Issue 37, Summer 2018

Volunteers saving lives on the water

Quarterly Journal of Marine Rescue NSW | Issue 37, Summer 2018

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Season’s greetings from us all at Marine Rescue NSW Summer boating Be water safe, not sorry Ready when you need us Volunteers primed for rapid response

PLUS: Minister thanks our members | New Directors elected | Sea bird guardians WATER THE “ON “ON THE WATER WATER THE “ON S S S.O. S.O. NOTHING NOTHING S.O.S S S S.O. S.O. NOTHING MARINE MARINE SOS FASTER IS IS FASTER SOS MARINE MARINE MARINE MARINE SOS FASTER IS RESCUE-READY EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NOT LIVE WITHOUT LIVE NOT MAY YOU EQUIPMENT RESCUE-READY DISASTER" THAN THAN DISASTER" RESCUE-READY EQUIPMENT YOU MAY NOT LIVE WITHOUT WITHOUT LIVE NOT MAY YOU EQUIPMENT RESCUE-READY DISASTER" THAN BEARING LOAD WATERFRONT WATERFRONT LOAD BEARING BEARING LOAD WATERFRONT DAN BUOY DAN VEST EQUIPMENT VEST JACKET LIFE LIFE JACKET VEST EQUIPMENT VEST DAN BUOY BUOY DAN VEST EQUIPMENT VEST JACKET LIFE “When time is of the essence the the essence the of is time “When designs our about serious are We provide jackets Life Waterfront S.O.S S.O.S Waterfront Life jackets provide We are serious about our designs “When time is of the essence the the essence the of is time “When designs our about serious are We provide jackets Life Waterfront S.O.S is the answer” the is Buoy Dan SOS working the improve to approach new a a new approach to improve the working SOS Dan Buoy is the answer” answer” the is Buoy Dan SOS working the improve to approach new a Philip Thompson Philip professionals marine of capabilities capabilities of marine professionals Philip Thompson Thompson Philip professionals marine of capabilities America’s Cup America’s America’s Cup Cup America’s Challenger Skipper Challenger Challenger Skipper Skipper Challenger

❱&❱Wildlife Parks ❱ ❱ Local❱Councils❱ ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Local❱Councils❱ ❱❱ Parks❱&❱Wildlife ❱&❱Wildlife Parks ❱ ❱ Local❱Councils❱ ❱ ❱ Mining ❱ ❱ SES❱ ❱ ❱ ❱❱ SES❱ ❱❱ Mining Mining ❱ ❱ SES❱ ❱ ❱ Security ❱ ❱ Parking❱Inspectors❱ ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Parking❱Inspectors❱ ❱❱ Security Security ❱ ❱ Parking❱Inspectors❱ ❱ ❱ Engineers ❱ ❱ Police ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Police ❱❱ Engineers Engineers ❱ ❱ Police ❱ ❱ Emergency❱Response ❱ ❱ ❱Response First ❱ ❱ ❱❱ First❱Response ❱❱ Emergency❱Response Emergency❱Response ❱ ❱ ❱Response First ❱ ❱ RESCUE PERSON 4 & 2 2 & 4 PERSON RESCUE RESCUE PERSON 4 & 2 LASER FLARES LASER RAFT LIFE LSLING R R LSLING LIFE RAFT LASER FLARES FLARES LASER RAFT LIFE LSLING R jackets, life on material reflective Detects ❱ ❱ Detects reflective material on life jackets, jackets, life on material reflective Detects ❱ channel marker etc marker channel Rescue Reel the For For the Reel Rescue channel marker etc etc marker channel Rescue Reel the For battery one on signalling continuous hours 40 ❱ equipment overboard Man Man overboard equipment ❱ 40 hours continuous signalling on one battery battery one on signalling continuous hours 40 ❱ equipment overboard Man Ready -Rescue -Rescue Ready Ready -Rescue

For inshore & coastal boaters coastal & inshore For For inshore & coastal boaters boaters coastal & inshore For Penetrates smoke and haze and smoke Penetrates ❱ inflates ❱ Automatically ❱ THROW- ❱ JUST ❱ ❱ ❱❱ JUST❱THROW-❱Automatically❱inflates ❱ Penetrates smoke and haze haze and smoke Penetrates ❱ inflates ❱ Automatically ❱ THROW- ❱ JUST ❱ ❱ A worthy addition to pyrotechnic kits pyrotechnic to addition worthy A ❱ ❱most❱age❱groups for ❱handle❱ to Easy❱ ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Easy❱to❱handle❱for❱most❱age❱groups ❱ A worthy addition to pyrotechnic kits kits pyrotechnic to addition worthy A ❱ ❱most❱age❱groups for ❱handle❱ to Easy❱ ❱ ❱ Allows search & rescue to continue when when continue to rescue & search Allows ❱ Much❱smaller❱servicing❱costs❱ ❱ ❱ retrieving for system rescue use to Easy Easy to use rescue system for retrieving ❱❱ Much❱smaller❱servicing❱costs❱ ❱ Allows search & rescue to continue when when continue to rescue & search Allows ❱ Much❱smaller❱servicing❱costs❱ ❱ ❱ retrieving for system rescue use to Easy darkness limits search limits darkness Packed❱in❱valise ❱ ❱ overboard falls who person a a person who falls overboard ❱❱ Packed❱in❱valise darkness limits search search limits darkness Packed❱in❱valise ❱ ❱ overboard falls who person a R LSLING R RECOVERY/RESCUE RECOVERY/RESCUE R LSLING LSLING R RECOVERY/RESCUE RAFTS LIFE SOCK LADDER LADDER SOCK LIFE RAFTS RAFTS LIFE SOCK LADDER HIRE FOR FOR HIRE HIRE FOR [email protected] [email protected] E E [email protected] [email protected] E

JACKETS LIFE LIFE JACKETS JACKETS LIFE SERVICE AVAILABLE SERVICE SERVICE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE SERVICE www.sosmarine.com GET I DO HOW HOW DO I GET www.sosmarine.com www.sosmarine.com GET I DO HOW BACK ON BOARD? ON BACK BACK ON BOARD? BOARD? ON BACK 02 97000233 97000233 02 T T 02 97000233 97000233 02 T Two-in-one Two-in-one Two-in-one 02 97000277 97000277 02 F Recovery SOS ❱short-handed❱crews❱-❱the❱ For ❱ ❱ ❱❱ For❱short-handed❱crews❱-❱the❱SOS Recovery F 02 97000277 97000277 02 F Recovery SOS ❱short-handed❱crews❱-❱the❱ For ❱ ❱ ❱ attachment ❱ for 'sock' ❱ own ❱ its ❱ has ❱ now Ladder product one just using recovery recovery using just one product Ladder now❱has❱its❱own❱'sock' for❱attachment❱ ❱ attachment ❱ for 'sock' ❱ own ❱ its ❱ has ❱ now Ladder product one just using recovery [email protected] E ❱a❱ at ❱ deployed ❱ be ❱ to ❱ ready ❱ rail, ❱ toe ❱ the ❱ to or Use❱rungs❱as❱a❱ladder❱ ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Use❱rungs❱as❱a❱ladder❱or to❱the❱toe❱rail,❱ready❱to❱be❱deployed❱at❱a❱ E [email protected] [email protected] E ❱a❱ at ❱ deployed ❱ be ❱ to ❱ ready ❱ rail, ❱ toe ❱ the ❱ to or Use❱rungs❱as❱a❱ladder❱ ❱ ❱ Australian Manufacturer Australian moment’s❱notice. victim ❱ lift ❱ horizontally ❱ to ❱ shape ❱ entire ❱ Use ❱ ❱ ❱❱ Use❱entire❱shape❱to❱horizontally❱lift❱victim moment’s❱notice. Australian Manufacturer Manufacturer Australian moment’s❱notice. victim ❱ lift ❱ horizontally ❱ to ❱ shape ❱ entire ❱ Use ❱ ❱ SOS Marine’s safety equipment is easy to use and ready-to-go and use to easy is equipment safety Marine’s SOS SOS Marine’s safety equipment is easy to use and ready-to-go ready-to-go and use to easy is equipment safety Marine’s SOS save to equipment safety innovative winning, award international with field the led has expertise years 30 Marine’s SOS SOS Marine’s 30 years expertise has led the field with international award winning, innovative safety equipment to save save to equipment safety innovative winning, award international with field the led has expertise years 30 Marine’s SOS lives at sea. SOS Marine supplies equipment to 13 National Defence Forces, leisure boats and ocean vessels worldwide. vessels ocean and boats leisure Forces, Defence National 13 to equipment supplies Marine SOS sea. at lives lives at sea. SOS Marine supplies equipment to 13 National Defence Forces, leisure boats and ocean vessels worldwide. worldwide. vessels ocean and boats leisure Forces, Defence National 13 to equipment supplies Marine SOS sea. at lives CONTENTS Issue 37 | Summer 2018

Quarterly Journal of Marine Rescue NSW

Cover Image THE HELM Even Santa wears a lifejacket. Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking members 2 • Commissioner’s report Di Castro, Jenny Grant, Grahame Aulbury and Jesse Rowley asked for a 4 • Chair’s report safe summer boating season when Santa swapped his sleigh for a ride on ON THE RADAR rescue vessel Botany 30. Their fellow volunteer Kevin Thompson mysteriously 3 • New and familiar faces elected to Board claimed never to have been seen together with the man in the red suit. • Smooth transition to online voting system Photo: Santa’s official MRNSW photographer, Brendan Trembath. 5 • Volunteers primed for spike in emergencies Publisher • Work to eliminate radio blackspots in north Marine Rescue NSW 6 • Two members named among state’s finest 202 Nicholson Parade • Here to help: new IT support desk on way Cronulla NSW 2230 7 • Minister’s thanks to remarkable volunteers Contact 11 • Trusted partnerships deliver quality assets Kate Woods • ‘Engaged’ leaders endorse training progam Phone: 02 8071 4848 12 • Grant to help guard against shark risk Email: [email protected] 13 • New staff keen to get to know volunteers • Respect and inclusion on show at Mardi Gras Design and Layout 14 • Patron remembered for passion and courage Nicole Brown • No video, no story: how to make it on TV Advertising 16 • Our guardians of the Five Islands sea birds Graham Joss IN THEIR OWN WORDS Email: [email protected] 9 • MR Broken Bay Crew member Chris Cutler Phone: 0419 492 836 MAKING WAVES Printing 19-23 Northern Rivers News Ligare Book Printers • SAREX • Iluka Yamba • Evans Head Head office: 138-152 Bonds Road, Riverwood NSW 2210 • Point Danger • Wooli • Ballina Marine Rescue NSW is pleased to acknowledge the invaluable support of our • Brunswick • Cape Byron Soundings advertisers. 24-26 Mid North Coast News • Camden Haven • Forster-Tuncurry • Crowdy Harrington © Copyright Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales. Reproduction in • Coffs Harbour • Port Macquarie • Woolgoolga whole or in part prohibited without permission of the publisher. 27-30 Hunter/Central Coast News Marine Rescue NSW encourages the use of Soundings articles on boating • Lake Macquarie • Central Coast • Port Stephens safety. Permission to use and supply of relevant images can be obtained • Norah Head • Tuggerah Lakes • Newcastle from the publisher. 31-35 Greater Sydney News • Cottage Point • Terrey Hills • Hawkesbury • Port Jackson • Botany Port Hacking • Broken Bay • Middle Harbour • SAREX 35-39 Illawarra News • SAREX • Ulladulla • Jervis Bay • Shoalhaven • Port Kembla • Kioloa MARINE RESCUE NSW • Sussex Inlet • Shellharbour Volunteers saving lives on the water 39-41 Monaro News • Alpine Lakes • Bermagui • Tuross Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales • Moama • Eden • Batemans Bay ABN 98 138 078 092 PO Box 579 PICTURE GALLERY Cronulla NSW 2230 17, 42 • What we’ve been up to Phone: 02 8071 4848 Fax: 02 9969 5214 Email: [email protected] IN MEMORIAM 43-44 • Tributes to valued members

SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 1 THE HELM ON THE RADAR Official business Volunteers vote

arine Rescue NSW approaches and Tuross units, with four more to we will be ready when you need us. embers have elected two Port Hacking member Bob Wilson Mthe peak summer boating come before the end of the year. As another year closes, I want Mnew Directors to the Board of was elected as the General Director season confident in our preparations We also have continued to to thank each of our 3,000-plus MRNSW. from a field of four candidates. Mr and enhanced operational capability. invest in our marine radio network, volunteers for their dedication to our The ninth Board elections since Wilson previously served as the Our skilled and experienced working to eliminate blackspots mission and tireless work to provide the formation of MRNSW were Greater Sydney Regional Director volunteers will again be standing on the northern NSW coastline our safety services to NSW boaters. held in conjunction with the Annual from 2010 to 2014. watch over the coastline and our and installing new digital radio Our rescue vessel crew members, General Meeting on November 24. Chair Jim Glissan welcomed the key inland waterways, supported by technology in unit bases to improve radio operators and all those in the The elections were marked by the successful Directors to the Board, new and upgraded resources and radio coverage and bolster our numerous training, management, sad loss of Northern Rivers Regional which subsequently re-elected him technology. service to the boating community. fundraising, administration and Director Bill Wardrobe, who died on as Chair. Over the past year we have This investment has ensured support roles in every unit work November 12 after a short illness. Mr Glissan paid tribute at the concentrated on boosting our we are rescue-ready for another together as a strong and cohesive Members this year had been AGM to Mr Wardrobe, MRNSW operational responsiveness to make summer, committed to performing at team to serve our community. due to elect a General Director and Patron Ian Kiernan and other Commissioner sure our crews can be on the scene our best to save lives on the water. I also thank the MRNSW the Greater Sydney, Illawarra and members who had passed away Stacey Tannos ESM Members of the MRNSW Board following the of an emergency or other incident Thirty-six people drowned in NSW Board of Directors for their Monaro Regional Directors but with during the past year. 2018 elections with new and retiring CFOs as quickly as possible. Vessels have last summer, 11 per cent of whom strategic leadership and support. only one nominee for each position, Retiring Chief Financial Officer Todd Andrews (left) and Alan Skelley (right). been positioned close to hazardous were boating before their deaths. Congratulations to our newly-elected all three Regional Directors were and Company Secretary Alan Skelley Inset: Bob Wilson and Ken Edwards. coastal bars, units have expanded The 1,054 missions we launched Directors, Ken Edwards and Bob elected unopposed. was fondly farewelled and new their operations on and off the over the season included the Wilson, and to Keven Marshall and Newcomer to the Board, former CFO and Company Secretary Todd a friend. He is part of the Marine Deputy Commissioner Dean water and the roll-out of the Telstra MR Hawkesbury Unit Commander Andrews formally welcomed. Rescue family.” Storey outlined the organisation’s desktop messaging system has Despite boaters’ very best preparations, Ken Edwards, is the new Greater “Alan has done a remarkable job. Mr Skelley said it had been a achievements for 2017/18 and modernised and streamlined the emergencies will still happen and we will be ready. Sydney Regional Director. We are in a strong fiscal position, fantastic job that he had enjoyed both he and the Chair praised its crew activation process, resulting in Keven Marshall, from MR largely because of Alan,” Mr Glissan and would miss. volunteers and staff. reduced incident response times. response to a number of fatalities. Glenn Felkin, who were re-elected. Ulladulla and Glenn Felkin, from MR said. “He has served with distinction “It never ceases to amaze me, “Our volunteers have worked As always, our members are to Our fervent hope is that we do not I look forward to working with the Batemans Bay were returned as and grace. the dedication of all the volunteers, tremendously hard throughout the be commended for their focus on see a similar toll this year. new Board over the coming year. the Illawarra and Monaro Regional “He is more than an executive particularly - in my area - of the unit year and that also extends to the training, acquiring a total of 1,505 I appeal to all boaters to exercise Our staff have continued to work Directors, respectively. MR Botany team member. He is more than Treasurers,” he said. whole of the staff,” Mr Glissan said. new qualifications in 2017/18. caution and good sense on the with admirable commitment to Regional Search and Rescue water. Please ensure that everyone support our volunteers and deliver Exercises have sharpened our skills on board is wearing a lifejacket. the best possible services to them and strengthened our cooperative Make sure you Log On and Log and the boating community. Thanks Smooth transition to online voting system working relationships with other Off with MRNSW by marine radio, to each of them and welcome to our rescue and marine agencies. phone or the free MarineRescue app new team members. First electronic poll a landmark, saving cost, paper and time. New rescue vessels have been whenever you head out on the water. I also express my appreciation to he MRNSW Board elections have four elections but there was a last- delivered this year to the Norah Our radio operators Logged On Emergency Services Minister Troy Tbeen simplified and modernised minute redesign to remove the ballot Head, Central Coast, Camden 74,500 boats last financial year. Grant and his staff, the Office of wth the succesful introduction of pages for the Regional Director Haven, Ulladulla, Forster-Tuncurry It’s quick and simple and gives you Emergency Management and our online voting for this year’s poll. elections, when all three of these the peace of mind of knowing a boating safety partners, particularly Regular and Life Members from Directors were elected unopposed,” professionally-trained and resourced the Commander of the NSW Police all six regions were able to vote in he said. rescue team is watching over you Force Marine Area Command, the landmark first digital election “Eligible members were emailed while you’re on the water. Detective Superintendent Mark for a General Director, contested by a link to the voting website, the Make sure you check your Hutchings and his staff. four candidates: MR Port Jackson required AGM materials and a link vessel, marine radio and other My best wishes to you and member David Hand, MR Forster- to the online Annual Report. We did safety equipment is in good working your families for a safe and happy Tuncurry member Roman (Ray) not receive any reports of difficulties order and check the conditions and Christmas and New Year. Please Mazurek, MR Alpine Lakes Unit in voting, which members also could Chair Jim Glissan and Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey with Board weather before setting out. make safety your highest priority Commander Les Threlfo and MR do via a portal on our website. election Returning Officer Noel Parkinson at the AGM. If you are on holidays on over the festive season, when Botany Port Hacking member Bob “Members adapted quickly to the unfamiliar waters, please feel free to tragedy is particularly poignant. Wilson. Mr Wilson was elected. new system; so much so that one The new system was developed MR Botany Port Hacking’s Noel talk to the experienced members of The Marine Rescue NSW team MRNSW IT & Business Unit Commander had noticed the inhouse with NetBit, producing a net Parkinson, said the online system the nearest MRNSW unit about local will be here to keep watch and do Development Director Florian Glajcar voting icon on the website and cast saving of more than $7,500 over the had been simple for members MR Middle Harbour members David Bates, Peter Goode, UC Peter hazards and conditions. Despite our best to see you safely into 2019. Steigrad, Jane Lugsdin and Sandy Hume join Commissioner Stacey said the roll-out of the new system a vote in the minute between the 2017 election cost of printing and to use and had saved him and Tannos at the launch of the NSW emergency services’ summer safety boaters’ very best preparations, Stacey Tannos ESM had gone without a hitch. voting website going live and the mailing election and AGM papers. scrutineer Allan Russell two days of initiatives with Minister Troy Grant on November 30. emergencies will still happen and Commissioner “We had set up the system for email hitting members’ inboxes.” Returning officer for the election, vote counting.

2 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 3 THE HELM ON THE RADAR Official business Volunteers vote

From the Commissioner New and familiar faces elected to Board Our members ready for summer, supported by new resources and technology. Retiring Chief Financial Officer farewelled at Annual General Meeting. arine Rescue NSW approaches and Tuross units, with four more to we will be ready when you need us. embers have elected two Port Hacking member Bob Wilson Mthe peak summer boating come before the end of the year. As another year closes, I want Mnew Directors to the Board of was elected as the General Director season confident in our preparations We also have continued to to thank each of our 3,000-plus MRNSW. from a field of four candidates. Mr and enhanced operational capability. invest in our marine radio network, volunteers for their dedication to our The ninth Board elections since Wilson previously served as the Our skilled and experienced working to eliminate blackspots mission and tireless work to provide the formation of MRNSW were Greater Sydney Regional Director volunteers will again be standing on the northern NSW coastline our safety services to NSW boaters. held in conjunction with the Annual from 2010 to 2014. watch over the coastline and our and installing new digital radio Our rescue vessel crew members, General Meeting on November 24. Chair Jim Glissan welcomed the key inland waterways, supported by technology in unit bases to improve radio operators and all those in the The elections were marked by the successful Directors to the Board, new and upgraded resources and radio coverage and bolster our numerous training, management, sad loss of Northern Rivers Regional which subsequently re-elected him technology. service to the boating community. fundraising, administration and Director Bill Wardrobe, who died on as Chair. Over the past year we have This investment has ensured support roles in every unit work November 12 after a short illness. Mr Glissan paid tribute at the concentrated on boosting our we are rescue-ready for another together as a strong and cohesive Members this year had been AGM to Mr Wardrobe, MRNSW operational responsiveness to make summer, committed to performing at team to serve our community. due to elect a General Director and Patron Ian Kiernan and other Commissioner sure our crews can be on the scene our best to save lives on the water. I also thank the MRNSW the Greater Sydney, Illawarra and members who had passed away Stacey Tannos ESM Members of the MRNSW Board following the of an emergency or other incident Thirty-six people drowned in NSW Board of Directors for their Monaro Regional Directors but with during the past year. 2018 elections with new and retiring CFOs as quickly as possible. Vessels have last summer, 11 per cent of whom strategic leadership and support. only one nominee for each position, Retiring Chief Financial Officer Todd Andrews (left) and Alan Skelley (right). been positioned close to hazardous were boating before their deaths. Congratulations to our newly-elected all three Regional Directors were and Company Secretary Alan Skelley Inset: Bob Wilson and Ken Edwards. coastal bars, units have expanded The 1,054 missions we launched Directors, Ken Edwards and Bob elected unopposed. was fondly farewelled and new their operations on and off the over the season included the Wilson, and to Keven Marshall and Newcomer to the Board, former CFO and Company Secretary Todd a friend. He is part of the Marine Deputy Commissioner Dean water and the roll-out of the Telstra MR Hawkesbury Unit Commander Andrews formally welcomed. Rescue family.” Storey outlined the organisation’s desktop messaging system has Despite boaters’ very best preparations, Ken Edwards, is the new Greater “Alan has done a remarkable job. Mr Skelley said it had been a achievements for 2017/18 and modernised and streamlined the emergencies will still happen and we will be ready. Sydney Regional Director. We are in a strong fiscal position, fantastic job that he had enjoyed both he and the Chair praised its crew activation process, resulting in Keven Marshall, from MR largely because of Alan,” Mr Glissan and would miss. volunteers and staff. reduced incident response times. response to a number of fatalities. Glenn Felkin, who were re-elected. Ulladulla and Glenn Felkin, from MR said. “He has served with distinction “It never ceases to amaze me, “Our volunteers have worked As always, our members are to Our fervent hope is that we do not I look forward to working with the Batemans Bay were returned as and grace. the dedication of all the volunteers, tremendously hard throughout the be commended for their focus on see a similar toll this year. new Board over the coming year. the Illawarra and Monaro Regional “He is more than an executive particularly - in my area - of the unit year and that also extends to the training, acquiring a total of 1,505 I appeal to all boaters to exercise Our staff have continued to work Directors, respectively. MR Botany team member. He is more than Treasurers,” he said. whole of the staff,” Mr Glissan said. new qualifications in 2017/18. caution and good sense on the with admirable commitment to Regional Search and Rescue water. Please ensure that everyone support our volunteers and deliver Exercises have sharpened our skills on board is wearing a lifejacket. the best possible services to them and strengthened our cooperative Make sure you Log On and Log and the boating community. Thanks Smooth transition to online voting system working relationships with other Off with MRNSW by marine radio, to each of them and welcome to our rescue and marine agencies. phone or the free MarineRescue app new team members. First electronic poll a landmark, saving cost, paper and time. New rescue vessels have been whenever you head out on the water. I also express my appreciation to he MRNSW Board elections have four elections but there was a last- delivered this year to the Norah Our radio operators Logged On Emergency Services Minister Troy Tbeen simplified and modernised minute redesign to remove the ballot Head, Central Coast, Camden 74,500 boats last financial year. Grant and his staff, the Office of wth the succesful introduction of pages for the Regional Director Haven, Ulladulla, Forster-Tuncurry It’s quick and simple and gives you Emergency Management and our online voting for this year’s poll. elections, when all three of these the peace of mind of knowing a boating safety partners, particularly Regular and Life Members from Directors were elected unopposed,” professionally-trained and resourced the Commander of the NSW Police all six regions were able to vote in he said. rescue team is watching over you Force Marine Area Command, the landmark first digital election “Eligible members were emailed while you’re on the water. Detective Superintendent Mark for a General Director, contested by a link to the voting website, the Make sure you check your Hutchings and his staff. four candidates: MR Port Jackson required AGM materials and a link vessel, marine radio and other My best wishes to you and member David Hand, MR Forster- to the online Annual Report. We did safety equipment is in good working your families for a safe and happy Tuncurry member Roman (Ray) not receive any reports of difficulties order and check the conditions and Christmas and New Year. Please Mazurek, MR Alpine Lakes Unit in voting, which members also could Chair Jim Glissan and Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey with Board weather before setting out. make safety your highest priority Commander Les Threlfo and MR do via a portal on our website. election Returning Officer Noel Parkinson at the AGM. If you are on holidays on over the festive season, when Botany Port Hacking member Bob “Members adapted quickly to the unfamiliar waters, please feel free to tragedy is particularly poignant. Wilson. Mr Wilson was elected. new system; so much so that one The new system was developed MR Botany Port Hacking’s Noel talk to the experienced members of The Marine Rescue NSW team MRNSW IT & Business Unit Commander had noticed the inhouse with NetBit, producing a net Parkinson, said the online system the nearest MRNSW unit about local will be here to keep watch and do Development Director Florian Glajcar voting icon on the website and cast saving of more than $7,500 over the had been simple for members MR Middle Harbour members David Bates, Peter Goode, UC Peter hazards and conditions. Despite our best to see you safely into 2019. Steigrad, Jane Lugsdin and Sandy Hume join Commissioner Stacey said the roll-out of the new system a vote in the minute between the 2017 election cost of printing and to use and had saved him and Tannos at the launch of the NSW emergency services’ summer safety boaters’ very best preparations, Stacey Tannos ESM had gone without a hitch. voting website going live and the mailing election and AGM papers. scrutineer Allan Russell two days of initiatives with Minister Troy Grant on November 30. emergencies will still happen and Commissioner “We had set up the system for email hitting members’ inboxes.” Returning officer for the election, vote counting.

2 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 3 ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Official business Peak season

his year’s Board elections were unopposed. Congratulations to receive nominations to recognise arine Rescue NSW units Tclouded by the loss of one of our former MR Hawkesbury Unit those who have had broader input. Mwill ramp up their on-water newest Directors, Bill Wardrobe. Commander Ken Edwards, who We hope to see this remedied in presence over the holiday season, Bill, a member of MR Evans joins the Board as the Greater 2019. ensuring they are well positioned Head, was elected in 2017 as the Sydney Regional Director and to the The AGM also provided the for an influx of boaters to the Northern Rivers Regional Director incumbent Illawarra and Monaro opportunity to farewell our Chief State’s waterways and a spike in and had distinguished himself as Regional Directors, Keven Marshall Financial Officer and Company emergency incidents. a constructive, knowledgeable and and Glenn Felkin respectively, who Secretary Alan Skelley, who has now Emergency Services Minister caring leader of our organisation. were returned to office. left us for a retirement on the golf Troy Grant joined MRNSW Deputy His passing, far too soon after The role of General Director course. New CFO Todd Andrews Commissioner Dean Storey and falling victim to poor health, is a attracted a field of four experienced has officially assumed the role of representatives of Surf Life Saving profound loss to his family and candidates. Congratulations to MR Company Secretary. NSW and Royal Life Saving to friends and to those of us at Botany Port Hacking member Bob As another boating season appeal to people to be water safe, MRNSW who had benefited from his Wilson on his election and return ramps up, my best wishes to all our not sorry over the summer holidays. Chair wisdom and constant good cheer. “Understandably, people are James Glissan ESM, QC to the Board. Bob was the Greater members for a safe summer both on Be water safe, not sorry ... a joint appeal from Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Steve Pearce, Bill will be sadly missed, along Sydney Regional Director from 2010 and off the water. excited for the Christmas break Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant, Royal Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Michael IIinsky and with a number of other members we to 2014 and is a former Company This is the time when our mettle and school holidays and often flock MRNSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey. have lost recently. Secretary. is tested. Our radio bases are on to our ocean shores and beautiful These included figures well- I look forward to working with my the air taking calls from thousands waterways to celebrate this period,” from Christmas to mid-January. to liaise with police and help and when you expect to be back known across the organisation, fellow Directors in the year ahead of boaters. A surge in traffic on Mr Grant said. “Our professionally trained coordinate rescue operations.” on shore. If you don’t Log Off when including MR Lake Macquarie Unit and thank them for their continued our waterways necessitates extra “Unfortunately, the festive season volunteer crews will help provide He said many MRNSW units expected our volunteer rescue crews Commander and former Hunter/ confidence in re-electing me as patrols by our rescue vessel crews is also the peak time when we lose maximum protection for recreational also extended their marine can mount a search. Central Coast Regional Controller Chair. and inevitably, an escalation in the loved ones to drowning, particularly boaters,” he said. radio monitoring over summer, “You can Log On and Log Off Neil Grieves and former Regional The introduction of online number of rescue missions. Our on public holidays.” “We will be involved in Sydney complementing the 24/7 coverage using your marine radio or phone Training Manager Leigh Carmichael. voting for this year’s election was fundraisers and other members are Thirty-six people drowned in Harbour classics such as the start provided year-round by regional – and the free MarineRescue App Round-the-world sailor and Clean a success, achieving our aims of busy engaging with the community. NSW last summer, including seven of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Search and Rescue Coordination makes it even quicker and easier. Up Australia founder Ian Kiernan simplifying the voting process for No matter your role, please between Christmas and January 2. the New Year’s Eve fireworks and Centres (SARCCs) and the Terrey “You can get on with enjoying readily took up the role as a Patron members and reducing costs and stay safe, follow procedures, take “One life lost is one life too Australia Day celebrations. Hills State Operations Centre. your day, knowing a team of rescue of MRNSW on the foundation of the our environmental footprint. sufficient rest breaks and ensure many,” Mr Grant said. “Regional Operations Managers He urged boaters to always Log experts is watching out for you, new organisation. His passing was The Annual General Meeting your mates alongside you do, too. Deputy Commissioner Storey said and volunteers will again be based On with their local Marine Rescue whether you’re out for a morning’s marked by a State Memorial Service. offers us the chance of reflecting on We rely on each other for our own MRNSW units would increase local at the NSW Police Force Marine unit before heading out on the water. fishing, a local day trip or cruising Although we had been due to our achievements over the previous wellbeing so watch out for your patrols over the season, especially Area Command base at Balmain “Tell us where you are going further along the coast.” hold elections for four Directors’ year and the life of the organisation. team as well as your own signs of positions this year, all three of As we approach the 10th fatigue. the candidates for the Regional anniversary of the establishment of At the same time, remember Directors’ roles were elected MRNSW on July 1, 2019, we can all to pause and look around you Work to eliminate radio blackspots in north be proud of our contribution to the to appreciate the beauty of our ork to eliminate marine radio following the installation of new success and strength of our service workplace. Summer on the water in Wblackspots and protect boaters communications equipment on Mt and to our mission of saving lives on NSW. Where else would you rather on a high-traffic stretch of the NSW Yarrahappini, north-west of South the water. be? Make sure you also soak in the Mid North Coast is scheduled to be West Rocks and the Sugarloaf Thank you for all you have done thanks of those who rely on us to completed over the summer boating lighthouse at Seal Rocks. throughout 2018. help them when they are in trouble. season. The work, on two National Parks Life Membership of MRNSW The satisfaction of contributing to The work, costing about and Wildlife Service sites, involves is the highest accolade our the safety of our community is what $200,000, is a pivotal part of the the installation of VHF Channel organisation can award. I would keeps us coming back week after MRNSW $750,000 upgrade of radio 16 remote radios, AIS (Automatic encourage members to nominate week. It’s a powerful motivator and a communications on the northern Identification System) transceivers their fellow volunteers who have force for good. NSW coastline to ensure distress and channel changers, which enable made a sustained and valuable In closing, I wish all our members, calls from boaters are received boaters and MRNSW radio bases New technology to protect boaters .... Sugarloaf Lighthouse at Seal contribution across our organisation. staff, advertisers and readers a swiftly and efficiently. to switch between VHF Ch 16, the Rocks is the site for new marine radio installations. Photo: NPWS. While the nominees put forward merry Christmas and good health, MRNSW Emergency Systems distress calling channel, and local this year all had demonstrated great happiness and prosperity in 2019. Manager Andrew Cribb said radio working channels for more routine Storey said the $750,000 project, emergency calls were clearly Chair Jim Glissan and Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey present retiring Chief Financial Officer Alan Skelley with a Commendation for commitment to their individual units, Good sailing reception between Port Macquarie communications. funded by NSW Government grants received and rescue missions swiftly Service at the Annual General Meeting. the Board was disappointed not to Jim Glissan and Coffs Harbour would be boosted Deputy Commissioner Dean over three years would help ensure mounted in response.

4 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 5 ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Official business Peak season

From the Chair Volunteers primed for spike in emergencies Board elections marred by loss of knowledgeable and caring Director. After 36 drownings last summer, public urged to be water safe, not sorry. his year’s Board elections were unopposed. Congratulations to receive nominations to recognise arine Rescue NSW units Tclouded by the loss of one of our former MR Hawkesbury Unit those who have had broader input. Mwill ramp up their on-water newest Directors, Bill Wardrobe. Commander Ken Edwards, who We hope to see this remedied in presence over the holiday season, Bill, a member of MR Evans joins the Board as the Greater 2019. ensuring they are well positioned Head, was elected in 2017 as the Sydney Regional Director and to the The AGM also provided the for an influx of boaters to the Northern Rivers Regional Director incumbent Illawarra and Monaro opportunity to farewell our Chief State’s waterways and a spike in and had distinguished himself as Regional Directors, Keven Marshall Financial Officer and Company emergency incidents. a constructive, knowledgeable and and Glenn Felkin respectively, who Secretary Alan Skelley, who has now Emergency Services Minister caring leader of our organisation. were returned to office. left us for a retirement on the golf Troy Grant joined MRNSW Deputy His passing, far too soon after The role of General Director course. New CFO Todd Andrews Commissioner Dean Storey and falling victim to poor health, is a attracted a field of four experienced has officially assumed the role of representatives of Surf Life Saving profound loss to his family and candidates. Congratulations to MR Company Secretary. NSW and Royal Life Saving to friends and to those of us at Botany Port Hacking member Bob As another boating season appeal to people to be water safe, MRNSW who had benefited from his Wilson on his election and return ramps up, my best wishes to all our not sorry over the summer holidays. Chair wisdom and constant good cheer. “Understandably, people are James Glissan ESM, QC to the Board. Bob was the Greater members for a safe summer both on Be water safe, not sorry ... a joint appeal from Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Steve Pearce, Bill will be sadly missed, along Sydney Regional Director from 2010 and off the water. excited for the Christmas break Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant, Royal Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Michael IIinsky and with a number of other members we to 2014 and is a former Company This is the time when our mettle and school holidays and often flock MRNSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey. have lost recently. Secretary. is tested. Our radio bases are on to our ocean shores and beautiful These included figures well- I look forward to working with my the air taking calls from thousands waterways to celebrate this period,” from Christmas to mid-January. to liaise with police and help and when you expect to be back known across the organisation, fellow Directors in the year ahead of boaters. A surge in traffic on Mr Grant said. “Our professionally trained coordinate rescue operations.” on shore. If you don’t Log Off when including MR Lake Macquarie Unit and thank them for their continued our waterways necessitates extra “Unfortunately, the festive season volunteer crews will help provide He said many MRNSW units expected our volunteer rescue crews Commander and former Hunter/ confidence in re-electing me as patrols by our rescue vessel crews is also the peak time when we lose maximum protection for recreational also extended their marine can mount a search. Central Coast Regional Controller Chair. and inevitably, an escalation in the loved ones to drowning, particularly boaters,” he said. radio monitoring over summer, “You can Log On and Log Off Neil Grieves and former Regional The introduction of online number of rescue missions. Our on public holidays.” “We will be involved in Sydney complementing the 24/7 coverage using your marine radio or phone Training Manager Leigh Carmichael. voting for this year’s election was fundraisers and other members are Thirty-six people drowned in Harbour classics such as the start provided year-round by regional – and the free MarineRescue App Round-the-world sailor and Clean a success, achieving our aims of busy engaging with the community. NSW last summer, including seven of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Search and Rescue Coordination makes it even quicker and easier. Up Australia founder Ian Kiernan simplifying the voting process for No matter your role, please between Christmas and January 2. the New Year’s Eve fireworks and Centres (SARCCs) and the Terrey “You can get on with enjoying readily took up the role as a Patron members and reducing costs and stay safe, follow procedures, take “One life lost is one life too Australia Day celebrations. Hills State Operations Centre. your day, knowing a team of rescue of MRNSW on the foundation of the our environmental footprint. sufficient rest breaks and ensure many,” Mr Grant said. “Regional Operations Managers He urged boaters to always Log experts is watching out for you, new organisation. His passing was The Annual General Meeting your mates alongside you do, too. Deputy Commissioner Storey said and volunteers will again be based On with their local Marine Rescue whether you’re out for a morning’s marked by a State Memorial Service. offers us the chance of reflecting on We rely on each other for our own MRNSW units would increase local at the NSW Police Force Marine unit before heading out on the water. fishing, a local day trip or cruising Although we had been due to our achievements over the previous wellbeing so watch out for your patrols over the season, especially Area Command base at Balmain “Tell us where you are going further along the coast.” hold elections for four Directors’ year and the life of the organisation. team as well as your own signs of positions this year, all three of As we approach the 10th fatigue. the candidates for the Regional anniversary of the establishment of At the same time, remember Directors’ roles were elected MRNSW on July 1, 2019, we can all to pause and look around you Work to eliminate radio blackspots in north be proud of our contribution to the to appreciate the beauty of our ork to eliminate marine radio following the installation of new success and strength of our service workplace. Summer on the water in Wblackspots and protect boaters communications equipment on Mt and to our mission of saving lives on NSW. Where else would you rather on a high-traffic stretch of the NSW Yarrahappini, north-west of South the water. be? Make sure you also soak in the Mid North Coast is scheduled to be West Rocks and the Sugarloaf Thank you for all you have done thanks of those who rely on us to completed over the summer boating lighthouse at Seal Rocks. throughout 2018. help them when they are in trouble. season. The work, on two National Parks Life Membership of MRNSW The satisfaction of contributing to The work, costing about and Wildlife Service sites, involves is the highest accolade our the safety of our community is what $200,000, is a pivotal part of the the installation of VHF Channel organisation can award. I would keeps us coming back week after MRNSW $750,000 upgrade of radio 16 remote radios, AIS (Automatic encourage members to nominate week. It’s a powerful motivator and a communications on the northern Identification System) transceivers their fellow volunteers who have force for good. NSW coastline to ensure distress and channel changers, which enable made a sustained and valuable In closing, I wish all our members, calls from boaters are received boaters and MRNSW radio bases New technology to protect boaters .... Sugarloaf Lighthouse at Seal contribution across our organisation. staff, advertisers and readers a swiftly and efficiently. to switch between VHF Ch 16, the Rocks is the site for new marine radio installations. Photo: NPWS. While the nominees put forward merry Christmas and good health, MRNSW Emergency Systems distress calling channel, and local this year all had demonstrated great happiness and prosperity in 2019. Manager Andrew Cribb said radio working channels for more routine Storey said the $750,000 project, emergency calls were clearly Chair Jim Glissan and Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey present retiring Chief Financial Officer Alan Skelley with a Commendation for commitment to their individual units, Good sailing reception between Port Macquarie communications. funded by NSW Government grants received and rescue missions swiftly Service at the Annual General Meeting. the Board was disappointed not to Jim Glissan and Coffs Harbour would be boosted Deputy Commissioner Dean over three years would help ensure mounted in response.

4 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 5 ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Supporting our people Supporting our people

wo members of MRNSW were while on the water, and weekly t’s hard to believe it’s that time of in times of trouble, they can rely on Tnamed among the finalists in radio shifts, as well as being on call Iyear again with Christmas and the Marine Rescue to come to their aid. the 2018 NSW Volunteer of the Year for weekday response. As Training New Year just around the corner. So on behalf of the Government Awards, announced on November Officer, he oversees members’ I know too well, however, as all of and indeed the people of NSW, 30. progress from their induction you do, too, that the festive season can I say how much your efforts MR Shoalhaven member Ray through their studies and is selfless means something very different to are appreciated! And what’s so Jones was one of three finalists in in assisting other volunteers. those in the emergency services. remarkable is that all of you do this the awards’ Excellence in Volunteer DUC Brown gives more than While most people will be out of the goodness of your hearts. Management category and MR 250 hours of her time each month spending this time winding down You do this because Australia is Evans Head Deputy Unit Commander helping to save lives and promote and reflecting on the year that was, a nation based on volunteerism. A Karin Brown was named the water safety in the region. The dedicated volunteers like yourselves nation of mates helping mates and Senior Volunteer of the Year for the former local postie has volunteered Northern Rivers Senior Volunteer of the Year, MR Evans will often be spending this time doing the right thing when things Northern Rivers. for the past eight years, performing Head Deputy Unit Commander Karin Brown. Inset: Awards away from your loved ones, offering go wrong. finalist Ray Jones, from MR Shoalhaven. Run by the Centre for multiple roles from Watch Officer to a helping hand to those in need. Needless to say, it’s an amazing Volunteering, the awards are the Unit Commander. One of the most iconic parts privilege to be your voice and Commissioner Stacey Tannos and members of MR Cottage Point biggest celebration of volunteering Announcing the Northern Rivers celebrate the special contribution of contributed more than $5 billion to of our stunning Aussie summers advocate and it’s an honour to join Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant as he presents Unit in Australia. awards, Centre for Volunteering CEO the volunteers chosen to represent the NSW economy every year. “The is spending time on one of our continually meet with Marine Rescue Commander Paul Millar with a certificate marking the unit’s 50 years. Mr Jones is the unit’s Training Gemma Rygate said the region’s the region in the State final,” she fact that so many nominations were beautiful waterways. volunteers from every corner of the Officer, a Marine Rescue Master and volunteers gave so much time said. received this year is recognition of But things don’t always go to plan state and hear first-hand of the work unwavering dedication to your we ring in 2019. Watch Officer. He regularly performs without asking anything in return. NSW Minister responsible for the amazing effort of volunteers and that’s where Marine Rescue being done to help ensure people communities. I wish you a safe The Hon. Troy Grant MP weekend rescue vessel duty, “It was so pleasing to recognise Volunteering, Ray Williams, said across NSW who help build stronger NSW plays an invaluable role. stay safe on our waterways. festive season and I look forward to Minister for Police providing extensive training activities their outstanding efforts and also the State’s 2.1 million volunteers communities,” Mr Williams said. The people of this state know that Once again, I thank you for your working alongside you once more as Minister for Emergency Services Here to help: new IT

support desk on way WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU, Speedier alerts to achieve quick fixes.

new MRNSW IT Help Desk will problem has been solved and what A be open by the end of the year. action we have taken. TAKE GME. The Help Desk will enable units “If it’s a larger problem, the to quickly bring a problem with their Help Desk will allow us to seek Your Waterfront IT equipment or systems to the more information and keep the unit attention of Headquarters IT staff. updated on our progress in coming Development Partner IT & Business Development up with a solution. The unit will be Director Florian Glajcar said the able to track work on a ‘ticket’ from is a Copley Marine Consulting Group Help Desk would enable the quicker start to finish.” specialist in domestic waterfront developments and resolution of most problems. Mr Glajcar said units should use your partner in the Planning Approvals of Jetties, “Units will log into the Help the Help Desk to log problems with Pontoons, Mooring Pens and Seawalls. Desk via a porthole on the MRNSW technology including RoIP, training We specialise in providing: website,” he said. “They will create or other base computers, Seahawk, • Concept Designs • Planning Approvals - a ‘ticket’ spelling out what their phone or system outages and Telstra WATER-ACTIVATED GPS EPIRB • Landowners Consent and Development Applications problem is. or NBN service queries. • Engineering • Computer Aided Design (CAD) “That then gets logged into “The Help Desk will make it The MT603 Series of water-activated, GPS-equipped EPIRBs from GME are the most advanced 406 MHz digital EPIRBs on the market today. Designed, engineered the system and emailed directly easier to track issues, identify any and manufactured in Australia, the MT603 Series of EPIRBs have obtained to Matt Sims and I so we have common problems or trends that international Cospas-Sarsat approval. Boasting the latest advances in emergency instantaneous vision of what’s gone units are experiencing and give beacon technology, the MT603 Series ensures the safety of your vessel and crew in wrong and can get to work on trying us reliable statistics on IT support emergency situations, regardless of your location. to fix it. If it’s a quick fix, we can services,” he said. gme.net.au make that happen and then reply via Units will be notified when the Tel: 02 8935 9695 www.cm-consulting.com.au the Help Desk to tell the unit that the Help Desk is open for use.

6 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 7 ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Supporting our people Supporting our people

Two members named among state’s finest Minister’s thanks to remarkable volunteers Evans Head and Shoalhaven volunteers celebrated in NSW awards. The festive season means something different to the emergency services. wo members of MRNSW were while on the water, and weekly t’s hard to believe it’s that time of in times of trouble, they can rely on Tnamed among the finalists in radio shifts, as well as being on call Iyear again with Christmas and the Marine Rescue to come to their aid. the 2018 NSW Volunteer of the Year for weekday response. As Training New Year just around the corner. So on behalf of the Government Awards, announced on November Officer, he oversees members’ I know too well, however, as all of and indeed the people of NSW, 30. progress from their induction you do, too, that the festive season can I say how much your efforts MR Shoalhaven member Ray through their studies and is selfless means something very different to are appreciated! And what’s so Jones was one of three finalists in in assisting other volunteers. those in the emergency services. remarkable is that all of you do this the awards’ Excellence in Volunteer DUC Brown gives more than While most people will be out of the goodness of your hearts. Management category and MR 250 hours of her time each month spending this time winding down You do this because Australia is Evans Head Deputy Unit Commander helping to save lives and promote and reflecting on the year that was, a nation based on volunteerism. A Karin Brown was named the water safety in the region. The dedicated volunteers like yourselves nation of mates helping mates and Senior Volunteer of the Year for the former local postie has volunteered Northern Rivers Senior Volunteer of the Year, MR Evans will often be spending this time doing the right thing when things Northern Rivers. for the past eight years, performing Head Deputy Unit Commander Karin Brown. Inset: Awards away from your loved ones, offering go wrong. finalist Ray Jones, from MR Shoalhaven. Run by the Centre for multiple roles from Watch Officer to a helping hand to those in need. Needless to say, it’s an amazing Volunteering, the awards are the Unit Commander. One of the most iconic parts privilege to be your voice and Commissioner Stacey Tannos and members of MR Cottage Point biggest celebration of volunteering Announcing the Northern Rivers celebrate the special contribution of contributed more than $5 billion to of our stunning Aussie summers advocate and it’s an honour to join Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant as he presents Unit in Australia. awards, Centre for Volunteering CEO the volunteers chosen to represent the NSW economy every year. “The is spending time on one of our continually meet with Marine Rescue Commander Paul Millar with a certificate marking the unit’s 50 years. Mr Jones is the unit’s Training Gemma Rygate said the region’s the region in the State final,” she fact that so many nominations were beautiful waterways. volunteers from every corner of the Officer, a Marine Rescue Master and volunteers gave so much time said. received this year is recognition of But things don’t always go to plan state and hear first-hand of the work unwavering dedication to your we ring in 2019. Watch Officer. He regularly performs without asking anything in return. NSW Minister responsible for the amazing effort of volunteers and that’s where Marine Rescue being done to help ensure people communities. I wish you a safe The Hon. Troy Grant MP weekend rescue vessel duty, “It was so pleasing to recognise Volunteering, Ray Williams, said across NSW who help build stronger NSW plays an invaluable role. stay safe on our waterways. festive season and I look forward to Minister for Police providing extensive training activities their outstanding efforts and also the State’s 2.1 million volunteers communities,” Mr Williams said. The people of this state know that Once again, I thank you for your working alongside you once more as Minister for Emergency Services Here to help: new IT support desk on way WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU, Speedier alerts to achieve quick fixes. new MRNSW IT Help Desk will problem has been solved and what A be open by the end of the year. action we have taken. TAKE GME. The Help Desk will enable units “If it’s a larger problem, the to quickly bring a problem with their Help Desk will allow us to seek Your Waterfront IT equipment or systems to the more information and keep the unit attention of Headquarters IT staff. updated on our progress in coming Development Partner IT & Business Development up with a solution. The unit will be Director Florian Glajcar said the able to track work on a ‘ticket’ from is a Copley Marine Consulting Group Help Desk would enable the quicker start to finish.” specialist in domestic waterfront developments and resolution of most problems. Mr Glajcar said units should use your partner in the Planning Approvals of Jetties, “Units will log into the Help the Help Desk to log problems with Pontoons, Mooring Pens and Seawalls. Desk via a porthole on the MRNSW technology including RoIP, training We specialise in providing: website,” he said. “They will create or other base computers, Seahawk, • Concept Designs • Planning Approvals - a ‘ticket’ spelling out what their phone or system outages and Telstra WATER-ACTIVATED GPS EPIRB • Landowners Consent and Development Applications problem is. or NBN service queries. • Engineering • Computer Aided Design (CAD) “That then gets logged into “The Help Desk will make it The MT603 Series of water-activated, GPS-equipped EPIRBs from GME are the most advanced 406 MHz digital EPIRBs on the market today. Designed, engineered the system and emailed directly easier to track issues, identify any and manufactured in Australia, the MT603 Series of EPIRBs have obtained to Matt Sims and I so we have common problems or trends that international Cospas-Sarsat approval. Boasting the latest advances in emergency instantaneous vision of what’s gone units are experiencing and give beacon technology, the MT603 Series ensures the safety of your vessel and crew in wrong and can get to work on trying us reliable statistics on IT support emergency situations, regardless of your location. to fix it. If it’s a quick fix, we can services,” he said. gme.net.au make that happen and then reply via Units will be notified when the Tel: 02 8935 9695 www.cm-consulting.com.au the Help Desk to tell the unit that the Help Desk is open for use.

6 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 7 IN THEIR OWN WORDS TAKE THE Members talk about life as a volunteer Chris Cutler ALTERNATE Crew member, Marine Rescue Broken Bay ROUTE

Saving lives on the water and with a headset ... Marine Rescue Broken Bay Crew member Chris Cutler, who works as a Triple Zero Call Taker in the NSW Ambulance Service control centre in Sydney.

hris Cutler joined Marine with the NSW Rural Fire Service and Dispatchers and Paramedics nurses for further care. My handset CRescue Broken Bay in 2015 a Call Taker with NSW Ambulance, I do to provide the best possible is the conduit between my words and is currently working towards have gained significant emergency patient care. I joined the and someone else’s actions; actions his Leading Crew qualification. service experience that has had a Ambulance Service in January, that might save your life. National television audiences have hand in shaping the person I am starting with six weeks at our ■ Every call I’ve taken, every been following him at work as a now. Headquarters, followed by 350 scream, threat and last breath NSW Ambulance Call Taker in the ■ Being part of MRNSW means hours with two different mentors I’ve heard, it’s all been worth it. Channel 10 series Ambulance the world to me. Learning in a in the control centre and a two- Because you’re worth it and that’s Australia. group environment at the base and day assessment to be deemed why my colleagues and I choose ■ The reason I joined Marine then putting that into action on the competent to answer Triple Zero to put our headsets on day after Rescue NSW was to get water as a team responding to an (000) calls. day. The people out on the road more hands on with my local emergency brings me great joy, ■ As a Call Taker, my headset coming to save you and the people community and give back to knowing we did our best. is what I use to communicate who advise them choose to do it those who have already given ■ There’s no greater feeling than with those who call in desperate day after day. We do it for you and so much. Little did I know that a that fresh salt spray coming over times. Those who are reaching wouldn’t have it any other way. few years on I would have become the bow and slapping you in the out when they feel hopeless. Those ■ This is a shout out to all those a Crew member, running first aid face, bringing you back to earth who feel they can’t go on. Those serving in any form of voluntary BETTER ACCELERATION, BETTER FUEL EFFICIENCY scenarios within our duty watch and and calming you en route to a who act tough on the other end of or paid organisation who risk Engineered with Suzuki’s finest technologies and class-leading advantages, the DF30A delivers becoming an extra pair of hands medical emergency or sinking the line, demanding help through their lives to save others. You training new recruits in fire-fighting vessel. Everyone at MR Broken Bay anger, a raised voice and copious give your time, spending days away exceptional performance so you can take the alternate route with confidence. and advanced resuscitation. has been extremely supportive and profanities. from your own family to help protect ■ Now I am looking at fulfilling encouraging, assisting me in my ■ Through my headset, I’ve someone else’s, serving long hours FEATURING KEY TECHNOLOGIES the requirements to become a endeavours. A special thank you to helped save lives. I’ve talked on the job, often not knowing when Leading Crew member so I can Damian Fehon, my Watch Officer for people off the edge of balconies but you’re going home, and you choose further expand my knowledge quite some time. His never-ending also talked them through preparing to do it day after day. Maximum Output: 22.1kW | Cylinders: In-line 3 of navigation and the marine support and ‘go get’ attitude has to deliver their baby. I’ve delivered ■ That is why I joined Marine Displacement: 490cm3 | Weight (kg) ELEC: S: 62.0 L72.0 L74.0(TH) areas around our base, as well really boosted my spirits. CPR instructions to people trying Rescue NSW and NSW as assisting the community in ■ Ambulance Australia to help their relative when they’ve Ambulance. To help the community high stress situations. Being a gives an insight into what stopped breathing and handed over and to help support those already volunteer with MRNSW, a firefighter NSW Ambulance Call Takers, non-urgent cases to registered serving. SUZUKIMARINE.COM.AU SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 9

SUZ Alternate Route 210x297mm Ad Soundings 11-18.indd 1 27/11/18 11:28 am IN THEIR OWN WORDS TAKE THE Members talk about life as a volunteer Chris Cutler ALTERNATE Crew member, Marine Rescue Broken Bay ROUTE

Saving lives on the water and with a headset ... Marine Rescue Broken Bay Crew member Chris Cutler, who works as a Triple Zero Call Taker in the NSW Ambulance Service control centre in Sydney.

SUZ Alternate Route 210x297mm Ad Soundings 11-18.indd 1 27/11/18 11:28 am ON THE RADAR Behind the frontline

Trusted partnerships deliver quality assets THE WORLD’S HARDEST New supply agreements secure outboards, electronics and vehicles. arine Rescue NSW has for the supply of outboard motors for Mcemented its partnerships rescue vessels at competitive prices; WORKING RIBS with three key suppliers, signing three-year commercial warranties; new agreements to help secure the responsive servicing; and joint quality of the operational assets vital educational activities to promote to its work to save lives on the water. boating safety. Commissioner Stacey Tannos “Our volunteers require said MRNSW had extended its key reliable, fuel efficient engines, preferred supplier agreements with designed and built for diverse and three trusted business partners. challenging marine environments,” A renewed supply agreement will Commissioner Tannos said. “Suzuki see Suzuki Marine continue as the Marine has a well-earned reputation power of choice for the MRNSW for top class products and service.” outboard-powered fleet to 2022. Mr Haines said Suzuki Marine Raymarine will continue to supply was delighted to extend the ongoing Power of choice ... MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Suzuki electronic navigation and search partnership for four more years. Marine’s John Haines secure a new four-year supply agreement. and rescue equipment on the fleet “Marine Rescue NSW offers an under a new three-year agreement invaluable lifesaving service and FLIR Maritime Asia General situational awareness for the and Stewart Toyota will deliver Suzuki Marine is very proud to be Manager Damien Weber said dedicated volunteer crews, as well operational vehicles. a part of their ongoing success,” Raymarine was proud to be an as making their jobs easier when “We have established strong he said. ongoing supporter of MRNSW and it comes to navigating in difficult working relationships with these Commissioner Tannos said the was likewise delighted to re-sign its situations and performing SAR companies and we are pleased strong partnership with Raymarine exclusive supply agreement for new operations, day or night.” to renew our agreements with all to install technology including Multi vessel builds and refits. The new agreement also three,” Commissioner Tannos said. Function Displays, FLIR thermal “This extends that support to continues Raymarine’s training “By working closely with us to imaging cameras and side sonar eight years, after our first agreement support for volunteers through the meet our needs, they are investing on rescue vessels had delivered was signed in 2013,” Mr Weber provision of MFD training kits. in our people and joining us in our significant benefits for operations said. Commissioner Tannos said mission to save lives on the water.” and training. “It allows MRNSW access to Stewart Toyota at Cronulla supplied Suzuki Marine’s John Haines “Raymarine has worked with the latest solutions for navigation safe and reliable operational joined the Commissioner at us on continual improvement in and Search and Rescue, including vehicles for MRNSW Regional Headquarters on November 29 to our technology and equipment to thermal camera imaging and Operations Managers, Regional sign the new agreement to power support our crews’ search and ClearCruiseTMAR Augmented Training Managers and, at no cost, a the fleet. The agreement provides rescue operations,” he said. Reality, which provide enhanced pool vehicle for Headquarters.

‘Engaged’ leaders endorse training program he new MRNSW Leadership at which they asked for additional Recognised and operated by coast guards, police forces and RESCUE PILOT BOATS TTraining Program has received training support to assist them in commercial users around the world. Whatever the conditions, PATROL MILITARY an enthusiastic thumbs up from their roles. you can rely on Naiad’s supreme ride and strength to get TOURISM SUPERYACHT TENDERS participants. Assistant Director Training and you home safely. DIVING RECREATIONAL Eighty Unit Commanders and Education Chris Butler thanked all Deputy Unit Commanders or the members who had attended the TO FIND OUT MORE PHONE +64 3 573 7246 | WWW.NAIAD.CO.NZ their delegates joined one of the workshops. six sessions held in each of the “People were really engaged six regions between August and and contributed in a thoughtful and November. constructive manner,” he said. Mid North Coast Unit Commanders and Deputies at the Leadership YAMBA WELDING & ENGINEERING P/L The new leadership course was “The sessions were well received, Training Program with staff members Chris Butler and Mat Smith. 4 Angourie Rd, Yamba, NSW 2464, AUS developed in response to feedback attracting overwhelmingly positive T: +61 2 6646 2421 from unit executives at the 2017 feedback. participants said they had gained reported that the trainers had WWW.YWE.COM.AU MRNSW Leadership Conference, “Eighty nine per cent of new knowledge and 93 per cent engaged them in the course work.”

SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 11

203197 Naiad Full Page Advert.indd 1 28/11/18 11:30 AM ON THE RADAR Behind the frontline

SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 11

203197 Naiad Full Page Advert.indd 1 28/11/18 11:30 AM ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Safety watch Our people

arine Rescue NSW units will be bases and radio towers situated on Three new faces and one Mable to raise the shark alarm lookouts, clifftops or other vantage Tfamiliar one have begun new more rapidly following the roll-out points that gave direct vision over roles at Marine Rescue NSW State of new radio technology worth beaches, coastal bars or other Headquarters at Cronulla. $54,000 in early December. waterways where sharks could pose Brad Whittaker, who has been Fifty hand-held radios compatible a threat to people. These included appointed to the State Training to both MRNSW and Surf Life Saving the MR Forster-Tuncurry, Brunswick Manager role, has a teaching NSW are being delivered with the and Point Danger bases. background and more recently assistance of a $37,500 Shark “These bases are ideally located worked for Sutherland Shire Observation Grant from the NSW to spot shark activity so these Council for 12 years leading its Department of Primary Industries. new radios will be valuable tools Beach Services (Lifeguards), Active Deputy Commissioner Dean in helping our members to quickly Communities and Cultural Planning Storey said the radios would help raise the alarm,” he said. Teams. units to guard swimmers, surfers, “Personnel in our bases will be “I am really looking forward paddlers and other water users from able to immediately alert their Surf to working with MRNSW and the Three new staff members and one more familiar “Movembered” face ... Brad Whittaker, Sophie Galvin and the low but present risk of shark colleagues and our own rescue Shared communications ... Surf Life Savers Jamie McDonald, Molly great volunteers out there in the Adrian Adam have joined MRNSW, while Mat Smith is changing roles. attacks. vessel crews to the presence of a Parker and Nixy Krite with MR Cottage Point’s Matthew Barrett. organisation,” he said. “There is “This new equipment means we shark and the potential need to clear some outstanding work being done He was National Membership them face to face.” Officer role, which aims to provide can make a valuable contribution to the beach and waterways. He said the new radios would also emergencies. at each base and with the Regional Manager for the Australian Red Mr Adam replaces Mat Smith, additional administration and project protecting the community,” he said. “We are grateful to the NSW enhance inter-agency collaboration Newer MRNSW rescue vessels Training Managers, so I come to Cross for nearly eight years and who has moved to the role of Grants support across departments. He said the priority was to deliver Government for this funding support between Surf and MRNSW in are equipped with UHF radios as support those people and ensure Membership and Events Manager and Sponsorship Manager. Ms Galvin joins the team from the new UHF radios to MRNSW to help expand this radio program.” response to a range of other part of their standard fit-out. we have great outcomes for the at the Australian National Maritime “I am looking forward to the Rowing ACT, where she held the organisation.” Museum for 10 years. challenge of securing alternative position of Executive Officer. She Mr Whittaker takes over from “I have worked for a lot of years sources of revenue to support our graduated from the International David Brown, who is moving with his with volunteers and I like the operations,” Mr Smith said. College of Management Sydney in family to New Zealand. outdoors as well so it was a nice He said he had enjoyed his 2017. Adrian Adam, who joins hook for me,” he said. previous role and keenly anticipated “I’ve come from a pool and MARINE RESCUE MRNSW as the new Member “I think the most immediate thing continuing to work with and support aquatics background, specialising in Services Manager, has an for me is to get to know as many unit members in his new capacity. risk assessment. My passion lies in NEW SOUTH WALES extensive background in volunteer members as possible in a short The new staff also include Sophie water safety,” she said. management and support. space of time and hopefully visit Galvin in a new Development Brendan Trembath Log On when you leave Respect and inclusion on show at Mardi Gras arine Rescue NSW will again experience to be marching down Mdemonstrate its commitment to Oxford Street behind our ‘float’ and Log Off when you return inclusion and equality when it joins under the Marine Rescue banner. in the 41st Sydney Gay and Lesbian We felt extremely proud,” they said. Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, MRNSW will again march with VHF Ch16 or 27 MHz Ch88 March 2, 2019. a rescue vessel under the theme MRNSW first took part in the ‘Reach Out’, highlighting our core parade in 2017, with 28 volunteers, role in rescuing those reaching Or use the free MarineRescue App staff members, family and friends out for help on the water but also joining more than 12,000 other reflecting that we reach out to our entrants, including many of our community for members, financial In boating emergencies use radio or call 000 emergency services colleagues. support and inclusion and that our MR Central Coast members Jane members, too, can reach out for The MRNSW contingent and rescue vessel in the 2017 Mardi Gras. ALWAYS WEAR A LIFEJACKET and Raymond Lewis said they had help. taken part in the 2017 parade to Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the wider community. and dignity,” he said. MRNSW has demonstrate that MRNSW welcomed MRNSW wanted to send a strong “We want people to know they been allocated 50 places in the Volunteers saving lives on the water diversity and believed in equality. message of respect, equality and are welcome to join our ranks and parade. Joining instructions will be “It was the most incredible inclusion to its own members and will be treated equally, with respect issued early in the new year.

12 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 13 ON THE RADAR ON THE RADAR Safety watch Our people

Grant to help guard against shark risk New staff keen to get to know volunteers $54,000 radios will make it easier for units to sound the alarm. Working to support our members the focus of Headquarters roles. arine Rescue NSW units will be bases and radio towers situated on Three new faces and one Mable to raise the shark alarm lookouts, clifftops or other vantage Tfamiliar one have begun new more rapidly following the roll-out points that gave direct vision over roles at Marine Rescue NSW State of new radio technology worth beaches, coastal bars or other Headquarters at Cronulla. $54,000 in early December. waterways where sharks could pose Brad Whittaker, who has been Fifty hand-held radios compatible a threat to people. These included appointed to the State Training to both MRNSW and Surf Life Saving the MR Forster-Tuncurry, Brunswick Manager role, has a teaching NSW are being delivered with the and Point Danger bases. background and more recently assistance of a $37,500 Shark “These bases are ideally located worked for Sutherland Shire Observation Grant from the NSW to spot shark activity so these Council for 12 years leading its Department of Primary Industries. new radios will be valuable tools Beach Services (Lifeguards), Active Deputy Commissioner Dean in helping our members to quickly Communities and Cultural Planning Storey said the radios would help raise the alarm,” he said. Teams. units to guard swimmers, surfers, “Personnel in our bases will be “I am really looking forward paddlers and other water users from able to immediately alert their Surf to working with MRNSW and the Three new staff members and one more familiar “Movembered” face ... Brad Whittaker, Sophie Galvin and the low but present risk of shark colleagues and our own rescue Shared communications ... Surf Life Savers Jamie McDonald, Molly great volunteers out there in the Adrian Adam have joined MRNSW, while Mat Smith is changing roles. attacks. vessel crews to the presence of a Parker and Nixy Krite with MR Cottage Point’s Matthew Barrett. organisation,” he said. “There is “This new equipment means we shark and the potential need to clear some outstanding work being done He was National Membership them face to face.” Officer role, which aims to provide can make a valuable contribution to the beach and waterways. He said the new radios would also emergencies. at each base and with the Regional Manager for the Australian Red Mr Adam replaces Mat Smith, additional administration and project protecting the community,” he said. “We are grateful to the NSW enhance inter-agency collaboration Newer MRNSW rescue vessels Training Managers, so I come to Cross for nearly eight years and who has moved to the role of Grants support across departments. He said the priority was to deliver Government for this funding support between Surf and MRNSW in are equipped with UHF radios as support those people and ensure Membership and Events Manager and Sponsorship Manager. Ms Galvin joins the team from the new UHF radios to MRNSW to help expand this radio program.” response to a range of other part of their standard fit-out. we have great outcomes for the at the Australian National Maritime “I am looking forward to the Rowing ACT, where she held the organisation.” Museum for 10 years. challenge of securing alternative position of Executive Officer. She Mr Whittaker takes over from “I have worked for a lot of years sources of revenue to support our graduated from the International David Brown, who is moving with his with volunteers and I like the operations,” Mr Smith said. College of Management Sydney in family to New Zealand. outdoors as well so it was a nice He said he had enjoyed his 2017. Adrian Adam, who joins hook for me,” he said. previous role and keenly anticipated “I’ve come from a pool and MARINE RESCUE MRNSW as the new Member “I think the most immediate thing continuing to work with and support aquatics background, specialising in Services Manager, has an for me is to get to know as many unit members in his new capacity. risk assessment. My passion lies in NEW SOUTH WALES extensive background in volunteer members as possible in a short The new staff also include Sophie water safety,” she said. management and support. space of time and hopefully visit Galvin in a new Development Brendan Trembath Log On when you leave Respect and inclusion on show at Mardi Gras arine Rescue NSW will again experience to be marching down Mdemonstrate its commitment to Oxford Street behind our ‘float’ and Log Off when you return inclusion and equality when it joins under the Marine Rescue banner. in the 41st Sydney Gay and Lesbian We felt extremely proud,” they said. Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, MRNSW will again march with VHF Ch16 or 27 MHz Ch88 March 2, 2019. a rescue vessel under the theme MRNSW first took part in the ‘Reach Out’, highlighting our core parade in 2017, with 28 volunteers, role in rescuing those reaching Or use the free MarineRescue App staff members, family and friends out for help on the water but also joining more than 12,000 other reflecting that we reach out to our entrants, including many of our community for members, financial In boating emergencies use radio or call 000 emergency services colleagues. support and inclusion and that our MR Central Coast members Jane members, too, can reach out for The MRNSW contingent and rescue vessel in the 2017 Mardi Gras. ALWAYS WEAR A LIFEJACKET and Raymond Lewis said they had help. taken part in the 2017 parade to Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the wider community. and dignity,” he said. MRNSW has demonstrate that MRNSW welcomed MRNSW wanted to send a strong “We want people to know they been allocated 50 places in the Volunteers saving lives on the water diversity and believed in equality. message of respect, equality and are welcome to join our ranks and parade. Joining instructions will be “It was the most incredible inclusion to its own members and will be treated equally, with respect issued early in the new year.

12 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 13 ON THE RADAR Good causes

THE PROVEN CHOICE Patron remembered for passion and courage Ian Kiernan recognised our volunteers’ skill through his role.

arine Rescue NSW Patron, passed away in recent months (see Mround-the-world sailor and In Memoriam, pages 43 and 44). Clean Up Australia founder Ian In 1986, Mr Kiernan set an Kiernan AO was honoured with a Australian record for a solo State Memorial Service following his circumnavigation of the world during death in October. the BOC round-the-world yacht race. MRNSW Chair Jim Glissan Horrified by the amount of rubbish said Mr Kiernan had been a man in the ocean, he returned to Sydney respected by all who spent time determined to make a change. NSW on the water, both for his skill and Premier Gladys Berejiklian said it courage as a sailor and for his was a tribute to his determination, environmental passion. capability and high degree of “He was a fitting choice to personal commitment that an event become a patron of this organisation that started with 40,000 people from the outset and we were in Sydney became a worldwide MRNSW Patron Ian Kiernan cleaned up Australia and the world. honoured that he chose to recognise movement - Clean Up the World - the skill and work of our volunteers attracting 40 million people in 120 seemingly simple situations on the boating community but maintaining through this role,” he said. countries. water could turn dangerous very and operating a fleet of rescue Mr Kiernan is one of a number In 2012, he told Soundings that quickly. boats and rescue and radio of well-known MRNSW figures who recreational boating was one of the He said MRNSW volunteers communications bases required are being remembered after they State’s most popular past times but donated their time to assist the millions of dollars a year. The proven choice for Government and Professional applications around the world No video, no story: AirBerth Boat Lifts how to make it on TV hen television reporters networks prefer this orientation and contact MRNSW State it looks better on social media, too. Barrenjoey Marine Electrics has been a proud supporter W of Marine Rescue NSW since its establishment. Headquarters to ask about an 3, Keep the camera steady. BME has provided complete sales, service & refit solutions for operation or exercise they invariably 4. Try to have the sun behind you. units from Eden to Point Danger and on inland waterways. ask, “Do you have any video?” 5. Get close to the subject. Seek To celebrate the strength of this relationship, BME would like Generally, if there’s no video they permission of those being assisted if to offer Marine Rescue NSW members significant discounts have no story. Still photos are useful they or their boat can be identified. towards any of the following marine electronics products: but no substitute. TV news thrives 6. Show crew members’ faces • Raymarine • Garmin on compelling video, whether it’s a rather than their backs. Optimise vessel performance today • Furuno • Icom flood, fire or a marine rescue. 7. Hold on to something while • Simrad • Fusion by storing your boat out of the water The AirBerth features: MRNSW units can assist by using filming or have someone hold on Please call our office on 9997 6822 • Increase speed and fuel efficiency by • Quick, safe and easy to launch for quick deployment smart phones and waterproof sports to you. or send enquiries to [email protected] • 9 different models suit vessels up to 15 metric tonnes cameras to record scenes on the 8. Record short clips as they are eliminating anti-foul paints on the hull • UV stable Heavy Duty HDPE construction ensures water, including significant rescues easier to send than long ones. • Launch and retrieve your vessel in minutes and bad weather. 9. Get a variety of angles (wide, AirBerth is environmentally friendly and maintenance free • Maximise days on water; Saving lives on the water is medium and close up). • Vessel retrieval equally as fast so less time on minimise maintenance time always a priority but it need not 10. Don’t miss the boat. Notify dock post-rescue take much time or effort to show Headquarters promptly that you • No submerged metal parts the capabilities of our determined have video worth sharing. volunteers. Headquarters can assist Video can be shared with • Isolates air and water for added safety with reviewing and editing video and Headquarters by emailing short contacting television networks. clips or uploading material to a file Proud member of: Unit 1 Rowell Marina, Ten tips for filming on the water: sharing site such as Google Drive or AirBerth Boat Lifts End of Queens Parade West, Newport, NSW 2106 1. Make sure the lens is clean. Dropbox. WINNER www.bme.net.au 2015 Maritime +61 7 5587 7888 2. Hold the phone horizontally. TV Brendan Trembath Australia Limited Civil Industry National [email protected] Innovation Award www.airberth.com 14 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS

1729 AirBerth Soundings FP ad.indd 1 8/05/2017 3:10 pm ON THE RADAR Good causes

THE PROVEN CHOICE Patron remembered for passion and courage Ian Kiernan recognised our volunteers’ skill through his role. arine Rescue NSW Patron, passed away in recent months (see Mround-the-world sailor and In Memoriam, pages 43 and 44). Clean Up Australia founder Ian In 1986, Mr Kiernan set an Kiernan AO was honoured with a Australian record for a solo State Memorial Service following his circumnavigation of the world during death in October. the BOC round-the-world yacht race. MRNSW Chair Jim Glissan Horrified by the amount of rubbish said Mr Kiernan had been a man in the ocean, he returned to Sydney respected by all who spent time determined to make a change. NSW on the water, both for his skill and Premier Gladys Berejiklian said it courage as a sailor and for his was a tribute to his determination, environmental passion. capability and high degree of “He was a fitting choice to personal commitment that an event become a patron of this organisation that started with 40,000 people from the outset and we were in Sydney became a worldwide MRNSW Patron Ian Kiernan cleaned up Australia and the world. honoured that he chose to recognise movement - Clean Up the World - the skill and work of our volunteers attracting 40 million people in 120 seemingly simple situations on the boating community but maintaining through this role,” he said. countries. water could turn dangerous very and operating a fleet of rescue Mr Kiernan is one of a number In 2012, he told Soundings that quickly. boats and rescue and radio of well-known MRNSW figures who recreational boating was one of the He said MRNSW volunteers communications bases required are being remembered after they State’s most popular past times but donated their time to assist the millions of dollars a year. The proven choice for Government and Professional applications around the world No video, no story: AirBerth Boat Lifts how to make it on TV hen television reporters networks prefer this orientation and contact MRNSW State it looks better on social media, too. Barrenjoey Marine Electrics has been a proud supporter W of Marine Rescue NSW since its establishment. Headquarters to ask about an 3, Keep the camera steady. BME has provided complete sales, service & refit solutions for operation or exercise they invariably 4. Try to have the sun behind you. units from Eden to Point Danger and on inland waterways. ask, “Do you have any video?” 5. Get close to the subject. Seek To celebrate the strength of this relationship, BME would like Generally, if there’s no video they permission of those being assisted if to offer Marine Rescue NSW members significant discounts have no story. Still photos are useful they or their boat can be identified. towards any of the following marine electronics products: but no substitute. TV news thrives 6. Show crew members’ faces • Raymarine • Garmin on compelling video, whether it’s a rather than their backs. Optimise vessel performance today • Furuno • Icom flood, fire or a marine rescue. 7. Hold on to something while • Simrad • Fusion by storing your boat out of the water The AirBerth features: MRNSW units can assist by using filming or have someone hold on Please call our office on 9997 6822 • Increase speed and fuel efficiency by • Quick, safe and easy to launch for quick deployment smart phones and waterproof sports to you. or send enquiries to [email protected] • 9 different models suit vessels up to 15 metric tonnes cameras to record scenes on the 8. Record short clips as they are eliminating anti-foul paints on the hull • UV stable Heavy Duty HDPE construction ensures water, including significant rescues easier to send than long ones. • Launch and retrieve your vessel in minutes and bad weather. 9. Get a variety of angles (wide, AirBerth is environmentally friendly and maintenance free • Maximise days on water; Saving lives on the water is medium and close up). • Vessel retrieval equally as fast so less time on minimise maintenance time always a priority but it need not 10. Don’t miss the boat. Notify dock post-rescue take much time or effort to show Headquarters promptly that you • No submerged metal parts the capabilities of our determined have video worth sharing. volunteers. Headquarters can assist Video can be shared with • Isolates air and water for added safety with reviewing and editing video and Headquarters by emailing short contacting television networks. clips or uploading material to a file Proud member of: Unit 1 Rowell Marina, Ten tips for filming on the water: sharing site such as Google Drive or AirBerth Boat Lifts End of Queens Parade West, Newport, NSW 2106 1. Make sure the lens is clean. Dropbox. WINNER www.bme.net.au 2015 Maritime +61 7 5587 7888 2. Hold the phone horizontally. TV Brendan Trembath Australia Limited Civil Industry National [email protected] Innovation Award www.airberth.com 14 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS

1729 AirBerth Soundings FP ad.indd 1 8/05/2017 3:10 pm ON THE RADAR PICTURE GALLERY Protecting wildlife Engaging with the community

Our guardians of the Five Islands sea birds What we’ve been up to Port Kembla volunteers help make a big difference to little creatures.

n Big Island just off Port Kembla going on on the island which Oa NSW National Parks and shouldn’t be going on.” Wildlife Service ranger carefully The Five Islands Nature Reserve, reaches into a burrow and pulls out including Big Island, is a restricted a fluffy little penguin, checking its area to help keep little penguins, condition and weight. petrels and shearwaters safe. Dr Rowena Morris and her “The shearwaters nest in burrows colleagues keep a close watch on that are really fragile,” she said. the island’s seabirds with regular “They lay one egg per year, so help from the volunteers of Marine if someone treads on that burrow Rescue Port Kembla. that’s their entire family killed for They assist by transporting that year.” rangers, equipment and supplies to Dr Morris advises boaters to and from the island on board the observe the islands from a safe rescue vessel Port Kembla 30. distance. MR Port Kembla helps National Parks ranger Dr Rowena Morris keep watch on sea birds like this little penguin. Photo: Brendan Trembath. “Big Island is not very far off “You cannot land on the Five the mainland but it’s way too far to Islands but it’s fantastic to look at swim,” Dr Morris said with a smile. the islands from a boat. There’s with native plants and eradicating Commander Graeme McCrudden North Coast landmark ... Mt Warning provides a spectacular backdrop as Ballina 30 heads to the search zone for the Northern Rivers Regional She said NPWS had a “fantastic” no problem with driving your boat invasive weeds that can trap birds said was a “significant” help. Search and Rescue Exercise on November 11. The exercise, based at MR Point Danger, brought together rescue services from both NSW and relationship with MR Port Kembla around and enjoying the sight of the in their burrows. NPWS makes a “It’s a very good working Queensland (see story page 19). Photo: Brendan Trembath. crews and the Hill 60 radio base. fauna,” she said. donation to MR Port Kembla to relationship,” he said. “They’ll ring us up if something’s NPWS is revegetating Big Island pay for the fuel used, which Unit Brendan Trembath

Trans-Tasman visit ... Coastguard New Zealand CEO Patrick Holmes I take thee ... MR Port Stephens Watch Officer Matt Darby married and MRNSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey, on board Middle his wife Kelly Hartwell in the grounds of the Inner Light, where the Harbour 30, discuss South Pacific search and rescue collaboration. unit is based, on November 23. Photo: At A Glance Photography.

5750+ PRODUCTS 440+ NEW ITEMS 484 PAGES

Diligent service recognised ... MR Camden Haven training officer Anchors aweigh ... MR Lake Macquarie Acting Deputy Unit Gordon Gray receives his 20-year Long Service Medal from Northern Commander Malcolm Druce casts a weather eye over proceedings at Rivers Regional Operations Manager John Murray (see page 24). the unit’s Open Day on October 28 (see story page 27).

16 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 17 ON THE RADAR PICTURE GALLERY Protecting wildlife Engaging with the community

Our guardians of the Five Islands sea birds What we’ve been up to Port Kembla volunteers help make a big difference to little creatures. n Big Island just off Port Kembla going on on the island which Oa NSW National Parks and shouldn’t be going on.” Wildlife Service ranger carefully The Five Islands Nature Reserve, reaches into a burrow and pulls out including Big Island, is a restricted a fluffy little penguin, checking its area to help keep little penguins, condition and weight. petrels and shearwaters safe. Dr Rowena Morris and her “The shearwaters nest in burrows colleagues keep a close watch on that are really fragile,” she said. the island’s seabirds with regular “They lay one egg per year, so help from the volunteers of Marine if someone treads on that burrow Rescue Port Kembla. that’s their entire family killed for They assist by transporting that year.” rangers, equipment and supplies to Dr Morris advises boaters to and from the island on board the observe the islands from a safe rescue vessel Port Kembla 30. distance. MR Port Kembla helps National Parks ranger Dr Rowena Morris keep watch on sea birds like this little penguin. Photo: Brendan Trembath. “Big Island is not very far off “You cannot land on the Five the mainland but it’s way too far to Islands but it’s fantastic to look at swim,” Dr Morris said with a smile. the islands from a boat. There’s with native plants and eradicating Commander Graeme McCrudden North Coast landmark ... Mt Warning provides a spectacular backdrop as Ballina 30 heads to the search zone for the Northern Rivers Regional She said NPWS had a “fantastic” no problem with driving your boat invasive weeds that can trap birds said was a “significant” help. Search and Rescue Exercise on November 11. The exercise, based at MR Point Danger, brought together rescue services from both NSW and relationship with MR Port Kembla around and enjoying the sight of the in their burrows. NPWS makes a “It’s a very good working Queensland (see story page 19). Photo: Brendan Trembath. crews and the Hill 60 radio base. fauna,” she said. donation to MR Port Kembla to relationship,” he said. “They’ll ring us up if something’s NPWS is revegetating Big Island pay for the fuel used, which Unit Brendan Trembath

5750+ PRODUCTS 440+ NEW ITEMS 484 PAGES

16 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 17 MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News

Win for both sides in State of Origin test NSW and Queensland specialists join forces for major capability exercise.

tate of Origin rivalries were Sput aside when marine rescue specialists from NSW and Queensland assembled for a Search  and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) on the border on November 11.  Seven search and rescue  vessels headed out to sea from  Point Danger as part of the major   capability exercise. The flotilla was drawn from MRNSW, the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command and Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland. Deputy Commissioner Dean No state borders on the water ... NSW and Queensland search and rescue vessels head down the Tweed Storey said the SAREX had primed River during the Northern Rivers Regional SAREX. Photos: Brendan Trembath. crews for the peak summer boating, swimming and fishing season, when Authority (AMSA). By early afternoon all three rescue MR Point Danger boat base on the locals and visitors alike flocked to The MRNSW contingent mannequins had been successfully Tweed River. the tourist meccas of the Gold Coast comprised volunteers from the Point located and the fleet returned to the Brendan Trembath and Northern Rivers. Danger, Brunswick, Ballina, Evans “The exercise sharpened crews’ Head, Wooli and Woolgoolga units. marine search and rescue skills and After crossing the Tweed River strengthened cooperation between bar just after 8am, the seven vessels agencies on both sides of the moved into defined search areas border,” he said. south of Point Danger to locate “We are used to seeing New and retrieve three mannequins South Wales and Queensland on representing missing boaters. opposite sides during the State of Mt Warning, the Tweed hinterland Origin. This time the states were and Gold Coast skyscrapers made united for a common cause.” for a striking backdrop. Other participants included At 11am one minute’s radio Surf Life Savers from both states, silence was observed to mark 100 a Westpac Life Saver Rescue years since the Armistice that ended Helicopter crew and representatives the First World War, the bloodiest     MR Point Danger member Phil Pickering, a former Canadian Naval 2 / 49 Gavenlock Road TUGGERAH NSW 2259 from the Australian Maritime Safety conflict the world had seen. Ships Diver, wears a poppy during the Remembrance Day event.

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MR Point Danger’s Nicole Lockie, John Nolan, from Volunteer Marine The crew of Point Danger 20 returns to shore after successfully Rescue Currumbin and Chris Hargreaves from VMR Southport. locating and retrieving a search target.

SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 19 MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News

Win for both sides in State of Origin test NSW and Queensland specialists join forces for major capability exercise.

w w b ! www. . O . @ .

SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 19 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News Northern Rivers News

local boater sailing his newly- and his new vessel home. n elderly boater was fortunate A purchased 36 foot yacht south The incident was a timely Ato survive when his runabout from the Gold Coast spent an reminder for all new boat owners capsized offshore north-east of unplanned night at sea when he to take the time to familiarise Brunswick Heads on October 31. could not start the vessel’s auxiliary themselves with their new purchase, With a major search and rescue engine to cross the Clarence River whether it is straight off the operation under way, the man was bar in the dark. showroom floor or an older model. found on the hull of his upturned As the vessel was in no danger, A training exercise with the crew boat offshore by a passing trawler. MR Iluka Yamba advised the skipper of Wooli 30, who had travelled The fisherman had Logged On and his two passengers to anchor north to Yamba for routine outboard with the MR Point Danger radio close to the bar, with the unit’s maintenance, took an unexpected base as he headed out on board his rescue vessel to be deployed at first turn on November 12. centre console open runabout to fish light to assist. MR Wooli Unit Commander at Nine Mile Reef off Tweed Heads With the skipper reporting he was Richard Taffs had arranged with just before 7am, planning to return located near the bar, the crew of MR Iluka Yamba UC Frank Bond for at 1.30pm. Iluka Yamba 30 headed out in the Wooli Crew members Ron Plowman Iluka Yamba 30 on a long, lumpy journey back to shore under a Having headed south without morning to return the boat to shore. and Nick Firth to undertake the leaden dawn sky. updating the radio base on his After crossing the bar, the crew diesel engine section of their changed plans, the man was trying Point Danger 30 on its way to rendezvous with Cheryl Anne, a trawler that rescued a boater from the hull was unable to locate the yacht. Leading Crew training on IY 30, a The vessel’s skipper reported that hold of one of the moorings behind to pull up his anchor about 10.30am of his capsized runabout. Photo: Todd Stoll. No wonder. When they asked diesel-powered Steber. he had been heading to a mooring IY 30. when a wave hit and capsized the the skipper for the vessel’s latitude As we were starting the training when one engine on his 31 foot We decided to tow the cruiser boat. Life Saver Helicopter were tasked to south to a rendezvous point to and Barry Ferris, watch officer Phil and longitude, it proved to be 12nm session, our radio base advised that cruiser failed just after leaving a alongside, providing additional When the boater had not search his last known position. transfer the man on board and Pickering and the rescue crew, offshore. a vessel on a mooring just behind berth in the marina. training for the Wooli crew in a returned to shore and Logged Off as The skipper of the trawler Cheryl return him to the Tweed River pump coxswain Chris Quinn, Michael The crew headed out to sea in our berth in the Yamba Marina had Although the other engine was procedure that is not suitable to scheduled, the unit’s radio operator Anne contacted the base to report out jetty, where a NSW Ambulance Coulter, Nick Wythe and Todd Stoll. lumpy conditions for the lengthy requested assistance to reach its still working, he was not making undertake on their home river. tried to contact him by radio, mobile that he had noticed a white object was waiting to transport him to The Point Danger unit hosted rescue operation to return the boater destination in Yamba Bay. headway and had managed to get Frank Bond phone and SMS. After confirming in the water, which on closer hospital. Released next morning, NSW and Queensland teams for the that the man’s vehicle and trailer examination proved to be the man he visited the unit to express his Northern Rivers Search and Rescue were still at the boat ramp, search on the hull of his capsized boat heartfelt gratitude to everyone Exercise on November 10 and 11. procedures were immediately 5nm offshore and 4nm north of involved in his rescue. UC Ashby said the weekend Shark alarm silent over this year’s Surf Classic instigated. Brunswick Heads. Unit Commander Glenda Ashby had successfully showcased the Point Danger 30, a Queensland The trawler quickly took the praised the professionalism of the lifesaving capabilities of volunteers. Government grant funds speedy facelift for Evans Head radio base. Police vessel and the Gold Coast survivor on board as PD 30 headed unit’s radio operators Gary Burch Dale Leo arine Rescue Evans Head again the work to be completed in record Mprovided a safety watch for time, keeping the interruption to competitors in the annual Malibu our radio operations to just two Surf Classic. mid-week days. Thanks to Graham Unit’s support a gift for cancer fundraiser Unlike the previous two years, Newman, Nev Hamilton, Tony when the unit was forced to sound McNally and the other members embers of MR Point Danger women overcoming and surviving the shark alarm over the event, who made this possible. Mhave supported a colourful breast cancer. there were no incidents during the On October 26, the unit initiative by Madison Murray to “Not knowing where to sell 28th competition. welcomed about 100 Casino Public raise funds for the Breast Cancer the raffle tickets, I contacted the Evans 30 was on the water from School students and their teachers Foundation of Australia. beautiful shopkeepers at MR Point early morning and it was another to the radio base, training room and “With my mother being diagnosed Danger, who displayed the quilt in great opportunity to work with the EH 30. The day was coordinated by with breast cancer in May of their gift shop. Malibu Club and Surf Life Saving. Jim Roberts with his team of Joe Students from Casino Public School enjoy the spectacular coastal 2017, I felt like I needed to make a “The ladies went above and Once the Classic was finished, Medina, Jacqui Graham, Helen and views during a visit to the MR Evans Head unit in October. difference by raising money for the beyond in allowing me to raise the unit set to work on a Rocky Koroheke and the skippers Foundation,” Madison said. money for the Foundation by refurbishment of our radio base and crew of EH 30. School Principal of the things you guys do. We had a Four unit members attended “My aunty has a strong talent and wrapping the quilt in cellophane for funded by an $11,000 State Shaun Piccoli thanked the unit. great time and will be back. It was the Northern Rivers SAREX, which passion for quilt making and kindly protection with ribbons, bows and Government Community Building “The day was excellent and the good for the kids to learn about was followed by the sad news of donated her time by making a quilt signage so it was seen. Madison Murray raising funds in the MR Point Danger gift shop. Partnership grant. kids loved it,” Mr Piccoli said. “They the drum lines and shark alert and the passing of our member and and three pillowcases, all encasing “They sold the raffle tickets and Local company MTK Cabinets really enjoyed talking on the radio, discuss issues/concerns regarding Regional Director Bill Wardrobe. small messages of support, collected the money, for which I Madison’s raffle raised $492. particularly Jo McLean, she thanked prefabricated the furniture, enabling the boat and learning about some the bar and ocean.” Bill Bates characters and pictures resembling couldn’t thank them enough.” Along with the shop volunteers, everyone who bought a ticket.

20 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 21 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News Northern Rivers News

Boater takes overnight pit stop far offshore Tweed fisherman rescued from upturned hull Iluka Yamba crew returns yacht to safety in lengthy tow home. Major search operation mounted after boater fails to Log Off as scheduled. local boater sailing his newly- and his new vessel home. n elderly boater was fortunate Apurchased 36 foot yacht south The incident was a timely A to survive when his runabout from the Gold Coast spent an reminder for all new boat owners capsized offshore north-east of unplanned night at sea when he to take the time to familiarise Brunswick Heads on October 31. could not start the vessel’s auxiliary themselves with their new purchase, With a major search and rescue engine to cross the Clarence River whether it is straight off the operation under way, the man was bar in the dark. showroom floor or an older model. found on the hull of his upturned As the vessel was in no danger, A training exercise with the crew boat offshore by a passing trawler. MR Iluka Yamba advised the skipper of Wooli 30, who had travelled The fisherman had Logged On and his two passengers to anchor north to Yamba for routine outboard with the MR Point Danger radio close to the bar, with the unit’s maintenance, took an unexpected base as he headed out on board his rescue vessel to be deployed at first turn on November 12. centre console open runabout to fish light to assist. MR Wooli Unit Commander at Nine Mile Reef off Tweed Heads With the skipper reporting he was Richard Taffs had arranged with just before 7am, planning to return located near the bar, the crew of MR Iluka Yamba UC Frank Bond for at 1.30pm. Iluka Yamba 30 headed out in the Wooli Crew members Ron Plowman Iluka Yamba 30 on a long, lumpy journey back to shore under a Having headed south without morning to return the boat to shore. and Nick Firth to undertake the leaden dawn sky. updating the radio base on his After crossing the bar, the crew diesel engine section of their changed plans, the man was trying Point Danger 30 on its way to rendezvous with Cheryl Anne, a trawler that rescued a boater from the hull was unable to locate the yacht. Leading Crew training on IY 30, a The vessel’s skipper reported that hold of one of the moorings behind to pull up his anchor about 10.30am of his capsized runabout. Photo: Todd Stoll. No wonder. When they asked diesel-powered Steber. he had been heading to a mooring IY 30. when a wave hit and capsized the the skipper for the vessel’s latitude As we were starting the training when one engine on his 31 foot We decided to tow the cruiser boat. Life Saver Helicopter were tasked to south to a rendezvous point to and Barry Ferris, watch officer Phil and longitude, it proved to be 12nm session, our radio base advised that cruiser failed just after leaving a alongside, providing additional When the boater had not search his last known position. transfer the man on board and Pickering and the rescue crew, offshore. a vessel on a mooring just behind berth in the marina. training for the Wooli crew in a returned to shore and Logged Off as The skipper of the trawler Cheryl return him to the Tweed River pump coxswain Chris Quinn, Michael The crew headed out to sea in our berth in the Yamba Marina had Although the other engine was procedure that is not suitable to scheduled, the unit’s radio operator Anne contacted the base to report out jetty, where a NSW Ambulance Coulter, Nick Wythe and Todd Stoll. lumpy conditions for the lengthy requested assistance to reach its still working, he was not making undertake on their home river. tried to contact him by radio, mobile that he had noticed a white object was waiting to transport him to The Point Danger unit hosted rescue operation to return the boater destination in Yamba Bay. headway and had managed to get Frank Bond phone and SMS. After confirming in the water, which on closer hospital. Released next morning, NSW and Queensland teams for the that the man’s vehicle and trailer examination proved to be the man he visited the unit to express his Northern Rivers Search and Rescue were still at the boat ramp, search on the hull of his capsized boat heartfelt gratitude to everyone Exercise on November 10 and 11. procedures were immediately 5nm offshore and 4nm north of involved in his rescue. UC Ashby said the weekend Shark alarm silent over this year’s Surf Classic instigated. Brunswick Heads. Unit Commander Glenda Ashby had successfully showcased the Point Danger 30, a Queensland The trawler quickly took the praised the professionalism of the lifesaving capabilities of volunteers. Government grant funds speedy facelift for Evans Head radio base. Police vessel and the Gold Coast survivor on board as PD 30 headed unit’s radio operators Gary Burch Dale Leo arine Rescue Evans Head again the work to be completed in record Mprovided a safety watch for time, keeping the interruption to competitors in the annual Malibu our radio operations to just two Surf Classic. mid-week days. Thanks to Graham Unit’s support a gift for cancer fundraiser Unlike the previous two years, Newman, Nev Hamilton, Tony when the unit was forced to sound McNally and the other members embers of MR Point Danger women overcoming and surviving the shark alarm over the event, who made this possible. Mhave supported a colourful breast cancer. there were no incidents during the On October 26, the unit initiative by Madison Murray to “Not knowing where to sell 28th competition. welcomed about 100 Casino Public raise funds for the Breast Cancer the raffle tickets, I contacted the Evans 30 was on the water from School students and their teachers Foundation of Australia. beautiful shopkeepers at MR Point early morning and it was another to the radio base, training room and “With my mother being diagnosed Danger, who displayed the quilt in great opportunity to work with the EH 30. The day was coordinated by with breast cancer in May of their gift shop. Malibu Club and Surf Life Saving. Jim Roberts with his team of Joe Students from Casino Public School enjoy the spectacular coastal 2017, I felt like I needed to make a “The ladies went above and Once the Classic was finished, Medina, Jacqui Graham, Helen and views during a visit to the MR Evans Head unit in October. difference by raising money for the beyond in allowing me to raise the unit set to work on a Rocky Koroheke and the skippers Foundation,” Madison said. money for the Foundation by refurbishment of our radio base and crew of EH 30. School Principal of the things you guys do. We had a Four unit members attended “My aunty has a strong talent and wrapping the quilt in cellophane for funded by an $11,000 State Shaun Piccoli thanked the unit. great time and will be back. It was the Northern Rivers SAREX, which passion for quilt making and kindly protection with ribbons, bows and Government Community Building “The day was excellent and the good for the kids to learn about was followed by the sad news of donated her time by making a quilt signage so it was seen. Madison Murray raising funds in the MR Point Danger gift shop. Partnership grant. kids loved it,” Mr Piccoli said. “They the drum lines and shark alert and the passing of our member and and three pillowcases, all encasing “They sold the raffle tickets and Local company MTK Cabinets really enjoyed talking on the radio, discuss issues/concerns regarding Regional Director Bill Wardrobe. small messages of support, collected the money, for which I Madison’s raffle raised $492. particularly Jo McLean, she thanked prefabricated the furniture, enabling the boat and learning about some the bar and ocean.” Bill Bates characters and pictures resembling couldn’t thank them enough.” Along with the shop volunteers, everyone who bought a ticket.

20 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 21 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News Northern Rivers News

he Australian National Goanna Rural Fire Service and MR Wooli. rescue crew was quickly TPulling Championship is the The championship was held in Aactivated when a 7m centre flagship event of the year in the bright sunshine but the drought console boat capsized 12nm east of small coastal town of Wooli and the broke over the DPI Gone Fishing the Brunswick bar on October 23, members of MRNSW again seized Day at Grafton. Our members and throwing three people into the water. the opportunity to promote our work their colleagues from MR Iluka MR Brunswick Deputy Unit to a crowd of about 3,000 visitors Yamba stayed the course, providing Commander Jonathon Wilcock over the October long weekend. information and a barbecue to those prepared Brunswick 30 to launch The championship is a fun family who braved the weather. within 10 minutes and was joined by event that also includes a tug-o- The sun shone again for the Bill Spicer and Dave Warren for the war, North Coast axemen event, Remembrance Day service, with Unit 40 minute journey to the vessel’s brick carrying races, market stalls, Commander Richard Taffs laying a MR Wooli’s Jackie and Richard Taffs receive a cheque for $1,000 last known position. Radio operator carnival rides and live music. wreath on behalf of the unit. from Wooli Goanna Pull Committee President Graeme Walker. Roy Drew took over communications MR Wooli supports the day with On the water, we assisted with from MR Cape Byron. our display trailer and members the return of a vessel that had 30 attached a buoy to the boat but East Australia Current on offshore While the three passengers had providing information to the public. It drifted 80nm after capsizing 12nm it later drifted on to Sandon Beach. search and rescue operations and been taken on board a nearby boat, was also our turn this year to collect off Brunswick Heads on October The owner recovered the hull the the effect of local conditions on drift their vessel posed a navigation Members of MR Brunswick and Regional Operations Manager John Murray join Richmond MP Justine entry donations on behalf of our 23. MR Brunswick had attended the next day but just a day later, the once closer inshore. With WI 30 off hazard. BR 30 began a 45 minute Elliot as she presents Long Service Medals to six volunteers recognising a total of 85 years’ commitment. local emergency services. Thanks to incident, with the three passengers hardtop washed up on the beach, the water for servicing at Yamba, search before finding the boat with the public’s generosity, we collected safe but the 7.2m boat unable to be posing a traffic hazard as the beach we also gained experience in a tug only a small part of the hull visible. “These medals are an opportunity “These awards today give us a trainer Andrea Danvers, who also almost $3,000, with the Goanna Pull recovered. is the only road into Sandon village. tow operation, which cannot be The boat was too low in the water to recognise and thank these chance to say thank you to them.” served as Commander and Deputy Committee rounding up the total to Two days later, our radio base The incident provided an conducted on the Wooli Wooli River, to be righted to tow so was left to volunteers for their hard work The 15 year Long Service Medal also received a 15 year medal, along provide a donation of $1,000 each received reports of a capsized vessel excellent study of drift and leeway while training with MR Iluka Yamba. drift with the current and a Securite and commitment to serving and was presented to radio operator and with radio operator and Treasurer for the State Emergency Service, as it drifted past Minnie Water. Wooli calculations, the influence of the Richard Taffs broadcast. protecting our boating community,” former Unit Commander and Deputy Sylvia Van Rossum, radio operator Richmond MP Justine Elliot has Ms Elliot said. “The Brunswick Owen Danvers, who oversaw the Otto Vornegger and coxswain Lazlo presented six unit members with Marine Rescue volunteers make a unit’s transition from the Volunteer Szabo. David George received his 10 MRNSW Long Service Medals for a valuable contribution to the safety Rescue Association to MRNSW. year medal. New radios to boost Ballina shark response total of 85 years’ commmitment. and wellbeing of our community. Radio operator, crew member and David Parkinson Crews deployed to offshore searches for two capsized vessels. nother shark attack off a Ballina On November 1, Ballina Airport Abeach has highlighted the value informed the base that a military of new technology being delivered helicopter had spotted a small Total refit transforms Cape Byron base to enable MRNSW and Surf Life runabout that had capsized north of Saving NSW to communicate more Brunswick Heads the previous day. CCTV cameras to provide vision of boats travelling past lighthouse. effectively during the response to This boat could not be located but embers of MR Cape Byron are and the hard work and persistence such life-threatening emergencies. a second vessel, whose occupants Mcelebrating the revitalisation of of Unit Commander Terry Sandon, The MR Ballina base is located had been rescued uninjured from their radio base. work to strip the base started on on Lighthouse Beach, adjacent to the water, was retrieved. A complete refit of the small radio October 8. Shelley Beach, where a 43-year-old Aiming to increase the number room was carried out in October in a Apart from the radios and surfer was bitten by a 1.5m shark of skippers in the unit and build $120,000 project. computers, the entire existing fit-out on November 7. The new handheld our capability, we are focusing on New cabinetry, desks and even went to the tip, with unit members radios being delivered to units as training at sea with MR Brunswick a sink and running water were bonding over their crowbars as they Ballina 30 against the Gold Coast skyline during the Northern Rivers part of the NSW Government’s shark and Evans Head and on our new Regional SAREX on November 11. Photo: Brendan Trembath. installed and the building was took to the demolition work with observation program will support our program of night and mid-week rewired with electrical, internet and gusto. unit’s 24-hour response capability. training sessions. Our crew trained Point Danger for the weekend but and sausages. We again joined the communications cabling. With the unit managing Our crews have been deployed with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter the trip home into the southerly was SES on World Tsunami Awareness CCTV cameras will soon be the project, a team of local on numerous operations recently, on the Richmond River in October. a taxing 3.5 hours. Day on November 5 and plan installed to allow us to view vessels subcontractors and Karera Radio operator Clare Hamilton on duty in the refurbished MR Cape including a dual response in which These efforts were supported The unit’s fundraising for new to have a visible presence over travelling past the cape. communications spent the next few Byron radio base. Ballina 30 was on its way to assist by the chance to work with other engines for BA 30 is progressing summer, both on the water and at With National Parks and Wildlife weeks on the transformation. one disabled vessel when it received stakeholders in the Northern Rivers well, with the introduction of community events and our annual Service officer Keely Markovina Thanks must go to MR Ballina for work was under way. under the wise leadership of Joy a call that another boat had run out SAREX. BA 30 and a crew of six Breakfast at the Beach, a tasty base Open Day on Australia Day. helping to address restrictions on taking over the radio watch for our The unit has raised the funds for and Ted Taylor. of fuel. made the two-hour trip north to delight of bacon, eggs, hash browns Doug Hunter alterations to heritage buildings unit and MR Brunswick while the the project over the past few years Clare Hamilton

22 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 23 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Northern Rivers News Northern Rivers News

Goanna champs pull big donation for Wooli Crew rapidly under way to capsize off bar Unit engages community on land and water, in drought and rain. Brunswick volunteers honoured for 85 years’ service and commitment. he Australian National Goanna Rural Fire Service and MR Wooli. rescue crew was quickly TPulling Championship is the The championship was held in A activated when a 7m centre flagship event of the year in the bright sunshine but the drought console boat capsized 12nm east of small coastal town of Wooli and the broke over the DPI Gone Fishing the Brunswick bar on October 23, members of MRNSW again seized Day at Grafton. Our members and throwing three people into the water. the opportunity to promote our work their colleagues from MR Iluka MR Brunswick Deputy Unit to a crowd of about 3,000 visitors Yamba stayed the course, providing Commander Jonathon Wilcock over the October long weekend. information and a barbecue to those prepared Brunswick 30 to launch The championship is a fun family who braved the weather. within 10 minutes and was joined by event that also includes a tug-o- The sun shone again for the Bill Spicer and Dave Warren for the war, North Coast axemen event, Remembrance Day service, with Unit 40 minute journey to the vessel’s brick carrying races, market stalls, Commander Richard Taffs laying a MR Wooli’s Jackie and Richard Taffs receive a cheque for $1,000 last known position. Radio operator carnival rides and live music. wreath on behalf of the unit. from Wooli Goanna Pull Committee President Graeme Walker. Roy Drew took over communications MR Wooli supports the day with On the water, we assisted with from MR Cape Byron. our display trailer and members the return of a vessel that had 30 attached a buoy to the boat but East Australia Current on offshore While the three passengers had providing information to the public. It drifted 80nm after capsizing 12nm it later drifted on to Sandon Beach. search and rescue operations and been taken on board a nearby boat, was also our turn this year to collect off Brunswick Heads on October The owner recovered the hull the the effect of local conditions on drift their vessel posed a navigation Members of MR Brunswick and Regional Operations Manager John Murray join Richmond MP Justine entry donations on behalf of our 23. MR Brunswick had attended the next day but just a day later, the once closer inshore. With WI 30 off hazard. BR 30 began a 45 minute Elliot as she presents Long Service Medals to six volunteers recognising a total of 85 years’ commitment. local emergency services. Thanks to incident, with the three passengers hardtop washed up on the beach, the water for servicing at Yamba, search before finding the boat with the public’s generosity, we collected safe but the 7.2m boat unable to be posing a traffic hazard as the beach we also gained experience in a tug only a small part of the hull visible. “These medals are an opportunity “These awards today give us a trainer Andrea Danvers, who also almost $3,000, with the Goanna Pull recovered. is the only road into Sandon village. tow operation, which cannot be The boat was too low in the water to recognise and thank these chance to say thank you to them.” served as Commander and Deputy Committee rounding up the total to Two days later, our radio base The incident provided an conducted on the Wooli Wooli River, to be righted to tow so was left to volunteers for their hard work The 15 year Long Service Medal also received a 15 year medal, along provide a donation of $1,000 each received reports of a capsized vessel excellent study of drift and leeway while training with MR Iluka Yamba. drift with the current and a Securite and commitment to serving and was presented to radio operator and with radio operator and Treasurer for the State Emergency Service, as it drifted past Minnie Water. Wooli calculations, the influence of the Richard Taffs broadcast. protecting our boating community,” former Unit Commander and Deputy Sylvia Van Rossum, radio operator Richmond MP Justine Elliot has Ms Elliot said. “The Brunswick Owen Danvers, who oversaw the Otto Vornegger and coxswain Lazlo presented six unit members with Marine Rescue volunteers make a unit’s transition from the Volunteer Szabo. David George received his 10 MRNSW Long Service Medals for a valuable contribution to the safety Rescue Association to MRNSW. year medal. New radios to boost Ballina shark response total of 85 years’ commmitment. and wellbeing of our community. Radio operator, crew member and David Parkinson Crews deployed to offshore searches for two capsized vessels. nother shark attack off a Ballina On November 1, Ballina Airport Abeach has highlighted the value informed the base that a military of new technology being delivered helicopter had spotted a small Total refit transforms Cape Byron base to enable MRNSW and Surf Life runabout that had capsized north of Saving NSW to communicate more Brunswick Heads the previous day. CCTV cameras to provide vision of boats travelling past lighthouse. effectively during the response to This boat could not be located but embers of MR Cape Byron are and the hard work and persistence such life-threatening emergencies. a second vessel, whose occupants Mcelebrating the revitalisation of of Unit Commander Terry Sandon, The MR Ballina base is located had been rescued uninjured from their radio base. work to strip the base started on on Lighthouse Beach, adjacent to the water, was retrieved. A complete refit of the small radio October 8. Shelley Beach, where a 43-year-old Aiming to increase the number room was carried out in October in a Apart from the radios and surfer was bitten by a 1.5m shark of skippers in the unit and build $120,000 project. computers, the entire existing fit-out on November 7. The new handheld our capability, we are focusing on New cabinetry, desks and even went to the tip, with unit members radios being delivered to units as training at sea with MR Brunswick a sink and running water were bonding over their crowbars as they Ballina 30 against the Gold Coast skyline during the Northern Rivers part of the NSW Government’s shark and Evans Head and on our new Regional SAREX on November 11. Photo: Brendan Trembath. installed and the building was took to the demolition work with observation program will support our program of night and mid-week rewired with electrical, internet and gusto. unit’s 24-hour response capability. training sessions. Our crew trained Point Danger for the weekend but and sausages. We again joined the communications cabling. With the unit managing Our crews have been deployed with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter the trip home into the southerly was SES on World Tsunami Awareness CCTV cameras will soon be the project, a team of local on numerous operations recently, on the Richmond River in October. a taxing 3.5 hours. Day on November 5 and plan installed to allow us to view vessels subcontractors and Karera Radio operator Clare Hamilton on duty in the refurbished MR Cape including a dual response in which These efforts were supported The unit’s fundraising for new to have a visible presence over travelling past the cape. communications spent the next few Byron radio base. Ballina 30 was on its way to assist by the chance to work with other engines for BA 30 is progressing summer, both on the water and at With National Parks and Wildlife weeks on the transformation. one disabled vessel when it received stakeholders in the Northern Rivers well, with the introduction of community events and our annual Service officer Keely Markovina Thanks must go to MR Ballina for work was under way. under the wise leadership of Joy a call that another boat had run out SAREX. BA 30 and a crew of six Breakfast at the Beach, a tasty base Open Day on Australia Day. helping to address restrictions on taking over the radio watch for our The unit has raised the funds for and Ted Taylor. of fuel. made the two-hour trip north to delight of bacon, eggs, hash browns Doug Hunter alterations to heritage buildings unit and MR Brunswick while the the project over the past few years Clare Hamilton

22 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 23 MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News Vigilant boaters stay safe at Camden Haven Crowdy powers up with $85,000 in grants Unit joins neighbours in training sessions to build regional capability. Unit welcomes Government funding for new vehicles, solar energy system.

ess than ideal boating weather hristmas came early for the Land the safety consciousness CCrowdy Harrington unit with of our boating community have news it had received $84,900 in resulted in a calm run-up to the NSW Government grants for two peak summer season at MR new vehicles and a power system Camden Haven. for its boat shed and training room. It is pleasing to note that our Port Macquarie MP Leslie local boaters have been increasingly Williams said the Infrastructure vigilant in looking after their vessels Grants funding would provide the and not attempting to head out local community with a well- when the weather is unsuitable. resourced marine rescue unit with In one of our few incidents, modern equipment. Camden Haven 30 was tasked “The new 4WDs will help the to assist a large yacht when it Crowdy Harrington unit respond experienced engine trouble after to emergencies more quickly and By dawn’s early light ... the view over Camden Haven Inlet from the upgraded MR Camden Haven radio crossing the bar into the Camden room. Photo: Ken Rutledge. effectively, while the installation Thumbs up ... Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams visits the MR Crowdy Harrington base to give River. Another boater who broke of a solar power system will cut volunteers the good news of their success in attracting two grants. down off a local headland in the last and safe manner when needed. Macquarie with two operational Our training officer Gordon costs that can be directed towards weekend of October also was towed We have conducted regular assessments for new coxswains. Gray, who has served as the unit’s volunteer training,” Mrs Williams grown over the past few years, Category 3 Infrastructure Grants equipped much sooner than we to the boat ramp on the river. training with our colleagues from We find working with our nearby primary rescue vessel trainer said. “The local community can so it’s important that local marine program for projects across hoped. The savings on our power With the completion of the neighbouring MR Crowdy Harrington, units a great help for all crew throughout most of his membership, have continued peace of mind that rescue volunteers are prepared sport and recreation, emergency bills will be spent productively on upgrade to the unit’s radio room, including towing, mannequin rescue members and radio operators in received his 20-year medal and volunteers can respond to a variety and equipped to respond to preparedness and arts and culture. operations and training. the unit has focused on training and and first aid drills, helping to keep building our regional capability. Steve Barnard, who serves as both a of distress calls, which could be emergencies.” MR Crowdy Harrington Unit “We will now also have a high- building skill levels in the lead-up to both units up to speed. Congratulations to two members skipper and radio operator, received from swimmers in trouble or from an Racing Minister Paul Toole said Commander Bek Brown welcomed quality, reliable towing vehicle for summer to ensure that we will be Our experienced skippers and who recently have been awarded his 10-year medal. upturned boat in heavy seas. more than $50 million was being the valuable funding. our new boat, which is due next ready to respond in a professional trainers also have assisted MR Port their MRNSW Long Service Medals. Ken Rutledge “The Harrington and Crowdy provided during the current term of “This is a tremendous boost,” year, as well as a vehicle to transport Head fishing communities have government under the Clubgrants she said. “We will be much better fuel to our boat at the harbour.” Forster vessel brings ‘more grunt’ to task Rescue crew responds swiftly to transfer ill fisherman from offshore trawler. Tragic start to Coffs Harbour boating season

he Forster-Tuncurry unit is about 3nm offshore. Our crew Skipper dies when vessel capsizes close to Campbells Beach. Tlooking to serve the boating responded swiftly when they were man died after his boat capsized Bernard Tight, Graham Taylor and community with a degree of boosted tasked at 10.40pm to transfer a Anorth of Coffs Harbour in a Darryl Hamilton. Jane Leach was the confidence this summer following young fisherman who was in a deal tragic start to the boat season on Radio Operator at the base. the recent arrival of our new rescue of pain for medical treatment. the Mid North Coast. On November 15, the unit took vessel, Forster 20 (Wallis Lake). The patient was successfully Emergency services, including part in the opening ceremony of Local trials by our boat taken on board the rescue vessel members of MR Coffs Harbour, the World Rally Championship, held crews have revealed its easy in the dark and safely conveyed to were called to Campbells Beach on every year in Coffs Harbour. manoeuverability. As one member shore. Oceanfront Drive, Sapphire Beach Thousands of enthusiasts were said, “it’s got more grunt”. The swift and empathetic following reports a vessel had attracted to the three-day event. While the main role of the 6.8 assistance of our crew, Tony Breen, capsized about 200m offshore about Our members set up our metre Ocean Cylinder is to respond Peter Mouwen, Richard Neal 11.15am on Friday, November 9. promotional trailer and sold tickets to incidents on Wallis Lake and and Shane Dimech, resulted in a Sea spray ... Forster 20 is boosting crews’ confidence for a busy A short time later, the boat and in our Christmas raffle at the special local rivers, its operational limit generous donation to the unit from summer on the water. Photo: Fran Breen. the body of a man, believed to be showcase of the latest-generation is seven nautical miles offshore, the trawler’s captain. aged in his 80s, washed ashore. WRC cars at the Coffs Harbour jetty. increasing our capability to assist in It almost goes without saying puts in many an hour conducting at our local stalls. A special thank Coffs 30, the Westpac Life Saver Coffs 30 became a familiar sight Members of MR Coffs Harbour sell tickets in the unit’s Christmas emergencies off the coastline. that the purchase of a new vessel community barbecues, running the you to our fundraisers whose work Rescue Helicopter and Surf Life to the huge crowds, with the harbour raffle at the World Rally Championship. One such incident occurred on such as FO 20 would be nigh on local markets, selling raffle tickets, is so vital to our continuing ability Saving took part in a search to providing a spectacular backdrop to the night of November 3, when impossible without the efforts of our giving up their Sundays to run public to assist and protect the boating determine whether anyone else had two stages of the race. Harbour Outrigger Club’s regional some challenging courses over the FO 30 was called to a medical hardworking fundraisers. boat licence courses or sewing and community. been on board. The following weekend, we regatta. successful weekend event. emergency on a fishing trawler Our Forster-Tuncurry team knitting the handcrafts that are sold Fran Breen The crew of CO 30 was skipper provided a safety watch for the Coffs More than 50 crews took on Russell Shelton

24 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 25 MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News Vigilant boaters stay safe at Camden Haven Crowdy powers up with $85,000 in grants Unit joins neighbours in training sessions to build regional capability. Unit welcomes Government funding for new vehicles, solar energy system. ess than ideal boating weather hristmas came early for the Land the safety consciousness CCrowdy Harrington unit with of our boating community have news it had received $84,900 in resulted in a calm run-up to the NSW Government grants for two peak summer season at MR new vehicles and a power system Camden Haven. for its boat shed and training room. It is pleasing to note that our Port Macquarie MP Leslie local boaters have been increasingly Williams said the Infrastructure vigilant in looking after their vessels Grants funding would provide the and not attempting to head out local community with a well- when the weather is unsuitable. resourced marine rescue unit with In one of our few incidents, modern equipment. Camden Haven 30 was tasked “The new 4WDs will help the to assist a large yacht when it Crowdy Harrington unit respond experienced engine trouble after to emergencies more quickly and By dawn’s early light ... the view over Camden Haven Inlet from the upgraded MR Camden Haven radio crossing the bar into the Camden room. Photo: Ken Rutledge. effectively, while the installation Thumbs up ... Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams visits the MR Crowdy Harrington base to give River. Another boater who broke of a solar power system will cut volunteers the good news of their success in attracting two grants. down off a local headland in the last and safe manner when needed. Macquarie with two operational Our training officer Gordon costs that can be directed towards weekend of October also was towed We have conducted regular assessments for new coxswains. Gray, who has served as the unit’s volunteer training,” Mrs Williams grown over the past few years, Category 3 Infrastructure Grants equipped much sooner than we to the boat ramp on the river. training with our colleagues from We find working with our nearby primary rescue vessel trainer said. “The local community can so it’s important that local marine program for projects across hoped. The savings on our power With the completion of the neighbouring MR Crowdy Harrington, units a great help for all crew throughout most of his membership, have continued peace of mind that rescue volunteers are prepared sport and recreation, emergency bills will be spent productively on upgrade to the unit’s radio room, including towing, mannequin rescue members and radio operators in received his 20-year medal and volunteers can respond to a variety and equipped to respond to preparedness and arts and culture. operations and training. the unit has focused on training and and first aid drills, helping to keep building our regional capability. Steve Barnard, who serves as both a of distress calls, which could be emergencies.” MR Crowdy Harrington Unit “We will now also have a high- building skill levels in the lead-up to both units up to speed. Congratulations to two members skipper and radio operator, received from swimmers in trouble or from an Racing Minister Paul Toole said Commander Bek Brown welcomed quality, reliable towing vehicle for summer to ensure that we will be Our experienced skippers and who recently have been awarded his 10-year medal. upturned boat in heavy seas. more than $50 million was being the valuable funding. our new boat, which is due next ready to respond in a professional trainers also have assisted MR Port their MRNSW Long Service Medals. Ken Rutledge “The Harrington and Crowdy provided during the current term of “This is a tremendous boost,” year, as well as a vehicle to transport Head fishing communities have government under the Clubgrants she said. “We will be much better fuel to our boat at the harbour.” Forster vessel brings ‘more grunt’ to task Rescue crew responds swiftly to transfer ill fisherman from offshore trawler. Tragic start to Coffs Harbour boating season he Forster-Tuncurry unit is about 3nm offshore. Our crew Skipper dies when vessel capsizes close to Campbells Beach. Tlooking to serve the boating responded swiftly when they were man died after his boat capsized Bernard Tight, Graham Taylor and community with a degree of boosted tasked at 10.40pm to transfer a A north of Coffs Harbour in a Darryl Hamilton. Jane Leach was the confidence this summer following young fisherman who was in a deal tragic start to the boat season on Radio Operator at the base. the recent arrival of our new rescue of pain for medical treatment. the Mid North Coast. On November 15, the unit took vessel, Forster 20 (Wallis Lake). The patient was successfully Emergency services, including part in the opening ceremony of Local trials by our boat taken on board the rescue vessel members of MR Coffs Harbour, the World Rally Championship, held crews have revealed its easy in the dark and safely conveyed to were called to Campbells Beach on every year in Coffs Harbour. manoeuverability. As one member shore. Oceanfront Drive, Sapphire Beach Thousands of enthusiasts were said, “it’s got more grunt”. The swift and empathetic following reports a vessel had attracted to the three-day event. While the main role of the 6.8 assistance of our crew, Tony Breen, capsized about 200m offshore about Our members set up our metre Ocean Cylinder is to respond Peter Mouwen, Richard Neal 11.15am on Friday, November 9. promotional trailer and sold tickets to incidents on Wallis Lake and and Shane Dimech, resulted in a Sea spray ... Forster 20 is boosting crews’ confidence for a busy A short time later, the boat and in our Christmas raffle at the special local rivers, its operational limit generous donation to the unit from summer on the water. Photo: Fran Breen. the body of a man, believed to be showcase of the latest-generation is seven nautical miles offshore, the trawler’s captain. aged in his 80s, washed ashore. WRC cars at the Coffs Harbour jetty. increasing our capability to assist in It almost goes without saying puts in many an hour conducting at our local stalls. A special thank Coffs 30, the Westpac Life Saver Coffs 30 became a familiar sight Members of MR Coffs Harbour sell tickets in the unit’s Christmas emergencies off the coastline. that the purchase of a new vessel community barbecues, running the you to our fundraisers whose work Rescue Helicopter and Surf Life to the huge crowds, with the harbour raffle at the World Rally Championship. One such incident occurred on such as FO 20 would be nigh on local markets, selling raffle tickets, is so vital to our continuing ability Saving took part in a search to providing a spectacular backdrop to the night of November 3, when impossible without the efforts of our giving up their Sundays to run public to assist and protect the boating determine whether anyone else had two stages of the race. Harbour Outrigger Club’s regional some challenging courses over the FO 30 was called to a medical hardworking fundraisers. boat licence courses or sewing and community. been on board. The following weekend, we regatta. successful weekend event. emergency on a fishing trawler Our Forster-Tuncurry team knitting the handcrafts that are sold Fran Breen The crew of CO 30 was skipper provided a safety watch for the Coffs More than 50 crews took on Russell Shelton

24 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 25 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News Hunter/Central Coast News

lison Cameron-Brown has arine Rescue Lake Macquarie adults to explore. The event was Abecome the first female skipper Mcelebrated the district’s officially opened by Shortland MP at MR Port Macquarie and in the community and emergency services Pat Conroy, Swansea MP Yasmin Mid North Coast Region. at its annual Open Day, held under Catley and Lake Macquarie Mayor Alison, who is also the region’s rainy skies on October 28. Cr Kay Fraser, who all reinforced the only female Rescue Water Craft The event was staged just a important role MRNSW plays in the operator, successfully completed her fortnight after the unit lost its local community. coxswain assessment on October recently-elected Unit Commander The highlight of the day was 23. Neil Grieves, who passed away the vessel sail past, accompanied She was closely followed by Rob during a fishing trip to North by a pipe band, while UC Wardrop Breskal, who qualified a week later. Queensland (see In Memoriam, and Acting DUC Malcolm Druce They are among 40 members of page 44.) With former Deputy Unit accepted the salute. Our two vessels Unit Commander Mal Wardrop and Acting DUC Malcolm Druce the unit to gain new qualifications Commander Mal Wardrop stepping and Rescue Water Craft were joined accept the salute at the MR Lake Macquarie Open Day sail past. this year, building depth and up to the leader’s role, elections by boats from the Police Marine flexibility within our ranks. being held for the Deputy’s position. Area Command, NSW Roads and resulted in a number of people had a lot of fun with the various These include a Search and The Open Day saw Pelican Maritime Services and the RFS, with expressing an interest in joining us. stalls, prize wheel, competitions, Rescue Support Officer, three watch Port Macquarie 30 tows a small runabout to safety down the Hastings River. Photo: Alex McNaught. Foreshore Park filled with a flyover by the Westpac Rescue Crowds were delighted by activities in the park and the arrival officers, 12 radio operators, four emergency services personnel Helicopter as the fleet moved down entertainment from indigenous of Santa on a jet ski. coxswains, two leading crew, 14 Our fundraising team has vessels to safety and providing an scheduled event, our Rescue Water and vehicles from Swansea Swansea Channel. dancers, a marching band, pipe As part of our preparations for crew and four Rescue Water Craft launched a new raffle with the major escort over the bar for numerous Craft, PM 10 and X Ray 10, were Belmont Fire and Rescue, the State Tours of the unit radio base and bands, singers, a school band, the peak summer season, the unit’s operators. prize a Quintrex runabout, outboard other boats, such as Sydney alerted by a member of the public to Emergenency Service, Rural Fire vessel excursions highlighted our line dancers and a martial arts catamaran, Lake Macquarie 11, has More than 45 members continue and trailer. The team is at all the Catamarans and a Papua New a stranded yacht that had broken Service and Belmont Police, who various roles. It was great to see a demonstration. been drydocked for maintenance to be the eyes and ears of the unit major shopping areas and events Guinea Navy warship. its moorings in strong winds. PM 30 brought a highway patrol car, 4WD sea of blue uniforms engaging with Our all-day barbecue ensured and a full clean by members. in our radio base, watching over such as the local monthly markets. Showing the value of taking was tasked to tow the yacht to an and two dirt bikes for kids and the public and flying the flag, which people were well fed and the crowd Malcolm Druce the bar and monitoring vessel Our boat crews have responded a patrol initiative on the way to emergency mooring. movements in the area. to a number of incidents, towing support Port Macquarie 30 at a Alex McNaught Training heats up for Central Coast trio Woolgoolga settles into new home base Neighbouring Rescue Water Craft operators in pre-summer drills. Members buoyed by upgraded facilities and technology at Arrawarra. s the weather heats up at this When Unit Commander Roger Atime of year, it’s the signal Palmer rang to give Ryan the good arine Rescue Woolgoolga $1.1 million into the project. for MR Central Coast and Lake news, he could hear the children Mhas relocated in time for the The unit moved its equipment and Macquarie to start up our joint screaming with excitement in the summer boating season, beginning supplies from its former home on Rescue Water Craft training. background. operations in its new home on the Woolgoolga beachfront during The Central Coast unit currently UC Palmer and member Ian Leafe December 10. late November. has three trainees who are handed Ryan and his wife Bel their The new $1.3 million base is UC Skalla said the base was fitted gearing up for their operational prize at our base on November 21. located on the western side of the out with a RediTalk radio system, assessments. After a number of years of Arrawarra Headland, providing RoIP technology, well-equipped They have been busily honing offering a boat as the major prize, panoramic views over the popular training facilities and a workshop. their skills on our local waters and our fundraising team and unit boating waters of Arrawarra Bay and “Moving to Arrawarra puts us in at two Saturday training sessions at executive are considering refreshing a strong radio signal. direct contact with the larger boating Lake Macquarie. the raffle to build increased Unit Commander Tony Skalla community in the area,” he said. The radio room in the new MR Woolgoolga base, overlooking This training has involved enthusiasm and profits next year. said members were buoyed by “This increased exposure is Arrawarra Bay. responding to a scene, rescue With the delivery of our new MR Central Coast Unit Commander Roger Palmer (right) and the new base, which had created sure to provide us with additional techniques and water safety. Naiad, Central Coast 30, in early member Ian Leafe congratulate raffle winners Ryan and Bel. increased enthusiasm, motivation opportunities to educate recreational “The launch area at Arrawarra is The base sits on culturally The Central Coast unit’s annual August, we have recently farewelled and commitment. boaters and hopefully attract an supported by firm sand, overcoming sensitive land, with all members boat raffle was drawn at the popular Central Coast 21, which has found a replacement, scheduled before the As soon as this has been He said the redevelopment of the increase in membership.” the issues created by the softer undergoing a cultural induction by Ettalong Beach Oyster Festival on new home in Gympie in Queensland. end of the year. rectified,CC 30 will be relocated to former University of New England He said a major advantage of the sandy beach at Woolgoolga,” he local Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Mark, November 11. A solid workhorse, CC 21 will be CC 30 is moored at the unit’s the Haven, where it will be in prime Marine Science Research Station new location was that it provided said. who drew attention to the fact that The winner, Ryan from Elanora missed by a lot of our members, base at Point Clare due to the position to respond to emergencies had been made possible by Coffs for the safer launch and retrieval of “The bay is also more protected the land is a sacred site. Heights, was pleased but his however, we are excited by the mooring at the Haven needing to be offshore. Harbour City Council injecting some Woolgoolga 30 in all tides. from all but a ranging Nor Easter.” Rodney Page children even more so. pending arrival of a 7.5m Naiad moved and serviced. Mitch Giles

26 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 27 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Mid North Coast News Hunter/Central Coast News

Alison first female skipper in region’s ranks Open Day highlights unit’s service to public Newly-qualified members add depth and flexibility at Port Macquarie. Sail past and flyover cap entertainment on Lake Macquarie waterfront. lison Cameron-Brown has arine Rescue Lake Macquarie adults to explore. The event was Abecome the first female skipper Mcelebrated the district’s officially opened by Shortland MP at MR Port Macquarie and in the community and emergency services Pat Conroy, Swansea MP Yasmin Mid North Coast Region. at its annual Open Day, held under Catley and Lake Macquarie Mayor Alison, who is also the region’s rainy skies on October 28. Cr Kay Fraser, who all reinforced the only female Rescue Water Craft The event was staged just a important role MRNSW plays in the operator, successfully completed her fortnight after the unit lost its local community. coxswain assessment on October recently-elected Unit Commander The highlight of the day was 23. Neil Grieves, who passed away the vessel sail past, accompanied She was closely followed by Rob during a fishing trip to North by a pipe band, while UC Wardrop Breskal, who qualified a week later. Queensland (see In Memoriam, and Acting DUC Malcolm Druce They are among 40 members of page 44.) With former Deputy Unit accepted the salute. Our two vessels Unit Commander Mal Wardrop and Acting DUC Malcolm Druce the unit to gain new qualifications Commander Mal Wardrop stepping and Rescue Water Craft were joined accept the salute at the MR Lake Macquarie Open Day sail past. this year, building depth and up to the leader’s role, elections by boats from the Police Marine flexibility within our ranks. being held for the Deputy’s position. Area Command, NSW Roads and resulted in a number of people had a lot of fun with the various These include a Search and The Open Day saw Pelican Maritime Services and the RFS, with expressing an interest in joining us. stalls, prize wheel, competitions, Rescue Support Officer, three watch Port Macquarie 30 tows a small runabout to safety down the Hastings River. Photo: Alex McNaught. Foreshore Park filled with a flyover by the Westpac Rescue Crowds were delighted by activities in the park and the arrival officers, 12 radio operators, four emergency services personnel Helicopter as the fleet moved down entertainment from indigenous of Santa on a jet ski. coxswains, two leading crew, 14 Our fundraising team has vessels to safety and providing an scheduled event, our Rescue Water and vehicles from Swansea Swansea Channel. dancers, a marching band, pipe As part of our preparations for crew and four Rescue Water Craft launched a new raffle with the major escort over the bar for numerous Craft, PM 10 and X Ray 10, were Belmont Fire and Rescue, the State Tours of the unit radio base and bands, singers, a school band, the peak summer season, the unit’s operators. prize a Quintrex runabout, outboard other boats, such as Sydney alerted by a member of the public to Emergenency Service, Rural Fire vessel excursions highlighted our line dancers and a martial arts catamaran, Lake Macquarie 11, has More than 45 members continue and trailer. The team is at all the Catamarans and a Papua New a stranded yacht that had broken Service and Belmont Police, who various roles. It was great to see a demonstration. been drydocked for maintenance to be the eyes and ears of the unit major shopping areas and events Guinea Navy warship. its moorings in strong winds. PM 30 brought a highway patrol car, 4WD sea of blue uniforms engaging with Our all-day barbecue ensured and a full clean by members. in our radio base, watching over such as the local monthly markets. Showing the value of taking was tasked to tow the yacht to an and two dirt bikes for kids and the public and flying the flag, which people were well fed and the crowd Malcolm Druce the bar and monitoring vessel Our boat crews have responded a patrol initiative on the way to emergency mooring. movements in the area. to a number of incidents, towing support Port Macquarie 30 at a Alex McNaught Training heats up for Central Coast trio Woolgoolga settles into new home base Neighbouring Rescue Water Craft operators in pre-summer drills. Members buoyed by upgraded facilities and technology at Arrawarra. s the weather heats up at this When Unit Commander Roger Atime of year, it’s the signal Palmer rang to give Ryan the good arine Rescue Woolgoolga $1.1 million into the project. for MR Central Coast and Lake news, he could hear the children Mhas relocated in time for the The unit moved its equipment and Macquarie to start up our joint screaming with excitement in the summer boating season, beginning supplies from its former home on Rescue Water Craft training. background. operations in its new home on the Woolgoolga beachfront during The Central Coast unit currently UC Palmer and member Ian Leafe December 10. late November. has three trainees who are handed Ryan and his wife Bel their The new $1.3 million base is UC Skalla said the base was fitted gearing up for their operational prize at our base on November 21. located on the western side of the out with a RediTalk radio system, assessments. After a number of years of Arrawarra Headland, providing RoIP technology, well-equipped They have been busily honing offering a boat as the major prize, panoramic views over the popular training facilities and a workshop. their skills on our local waters and our fundraising team and unit boating waters of Arrawarra Bay and “Moving to Arrawarra puts us in at two Saturday training sessions at executive are considering refreshing a strong radio signal. direct contact with the larger boating Lake Macquarie. the raffle to build increased Unit Commander Tony Skalla community in the area,” he said. The radio room in the new MR Woolgoolga base, overlooking This training has involved enthusiasm and profits next year. said members were buoyed by “This increased exposure is Arrawarra Bay. responding to a scene, rescue With the delivery of our new MR Central Coast Unit Commander Roger Palmer (right) and the new base, which had created sure to provide us with additional techniques and water safety. Naiad, Central Coast 30, in early member Ian Leafe congratulate raffle winners Ryan and Bel. increased enthusiasm, motivation opportunities to educate recreational “The launch area at Arrawarra is The base sits on culturally The Central Coast unit’s annual August, we have recently farewelled and commitment. boaters and hopefully attract an supported by firm sand, overcoming sensitive land, with all members boat raffle was drawn at the popular Central Coast 21, which has found a replacement, scheduled before the As soon as this has been He said the redevelopment of the increase in membership.” the issues created by the softer undergoing a cultural induction by Ettalong Beach Oyster Festival on new home in Gympie in Queensland. end of the year. rectified,CC 30 will be relocated to former University of New England He said a major advantage of the sandy beach at Woolgoolga,” he local Aboriginal Elder, Uncle Mark, November 11. A solid workhorse, CC 21 will be CC 30 is moored at the unit’s the Haven, where it will be in prime Marine Science Research Station new location was that it provided said. who drew attention to the fact that The winner, Ryan from Elanora missed by a lot of our members, base at Point Clare due to the position to respond to emergencies had been made possible by Coffs for the safer launch and retrieval of “The bay is also more protected the land is a sacred site. Heights, was pleased but his however, we are excited by the mooring at the Haven needing to be offshore. Harbour City Council injecting some Woolgoolga 30 in all tides. from all but a ranging Nor Easter.” Rodney Page children even more so. pending arrival of a 7.5m Naiad moved and serviced. Mitch Giles

26 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 27 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Hunter/Central Coast News Hunter/Central Coast News

aining a MRNSW operational One such case was an group of agitated parents raised very serious incident as none of the Grating requires serious emergency response at 6.30am on Athe alarm when six of their boys had lifejackets and all reported dedication and time by both our October 3, when Port Stephens 31 young teenage sons were blown being poor swimmers. volunteer trainees and trainers. was tasked to assist two people on more than half a kilometre into the After a 15 minute tow they were Congratulations to MR Port board a sailing vessel experiencing centre of Tuggerah Lakes on a poor back safely on dry land at the boat Stephens members who have mainsail and engine problems north collection of boats on November 10. ramp, where their mothers were achieved their ratings this year, of Seal Rocks. The skipper also had Strong winds had pushed the waiting, ready with some loving Brian Bibbing (Coxswain), Michael a shoulder injury, restricting his six from the shore of the caravan advice. Duggan (Leading Crew), Ian Jack ability to sail the vessel. park where they were staying, on With few other recent incidents (Crew), Ian Peacock and Peter With the crew realising the board a dinghy suitable only for a on our local waters, crews have Baldwin (Watch Officer) and Paul distressed vessel’s position could pool, another plastic dinghy and a dedicated time to valuable training Buckley, Nigel Eves, Sarah Charters result in a five to six-hour operation, Assessor Ken Edwards congratulates Brian Bibbing, accompanied by rundown 3m tinnie with no seats. on and off the water. and Ben van der Wijngaart (Marine additional supplies were sourced his crew and other assessors, on achieving his Coxswain rating. Tuggerah Lakes 20 had just We have conducted a number Radio Operators). before the resue vessel headed out returned to base after assisting a of night training drills, which give The support of our experienced for a long morning’s work. friend Rodd Owen for us to raffle. us a video of the rescue of two stranded jet ski at the mouth of The new personnel an immediate trainers who work to help their PS 31 was forced to divert west Long-time supporter Anthony Dunn, spear fishermen who drifted away Entrance lake when the crew was appreciation of how different fellow members achieve their ratings of Broughton Island to find calmer from GME, generously presented from their “mother ship” 9nm off immediately deployed to the scene everything looks as night falls. is greatly appreciated. water on the journey north, locating three hand-held VHF radios for use Fingal Head in northern NSW. by radio operator Colin Thom and The unit’s 20-year-old Nissan The benefit of this training is the disabled boat after 90 minutes on our boats and dock. The pair filmed their experience watch officer Ben Hogan. Patrol, which towed our two rescue demonstrated in our radio and and taking it under tow for a slow About 50 unit members and with a Go-Pro, including Great White Skipper Tony Younglove and crew vessels and caravan, recently gave rescue vessel operations. By mid- three-hour return journey. friends visited the Westpac Rescue Sharks circling them. After seeing Bob Sutton, Graeme Cartwright, up the ghost. The crew of Tuggerah Lakes 20 returns the six boys safely to shore November, the MR Port Stephens The unit is fortunate to receive Helicopter facility at Newcastle. a helicopter searching in a different Danny Knight, Don Hobbs and John Thank you to one of our newer after their unexpected journey on the lake. Photo: Bob Sutton. radio room had received or made strong support from our community, Retired Chief Pilot Graeme area, they were relieved when a Wade made good speed, finding the crew members, Danny Knight, who more than 25,000 radio and including from author and fisherman Nickisson spoke of the service’s second helicopter heading to the first youth floating in the pool dinghy, is a mechanic and helped us find a telephone calls, Logged On more John ‘Stinker’ Clarke, who recently work and related a few of the search area spotted them after three which was full of water. Mitsubishi 4WD replacement. than 3,500 vessels and responded arranged the donation of an harrowing rescues in which he was hours in the water. He was taken onboard and the Members were saddened by the to 155 vessels in distress. incredible photo of Fingal Spit by his involved over 38 years. He showed Iain Blackadder dinghy under tow as TL 20 headed recent passing of former Regional towards the rest of the group Controller Neil Grieves and Training Another boy was in the plastic Manager Leigh Carmichael. dinghy and four others were trying Neil was a regular visitor to our Donation funds life-saving equipment to row the tinny to no avail in the bases over the years and we had wind. many good times with him, while Norah Head members set for full summer workload on new vessel. TL 20 headed back to North trainers Jim Davidson and Tony arine Rescue Norah Head has All inductions have been Entrance with three youths on board Younglove worked closely with Mbeen able to purchase new completed and NR 20 is fully and three in the tinnie under tow, Leigh Carmichael while he was an equipment thanks to a generous operational for a full summer along with the two plastic dinghies. Assessor. donation from the Central Coast workload. This could have resulted in a Bob Sutton & Sue Younglove Freemasons Society. The unit’s members have Members of the Society, which welcomed back two familiar faces, has been a great supporter of Malcolm and Yvonne Fletcher. our service over time, presented The couple moved to the Mid CALLAGHANS Unit Commander Bill Hignett with North Coast about a year ago, with $3,750. Mal transferring to MR Camden MARINE SERVICES This welcome funding will Haven, but recently decided to » SERVICING ALL DIESEL, PETROL & STERNDRIVES purchase an Automated External return to the Central Coast. » REPOWER & REFIT SPECIALIST » ENGINEERING & FABRICATION Defibrillator (AED) to install at our Mal is back on board at Norah The Central Coast Freemasons Society’s Graeme Ingall, Geoff Bown, » PROPULSION & STEERING SYSTEMS base and a Digital Base Radio, Head, where he was based for many Adam Steven, John Simpson and David Williams present MR Norah » ONBOARD SYSTEMS ensuring the unit is well resourced years, holding the positions of Radio Head UC Bill Hignett with a donation. Photo: Lee Deacon. » SALES, SERVICE & PARTS for to respond to emergencies. Room Manager, Trainer and Deputy The unit has spent recent months Unit Commander. able to impart to our recent recruits. on our existing roster of members, familiarising crew members with its Back on duty as a radio operator, These new members are training who have been performing extra Located @ Fenwicks Marina, 31 Brooklyn Rd, Brooklyn NSW 2083 P: 02 9985 7885 | F: 02 9985 7991 new vessel, Norah Head 20, which Mal brings a wealth of experience for both radio and boat crew duties, shifts. E: [email protected] | W: www.callaghansmarine.com.au was delivered in late July. and knowledge, which he will be which will help relieve the pressure Lee Deacon

28 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 29 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Hunter/Central Coast News Hunter/Central Coast News

Committed volunteers reap training rewards Boys’ own adventure ends in drama on lake Port Stephens crew demonstrates skill in long, rough rescue operation. Strong winds blow group of poor swimmers offshore on unstable boats. aining a MRNSW operational One such case was an group of agitated parents raised very serious incident as none of the Grating requires serious emergency response at 6.30am on A the alarm when six of their boys had lifejackets and all reported dedication and time by both our October 3, when Port Stephens 31 young teenage sons were blown being poor swimmers. volunteer trainees and trainers. was tasked to assist two people on more than half a kilometre into the After a 15 minute tow they were Congratulations to MR Port board a sailing vessel experiencing centre of Tuggerah Lakes on a poor back safely on dry land at the boat Stephens members who have mainsail and engine problems north collection of boats on November 10. ramp, where their mothers were achieved their ratings this year, of Seal Rocks. The skipper also had Strong winds had pushed the waiting, ready with some loving Brian Bibbing (Coxswain), Michael a shoulder injury, restricting his six from the shore of the caravan advice. Duggan (Leading Crew), Ian Jack ability to sail the vessel. park where they were staying, on With few other recent incidents (Crew), Ian Peacock and Peter With the crew realising the board a dinghy suitable only for a on our local waters, crews have Baldwin (Watch Officer) and Paul distressed vessel’s position could pool, another plastic dinghy and a dedicated time to valuable training Buckley, Nigel Eves, Sarah Charters result in a five to six-hour operation, Assessor Ken Edwards congratulates Brian Bibbing, accompanied by rundown 3m tinnie with no seats. on and off the water. and Ben van der Wijngaart (Marine additional supplies were sourced his crew and other assessors, on achieving his Coxswain rating. Tuggerah Lakes 20 had just We have conducted a number Radio Operators). before the resue vessel headed out returned to base after assisting a of night training drills, which give The support of our experienced for a long morning’s work. friend Rodd Owen for us to raffle. us a video of the rescue of two stranded jet ski at the mouth of The new personnel an immediate trainers who work to help their PS 31 was forced to divert west Long-time supporter Anthony Dunn, spear fishermen who drifted away Entrance lake when the crew was appreciation of how different fellow members achieve their ratings of Broughton Island to find calmer from GME, generously presented from their “mother ship” 9nm off immediately deployed to the scene everything looks as night falls. is greatly appreciated. water on the journey north, locating three hand-held VHF radios for use Fingal Head in northern NSW. by radio operator Colin Thom and The unit’s 20-year-old Nissan The benefit of this training is the disabled boat after 90 minutes on our boats and dock. The pair filmed their experience watch officer Ben Hogan. Patrol, which towed our two rescue demonstrated in our radio and and taking it under tow for a slow About 50 unit members and with a Go-Pro, including Great White Skipper Tony Younglove and crew vessels and caravan, recently gave rescue vessel operations. By mid- three-hour return journey. friends visited the Westpac Rescue Sharks circling them. After seeing Bob Sutton, Graeme Cartwright, up the ghost. The crew of Tuggerah Lakes 20 returns the six boys safely to shore November, the MR Port Stephens The unit is fortunate to receive Helicopter facility at Newcastle. a helicopter searching in a different Danny Knight, Don Hobbs and John Thank you to one of our newer after their unexpected journey on the lake. Photo: Bob Sutton. radio room had received or made strong support from our community, Retired Chief Pilot Graeme area, they were relieved when a Wade made good speed, finding the crew members, Danny Knight, who more than 25,000 radio and including from author and fisherman Nickisson spoke of the service’s second helicopter heading to the first youth floating in the pool dinghy, is a mechanic and helped us find a telephone calls, Logged On more John ‘Stinker’ Clarke, who recently work and related a few of the search area spotted them after three which was full of water. Mitsubishi 4WD replacement. than 3,500 vessels and responded arranged the donation of an harrowing rescues in which he was hours in the water. He was taken onboard and the Members were saddened by the to 155 vessels in distress. incredible photo of Fingal Spit by his involved over 38 years. He showed Iain Blackadder dinghy under tow as TL 20 headed recent passing of former Regional towards the rest of the group Controller Neil Grieves and Training Another boy was in the plastic Manager Leigh Carmichael. dinghy and four others were trying Neil was a regular visitor to our Donation funds life-saving equipment to row the tinny to no avail in the bases over the years and we had wind. many good times with him, while Norah Head members set for full summer workload on new vessel. TL 20 headed back to North trainers Jim Davidson and Tony arine Rescue Norah Head has All inductions have been Entrance with three youths on board Younglove worked closely with Mbeen able to purchase new completed and NR 20 is fully and three in the tinnie under tow, Leigh Carmichael while he was an equipment thanks to a generous operational for a full summer along with the two plastic dinghies. Assessor. donation from the Central Coast workload. This could have resulted in a Bob Sutton & Sue Younglove Freemasons Society. The unit’s members have Members of the Society, which welcomed back two familiar faces, has been a great supporter of Malcolm and Yvonne Fletcher. our service over time, presented The couple moved to the Mid CALLAGHANS Unit Commander Bill Hignett with North Coast about a year ago, with $3,750. Mal transferring to MR Camden MARINE SERVICES This welcome funding will Haven, but recently decided to » SERVICING ALL DIESEL, PETROL & STERNDRIVES purchase an Automated External return to the Central Coast. » REPOWER & REFIT SPECIALIST » ENGINEERING & FABRICATION Defibrillator (AED) to install at our Mal is back on board at Norah The Central Coast Freemasons Society’s Graeme Ingall, Geoff Bown, » PROPULSION & STEERING SYSTEMS base and a Digital Base Radio, Head, where he was based for many Adam Steven, John Simpson and David Williams present MR Norah » ONBOARD SYSTEMS ensuring the unit is well resourced years, holding the positions of Radio Head UC Bill Hignett with a donation. Photo: Lee Deacon. » SALES, SERVICE & PARTS for to respond to emergencies. Room Manager, Trainer and Deputy The unit has spent recent months Unit Commander. able to impart to our recent recruits. on our existing roster of members, familiarising crew members with its Back on duty as a radio operator, These new members are training who have been performing extra Located @ Fenwicks Marina, 31 Brooklyn Rd, Brooklyn NSW 2083 P: 02 9985 7885 | F: 02 9985 7991 new vessel, Norah Head 20, which Mal brings a wealth of experience for both radio and boat crew duties, shifts. E: [email protected] | W: www.callaghansmarine.com.au was delivered in late July. and knowledge, which he will be which will help relieve the pressure Lee Deacon

28 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 29 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Hunter/Central Coast News Greater Sydney News

n approaching storm front home safely. The dual operations ith the warmer weather Aadded a degree of urgency made for a busy first shift for new Wproducing an early-season to operations for crew members member Jasmine Jackson. Radio upswing in local boating activity on board Newcastle 30 as they room controller Wayne Bissett said and incidents, volunteers from responded to two calls for help in Jasmine had proven a great help in MR Cottage Point took the chance quick succession on October 21. monitoring the operations. to gather ahead of another busy The crew was tasked just north of The unit has responded to a spate summer for an historic dual Stockton Bridge to help an adult and of recent incidents involving jet skis. celebration in early November. three children on a disabled tinnie. On September 22, NC 30, with On a magnificent spring day, Skipper Ron Calman and crew skipper Terry Reynolds and crew a raft of dignitaries, including Rick Nevile, Stuart Lawson and Mick Rick Nevile, Steve Randell, Mick Mackellar MP Jason Falinski, Quill located the vessel just as the Quill and Stuart Lawson, responded MRNSW Chair Jim Glissan and Newcastle 30 crew members Rick Nevile and Stuart Lawson watch nasty storm was approaching, taking to a jet ski operator whose craft was over the towline to a disabled jet ski. Board members, Commissioner it under tow safely to a nearby ramp. swamped in the surf on Stockton Stacey Tannos and several Unit As the storm broke, the crew was Beach. An attempt to have a 4WD NC 30 was tasked to assist another National Medal, recognising a total Commanders, along with many tasked up the Hunter River near drag the craft up the beach came to jet ski with two people on board in of more than 45 years’ service to friends, joined our members to Raymond Terrace to check on a no avail. Stockton Bight, again returning it to the NSW Police Force and marine formally commission our nine-metre couple of jet skis that had called in A second jet ski was able to safety at the Carrington ramp. rescue. Member Steve Randell has Sailfish,Cottage Point 31. with motor and fuel problems. tow the disabled craft out past Congratulations to UC Ron received his MR Crew qualification CP 31 was officially named MR Cottage Point member Beth Watts, joined by her sister Jean Galloway, christens her namesake, rescue vessel Cottage Point 31 (Elizabeth Watts). Photo: Don Smallwood. Communication was lost after the the surf line to reach NC 30, Calman, who has been awarded the and Terry Reynolds received his 10 Elizabeth Watts in recognition of first contact but it was eventually which successfully towed it back clasp to the MRNSW Long Service year Long Service Medal. Beth’s 24 years of continuous and to the Foundation Board of Directors congratulate the unit on its half- of the Sydney Squadron, the then confirmed the riders had made it to Carrington ramp. The next day, Medal and the third clasp to the Terry Reynolds outstanding service to our unit, of MRNSW, helping to guide the century, we welcomed many former Coast Guard started operations the organisation and the boating transition of Coast Guard squadrons and current members to our base from Illawong Bay in 1968 with a community. to the new organisation. at the Ku-ring-gai Motor Yacht Club cobbled-together fleet of members’ A former Australian Volunteer The day’s second celebration - which has been our benefactor own vessels. Coast Guard Association Squadron marked the unit’s 50 years of for the past 47 years - to recount Now as part of MRNSW, with two Commander and Unit Commander service to the boating community of stories, share photos, compare state-of-the-art rescue vessels, we and executive member of the Broken Bay. uniforms and equipment and chat look forward to serving our boating MR Cottage Point unit, Beth was A day after Emergency Services about all things boating. community for the next 50 years. appointed by the State Government Minister Troy Grant visited to Originally the Ku-ring-gai Flotilla Tim Pike Christmas value for you Support for us Volunteer raises funds for a good cause Visit the Marine Rescue NSW online store this Christmas for great arine Rescue Terrey Hills their assesment requirements. discounts on a range of gifts for the boater in your life. Mmember David Crawford has We have continued to seek new You’ll find essential safety equipment and top boating and fishing turned full cycle, volunteering to members. Aside from advertising gear including Marlin PFDs for adults and children, Mini Jump raise funds for another good cause. in various magazines, the unit Starters and Gill marine tools and clothing. David recently took part in the also has a regular information Great Cycle Challenge, raising funds and recruitment desk at the And you can show your support with our Marine Rescue NSW to fight childhood cancer. Bunnings store at Terrey Hills. Since merchandise. Cycling his modified wheelchair September, we have seen greater Remember, discounts apply for Marine Rescue NSW volunteers over 83.6km, he raised about interest from members of the public, and Radio Club members. It’s just one way for us to say thanks. $2,500, bettering his fundraising with increasing numbers attending When you shop with us this Christmas, you’ll join us in our target by $2,000. David ranked 69th our induction courses. mission to save lives on the water. in NSW and 204th in Australia. A number of our members again The unit held its third Watch took part in the St Ives Lions Club’s Officer training course in November. Monster Garage Sale on November Based on feedback, the course 2 and 3, sorting and collecting Shop at the MRNSW e-shop has been restructured to focus on donations, selling to the public and case study scenarios and geared to operating a MRNSW inquiry desk. shopmrnsw.com.au MR Terrey Hills member David Crawford cycled more than 83km to enable learners to confidently fulfil Denis Comber raise funds to fight childhood cancer.

30 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 31 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Hunter/Central Coast News Greater Sydney News

Crew outruns storm to tow tinnie to safety Cottage Point celebrates twice in one day Newcastle responds to series of jet ski incidents up river and offshore. Unit follows commissioning ceremony with 50-year anniversary reunion. n approaching storm front home safely. The dual operations ith the warmer weather Aadded a degree of urgency made for a busy first shift for new Wproducing an early-season to operations for crew members member Jasmine Jackson. Radio upswing in local boating activity on board Newcastle 30 as they room controller Wayne Bissett said and incidents, volunteers from responded to two calls for help in Jasmine had proven a great help in MR Cottage Point took the chance quick succession on October 21. monitoring the operations. to gather ahead of another busy The crew was tasked just north of The unit has responded to a spate summer for an historic dual Stockton Bridge to help an adult and of recent incidents involving jet skis. celebration in early November. three children on a disabled tinnie. On September 22, NC 30, with On a magnificent spring day, Skipper Ron Calman and crew skipper Terry Reynolds and crew a raft of dignitaries, including Rick Nevile, Stuart Lawson and Mick Rick Nevile, Steve Randell, Mick Mackellar MP Jason Falinski, Quill located the vessel just as the Quill and Stuart Lawson, responded MRNSW Chair Jim Glissan and Newcastle 30 crew members Rick Nevile and Stuart Lawson watch nasty storm was approaching, taking to a jet ski operator whose craft was over the towline to a disabled jet ski. Board members, Commissioner it under tow safely to a nearby ramp. swamped in the surf on Stockton Stacey Tannos and several Unit As the storm broke, the crew was Beach. An attempt to have a 4WD NC 30 was tasked to assist another National Medal, recognising a total Commanders, along with many tasked up the Hunter River near drag the craft up the beach came to jet ski with two people on board in of more than 45 years’ service to friends, joined our members to Raymond Terrace to check on a no avail. Stockton Bight, again returning it to the NSW Police Force and marine formally commission our nine-metre couple of jet skis that had called in A second jet ski was able to safety at the Carrington ramp. rescue. Member Steve Randell has Sailfish,Cottage Point 31. with motor and fuel problems. tow the disabled craft out past Congratulations to UC Ron received his MR Crew qualification CP 31 was officially named MR Cottage Point member Beth Watts, joined by her sister Jean Galloway, christens her namesake, rescue vessel Cottage Point 31 (Elizabeth Watts). Photo: Don Smallwood. Communication was lost after the the surf line to reach NC 30, Calman, who has been awarded the and Terry Reynolds received his 10 Elizabeth Watts in recognition of first contact but it was eventually which successfully towed it back clasp to the MRNSW Long Service year Long Service Medal. Beth’s 24 years of continuous and to the Foundation Board of Directors congratulate the unit on its half- of the Sydney Squadron, the then confirmed the riders had made it to Carrington ramp. The next day, Medal and the third clasp to the Terry Reynolds outstanding service to our unit, of MRNSW, helping to guide the century, we welcomed many former Coast Guard started operations the organisation and the boating transition of Coast Guard squadrons and current members to our base from Illawong Bay in 1968 with a community. to the new organisation. at the Ku-ring-gai Motor Yacht Club cobbled-together fleet of members’ A former Australian Volunteer The day’s second celebration - which has been our benefactor own vessels. Coast Guard Association Squadron marked the unit’s 50 years of for the past 47 years - to recount Now as part of MRNSW, with two Commander and Unit Commander service to the boating community of stories, share photos, compare state-of-the-art rescue vessels, we and executive member of the Broken Bay. uniforms and equipment and chat look forward to serving our boating MR Cottage Point unit, Beth was A day after Emergency Services about all things boating. community for the next 50 years. appointed by the State Government Minister Troy Grant visited to Originally the Ku-ring-gai Flotilla Tim Pike Christmas value for you Support for us Volunteer raises funds for a good cause Visit the Marine Rescue NSW online store this Christmas for great arine Rescue Terrey Hills their assesment requirements. discounts on a range of gifts for the boater in your life. Mmember David Crawford has We have continued to seek new You’ll find essential safety equipment and top boating and fishing turned full cycle, volunteering to members. Aside from advertising gear including Marlin PFDs for adults and children, Mini Jump raise funds for another good cause. in various magazines, the unit Starters and Gill marine tools and clothing. David recently took part in the also has a regular information Great Cycle Challenge, raising funds and recruitment desk at the And you can show your support with our Marine Rescue NSW to fight childhood cancer. Bunnings store at Terrey Hills. Since merchandise. Cycling his modified wheelchair September, we have seen greater Remember, discounts apply for Marine Rescue NSW volunteers over 83.6km, he raised about interest from members of the public, and Radio Club members. It’s just one way for us to say thanks. $2,500, bettering his fundraising with increasing numbers attending When you shop with us this Christmas, you’ll join us in our target by $2,000. David ranked 69th our induction courses. mission to save lives on the water. in NSW and 204th in Australia. A number of our members again The unit held its third Watch took part in the St Ives Lions Club’s Officer training course in November. Monster Garage Sale on November Based on feedback, the course 2 and 3, sorting and collecting Shop at the MRNSW e-shop has been restructured to focus on donations, selling to the public and case study scenarios and geared to operating a MRNSW inquiry desk. shopmrnsw.com.au MR Terrey Hills member David Crawford cycled more than 83km to enable learners to confidently fulfil Denis Comber raise funds to fight childhood cancer.

30 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 31 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Proud to support Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney News Greater Sydney News BERTH YOUR BOAT on the Bad weather up-ends A special present for Port Jackson this year HAWKESBURY canoe classic on river Sydney Harbour unit keenly awaiting delivery of new Naiad rescue vessel. Visitors still smiling after tour in rain. fter spending a couple of weeks cabin vessel tested the effectiveness Aout of the water for repairs to of the crew’s wet weather gear its port engine leg, Port Jackson and stamina in the rainy and windy 30 didn’t disappoint on its return October weather. to duty. Meanwhile, members are eagerly On its first weekend back on anticipating the completion of the the water, the rescue vessel was unit’s new rescue vessel, PJ 20. involved in four operations, including The 7.5m Naiad RHIB, being built three tows. One of these saw the at Yamba Welding & Engineering, crew helping NSW Maritime to is scheduled for delivery before the tow a large commercial two-storey end of the year. • 88 berths with power and water ferry that had run aground after its The Port Jackson unit is never • 23 swing moorings (free dinghy storage) mooring snapped in strong winds. idle in enhancing its members’ • Boom gate access to car park A crew member from both PJ 30 skills. A bit big to gift-wrap for Christmas... members of MR Port Jackson and the Maritime vessel boarded the Ian Harding attended the MRNSW are keenly awaiting the delivery of their new Naiad RHIB. • Toilets and showers ferry to successfully relocate it to its coxswain development course and • Slipway to 15 tonnes River rain ... Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey, Emergency Services mooring near Rhodes. congratulations to John Anschau, their familiarity with our rescue Our members and vessel also Minister Troy Grant and MR Hawkesbury UC Peter Moore on HW 21. • Convenience store (Brooklyn Central) This proved a valuable early- Will Stainton and Gerard Kaudeer, vessel, maritime regulations and supported the Emergency Services season ‘live’ training exercise for who have all received their Crew local operating procedures. Special Volunteers Memorial Service, on and • Unleaded fuel on wharf for marina clients rews from MR Hawkesbury were remainder finishing at Spencer. Ckept busy assisting capsized Our members were called to a incident reporting, manoeuvring a qualifications. thanks to members of all crews for off the water, in October. We are • Mechanic on site paddlers from the water and handful of other assists over the vessel using engines alone and in Our 25 new members are helping our new volunteers gain now looking forward to supporting shadowing others to a new finish same weekend, including a runabout strong winds and long and tug tows. continuing their formal training in skills and confidence. boaters’ safe enjoyment of the line after a change in the weather tied alongside a houseboat that Our crews also gained experience first aid, advanced resuscitation, We’ve also been engaging the busiest waterways in Australia hit this year’s Hawkesbury Canoe capsized and a man with a fishing on a different vessel, the operational fire fighting, sea survival and radio community to increase awareness of over the Christmas, New Year and Classic. hook injury. replacement vessel X-Ray 21, while operations, along with our unit- safe boating practices, including at summer period. The unit has a long-standing The runabout was successfully PJ 30 was off the water. The open based activities and drills to ensure the Sydney 4WD Show. Tom Crvenkovic SANDBROOK INLET safety partnership with the Classic, righted and the water pumped an annual event in which more than out before it was towed back to MARINA 300 entrants paddle from Windsor Deerubbun Reserve and taken on to either Wisemans Ferry or the long to a mechanic to attempt to save Tragedy as yacht overturns in rough seas Brooklyn 9985 5500 stretch to Mooney Mooney, which is the engine, which had been in the more than 100km. salt water for more than an hour. All Search called off as skipper located in water off southern Sydney beach. Our members provide a safety in all, a very busy weekend for our tragedy south of Kurnell has The boat was pumped out and net of checkpoints and chase boats crews, who performed remarkably Ahighlighted the importance escorted to Burraneer Marina. from just downstream of Wisemans in all situations presented to them, of Logging On with MRNSW and During the season our skills base Ferry to the finish at Mooney from simple tows to searching for checking conditions when venturing continued to expand with a strong Mooney, along with recording paddlers in the water at 2am. offshore. emphasis on training. entrants’ times and helping set up We were recently delighted to Early in the morning of September Congratulations to Steve Bigeni, and pack up. show Emergency Services Minister 24, MR Botany Port Hacking was who successfully completed This year, our members put in Troy Grant our base and talk about tasked to assist police in a search his coxswain’s assessment and a total of 650 hours over the two what we do to support the local for the skipper of a yacht that had Michael McFadyen for successfully days, without counting the time in community, as well as boaters in overturned in strong winds and completing his Watch Officer the lead-up to event, which raises general. rough seas off Boat Harbour. assessment. money for the Arrow Foundation and Unfortunately, the weather was Soon after, Port Hacking 30 was A number of our provisional bone marrow cancer research. not kind when we set out for a trip stood down and the search called members have also started their Allan Russell makes up Kevin Thompson for his role as an accident Unfortunately, the onset of the to see the sights of the Hawkesbury off, with the missing man’s body radio operator and boat crew victim in a first aid training course at MR Botany Port Hacking. bad weather resulted in the event but to their credit, both the Minister located near Wanda Beach. training. being shortened due to concerns and MRNSW Deputy Commissioner The boat had not been Logged Thanks to the supporters who Karen “Kel” Larter died after a Operator and was a regular at boat for the safety of the paddlers after Dean Storey came back dripping On. help fund our operations by buying long illness (see In Memoriam, page shows and boating safety events. several capsized. wet but smiling broadly. Shortly after 10pm on November raffle tickets and the unit’s popular 44). At her family’s request, unit The unit is considering an A hundred paddlers made the The Hawkesbury is the place to 9, the crew of PH 30 came to the new cookbook. members provided an Honour Guard appropriate way to recognise her entire distance to Mooney Mooney be, whatever the weather! aid of two boaters whose boat was Sadly, the unit farewelled a for her funeral at Woronora. service. before the weather change, with the Jamie Abnett-Miller sinking at South West Arm. veteran volunteer in late spring. Kel served the unit as a Radio Brendan Trembath

32 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 33 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Proud to support Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney News Greater Sydney News BERTH YOUR BOAT on the Bad weather up-ends A special present for Port Jackson this year HAWKESBURY canoe classic on river Sydney Harbour unit keenly awaiting delivery of new Naiad rescue vessel. Visitors still smiling after tour in rain. fter spending a couple of weeks cabin vessel tested the effectiveness Aout of the water for repairs to of the crew’s wet weather gear its port engine leg, Port Jackson and stamina in the rainy and windy 30 didn’t disappoint on its return October weather. to duty. Meanwhile, members are eagerly On its first weekend back on anticipating the completion of the the water, the rescue vessel was unit’s new rescue vessel, PJ 20. involved in four operations, including The 7.5m Naiad RHIB, being built three tows. One of these saw the at Yamba Welding & Engineering, crew helping NSW Maritime to is scheduled for delivery before the tow a large commercial two-storey end of the year. • 88 berths with power and water ferry that had run aground after its The Port Jackson unit is never • 23 swing moorings (free dinghy storage) mooring snapped in strong winds. idle in enhancing its members’ • Boom gate access to car park A crew member from both PJ 30 skills. A bit big to gift-wrap for Christmas... members of MR Port Jackson and the Maritime vessel boarded the Ian Harding attended the MRNSW are keenly awaiting the delivery of their new Naiad RHIB. • Toilets and showers ferry to successfully relocate it to its coxswain development course and • Slipway to 15 tonnes River rain ... Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey, Emergency Services mooring near Rhodes. congratulations to John Anschau, their familiarity with our rescue Our members and vessel also Minister Troy Grant and MR Hawkesbury UC Peter Moore on HW 21. • Convenience store (Brooklyn Central) This proved a valuable early- Will Stainton and Gerard Kaudeer, vessel, maritime regulations and supported the Emergency Services season ‘live’ training exercise for who have all received their Crew local operating procedures. Special Volunteers Memorial Service, on and • Unleaded fuel on wharf for marina clients rews from MR Hawkesbury were remainder finishing at Spencer. Ckept busy assisting capsized Our members were called to a incident reporting, manoeuvring a qualifications. thanks to members of all crews for off the water, in October. We are • Mechanic on site paddlers from the water and handful of other assists over the vessel using engines alone and in Our 25 new members are helping our new volunteers gain now looking forward to supporting shadowing others to a new finish same weekend, including a runabout strong winds and long and tug tows. continuing their formal training in skills and confidence. boaters’ safe enjoyment of the line after a change in the weather tied alongside a houseboat that Our crews also gained experience first aid, advanced resuscitation, We’ve also been engaging the busiest waterways in Australia hit this year’s Hawkesbury Canoe capsized and a man with a fishing on a different vessel, the operational fire fighting, sea survival and radio community to increase awareness of over the Christmas, New Year and Classic. hook injury. replacement vessel X-Ray 21, while operations, along with our unit- safe boating practices, including at summer period. The unit has a long-standing The runabout was successfully PJ 30 was off the water. The open based activities and drills to ensure the Sydney 4WD Show. Tom Crvenkovic SANDBROOK INLET safety partnership with the Classic, righted and the water pumped an annual event in which more than out before it was towed back to MARINA 300 entrants paddle from Windsor Deerubbun Reserve and taken on to either Wisemans Ferry or the long to a mechanic to attempt to save Tragedy as yacht overturns in rough seas Brooklyn 9985 5500 stretch to Mooney Mooney, which is the engine, which had been in the more than 100km. salt water for more than an hour. All Search called off as skipper located in water off southern Sydney beach. Our members provide a safety in all, a very busy weekend for our tragedy south of Kurnell has The boat was pumped out and net of checkpoints and chase boats crews, who performed remarkably A highlighted the importance escorted to Burraneer Marina. from just downstream of Wisemans in all situations presented to them, of Logging On with MRNSW and During the season our skills base Ferry to the finish at Mooney from simple tows to searching for checking conditions when venturing continued to expand with a strong Mooney, along with recording paddlers in the water at 2am. offshore. emphasis on training. entrants’ times and helping set up We were recently delighted to Early in the morning of September Congratulations to Steve Bigeni, and pack up. show Emergency Services Minister 24, MR Botany Port Hacking was who successfully completed This year, our members put in Troy Grant our base and talk about tasked to assist police in a search his coxswain’s assessment and a total of 650 hours over the two what we do to support the local for the skipper of a yacht that had Michael McFadyen for successfully days, without counting the time in community, as well as boaters in overturned in strong winds and completing his Watch Officer the lead-up to event, which raises general. rough seas off Boat Harbour. assessment. money for the Arrow Foundation and Unfortunately, the weather was Soon after, Port Hacking 30 was A number of our provisional bone marrow cancer research. not kind when we set out for a trip stood down and the search called members have also started their Allan Russell makes up Kevin Thompson for his role as an accident Unfortunately, the onset of the to see the sights of the Hawkesbury off, with the missing man’s body radio operator and boat crew victim in a first aid training course at MR Botany Port Hacking. bad weather resulted in the event but to their credit, both the Minister located near Wanda Beach. training. being shortened due to concerns and MRNSW Deputy Commissioner The boat had not been Logged Thanks to the supporters who Karen “Kel” Larter died after a Operator and was a regular at boat for the safety of the paddlers after Dean Storey came back dripping On. help fund our operations by buying long illness (see In Memoriam, page shows and boating safety events. several capsized. wet but smiling broadly. Shortly after 10pm on November raffle tickets and the unit’s popular 44). At her family’s request, unit The unit is considering an A hundred paddlers made the The Hawkesbury is the place to 9, the crew of PH 30 came to the new cookbook. members provided an Honour Guard appropriate way to recognise her entire distance to Mooney Mooney be, whatever the weather! aid of two boaters whose boat was Sadly, the unit farewelled a for her funeral at Woronora. service. before the weather change, with the Jamie Abnett-Miller sinking at South West Arm. veteran volunteer in late spring. Kel served the unit as a Radio Brendan Trembath

32 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 33 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Greater Sydney News Greater Sydney & Illawarra News

rews from MR Broken Bay BB 30 skipper Andrew Majewski oaters on Sydney and Illawarra Chad a busy start to the official set up a vessel exclusion zone and Bwaters can be confident that boating season, responding to 18 crew member Chris Guy boarded rescue teams are primed for a incidents in six weeks from the start the RIB, managing to capture the rapid response to emergencies this of October. dinghy on the second attempt and summer. In a timely reminder for boaters to stop the engine. The young skipper More than 100 marine search ensure they have carried out basic was instructed about the proper use and rescue experts took to the water maintenance and safety checks on and value of the engine kill switch north of Sydney and off Jervis Bay their vessels after the winter lay-off, lanyard, which was not in use, in capability exercises in September most of the calls for help resulted before he proceeded home. and October. in a tow home due to engine and/or We joined in the regional SAREX The Greater Sydney Search battery problems. on the Hawkesbury River and Brian Alexander, skipper Jameson York and Mike Whitworth on and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) was While patrolling in the Bayview Broken Bay, which provided a good board Broken Bay 20 during the Sydney SAREX. held on the Hawkesbury River and and Newport area on October 27, refresher for experienced skippers Broken Bay in late September. More the crew of Broken Bay 30 was and introduced new members to our other members, with a calm and coxswain. We are a much better than 50 volunteers and nine rescue alerted to an unmanned 4m dinghy key search and rescue roles. collected manner. Margarita is a unit thanks to his unwavering vessels from the Broken Bay, Central speeding in circles out of control. BB 30 and BB 20 then took highly skilled crew member and our commitment and high standards. Coast, Cottage Point, Hawkesbury, The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter provided an eye in the sky to support marine search and The owner had been thrown part in the Royal Motor Yacht Club former membership officer, who in Deputy Unit Commander Stuart Norah Head, Terrey Hills and rescue experts taking part in the Illawarra Search and Rescue Exercise off Jervis Bay in October. Photo: Glenn Evans. overboard when his boat was struck sail past to mark the start of the fact formally inducted and supported Sperduti and I attended the MRNSW Tuggerah Lakes units took part. by the wake from a passing cruiser. 2018/19 sailing season, leading the me when I joined MR Broken Bay. Leadership program at Headquarters This was followed by the Illawarra Two people on a RIB from a fleet for the official salute. Unit stalwart Mike Seale has in November. The course also was Regional SAREX on October 14, nearby sail training group had pulled In November, members retired from the unit, leaving a attended by our colleagues from MR which tested another 50 volunteers him out of the water but could not congratulated Graham and legacy of 38 years’ service. Mike Moama, highlighting that although and eight rescue vessels from the stop the dinghy, which was heading Margarita Weir for their individual held executive roles including we were from different areas of Jervis Bay, Kioloa, Port Kembla, towards moored yachts and nearby 10 years’ service to MRNSW. An Deputy Unit Commander, deputy operation, we all had common Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Sussex junior sailing classes, risking a experienced coxswain, Graham is watch officer and administration ground and similar experiences. Inlet and Ulladulla units. collision, damage or injury. always available to help and mentor officer and also was a capable Jimmy Arteaga Both events also involved the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command and Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter. Young achiever sets pace at Middle Harbour Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey said the exercises helped New Leading Crew member thanks colleagues for encouragement. ensure crews were at peak oanna Mycroft spends a great through the sailing community I readiness, honing their search Jdeal of time preoccupied with learnt about Marine Rescue.” and rescue skills and improving boats. MRNSW is her first foray into coordination with other agencies on Form up ... Cottage Point 30, Hawkesbury 22, Central Coast 30 and Hawkesbury 21 pass rugged terrain A naval architect and marine powered boating and she has taken high-activity waterways. on the Hawkesbury River during the Sydney SAREX. Photo: Brendan Trembath. surveyor with Lloyd’s Register by to it with gusto, breaking the unit’s day, Joanna has just become the record for gaining the Leading Crew youngest member of MR Middle qualification. Harbour to achieve the rank of “I knew that, as a sailor, if I ever Leading Crew. called for help the members of The 34-year-old spent her Marine Rescue were probably going CNC Machined Steel Half Couplings childhood on the water in Hobart, to be the people who came to my Poly Flex half couplings come in a range of models including 424, 434, 464, 524, 534, 546 & 616. The first number of the model specifies the flange sailing and rowing, and has rescue,” she said. “I wanted to give OD being either 4”, 5” or 6”. These accommodate shaft sizes ranging from 3/4” - 3”. Please ask one of our trained staff for more info. extensive experience sailing on UK back. Boats make me happy ... Leading Crew member Joanna Mycroft on Custom Half Couplings waters. After attending university “I found an amazing environment & Cotton Reel Adaptors board Middle Harbour 30. Photo: Brian Roberts. Available on Request!! in Sydney, she moved away before to learn new things, supported by a returning four years ago for work. great group of people. I feel lucky to my colleagues, who always seemed Other unit members to attain “Boats and being on the water have had the opportunity to develop. happy to take time out of their day Leading Crew this year are Howard make me happy,” she said. “I would not have been able to to coach me, train me and teach Gipps, Gary Reed, Laurence Adney “I was keen to get back out on get to Leading Crew so quickly me. Their encouragement has and Sandy Hume. the water as quickly as I could and without the unwavering support of meant a lot.” Brian Roberts

34 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 35 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Greater Sydney News Greater Sydney & Illawarra News

Engine, battery failures mark start of season Skills honed for rapid emergency response Broken Bay team captures dinghy spinning dangerously out of control. Sydney and Illawarra search exercises build coordination on busy waterways. rews from MR Broken Bay BB 30 skipper Andrew Majewski oaters on Sydney and Illawarra Chad a busy start to the official set up a vessel exclusion zone and Bwaters can be confident that boating season, responding to 18 crew member Chris Guy boarded rescue teams are primed for a incidents in six weeks from the start the RIB, managing to capture the rapid response to emergencies this of October. dinghy on the second attempt and summer. In a timely reminder for boaters to stop the engine. The young skipper More than 100 marine search ensure they have carried out basic was instructed about the proper use and rescue experts took to the water maintenance and safety checks on and value of the engine kill switch north of Sydney and off Jervis Bay their vessels after the winter lay-off, lanyard, which was not in use, in capability exercises in September most of the calls for help resulted before he proceeded home. and October. in a tow home due to engine and/or We joined in the regional SAREX The Greater Sydney Search battery problems. on the Hawkesbury River and Brian Alexander, skipper Jameson York and Mike Whitworth on and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) was While patrolling in the Bayview Broken Bay, which provided a good board Broken Bay 20 during the Sydney SAREX. held on the Hawkesbury River and and Newport area on October 27, refresher for experienced skippers Broken Bay in late September. More the crew of Broken Bay 30 was and introduced new members to our other members, with a calm and coxswain. We are a much better than 50 volunteers and nine rescue alerted to an unmanned 4m dinghy key search and rescue roles. collected manner. Margarita is a unit thanks to his unwavering vessels from the Broken Bay, Central speeding in circles out of control. BB 30 and BB 20 then took highly skilled crew member and our commitment and high standards. Coast, Cottage Point, Hawkesbury, The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter provided an eye in the sky to support marine search and The owner had been thrown part in the Royal Motor Yacht Club former membership officer, who in Deputy Unit Commander Stuart Norah Head, Terrey Hills and rescue experts taking part in the Illawarra Search and Rescue Exercise off Jervis Bay in October. Photo: Glenn Evans. overboard when his boat was struck sail past to mark the start of the fact formally inducted and supported Sperduti and I attended the MRNSW Tuggerah Lakes units took part. by the wake from a passing cruiser. 2018/19 sailing season, leading the me when I joined MR Broken Bay. Leadership program at Headquarters This was followed by the Illawarra Two people on a RIB from a fleet for the official salute. Unit stalwart Mike Seale has in November. The course also was Regional SAREX on October 14, nearby sail training group had pulled In November, members retired from the unit, leaving a attended by our colleagues from MR which tested another 50 volunteers him out of the water but could not congratulated Graham and legacy of 38 years’ service. Mike Moama, highlighting that although and eight rescue vessels from the stop the dinghy, which was heading Margarita Weir for their individual held executive roles including we were from different areas of Jervis Bay, Kioloa, Port Kembla, towards moored yachts and nearby 10 years’ service to MRNSW. An Deputy Unit Commander, deputy operation, we all had common Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Sussex junior sailing classes, risking a experienced coxswain, Graham is watch officer and administration ground and similar experiences. Inlet and Ulladulla units. collision, damage or injury. always available to help and mentor officer and also was a capable Jimmy Arteaga Both events also involved the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command and Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter. Young achiever sets pace at Middle Harbour Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey said the exercises helped New Leading Crew member thanks colleagues for encouragement. ensure crews were at peak oanna Mycroft spends a great through the sailing community I readiness, honing their search Jdeal of time preoccupied with learnt about Marine Rescue.” and rescue skills and improving boats. MRNSW is her first foray into coordination with other agencies on Form up ... Cottage Point 30, Hawkesbury 22, Central Coast 30 and Hawkesbury 21 pass rugged terrain A naval architect and marine powered boating and she has taken high-activity waterways. on the Hawkesbury River during the Sydney SAREX. Photo: Brendan Trembath. surveyor with Lloyd’s Register by to it with gusto, breaking the unit’s day, Joanna has just become the record for gaining the Leading Crew youngest member of MR Middle qualification. Harbour to achieve the rank of “I knew that, as a sailor, if I ever Leading Crew. called for help the members of The 34-year-old spent her Marine Rescue were probably going CNC Machined Steel Half Couplings childhood on the water in Hobart, to be the people who came to my Poly Flex half couplings come in a range of models including 424, 434, 464, 524, 534, 546 & 616. The first number of the model specifies the flange sailing and rowing, and has rescue,” she said. “I wanted to give OD being either 4”, 5” or 6”. These accommodate shaft sizes ranging from 3/4” - 3”. Please ask one of our trained staff for more info. extensive experience sailing on UK back. Boats make me happy ... Leading Crew member Joanna Mycroft on Custom Half Couplings waters. After attending university “I found an amazing environment & Cotton Reel Adaptors board Middle Harbour 30. Photo: Brian Roberts. Available on Request!! in Sydney, she moved away before to learn new things, supported by a returning four years ago for work. great group of people. I feel lucky to my colleagues, who always seemed Other unit members to attain “Boats and being on the water have had the opportunity to develop. happy to take time out of their day Leading Crew this year are Howard make me happy,” she said. “I would not have been able to to coach me, train me and teach Gipps, Gary Reed, Laurence Adney “I was keen to get back out on get to Leading Crew so quickly me. Their encouragement has and Sandy Hume. the water as quickly as I could and without the unwavering support of meant a lot.” Brian Roberts

34 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 35 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Illawarra News Illawarra News

Breakdowns a timely maintenance reminder Crew contains oil spill from sunken trawler Local exercises help Ulladulla crews prepare for peak holiday season. Shoalhaven puts best foot forward at SAREX and emergency services day. ith 10 emergency responses crew from MR Shoalhaven Wand two local training events Awas swiftly on the scene of an in recent weeks, MR Ulladulla’s operation to contain a pollution spill three rescue vessels have been a on the Crookhaven River when a high visibility presence on the water trawler sank at the Greenwell Point as the unit gears up for the peak jetty in mid-October. holiday season. Shoalhaven 30, with skipper Bill In a timely reminder for boat Smith and crew Kit Laughlin and owners to undertake routine Glenn Kolomeitz, assisted Fire and maintenance before heading out Rescue NSW to position floating over summer, crews have been booms around the trawler to contain called to tow five recreational fishing oil and diesel leaking from the boats experiencing mechanical or vessel, most of which was under electrical problems to safety. water. We have seen an increase in the The commercial fishing boat number of rescued vessels that have The crew of Ulladulla 10 makes best time to the scene of an emergency on Burrill Lake in a live-activation was a sister ship to another trawler not Logged On before heading out. local search and rescue exercise. Photo: Peter White. whose crew was rescued by Jervis The incidence of flare and Bay 40 and assisted by SA 30 when flashing light sightings also has location to our radio operator. as part of the unit’s continuous joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal it sank at sea on August 8. risen, with our rescue vessels Ulladulla 30 rescued the boat, development program. UC Hall and Patrol in 1998 and was awarded the The environmental emergency Shoalhaven 30 helps contain a pollution spill from a sinking trawler. Photo: Danielle Carter. deployed to investigate on four returning it to Ulladulla Harbour. David Lindley took up position on the Emergency Services Medal in 2017. came just four days after the unit occasions, including one that Other sightings were false alarms. bank of Burrill Lake to observe the Skipper Brian Williamson has hosted the Illawarra Regional Search Kembla, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, the communications centre for the family entertainment and displays sparked multiple reports from the The unit joined the Illawarra UL 10 crew, Barry Clapson, Frank been appointed as the unit’s Boat and Rescue Exercise. Kioloa and Ulladulla units and the major capability-building test. by emergency services and public community and local police of a Regional Search and Rescue Ward and Len Smart, with watch Master and will oversee crew Almost 70 personnel from the police launch Victor. The exercise The annual Emergency Services agencies including the State flare seen between Ulladulla and Exercise in October. While the officer Kel Greathead observing rosters. Congratulations to skipper MRNSW Illawarra Region units involved marine search and rescue Open Day hosted by the unit again Emergency Service, Rural Fire Mollymook. conditions were not ideal, our crew Raine O’Keeffe and John Gregory in Barry Clapson for achieving his and the NSW Police Force Marine theory on the Saturday, followed the attracted large and enthusiastic Service, Australian Border Force, The skipper of a small cabin gained valuable experience working the radio base. Marine Rescue Master qualification. Area Command, Surf Life Saving, next day by a sea search for four crowds to the Greenwell Point NSW Police Force, NSW Roads and cruiser who could not restart with other crews and the Westpac Long-standing unit member and To thank our local supporters, Westpac Rescue Helicopter and targets missing on Jervis Bay. waterfront on November 19. Maritime Services and Shoalhaven his engine and was unable to Rescue Helicopter. Illawarra Regional Director Keven each week we are highlighting on Australian Federal Police took part, The unit’s Pilot House at The event included mock rescue Navy Cadets. communicate by radio had set off Unit Commander Dave Hall also Marshall was presented with his our unit Facebook page a different along with vessels from the Port Crookhaven Heads operated as operations, first aid demonstrations, Bill Carter two flares as he drifted close to instigated a live-activation local 20-year Long Service Medal at our a business that provides a MR rocks. Mollymook Surf Life Saving SAREX to provide realistic training October meeting. Highly regarded by Ulladulla donation box on its counter. assisted by reporting the exact scenarios for the crew of UL 10 the community and members, Keven Raine O’Keeffe Hill 60 radio fit-out boosts safety for boaters IMB grant funds new generation technology for Port Kembla base. Jervis Bay volunteers raise profile in awards major technical upgrade has Kembla radio base and personnel. Abeen completed at MR Port “This new-generation technology ore than 20 individual Hanson, Graeme Wheeler, John Kembla in readiness for the peak will provide the unit with increased Mmembers and three teams Townsend, Harold Plumb, Kevin boating season on one of the busiest monitoring and coordination from MR Jervis Bay were nominated McMahon, Carole King, Peter stretches of the NSW coastline. capacity and the boating community in the 2018 NSW Volunteer of the Madgwick, Jurgen Kiaupa, Leonard New digital marine radio with improved radio safety services,” Year Awards for the Illawarra region. Harlen, Joyce Goddard, John communications have been installed he said. Unit members attended the Gallimore, Michael Fogarty, Dennis in the unit’s Hill 60 base thanks to The installation work was regional awards at the Wollongong Douglass, Graham Colbeck and the IMB Community Foundation’s scheduled ahead of the peak Golf Club. This was a valuable way Don Andrews. Nominees for Adult generosity in providing a $70,000 boating season in the first week of to raise the profile of the unit and Volunteer were Leona Curran, Kevin grant for the project. November and completed in less MR Port Kembla Unit Commander Graeme McCrudden on duty at MRNSW, with a number of speakers Hill, Jeffery Choat, Elizabeth Beasley, The work has boosted the unit’s than a week. Hill 60, following the installation of new digital radio technology. mentioning our great work for the Michael Sutton and Cheryl Fogarty. 24/7 marine radio monitoring of the “It was a huge effort by our boating community. Volunteer Team nominees were Illawarra region’s coastal waters. volunteers in getting this completed Measures were put in place to also were supplemented by the Jervis Bay nominees for the the unit’s fundraising team and Unit Commander Graeme so quickly with minimal interruption maintain services. Overnight VHF MR Shoalhaven radio base, which Illawarra volunteer of the year nominees, MR Jevis Bay past and Senior Volunteer of the Year were 2014-16 and 2016-18 executives. present Unit Commanders Greg Atkinson, Allan Reidy, Kevin Hill and McCrudden said the move to digital to the Illawarra public,” UC radio calls were monitored by MR operated around-the-clock during Greg Atkinson, Allan Reidy, Ronald Alex Ross Alex Ross. was a great advance for the MR Port McCrudden said. Terrey Hills and the unit’s operations the installation work.

36 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 37 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Illawarra News Illawarra News

Breakdowns a timely maintenance reminder Crew contains oil spill from sunken trawler Local exercises help Ulladulla crews prepare for peak holiday season. Shoalhaven puts best foot forward at SAREX and emergency services day. ith 10 emergency responses crew from MR Shoalhaven Wand two local training events A was swiftly on the scene of an in recent weeks, MR Ulladulla’s operation to contain a pollution spill three rescue vessels have been a on the Crookhaven River when a high visibility presence on the water trawler sank at the Greenwell Point as the unit gears up for the peak jetty in mid-October. holiday season. Shoalhaven 30, with skipper Bill In a timely reminder for boat Smith and crew Kit Laughlin and owners to undertake routine Glenn Kolomeitz, assisted Fire and maintenance before heading out Rescue NSW to position floating over summer, crews have been booms around the trawler to contain called to tow five recreational fishing oil and diesel leaking from the boats experiencing mechanical or vessel, most of which was under electrical problems to safety. water. We have seen an increase in the The commercial fishing boat number of rescued vessels that have The crew of Ulladulla 10 makes best time to the scene of an emergency on Burrill Lake in a live-activation was a sister ship to another trawler not Logged On before heading out. local search and rescue exercise. Photo: Peter White. whose crew was rescued by Jervis The incidence of flare and Bay 40 and assisted by SA 30 when flashing light sightings also has location to our radio operator. as part of the unit’s continuous joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal it sank at sea on August 8. risen, with our rescue vessels Ulladulla 30 rescued the boat, development program. UC Hall and Patrol in 1998 and was awarded the The environmental emergency Shoalhaven 30 helps contain a pollution spill from a sinking trawler. Photo: Danielle Carter. deployed to investigate on four returning it to Ulladulla Harbour. David Lindley took up position on the Emergency Services Medal in 2017. came just four days after the unit occasions, including one that Other sightings were false alarms. bank of Burrill Lake to observe the Skipper Brian Williamson has hosted the Illawarra Regional Search Kembla, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, the communications centre for the family entertainment and displays sparked multiple reports from the The unit joined the Illawarra UL 10 crew, Barry Clapson, Frank been appointed as the unit’s Boat and Rescue Exercise. Kioloa and Ulladulla units and the major capability-building test. by emergency services and public community and local police of a Regional Search and Rescue Ward and Len Smart, with watch Master and will oversee crew Almost 70 personnel from the police launch Victor. The exercise The annual Emergency Services agencies including the State flare seen between Ulladulla and Exercise in October. While the officer Kel Greathead observing rosters. Congratulations to skipper MRNSW Illawarra Region units involved marine search and rescue Open Day hosted by the unit again Emergency Service, Rural Fire Mollymook. conditions were not ideal, our crew Raine O’Keeffe and John Gregory in Barry Clapson for achieving his and the NSW Police Force Marine theory on the Saturday, followed the attracted large and enthusiastic Service, Australian Border Force, The skipper of a small cabin gained valuable experience working the radio base. Marine Rescue Master qualification. Area Command, Surf Life Saving, next day by a sea search for four crowds to the Greenwell Point NSW Police Force, NSW Roads and cruiser who could not restart with other crews and the Westpac Long-standing unit member and To thank our local supporters, Westpac Rescue Helicopter and targets missing on Jervis Bay. waterfront on November 19. Maritime Services and Shoalhaven his engine and was unable to Rescue Helicopter. Illawarra Regional Director Keven each week we are highlighting on Australian Federal Police took part, The unit’s Pilot House at The event included mock rescue Navy Cadets. communicate by radio had set off Unit Commander Dave Hall also Marshall was presented with his our unit Facebook page a different along with vessels from the Port Crookhaven Heads operated as operations, first aid demonstrations, Bill Carter two flares as he drifted close to instigated a live-activation local 20-year Long Service Medal at our a business that provides a MR rocks. Mollymook Surf Life Saving SAREX to provide realistic training October meeting. Highly regarded by Ulladulla donation box on its counter. assisted by reporting the exact scenarios for the crew of UL 10 the community and members, Keven Raine O’Keeffe Hill 60 radio fit-out boosts safety for boaters IMB grant funds new generation technology for Port Kembla base. Jervis Bay volunteers raise profile in awards major technical upgrade has Kembla radio base and personnel. A been completed at MR Port “This new-generation technology ore than 20 individual Hanson, Graeme Wheeler, John Kembla in readiness for the peak will provide the unit with increased Mmembers and three teams Townsend, Harold Plumb, Kevin boating season on one of the busiest monitoring and coordination from MR Jervis Bay were nominated McMahon, Carole King, Peter stretches of the NSW coastline. capacity and the boating community in the 2018 NSW Volunteer of the Madgwick, Jurgen Kiaupa, Leonard New digital marine radio with improved radio safety services,” Year Awards for the Illawarra region. Harlen, Joyce Goddard, John communications have been installed he said. Unit members attended the Gallimore, Michael Fogarty, Dennis in the unit’s Hill 60 base thanks to The installation work was regional awards at the Wollongong Douglass, Graham Colbeck and the IMB Community Foundation’s scheduled ahead of the peak Golf Club. This was a valuable way Don Andrews. Nominees for Adult generosity in providing a $70,000 boating season in the first week of to raise the profile of the unit and Volunteer were Leona Curran, Kevin grant for the project. November and completed in less MR Port Kembla Unit Commander Graeme McCrudden on duty at MRNSW, with a number of speakers Hill, Jeffery Choat, Elizabeth Beasley, The work has boosted the unit’s than a week. Hill 60, following the installation of new digital radio technology. mentioning our great work for the Michael Sutton and Cheryl Fogarty. 24/7 marine radio monitoring of the “It was a huge effort by our boating community. Volunteer Team nominees were Illawarra region’s coastal waters. volunteers in getting this completed Measures were put in place to also were supplemented by the Jervis Bay nominees for the the unit’s fundraising team and Unit Commander Graeme so quickly with minimal interruption maintain services. Overnight VHF MR Shoalhaven radio base, which Illawarra volunteer of the year nominees, MR Jevis Bay past and Senior Volunteer of the Year were 2014-16 and 2016-18 executives. present Unit Commanders Greg Atkinson, Allan Reidy, Kevin Hill and McCrudden said the move to digital to the Illawarra public,” UC radio calls were monitored by MR operated around-the-clock during Greg Atkinson, Allan Reidy, Ronald Alex Ross Alex Ross. was a great advance for the MR Port McCrudden said. Terrey Hills and the unit’s operations the installation work.

36 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 37 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Illawarra News Illawarra & Monaro News

fter a period of rapid renewal during our regional Search and arine Rescue Shellharbour’s Aand training, the MR Kioloa Rescue Exercise on Jervis Bay on Mfirst annual golf day proved radio base and rescue vessel are October 14, which took a realistic a hit, with 48 players joining the again at full operational status. turn when another vessel with spirited four man ambrose event on Our vessel crew has been tasked mechanical problems needed help November 9. to three recent assists. to return to Huskisson. The line-up for the event In late September, a vessel Fortunately for the distressed at the Links Golf Course at that had Logged On with the MR vessel, eight MRNSW vessels were Shellharbour included local business Batemans Bay unit to our south nearby, all standing ready to help. representatives, community experienced motor problems off The Kioloa crew was tasked leaders, MRNSW supporters, unit Depot Beach and required a tow to to respond before rejoining the members more used to rough seas safety. exercise later in the morning. than fairways and the MRNSW Although the boater called the Our last assist was to rescue Headquarters Hackers team, led by Crew members Peter Lee and Tim Bogg on board Kioloa 20 during Batemans Bay unit for help, Kioloa a jet ski and two cold riders from the Illawarra Region Search and Rescue Exercise on Jervis Bay. Commissioner Stacey Tannos. 20 was on a training exercise in the Belowla Island, where the craft had The unit’s cooks ensured players The blues on the greens ... MR Shellharbour members Gerry Kelly, Peter May, Jordan Brown, David area and best placed to assist. broken down and washed ashore on The Kioloa unit is planning to to raise awareness of our work to were well fed, with the barbecue White, Dennis Quye and Eva Goodchild at the unit’s first annual golf day. Photo: Brendan Trembath. As Illawarra Regional Operations to rocks. welcome local residents and visitors assist the local community and firing throughout the day. Manager Bruce Mitchell later noted, The pair, neither of whom was to an Open Day on Monday, January attract new members. The event was not only a valuable Heywood, who performed his last professionally and his skill\sets it was a good example of why there wearing a wetsuit, was brought 7. We would also welcome any fundraiser for the unit but also a way shift on November 4 after 35 years’ will be missed by all who had the are no unit or regional boundaries safely back to Kioloa just in time The radio base and rescue vessel MRNSW members who are in the for the volunteers to give something service. privilege of working alongside him. on the water. as both were in the early stages of will be on display for the event, area to come along and meet us. back and thank the community for DUC May wished Zane and “We will all miss Zane’s sense of The second incident occurred developing hypothermia. which will be a valuable opportunity Peter White its endless support. his family all the best in the next humour, loyalty and pride in his unit. We would like to thank chapter of their lives. “I have known Zane for many everyone who generously donated, “Zane has given exemplary years. He is someone you can rely participated and lent a helping hand service to Marine Rescue NSW and on and trust with your life - and I New recruits boost Sussex Inlet capability on the day, particularly Deputy Unit before that to both the Australian have, many times. Commander Peter May and unit Volunteer Coast Guard and Royal “I have been honoured to call Commander praises trainees’ exceptional enthusiasm, perseverance. functions officer Alana Heywood. Volunteer Coastal Patrol,” he said. Zane a mate.” Zane Heywood has retired after he Sussex Inlet unit has boosted The recruit training was strongly The unit has farewelled Zane “He has always presented himself Alana Heywood 35 years’ service. Tits capability thanks to a supported by Regional Training successful recruitment and training Manager South Stuart Massey. campaign. Congratulations to our new radio Five new recruits have recently operators, Karen Lowry, Shane Alpine Lakes opens door to a new view qualified as radio operators, with Lowry, Lawrence Jaques, Greg three subsequently progressing to Tuffy and Tom Jensen. Extra kudos ork to beautify the foreshore complete their rescue vessel crew to Lawrence, Greg and Tom, who Wof Lake Jindabyne is under assessments as well. completed their Crew assessments way in front of the MR Alpine Lakes The recruitment campaign was in November. Four new recruits will shed. built around monthly articles in the begin their training in January. The work is providing parking for local newsletter focusing on the In early October, the unit the numerous boaters who frequent unit’s actvities and boating safety responded to a report of an the area each day. A stone wall has lessons, complemented by each unit overturned sailing catamaran in St Regional Training Manager Stuart Massey with newly-qualified MR been built to protect the road from member’s commitment to actively Georges Basin, plucking a father Sussex Inlet Crew members Greg Tuffy, Tom Jensen and Lawrence rising lake levels and the waves recruit one new member over a year. and his two young sons from the Jaques. whipped up by the winds during Unit Commander Ellen Dodd water just before sunset. winter storms. Our shed is at least a said the trainees had demonstrated Proceeding to the vessel’s the upturned vessel with the three The next day the unit was tasked metre higher than the dam wall but exceptional enthusiasm and reported position off Sanctuary Point males in the water 200m away to ensure the overturned Hobie the road is on a lower grade. perseverance to gain their Beach, the crew of Sussex Inlet 22 between the vessel and the beach. Cat was not posing a navigation The project’s second stage qualifications in minimum time. was unable to sight the disabled The trio was taken on board and hazard in the Basin. The catamaran, will include public toilets and “Their efforts have boosted the catamaran so headed downwind, transported to the Sanctuary Point which had drifted further towards showers. Thanks to Snowy Monaro unit’s capability to sustain operations following the most likely drift line boat ramp, where they were met by the shore, was taken under tow to Regional Council and the Foreshore over the coming Christmas holiday towards Cabbage Tree Point. Committee for carrying out the work. NSW Police and an ambulance. The Sanctuary Point Beach. Landscaping works under way on the shore of Lake Jindabyne in front of the MR Alpine Lakes shed, period,” she said. The crew spotted the hull of crew returned to base after sunset. Les Pataky Karin Davies which was opened this year. Photo: Tony Davies.

38 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 39 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Illawarra News Illawarra & Monaro News

Kioloa at strength after rapid renewal Shellharbour escapes the rough for golf day January Open Day aims to raise awareness and attract members. Unit stages new event to thank community for its tireless support. fter a period of rapid renewal during our regional Search and arine Rescue Shellharbour’s Aand training, the MR Kioloa Rescue Exercise on Jervis Bay on Mfirst annual golf day proved radio base and rescue vessel are October 14, which took a realistic a hit, with 48 players joining the again at full operational status. turn when another vessel with spirited four man ambrose event on Our vessel crew has been tasked mechanical problems needed help November 9. to three recent assists. to return to Huskisson. The line-up for the event In late September, a vessel Fortunately for the distressed at the Links Golf Course at that had Logged On with the MR vessel, eight MRNSW vessels were Shellharbour included local business Batemans Bay unit to our south nearby, all standing ready to help. representatives, community experienced motor problems off The Kioloa crew was tasked leaders, MRNSW supporters, unit Depot Beach and required a tow to to respond before rejoining the members more used to rough seas safety. exercise later in the morning. than fairways and the MRNSW Although the boater called the Our last assist was to rescue Headquarters Hackers team, led by Crew members Peter Lee and Tim Bogg on board Kioloa 20 during Batemans Bay unit for help, Kioloa a jet ski and two cold riders from the Illawarra Region Search and Rescue Exercise on Jervis Bay. Commissioner Stacey Tannos. 20 was on a training exercise in the Belowla Island, where the craft had The unit’s cooks ensured players The blues on the greens ... MR Shellharbour members Gerry Kelly, Peter May, Jordan Brown, David area and best placed to assist. broken down and washed ashore on The Kioloa unit is planning to to raise awareness of our work to were well fed, with the barbecue White, Dennis Quye and Eva Goodchild at the unit’s first annual golf day. Photo: Brendan Trembath. As Illawarra Regional Operations to rocks. welcome local residents and visitors assist the local community and firing throughout the day. Manager Bruce Mitchell later noted, The pair, neither of whom was to an Open Day on Monday, January attract new members. The event was not only a valuable Heywood, who performed his last professionally and his skill\sets it was a good example of why there wearing a wetsuit, was brought 7. We would also welcome any fundraiser for the unit but also a way shift on November 4 after 35 years’ will be missed by all who had the are no unit or regional boundaries safely back to Kioloa just in time The radio base and rescue vessel MRNSW members who are in the for the volunteers to give something service. privilege of working alongside him. on the water. as both were in the early stages of will be on display for the event, area to come along and meet us. back and thank the community for DUC May wished Zane and “We will all miss Zane’s sense of The second incident occurred developing hypothermia. which will be a valuable opportunity Peter White its endless support. his family all the best in the next humour, loyalty and pride in his unit. We would like to thank chapter of their lives. “I have known Zane for many everyone who generously donated, “Zane has given exemplary years. He is someone you can rely participated and lent a helping hand service to Marine Rescue NSW and on and trust with your life - and I New recruits boost Sussex Inlet capability on the day, particularly Deputy Unit before that to both the Australian have, many times. Commander Peter May and unit Volunteer Coast Guard and Royal “I have been honoured to call Commander praises trainees’ exceptional enthusiasm, perseverance. functions officer Alana Heywood. Volunteer Coastal Patrol,” he said. Zane a mate.” Zane Heywood has retired after he Sussex Inlet unit has boosted The recruit training was strongly The unit has farewelled Zane “He has always presented himself Alana Heywood 35 years’ service. Tits capability thanks to a supported by Regional Training successful recruitment and training Manager South Stuart Massey. campaign. Congratulations to our new radio Five new recruits have recently operators, Karen Lowry, Shane Alpine Lakes opens door to a new view qualified as radio operators, with Lowry, Lawrence Jaques, Greg three subsequently progressing to Tuffy and Tom Jensen. Extra kudos ork to beautify the foreshore complete their rescue vessel crew to Lawrence, Greg and Tom, who Wof Lake Jindabyne is under assessments as well. completed their Crew assessments way in front of the MR Alpine Lakes The recruitment campaign was in November. Four new recruits will shed. built around monthly articles in the begin their training in January. The work is providing parking for local newsletter focusing on the In early October, the unit the numerous boaters who frequent unit’s actvities and boating safety responded to a report of an the area each day. A stone wall has lessons, complemented by each unit overturned sailing catamaran in St Regional Training Manager Stuart Massey with newly-qualified MR been built to protect the road from member’s commitment to actively Georges Basin, plucking a father Sussex Inlet Crew members Greg Tuffy, Tom Jensen and Lawrence rising lake levels and the waves recruit one new member over a year. and his two young sons from the Jaques. whipped up by the winds during Unit Commander Ellen Dodd water just before sunset. winter storms. Our shed is at least a said the trainees had demonstrated Proceeding to the vessel’s the upturned vessel with the three The next day the unit was tasked metre higher than the dam wall but exceptional enthusiasm and reported position off Sanctuary Point males in the water 200m away to ensure the overturned Hobie the road is on a lower grade. perseverance to gain their Beach, the crew of Sussex Inlet 22 between the vessel and the beach. Cat was not posing a navigation The project’s second stage qualifications in minimum time. was unable to sight the disabled The trio was taken on board and hazard in the Basin. The catamaran, will include public toilets and “Their efforts have boosted the catamaran so headed downwind, transported to the Sanctuary Point which had drifted further towards showers. Thanks to Snowy Monaro unit’s capability to sustain operations following the most likely drift line boat ramp, where they were met by the shore, was taken under tow to Regional Council and the Foreshore over the coming Christmas holiday towards Cabbage Tree Point. Committee for carrying out the work. NSW Police and an ambulance. The Sanctuary Point Beach. Landscaping works under way on the shore of Lake Jindabyne in front of the MR Alpine Lakes shed, period,” she said. The crew spotted the hull of crew returned to base after sunset. Les Pataky Karin Davies which was opened this year. Photo: Tony Davies.

38 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 39 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Monaro News Monaro News

mergency response on remote major upgrade of the MR All were resolved with the help Estretches of the NSW Far AEden base is expected to be of the Police Marine Area Command South Coast will be enhanced by completed befiore the summer rush. at Eden. strengthened cooperation between The construction of our new In October, members joined a two local rescue services. search and rescue coordination Melbourne Cup promotional cruise As part of their commitment facilities is almost complete, along on the waters of Twofold Bay, to water and boating safety, MR with car parking. enjoying the chance to have a photo Bermagui and the Bermagui Surf A new external staircase and taken with the famed trophy. Life Saving Club held a joint training stair lift are the final stages of the MR Eden is again gearing up for exercise on October 29 to polish project. Funded by a $75,000 our role in the Sydney to Hobart search and rescue coordination and NSW Government Infrastructure Yacht Race. This is always a big practices and increase awareness of Hitching a ride ... MR Bermagui and Bermagui Surf Life Saving crew members load a Surf boat on the Grant, the work will provide a more event for our unit and town and each other’s capabilities. stern of Bermagui 30 during a joint training exercise. efficient and comfortable working considerable effort is put into The two agencies took to environment for our volunteers, making sure that all of our systems Bermagui Harbour and Horseshoe “We’ve been looking at ways transferring people between vessels. said joint training between MRNSW as well as disabled access and an are working at maximum efficiency. Bay to practice skills such as loading that we can work together to fill the Ms Parfitt thanked everyone who and Surf Life Saving NSW was a emergency exit. A meeting with representatives Monaro Regional Director Glenn Felkin and MR Eden Unit Commander a Surf inflatable rescue boat (IRB) gaps that might exist in a search, took part in the exercise. smart move. Recent patchy weather has of the race organisers, the Cruising John McKinnon inspect progress on the unit’s $75,000 upgrade. on to the stern of rescue vessel particularly on parts of the coastline Master Denise Page, Steve “To cover white and blue water resulted in fewer boaters on the Yacht Club of Australia, and Police Bermagui 30. where it’s quite remote,” she said. Angelo, Volker Aebischer and Babs at the same time is killing two birds water. The unit has responded Marine Area Command is scheduled event before Tasmanian authorities radios and safety equipment. In an emergency, a surf club boat “We can’t get in close but they Stephens were on board Bermagui with one stone,” he said. to calls to medical emergencies, to plan this year’s radio operations. take over the race safety monitoring. Remember to Log On with MRNSW could be transported to a remote can - but they can’t get their boats 30, while the Surf Club members Mr Massey has experience in coordinating NSW Ambulance MR Eden provides radio coverage CYCA members will again be located when you head out and Log Off location, allowing surf life savers to there.” were Cheryl McCarthy, Andrew both blue and white water. assistance, and from distressed for the fleet as it heads south down in the radio base. when you return, either by radio on search the surf zone. She said the point of closer Curven, Vikki Marshall, Steve In his own time he is a patrol vessels experiencing mechanical the coast. Now is the time for boaters to VHF Ch 16 or 27 MHz Ch 88 or the MR Bermagui Unit Commander cooperation was to broaden the O’Sullivan and Euan McKenzie. member at North Wollongong Surf problems, mostly relating to The radio base will be operational check all aspects of their craft, MarineRescue app. Caron Parfitt said the exercise with coverage the two groups could offer. MRNSW Monaro Regional Club. batteries and fuel. 24/7 for the first three days of the including batteries, engines, fuel, John McKinnon Bermagui SLC went extremely well. The two teams also practiced Training Manager Stuart Massey Brendan Trembath Batemans Bay prepared for holiday influx Volunteers keep watch over river paddlers Increased focus on training ensures more members qualified to assist. No incidents as hundreds join massive marathon on mighty Murray. ith summer crowds already response to incidents on the water, he Murray River put almost 549 competition, supported by two Wstarting to build, a recent run whether as radio operators or crew Tpaddlers in 166 boats to the test members of MR Tuross on another of fantastic weather has attracted members. in the 50th Massive Murray Paddle day. more boaters to the local waterways David Murn has earned his in November. Mr Sullivan thanked MR Moama watched over by MR Batemans Bay. Master qualification and Peter The competitors navigated a volunteers Beresford Ralph, Norm We are regularly seeing the car Varkulevicius has been promoted to 400km course from Yarrawonga Berger and Tony Clarke and MR park full of cars and trailers and Coxswain. to Swan Hill over five days from Tuross Unit Commander Blaise recently had more than a dozen Other members who have gained November 19 to 23, raising almost Madden and member Paul Carter for boats Logged On by 6am. new ratings include John Clement $230,000 for charity. taking part in the event. The unit will extend its operations (Leading Crew), Sandra Simmonds, MRNSW provided a safety watch He said the crews had not been for the peak season. The radio base Michael Rodgers and Peter Johnson for stages of the event, ready to called to respond to any incidents will be on the air from 5.30am (MR Crew) and Greg Irvine (Radio rescue anyone who ended up in during the marathon. MR Tuross UC Blaise Madden and DUC Alan Blessington on board daily and our rescue vessel crews Operator). the water, watching out for fatigued Paddle safety advice from NSW new Naiad, Tuross 12. will be standing ready to respond Our recruitment activities have paddlers, especially in cold and Maritime, which supported the to the inevitable late afternoon resulted in six new members signing MR Batemans Bay rescue vessels stage a commemorative sail past windy conditions on the second last event, is for paddlers to know their Moruya Bar is almost complete. hazardous river bar. calls for help from boaters striking on and starting their training. on Remembrance Day. day, and keeping powered vessels ability, plan their trips accordingly A finger wharf and security The unit has also installed a mechanical, engine, battery or fuel A commemorative sail past by from the course. and always wear an appropriate fence have been built at Preddey’s new floating block dock for its problems as they return to shore. the unit’s three rescue vessels on Cenotaph. The unit has also raised Both events attracted large Monaro Regional Operations lifejacket. Wharf and once the anchors for new vessel, TU 12, a 4.8m Naiad The unit has placed a heightened the harbour on Remembrance Day the profile of MRNSW at two crowds, with a number of Manager Glenn Sullivan said a crew Back on the coastline, MR the AirBerth are installed, TU 20 that will be deployed to respond to focus on training in recent months was well received by the crowd recent events, an open day at the prospective members indicating from MR Moama had patrolled Tuross’ two-year project to provide a will be able to be moved to its new emergencies on Tuross Lake and the to ensure as many members as of about 200 people attending Old Courthouse Museum and the their interest in joining MRNSW. the river on the last two days of permanent berth for TU 20 near the location, just three minutes from the Moruya River. possible are qualified to join the the memorial service at the town Seaside Carnivale. Richard Blundell

40 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 41 MAKING WAVES MAKING WAVES Monaro News Monaro News

Services work to bolster remote response Eden radio base upgrade nears completion Bermagui training exercise strengthens joint coverage of coastline. $75,000 project improves operational environment and access for all. mergency response on remote major upgrade of the MR All were resolved with the help Estretches of the NSW Far A Eden base is expected to be of the Police Marine Area Command South Coast will be enhanced by completed befiore the summer rush. at Eden. strengthened cooperation between The construction of our new In October, members joined a two local rescue services. search and rescue coordination Melbourne Cup promotional cruise As part of their commitment facilities is almost complete, along on the waters of Twofold Bay, to water and boating safety, MR with car parking. enjoying the chance to have a photo Bermagui and the Bermagui Surf A new external staircase and taken with the famed trophy. Life Saving Club held a joint training stair lift are the final stages of the MR Eden is again gearing up for exercise on October 29 to polish project. Funded by a $75,000 our role in the Sydney to Hobart search and rescue coordination and NSW Government Infrastructure Yacht Race. This is always a big practices and increase awareness of Hitching a ride ... MR Bermagui and Bermagui Surf Life Saving crew members load a Surf boat on the Grant, the work will provide a more event for our unit and town and each other’s capabilities. stern of Bermagui 30 during a joint training exercise. efficient and comfortable working considerable effort is put into The two agencies took to environment for our volunteers, making sure that all of our systems Bermagui Harbour and Horseshoe “We’ve been looking at ways transferring people between vessels. said joint training between MRNSW as well as disabled access and an are working at maximum efficiency. Bay to practice skills such as loading that we can work together to fill the Ms Parfitt thanked everyone who and Surf Life Saving NSW was a emergency exit. A meeting with representatives Monaro Regional Director Glenn Felkin and MR Eden Unit Commander a Surf inflatable rescue boat (IRB) gaps that might exist in a search, took part in the exercise. smart move. Recent patchy weather has of the race organisers, the Cruising John McKinnon inspect progress on the unit’s $75,000 upgrade. on to the stern of rescue vessel particularly on parts of the coastline Master Denise Page, Steve “To cover white and blue water resulted in fewer boaters on the Yacht Club of Australia, and Police Bermagui 30. where it’s quite remote,” she said. Angelo, Volker Aebischer and Babs at the same time is killing two birds water. The unit has responded Marine Area Command is scheduled event before Tasmanian authorities radios and safety equipment. In an emergency, a surf club boat “We can’t get in close but they Stephens were on board Bermagui with one stone,” he said. to calls to medical emergencies, to plan this year’s radio operations. take over the race safety monitoring. Remember to Log On with MRNSW could be transported to a remote can - but they can’t get their boats 30, while the Surf Club members Mr Massey has experience in coordinating NSW Ambulance MR Eden provides radio coverage CYCA members will again be located when you head out and Log Off location, allowing surf life savers to there.” were Cheryl McCarthy, Andrew both blue and white water. assistance, and from distressed for the fleet as it heads south down in the radio base. when you return, either by radio on search the surf zone. She said the point of closer Curven, Vikki Marshall, Steve In his own time he is a patrol vessels experiencing mechanical the coast. Now is the time for boaters to VHF Ch 16 or 27 MHz Ch 88 or the MR Bermagui Unit Commander cooperation was to broaden the O’Sullivan and Euan McKenzie. member at North Wollongong Surf problems, mostly relating to The radio base will be operational check all aspects of their craft, MarineRescue app. Caron Parfitt said the exercise with coverage the two groups could offer. MRNSW Monaro Regional Club. batteries and fuel. 24/7 for the first three days of the including batteries, engines, fuel, John McKinnon Bermagui SLC went extremely well. The two teams also practiced Training Manager Stuart Massey Brendan Trembath Batemans Bay prepared for holiday influx Volunteers keep watch over river paddlers Increased focus on training ensures more members qualified to assist. No incidents as hundreds join massive marathon on mighty Murray. ith summer crowds already response to incidents on the water, he Murray River put almost 549 competition, supported by two Wstarting to build, a recent run whether as radio operators or crew Tpaddlers in 166 boats to the test members of MR Tuross on another of fantastic weather has attracted members. in the 50th Massive Murray Paddle day. more boaters to the local waterways David Murn has earned his in November. Mr Sullivan thanked MR Moama watched over by MR Batemans Bay. Master qualification and Peter The competitors navigated a volunteers Beresford Ralph, Norm We are regularly seeing the car Varkulevicius has been promoted to 400km course from Yarrawonga Berger and Tony Clarke and MR park full of cars and trailers and Coxswain. to Swan Hill over five days from Tuross Unit Commander Blaise recently had more than a dozen Other members who have gained November 19 to 23, raising almost Madden and member Paul Carter for boats Logged On by 6am. new ratings include John Clement $230,000 for charity. taking part in the event. The unit will extend its operations (Leading Crew), Sandra Simmonds, MRNSW provided a safety watch He said the crews had not been for the peak season. The radio base Michael Rodgers and Peter Johnson for stages of the event, ready to called to respond to any incidents will be on the air from 5.30am (MR Crew) and Greg Irvine (Radio rescue anyone who ended up in during the marathon. MR Tuross UC Blaise Madden and DUC Alan Blessington on board daily and our rescue vessel crews Operator). the water, watching out for fatigued Paddle safety advice from NSW new Naiad, Tuross 12. will be standing ready to respond Our recruitment activities have paddlers, especially in cold and Maritime, which supported the to the inevitable late afternoon resulted in six new members signing MR Batemans Bay rescue vessels stage a commemorative sail past windy conditions on the second last event, is for paddlers to know their Moruya Bar is almost complete. hazardous river bar. calls for help from boaters striking on and starting their training. on Remembrance Day. day, and keeping powered vessels ability, plan their trips accordingly A finger wharf and security The unit has also installed a mechanical, engine, battery or fuel A commemorative sail past by from the course. and always wear an appropriate fence have been built at Preddey’s new floating block dock for its problems as they return to shore. the unit’s three rescue vessels on Cenotaph. The unit has also raised Both events attracted large Monaro Regional Operations lifejacket. Wharf and once the anchors for new vessel, TU 12, a 4.8m Naiad The unit has placed a heightened the harbour on Remembrance Day the profile of MRNSW at two crowds, with a number of Manager Glenn Sullivan said a crew Back on the coastline, MR the AirBerth are installed, TU 20 that will be deployed to respond to focus on training in recent months was well received by the crowd recent events, an open day at the prospective members indicating from MR Moama had patrolled Tuross’ two-year project to provide a will be able to be moved to its new emergencies on Tuross Lake and the to ensure as many members as of about 200 people attending Old Courthouse Museum and the their interest in joining MRNSW. the river on the last two days of permanent berth for TU 20 near the location, just three minutes from the Moruya River. possible are qualified to join the the memorial service at the town Seaside Carnivale. Richard Blundell

40 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 41 PICTURE GALLERY IN MEMORIAM Engaging with the community Tributes to valued members

What we’ve been up to Leigh’s legacy of excellence will live on Trainer always willing to help members improve their performance.

eigh Carmichael will be share and transfer his skill was He continued as a unit member Lremembered as one of the best extraordinary. He was generous with contagious and inspirational things ever to happen to MR Lemon and always willing to help others enthusiasm. Tree Passage, leaving us a legacy enhance their performance. Even when he was obviously of excellence in training and boating Leigh’s excellence in training was suffering, he always managed to skills. recognised by MRNSW when he crack a smile, tell a bad joke and Leigh became a member of the was appointed our Regional Training encourage everyone to strive for Lemon Tree Passage Coast Guard in Officer. While he was a wonderful excellence. Leigh never had a bad 2005, bringing commercial maritime asset for MRNSW as a whole, the or discouraging word for anyone; qualifications and from that point, unit soon found that we had to rather, he had the knack of finding raising the bar in the standard of our share him. Leigh held this position the positive in everything. Even in Leigh Carmichael. training and professionalism. for four years, battling stoically to his last few months he continued to His knowledge of boating was keep going until he simply became give his time when well enough. much but his legacy will live on. second to none and his ability to too ill to maintain a full-time role. We will miss our colleague very Rick Tyler

Reason to celebrate ... members of MR Cottage Point, dignitaries and guests gather on the waterfront on a spectacular spring morning to witness Chaplain Carmelo Sciberras bless Cottage Point 31 (Elizabeth Watts) during the rescue vessel’s official commissioning ceremony. The Arthur honoured for gallantry and service unit also marked its 50th anniversary with a reunion of past and present members (see story, page 31). Photo: Jon Bensley. espected volunteer and the former General Manager of became the Divisional Commander Rdecorated member of MR Port Bankstown City Council was put to and later the senior manager for the Stephens Arthur Heiler passed away good use. He spent many years as Central Coast and Hunter units. suddenly in October, aged 79. a crew member on Girralong and Awarded the Commissioner’s After retiring to Fingal Bay Danial Thain and was awarded the Commendation for Service in 2005, in 1995, Arthur maintained his RVCP Albatross Medal, the highest he was highly regarded by all units, enthusiasm for community work in award for gallantry, for his work on a as he was happy to share his skills roles including secretary of the Port police boat attempting to rescue the and knowledge, always with a smile. Stephens Sister City Committee, skipper of the vessel Trade Winds Working tirelessly with his wife chairman of a local volunteer park foundering in heavy seas. Margaret to make our waterways committee and a director of the The Division was successful safer and enhance our community, Arthur Heiler. Fingal Bay Sporting Club. He joined in obtaining funding towards its he was presented the NSW State the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol command centre and other projects Government Community Service Arthur will be sorely missed. in 1999, where his experience as with which Arthur was involved. He Medal and the National Medal. Peter Phillipson

In remembrance ... MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Easy does it ... MR Tuggerah Lakes Unit Commander Tony Younglove Senior Chaplain Richard Wrightson honour the fallen at the annual and Hawkesbury member Jamie Abnett-Miller, on TL 20, recover a Emergency Services Volunteers Memorial Service in October. search target during the Sydney Regional SAREX (see page 35). Units grateful for Dick’s input and inspiration embers of three units in the recommendation from his previous some of them were true). He had MGreater Sydney and Hunter/ unit. Having spent his early years great expertise with a piece of rope Central Coast regions are mourning in the Royal Navy, Dick had a and knots and spent many hours the loss of a volunteer who shared tremendous wealth of maritime teaching these skills to our crew his time and commitment with them knowledge and experience with members. all, Richard (Dick) Jarman. boats and his willingness to share The treasure trove he kept in the Dick was initially a member of the this with his colleagues was boot of his car always amazed us. Australian Volunteer Coast Guard appreciated by all. We are grateful If you needed a left-handed screw Association at Cottage Point before for his input and inspiration. driver with a ratchet that glowed joining the Royal Volunteer Coastal It was always a pleasure to be in the dark, he had it among all his Patrol at Middle Harbour in 2001. on duty with Dick and he was great other treasures in the boot. A service Dick Jarman. After a decade, he transferred to spend time with. His stories manual for a US Landing craft? He Handle with kid gloves ... members of MR Eden joined a Melbourne Headquarters Hackers ... IT Support Officer Matt Sims and new Chief Cup promotional cruise on Twofold Bay, where Unit Commander John Financial Officer Todd Andrews, ready to tee off in the Shellharbour to MR Lake Macquarie in around the crew table at the Pelican had that, too. You are missed. McKinnon came to grips with the famed trophy (see page 41). unit’s successful golf day (see story, page 39). 2011, coming with a great base were legendary (we assume We salute you, Richard Jarman. Jim Wright & Ben Crowther

42 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 43 PICTURE GALLERY IN MEMORIAM Engaging with the community Tributes to valued members

What we’ve been up to Leigh’s legacy of excellence will live on Trainer always willing to help members improve their performance.

42 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 43 IN MEMORIAM Tributes to valued members

The happiest Director remembered fondly Bill a popular and clear-thinking member of the Evans Head unit and Board.

ill Wardrobe will be recorded the fun times in his life. of visiting as many units in the area Bin the history of MRNSW as Bill joined MR Evans Head in as possible, making new friends a constructive and valued Board 2014, shortly after moving north along the way. Director. He will also be fondly from Melbourne. He had just retired As well as his MRNSW duties, remembered by all who knew from the one job he had held his Bill’s other passions were the him as a man of good humour, entire working life, spending more ukulele and motorcycles. In this, generosity and devotion to his family than 46 years with Coles/Kmart, and his 70th year, he finally stepped up and friends. brought his senior management and to a Triumph Bonneville. He was One of Bill’s signature PR skills to our unit. determined to master it and we’re catchphrases was ‘happy days!’. He soon became a radio operator, sure he would have eventually. And ‘happy days’ were what Bill and as our membership officer, he Bill was not known for his brought. He had only lived in Evans encouraged and mentored new handyman skills. Anecdotally, if he Bill Wardrobe. Head for about four years and yet members, bringing professionalism went to hang a picture, Nola got a such was his popularity in town and clear thinking to our executive. new wall. But if his children needed three children but he sadly did not that the church was bursting at Bill was elected to the Board a hand he would jump on the plane get to meet his newborn grandchild. the seams for his funeral, the in 2017 as the Northern Rivers to Melbourne or immediately drive He left us all too soon. congregation laughing at the tales of Regional Director and made a point up to Brisbane. Bill and Nola had Bill Bates

A life devoted to family, fishing and rescue ‘ tart fishing, start fishing, love; his first was his family. At his serve as a duty skipper in MRNSW Sstart fishing’ was the familiar funeral, each member of his family and his guidance was appreciated radio call to members of the Lake spoke of his love, devotion and by all who served with him. In Macquarie Game Fishing Club from guidance in their lives. MRNSW 2010, he was appointed the Hunter/ their long-time radio controller, members from the Hunter/Central Central Coast Regional Coordinator veteran MRNSW volunteer and staff Coast formed a Guard of Honour. (later Regional Controller), liaising member, Neil Grieves. Neil gave 36 years’ service to between the region’s seven units The much-valued member the boating community of Lake and Headquarters and coordinating passed away on October 14 after Macquarie as a member of the the response to emergencies and a day on the water doing what he Australian Volunteer Coast Guard incidents on the water. loved, hooking a beautiful blue at Swansea, which he joined in Neil stood down from his role marlin off the Great Barrier Reef. 1982, and then MR Lake Macquarie. in 2016 to concentrate on serving Neil Grieves. Neil could always be found in the He served two terms as Swansea as a coxswain and Search and radio truck handling the radio traffic Commander and spent countless Rescue Support Officer in the Lake than life. In the words of his best at club competitions, joined by his hours either at the helm of its rescue Macquarie unit. In June this year he fishing mate, it’s time to “Stop wife Lyndy at events along the coast. vessels in all types of weather or was elected Unit Commander. fishing, stop fishing, stop fishing”. Game fishing was Neil’s second behind the radio. He continued to He will be remembered as larger Mal Wardrop

Wheelchair no barrier to Kel’s enthusiasm arine rescue and medieval re- fundraisers and water safety events. people with disabilities were capable Menactment were two passions “She could get anywhere on of many things. of Karen “Kel” Larter, who died in public transport,” said her fellow MR Three years ago Ms Larter joined November after a long illness. Botany Port Hacking member and the Stowe on the Wowld medieval Ms Larter spent almost 12 friend of 20 years, Sue Tate. Last society. Member Jacqueline years as a volunteer with the summer, Kel joined fellow volunteers Cadwgan said Ms Larter would be Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol and at a water safety campaign launch sorely missed. “She was an active MRNSW. She used a wheelchair at Nielsen Park with Emergency and enthusiastic member, becoming Kel Larter and would go to great lengths to Services Minister Troy Grant. She involved in all aspects of the society, active pursuits such as fencing and attend events, including boat shows, said at the time she hoped to show from crafts to feasting and more she especially loved dancing.”

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