers to them,

It was fitting that both Gillett and Millar were honoured on the same day, as the pair are great mates and spend a day a week together on the golf course.

“We’ve been playing together every Wednesday for around four years,” Chris said.

Chris has made countless friendships during his 35 years of service and told Soundings that he has enjoyed every minute of his journey so far.

“

‘the Millar clan’, his father, two brothers, and himself clocking up a combined 120-plus years of service.

“The volunteer bug came from my old man, Frank. He volunteered with St John Ambulance and then Central District Ambulance for more than three decades. As a young man, he would volunteer on duty every Friday night before he had kids.

This was in the days before NSW Ambulance, as we know it.

“My brothers have also dedicated decades to serving their communities.

I never get sick of it; I love the fact that no matter how long you’ve been here, you never stop learning.

There is always something new that you find out about yourself and the environment you are operating in. I enjoy the challenge.

“

“What’s better than being out on the water? It is actually better than golf,” Chris said with a laugh.

“Brian has been a member of his local NSW RFS brigade at Jindera near Albury for the past 42 years. He is currently the Group Captain looking after 10 districts in Southern NSW, while John was a member at Marine Rescue Port Jackson for just over 30 years,” Paul said proudly.

Marine Rescue Cottage Point Acting Unit Commander Leanne Chandler said both Gillett and Millar continually go above and beyond to ensure the safety of boaters on local waterways.

“Chris and Paul are brilliant operators, and Marine Rescue Cottage Point is extremely appreciative of what they bring to the unit day in, day out.

“Both men continue to give their time to train and educate our members. They are excellent teachers and great mentors,” she said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

45

THE ANCHORAGE

Mike travelled to Tokyo and met with officers from the Japan Coast Guard

Mike Hammond undertakes Churchill Fellowship research into the implications of future boating technology for marine rescue organisations

T

he Winston Churchill Trust awards fellowships to people

cases quite large ones. While the high-quality batteries used for

across a range of disciplines, giving them the opportunity to

marine propulsion are very safe, some lithium batteries in other

travel and research ways to improve their community at home,

types of products have failed, sometimes quite spectacularly,

with around 100 fellowships awarded each year in Australia.

and we can’t rule out a battery failure in a boat at some stage,” he

Fellowship to study how marine rescue services in Australia must adapt to new boating technologies.

He has been a lifelong recreational boater and a commercial skipper for over 20 years, and worked at NSW Maritime and NSW SES before joining Marine Rescue NSW three years ago.

Noticing that electric boating was growing in popularity, with many more electric boats and motors entering the market—and quite large electric boats, up to eight metres in length, displayed at the Sydney International Boat Show—Zone Commander Hammond started to wonder what it might mean when operators of these boats call Marine Rescue NSW for help in the future. This concern extended to both how they could be assisted and how the Service’s volunteers could be kept safe in the process.

“Electric boats tend to be fitted with lithium batteries, in some

46

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

Soundings

“

said.

Just as our counterparts in the fire and land rescue services are grappling with how to deal with battery and EV incidents, I wanted to look at what it means for Marine Rescue NSW and our interstate partners.”

“

Marine Rescue NSW Southern Zone Commander Mike Hammond applied last year and was awarded a 2024 Churchill

Zone Commander Hammond travelled for six weeks in January and February, visiting the UK, Sweden, Germany, Ireland, the USA, and Japan. Along the way, he met with marine rescue

One of the 17 giant halls at Boot Düsseldorf, where there were many electric boats and motors on display

Zone Commander

Hammond toured the impressive RNLI Tra ining College in Poole, UK

environmental benefits but also for practical benefits—such as the smooth ride provided by hydrofoils reducing crew injuries and the silent operation of electric propulsion assisting in search situations.

“I also learned that only a few of these organisations have started to think about what these innovations might mean for volunteer safety, and few are collecting rescue data in a way that identifies if an alternative propulsion system was a factor. We need to put some strategies in place to understand and prepare ago River Hammond cruising the Chic Southern Zone Commander sion Divi cue Res Sea Air ent with the Chicago Fire Departm

for rescues involving these kinds of vessels,” he told Soundings.

Zone Commander Hammond looked at other innovations during his journey, including the use of artificial intelligence watch-keeping systems.

organisations, including the Royal National Lifeboat Institution,

“The technology is being increasingly used to ensure safe

the Swedish Sea Rescue Society, the US Coast Guard, the Japan

navigation and has the potential to be very useful in search and

Coast Guard, and the marine rescue sections of the Chicago and

rescue at sea.”

Miami-Dade Fire Departments. He visited several boat builders

He is now working on a report and several recommendations

and had the opportunity to experience a few electric boats first-

for marine rescue organisations, maritime regulators, and

hand, while also attending two of the largest boat shows in the

the marine industry to ensure that when Marine Rescue NSW

world—Boot Düsseldorf and the Miami International Boat Show.

receives a call for help from someone on an electric, hybrid, or

What he found was that many boat builders are embracing

hydrogen vessel, the Service will have procedures, training, and

electric propulsion, including some in Australia, with recreational

equipment in place to respond safely and effectively.

and commercial vessels already in service worldwide, powered

Zone Commander Hammond has been invited to present his

by battery-electric systems, hybrid systems, and even electric

findings to the NATSAR Council and the National Volunteer Marine

vessels powered by hydrogen fuel cells.

Search and Rescue Committee.

“Many of these vessels also include other advanced

“I am hoping the distribution of my report will help move

technologies, such as carbon fibre construction and active

the conversation along about alternative propulsion and help

hydrofoil systems, and it seems likely that some unique and

ensure that marine first responder safety becomes part of that

different types of vessels will be on our waters over the next few

discussion.

years.

“There are also some marine rescue organisations exploring these technologies for rescue vessels, not only for the

“I am grateful for the faith the Winston Churchill Trust has put in me. It has been a great opportunity to ‘learn globally, inspire locally’,” he said.

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

47

Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteer Noel Parkinson (centre) was supported by family (left) and unit executive (right) along with Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell at the vessel naming ceremony

Botany Port Hacking volunteer receives ultimate honour

L

ong-serving Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteer

powered by twin Suzuki 300-horsepower outboard engines,

and Life Member Noel Parkinson has been recognised for his

capable of reaching a top speed of 45 knots.

decades of loyal service with a vessel named in his honour.

and features a state-of-the-art suite of Raymarine navigation

rescue vessel Botany Hacking 32 will now also be known as the

equipment, as well as vital search and rescue technology,

Noel Parkinson.

including a FLIR (forward-looking infrared) camera and side-scan

“The naming of a Marine Rescue NSW vessel is a significant

“

honour, and Noel is thoroughly deserving of this recognition.

For more than two decades, Noel has dedicated his time and skills to supporting the local boating community and saving lives on the water.

“

“Noel has been volunteering with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking since February 2001 and is a highly respected and experienced member of the unit.

and 3D sonar systems.

Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell said that Mr Parkinson has held numerous key roles at the unit, consistently demonstrating exemplary leadership.

“His contributions are significant. Noel has mentored countless members, fostered their skills, and contributed to the success of Marine Rescue NSW. He has been recognised for his exceptional service with Life Memberships from both Marine Rescue NSW and the Botany Port Hacking unit.”

Unit Commander Blackwell said that Mr Parkinson is a highly experienced mariner and a great asset not only to Marine Rescue NSW but also to the boating community.

“Noel has commanded numerous vessels throughout his career. He has been a valuable mentor, generously sharing his

“As a Marine Rescue NSW Coxswain and Watch Officer, Noel

expertise and guiding aspiring skippers. His leadership and

has played a vital role in countless search and rescue missions.

dedication serve as an excellent example for those who now

He is a former Unit Commander at Botany Port Hacking and

operate Botany Hacking 32, the Noel Parkinson,” he said.

currently serves as Admin Officer and Returning Officer for

Mr Parkinson said that he joined the volunteer service because he loved the water and boats and felt he had something to offer.

Marine Rescue NSW. “Noel’s dedication to service, both on and off the water, is

“You walk away with job satisfaction when you contribute to

greatly appreciated, and Marine Rescue NSW is proud to name a

bringing someone back to shore who was helpless on the water,”

rescue vessel in his honour,” Commissioner Barrell said.

he said.

Botany Hacking 32, the Noel Parkinson, is a 10-metre Naiad built by Yamba Welding and Engineering in 2022. The vessel is

48

The Noel Parkinson can travel up to 30 nautical miles offshore

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said that

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Mr Parkinson is proud of what he has achieved with the Botany Port Hacking unit and admits he is now “part of the furniture.”

e g a r o h c The An

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

49

s u p l He

HELP YOU

years, we are grateful for the s we look back over the past few munity who have supported generosity of so many in the com e of the most challenging our volunteers and units during som

A

times we have ever faced. donations to continue their Our volunteer units rely heavily on for our marine search, rescue work saving lives on water. Demand n and at the same time, and communication service has grow is increasing. Volunteer time is the cost of providing our services great amount of commitment valuable, and fundraising takes a 24/7 rescue work our units and energy, on top of the normal undertake. insurance and essential Everyone has seen the price of fuel, onsible for raising funds to services rising. With local units resp s, these increased costs are cover their day to day running cost volunteers. putting additional pressure on our

How your donation helps: $50

$80

$250

Supplies a life raft for Marine Rescue NSW crews’ mandatory sea survival training

Fuels a vessel for a three hour rescue or search mission

$2,000

Vessel ropes and chandlery to help boaters in an emergency

$125

Regular routine maintenance for one rescue vessel

$10,000

One hour of fuel for one rescue vessel

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

$2,000. emergency services, Marine Unlike the majority of the state’s agency but an independent Rescue NSW is not a Government its volunteer membership. organisation established by and for rofit registered charity, which Marine Rescue NSW is a not-for-p e are tax deductible for the means gifts of two dollars or mor ine Rescue NSW as part of donor. You may wish to include Mar Please go to your End of Financial Year Giving. the donate button today! marinerescuensw.com.au and hit

$380

Two flares, an essential safety item used in rescues and in volunteer training

50

hour rescue to tow a boat Did you know that a simple three 0 in fuel alone. While a routine back to shore can cost close to $40 rescue ready sets a unit back engine service to keep our vessels

Soundings

Major search and rescue over a number of days involving many units

Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Inspector Stuart Massey (centre) with participants and colleagues from NSW Water Police and AFP

Agencies unite to educate young Indigenous boaters

E

leven young Indigenous boys and girls participated in a three-

with this programme. Our volunteers delivered the boat licence

day Youth Safe Boating programme at Marine Rescue Sussex

course and supported the NSW Water Police and AFP with on-

Inlet, where they worked towards gaining their recreational boat

water instruction, providing participants with a cross-section of

licences.

handling and navigation skills,” said Unit Commander Eurell.

Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Inspector Stuart Massey,

On the final day of the course, participants were greeted by

Sergeant Russell Agland from NSW Water Police, and Detective

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell, Federal Member

Sergeant Paul Reynolds from the Australian Federal Police spent

for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, and State Member for the South

several months developing the Shoalhaven programme, similar to

Coast Liza Butler, who wished them well ahead of their final

the successful pilot delivered at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie

assessments.

in April 2024.

“When the idea was first suggested, we jumped at the chance.

Having the three agencies come together for community engagement in the Shoalhaven has been excellent,” said Inspector Massey.

The programme, delivered by Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet

Inspector Massey said the Youth Safe Boating Programme was a resounding success, with all participants gaining their boat licences.

“The participants were enthusiastic and engaged throughout the programme, and we hope to deliver it in other locations across the Illawarra region in the coming months,” he said.

volunteers, NSW Water Police, and AFP officers, provided theoretical and practical boating skills aimed at helping participants obtain a boat licence.

“Now that we’ve completed this programme, I’m confident these young people will be able to enjoy safe boating for many years to come,” said NSW Water Police Sergeant Agland.

Detective Sergeant Reynolds of the Australian Federal Police praised the smooth delivery of the programme.

“The practical component of these courses is essential for learning safe boating skills. We had a variety of vessels from the AFP, NSW Water Police, and Marine Rescue NSW to teach the participants,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW Sussex Inlet Unit Commander Brett Eurell led the team of volunteers who put the participants through their paces.

“Our dedicated team of volunteers at Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet stepped up once again to engage the community

Water Police t volunteers supported NSW Marine Rescue Sussex Inle rse cou the ng duri ion ruct and AFP with on-water inst

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

51

Engadine Uniting Church sewers Loraine Holley and Heather McPhee with Colette Pierce at Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters in Cronulla

Rescue threads

W

hen Marine Rescue NSW Health, Safety and Culture Senior

4 Kids. What began as a unique partnership between Marine

Manager Colette Pierce decided the returned uniform

Rescue NSW and the sewing group, has evolved into a mission of

store at State Headquarters in Cronulla needed a clean out late

creativity, sustainability and community spirit.

last year, she did not take the easy route of simply discarding

Loraine Holley, a key member of the sewing group, said the

the large number of outdated, damaged or returned uniforms.

project had been running for around six months. While sewing is at

Rather than sending them to landfill, Pierce found an unexpected

the heart of the operation, the group includes men who assist with

and heartwarming solution—a local church group transforming

unpicking seams, fixing machines and setting up the workspace.

unwanted uniforms into clothing for children in need.

“The majority of these items had been returned to HQ over an extended period for various reasons, such as outdated logos or designs, returns from former volunteers, staff and Board

“It’s a group effort,” Loraine said. “We have about a dozen people involved, each contributing in different ways. Some sew, some unpick, and others help with logistics.”

The challenge? Converting structured uniforms into playful,

members, or manufacturing imperfections like a broken zip or

comfortable outfits for children aged 0 to 9—kids who have

damaged material,” Pierce said.

experienced natural disasters or family hardships. Each piece

A stitch at a time

must incorporate at least 50% of the original uniform fabric, but

Enter the Engadine Uniting Church sewing group, a dedicated

the rest is left to the group’s imagination.

team of volunteers who took on the challenge of giving these

From rescue wear to reversible fashion

uniforms a second life with national charity organisation Uniforms

Transforming a Marine Rescue NSW uniform into a child’s dress or pair of trousers isn’t as simple as cutting and stitching. Patterns need to be adjusted, seams repositioned, and small fabric pieces cleverly combined.

“Pockets are particularly tricky!” Loraine laughed. “But we workshop everything together. If one of us makes a mistake, we find a creative way to fix it. Sometimes a mistake turns into a design feature!” she told Soundings.

The results? Vibrant, fun and unique clothing that any child would be delighted to wear. Bright colours, quirky patterns and even reversible designs make these garments stand out.

A mission beyond sewing Though the volunteers never see the children who receive their clothes, Loraine said that does not diminish their motivation.

Marine Rescue NSW Health, Safety and Culture Senior Manager Colette Pierce and Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer during the uniform store clean out at Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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“Just knowing that we’re part of something bigger—preventing waste, extending the life of fabric and bringing joy to a child—is

The engine room at Engadine Uniting Church

incredibly fulfilling. It’s about community, about coming together

would find common ground?” Loraine mused. “But here we are—

to make a difference.”

saving fabric instead of lives and making the world a little brighter

What began as an effort to repurpose old uniforms has become an adventure, uniting Marine Rescue NSW and the church group in a way no one could have predicted.

in the process.”

One stitch at a time, this dedicated team is proving that even the most unexpected collaborations can make a lasting impact.

“Who would’ve thought Marine Rescue NSW and a sewing group

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Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

53

THE ANCHORAGE

The primary rescue vessel at NSRI Simon's Town is 14.8 metres long

Two countries, one mission: A Marine Rescue Hawkesbury volunteer’s experience with South Africa’s NSRI

By Marine Rescue Hawkesbury Deputy Unit Commander Cassie O’Callaghan Images by Simon McDonnell, Station Commander, NSRI Simon's Town or several years, Marine Rescue Hawkesbury member Ian Harding has been spending part of his time in South Africa,

where he volunteers with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) in Simon’s Town, Cape Town. What began as an occasional visit turned into a more structured commitment, and now, with more time available after retiring from full-time work, Ian serves with the NSRI on a six-month rotational basis.

“I had been visiting South Africa for a number of years, usually starting off with a safari before heading to Cape Town. A few years ago, I began spending weekends with the NSRI during my visits and got to know the crew well. I was always treated as part of the family,” Ian said.

54

“

Once I retired, I asked Simon if I could officially join on a six-monthly basis. He was more than happy for me to come on board—he knew my experience with Marine Rescue NSW could be put to good use,” Ian said.

“

F

Ian was assigned to Charlie Team and, before being allowed to crew the vessels, had to pass a medical assessment, a timed

With over 15 years of Marine Rescue NSW and Coast Guard

200-metre swim, and pre-sea training. Given his background, he

experience, Ian’s skills were quickly recognised by the Simon’s

was fast-tracked to crew status. This also meant he was issued

Town Station Commander, Simon McDonnell, who welcomed him

a uniform, though, unlike in Marine Rescue NSW, where uniforms

as part of the team.

are provided, the NSRI operates on a voucher system, allowing

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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members to choose approved gear up to a set value. Some items, such as the jumpsuit for the larger vessels, are mandatory.

Each team is on duty for an entire week, meaning that with only three teams, the roster comes around quickly.

Changeovers take place every Thursday at 6 pm, when the new duty crew arrives at the base. Each member is assigned a role, usually focusing on checking the vessels to ensure all equipment—such as safety gear, first aid supplies, and operational tools—is on board and in working order.

The base and motor support vehicle also undergo routine inspections.

Once all checks are complete, the team leader or coxswain holds a briefing to outline the training plan for the weekend. Most training sessions take place on either Saturday or Sunday, but throughout the week, crew members remain on call 24/7. If a callout occurs, all members are expected to respond, regardless of whether they will be heading out on the vessels or assisting from the base.

One of the unit’s primary rescue assets is the 14.8-metre offshore rescue craft (ORC), powered by twin Cummins 600 Shaft Horsepower inboard engines. The vessel, designed to self-right in the event of a capsize, ers trained as rescue swimm NSRI Deck Crew are also ded nee en wh er and enter the wat

requires six crew members to operate: a coxswain, helmsman, navigator, bosun, and two deck crew. A key difference from Marine Rescue NSW is that NSRI deck crew are also trained as rescue swimmers, expected to enter the water when necessary.

“That was a big adjustment,” Ian said. “At Marine Rescue NSW, we don’t send crew into the water, but at NSRI, it is standard practice. The deck crew wear wetsuits and are ready to deploy as rescue swimmers when needed.”

Ian’s first callout with the NSRI was a search for a missing swimmer off Cape Point. Working alongside another NSRI vessel and a neighbouring unit, his team searched for two hours in rough seas, but with the sun setting, they were unable to locate the person.

“The swell was around two to three metres at the stern.

Even with a coordinated search pattern, the conditions made it incredibly difficult,” he recalled.

In the following weeks, Ian responded to multiple rescues of surf skiers who had fallen into the water and were unable to get back onto their skis. These rescues relied heavily on SafeTRX, an app that allows people in distress to send their GPS location.

“Even with the coordinates, spotting a person in rough seas is no easy task. Once we located them, the rescue swimmers would enter the water, secure the casualty with a rope, and guide them back to the vessel. In every case, the casualties were suffering from hypothermia and had to be wrapped in blankets on board before being handed over to paramedics at the base,” Ian said.

Other missions included towing broken-down vessels, similar to Marine Rescue NSW operations, as well as night-time search and rescue exercises. One particularly challenging callout involved a medical evacuation from a container ship during a storm. The NSRI team worked with the ship’s captain to position

Ian at the helm and on duty

the vessel on the windward side, allowing the rescue boat to

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

55

Volunteers at NSRI Simon's Town are rostered on for a week at a time

approach from the more sheltered lee side.

“The crew had to time the approach carefully. The swell was

seen. The second day went well into the night, finishing around midnight,” Ian recalled.

significant, and the margin for error was small. Fortunately, we

During his six-month rotation, he took on a variety of roles,

were able to extract the patient safely and transfer them to an

including helm, navigation, and engineering, while also attending

ambulance waiting at base,” Ian said.

classroom training sessions.

Ian was also involved in a Class 3 coxswain assessment for an

Reflecting on his time with the NSRI, Ian noted several key

NSRI candidate from head office. The three-day process involved

differences. Medical emergencies played a larger role than in

a written exam, an intensive night navigation and search exercise,

Marine Rescue NSW operations.

and offshore drills in the shipping lanes.

“It was a tough assessment—one of the most thorough I’ve

“Many of the jobs had a medical component—whether it was hypothermia treatment, injuries, or evacuations,” he explained.

The weather conditions in Cape Town also presented unique challenges.

“Storms were frequent in August and September, and operating in those conditions was just part of the job,” Ian said.

Perhaps the biggest contrast, however, was the absence of Water Police or maritime authorities in South Africa.

“In Australia, we work alongside multiple agencies—Water Police, Maritime, Ambulance. In South Africa, it is just the NSRI. If there is an emergency on the water, they are the only ones responding.”

Despite these differences, Ian sees many similarities between the NSRI and Marine Rescue NSW. “At the end of the day, both organisations are built on the

The offshore rescue craft at NSRI Simon's Town has been designed to selfright in the event of a capsize

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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dedication of volunteers. Whether in Australia or South Africa, the commitment to saving lives on the water is exactly the same.”

The event space at Marine Rescue Newcastle can be configured to meet the hirer's requirements

More than a base: Marine Rescue NSW units open doors to fund the mission

A

t Marine Rescue NSW units across the state, the hum of radio

event space as part of the new building at Stockton,” said Marine

chatter and the steady rhythm of the water have always been

Rescue Newcastle Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh.

the heartbeat of operations. But recently, there’s been another

“It is well-equipped, accessible, and has everything a corporate

kind of buzz—one that starts not on the water, but within the walls

or community group could need—we just hadn’t promoted it as an

of the base itself.

asset before.”

Facing the ongoing challenge of raising funds and increasing

That changed with the introduction of Vennu, an online platform

operational costs, several Marine Rescue NSW units have been

connecting people and spaces. By opening up underused

rethinking the value of something often overlooked: their own

spaces—meeting rooms, and training areas, Marine Rescue NSW

spaces.

units have begun offering short-term, affordable bookings to local

For Marine Rescue Newcastle, the idea for a new fundraising approach emerged during planning of the new base.

“We were fortunate to design a fit-for-purpose training and

community groups, clubs, and small businesses.

Now, units are ready to host everything from corporate training and first aid workshops to yoga sessions and neighbourhood meetings. For a modest hire fee, hiring groups gain a safe, professional venue, while the unit benefits from additional income—every dollar going straight into keeping rescue crews equipped and ready.

“It’s a true win-win,” said Unit Commander Van Homrigh.

“We’re not just raising funds—we’re deepening ties with the people we’re here to protect.”

With no need to expand or renovate, the initiative shows that sometimes the best solutions are already in place. By maximising the use of existing space, units have created a sustainable fundraising model that supports both their lifesaving mission and their local community.

And the next time the alarm sounds, it’ll be these small steps—taken off the water—that help ensure the boats and crews are ready to answer the call.

View our available venues on vennu.com.au

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Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

57

FLEET AND FACILITIES

(L to R) Darrell Hilton, Marine Rescue Terrigal Deputy Unit Commander Darren Wright, Vic McCutcheon, Marine Rescue Terrigal Unit Commander Shaun Smith, Carol Nicholas, Adrian Nicholas and Donna Evans

Founding member returns to Marine Rescue Terrigal

A

special visit brought history full circle as 96-year-old Vic

refuge after tropical Cyclone Alfred impacted his home.

McCutcheon, a founding member of Marine Rescue on the

Despite the passage of time, Vic’s connection to Marine

Central Coast, returned to Marine Rescue Terrigal at the Haven in

Rescue remains as strong as ever. Back in the late 1960s and

March. Vic, now residing in Queensland, made the journey while

early 1970s, he played a pivotal role in securing land leases,

visiting his soon-to-be 101-year-old sister in Terrigal and seeking

working closely with the government and local councils to establish the foundations for what are now Marine Rescue Terrigal at the Haven and Marine Rescue Central Coast at Point Clare. His dedication helped shape the vital services that continue to protect boaters and coastal communities today.

During his visit, Vic received a guided tour of the base and vessels, sharing remarkable stories of the early days with current members. Marine Rescue Terrigal Unit Commander Shaun Smith said Vic’s firsthand accounts painted a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs that paved the way for the organisation’s growth.

“For the volunteers of Marine Rescue Terrigal, hosting Vic was an honour. His legacy lives on in every mission undertaken and every life saved. On behalf of all members, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Vic and all those who have served. Their dedication laid the groundwork for the life-saving efforts that

Darrell Hilton gives Vic a tour of Marine Rescue Terrigal's popular Sealegs

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MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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continue today,” Unit Commander Smith said.

(L to R) Danny Buderus, Alex Barrell and Michael Guest

(L to R) Alex Barrell and Brendan Jones

Trading for a cause: Marine Rescue NSW benefits from ICAP Charity Day 2024

11

December 2024 marked an exciting milestone for Marine

• Corban Baxter, Tarryn Aiken and Keely Davis, Sydney Roosters

Rescue NSW. For the first time, the organisation was

NRLW players

invited to participate in the 2024 ICAP International Charity Day,

Their involvement helped shine a spotlight on Marine Rescue

alongside nine other Australian charities — including esteemed

NSW’s mission and exemplified the power of the Service’s 3,500

organisations Ronald McDonald House and Movember.

volunteers.

ICAP is a world-leading intermediary in the wholesale financial, energy and commodities markets.

This extraordinary event is characterised by brokers donating

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to ICAP for this opportunity, to our amazing ambassadors, and to every unit and staff member who dedicated their time and energy. Together, we have raised

their own commissions, alongside ICAP’s pledge to donate

vital funds — and awareness — for the work that keeps our

100% of its revenue — making it a rare and powerful approach to

communities safe on the water,” Commissioner Barrell said.

philanthropy.

The atmosphere on the trading floor was electric. Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell led a passionate team through a high-energy day of trading, connecting with ICAP staff and management to proudly share the Service’s life-saving mission and the real-world impact of their generosity.

“The ICAP Charity Day is a sensory overload — with ICAP staff in film-quality costumes and makeup. It’s more than a fundraiser — it’s a collaboration for a cause that matters: saving lives on the water. It truly was a day to be remembered,” Commissioner Barrell said.

To amplify Marine Rescue NSW’s presence on the day, the Service enlisted a powerhouse of ambassadors. Lending their star power and support were: • Brendan Jones, top-rating radio star (Jonesy & Amanda) and TV presenter • Rob Carlton, acclaimed Australian film and TV actor (currently on White Lotus) • Michael Guest, host of Reel Action fishing show

Sydney Roosters NRLW play er Tarryn Aiken closes a dea

l

• Danny Buderus, NRL Hall of Fame legend

Soundings | MARINE RESCUE NSW

59

u o y k n a Th

For helping us save lives

Marine Rescue NSW thanks the following grant providers for their generosity and support of our volunteers, and for helping provide equipment and facilities that help them achieve our mission of saving lives on the water.

• Department of Social Services • Stronger Communities Program • Volunteers Grants State Wide

• Premier’s Department • Community Building Partnership Program • Crown Reserves Improvement Fund • Premiers Discretionary Fund • Office of Responsible Gambling • NSW Premier’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program

Community Enterprise Foundation™

• NSW Ports Authority

60

• Central Coast Council

• Endeavour Energy

• NSW Port Community Contribution

• Club Grants NSW

• Foundation for Regional and Rural

• Snowy Hydro Community Grants

• Club Jervis Bay

Renewal

• Australia Post Grants

• Byron Bay Service Club

• Randwick City Council

• Ballina Council

• City of Canada Bay

• Ryde Eastwood Leagues

• Bendigo Bank - Lindfield Community

• Drummoyne Sailing Club

• Veolia Mulwaree Trust

Bank

• Erina Rugby Club

• Byron Shire Council

• Pittwater RSL

MARINE RESCUE NSW |

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Make every journey safer.

Switch to VHF. VHF Channel 16 is the international distress channel It’s constantly monitored by MRNSW and your calls for help can also be heard by other boats nearby. With better range, quality and help at the push of a button, make today the day you switch from 27MHz to VHF.

Find out more at marinerescuensw.com.au

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