MAN OVERBOARD Dramatic rescue on Brunswick Bar - Marine Rescue NSW
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Volunteers saving lives on the water
Quarterly Journal of Marine Rescue NSW | Issue 10, March 2012
MAN OVERBOARD
Dramatic rescue on Brunswick Bar
Iron Man centenary
Boat building legend Carl Halvorsen
Our new fleet
Inside the Steber 38
PLUS: 4-page safety gear guide | A chaplain’s story | Fundraisers | Yachting spectacular
SOS MARINE MARINE
SYDNEY AUSTRALIA
SOS Marine 23A Rochester Street, Botany NSW Australia
CONTENTS
Issue 10 | March 2012
Survival Operations Specialist
Telephone: +61 2 9700 0233 Email: sales@danbuoy.com
Website: www.sosmarine.com www.danbuoy.com
FROM THE HELM
2 Commissioner’s report
SOS Dan Buoy. Ready to go, man overboard device. International patent tested to elements of ISO 12402 4 Chairman’s report
ON THE RADAR
2011 AWARD WINNING SOS DAN BUOY Quarterly Journal of Marine Rescue NSW 2-3 • Say thanks to a vollie
• Welcome to our new IT training sponsors
4-5 • New face joins Board
2011 Australian Marine Industry Export Award- SOS DAN BUOY SOS - 6375 • MRNSW to feature in TV series
Most Innovative Marine Exported Product Publisher 6 • Lifejackets in good nick? Check!
Marine Rescue NSW • Boating Manual now available as eBook
Level 5, 9-13 Young Street 8 • New one-stop-shop for emergency reporting
2011 Australian Business Award Sydney NSW 2000 • Police honour units
for the Best New Product Contact • Grants to upgrade ramps for boaties
Kate Woods, Ken McManus IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Phone: 02 8071 4848 9 Chaplain David Simpson
2011 Australian Business Award Fax: 02 9969 5214
MAKING WAVES
for Product Excellence Email: soundings@marinerescuensw.com.au
11 Northern Rivers news
Editor • Point Danger • Brunswick
The SOS Dan Buoy is simple, compact, ready to use Ashley Gray
14-15 Mid North Coast news
and highly visible. Folds away in an easily stowed Design and Layout • Forster-Tuncurry • Coffs Harbour
carry bag. Quality, performance and priced for Nicole Brown • Camden Haven
every boat to carry one. 16-18 Hunter Valley / Central Coast news
Advertising
• Central Coast • The Entrance
Graham Joss
• Port Stephens • Lake Macquarie
Email: graham.joss@marinerescuensw.com.au
SOS Marine is Australia’s eminent manufacturer of lifejackets and life saving equipment ISO 12402 approved 23-25 Greater Sydney news
Phone: 0419 492 836
• Port Jackson • Cottage Point
Printing • Middle Harbour • Botany Bay
MARINE RESCUE LIFEJACKET VEST SOS - 6167 - 1 SOS MARITIME Printing, binding and mailing by Galloping Press Pty Ltd
26-27 Illawarra news
Unit 29/398 The Boulevarde, Kirrawee NSW 2232
WORKER’S • Shoalhaven • Port Kembla
Marine Rescue NSW is pleased to acknowledge the invaluable support of our • Jervis Bay • Ulladulla
LIFEJACKET Soundings advertisers. 28-29 Monaro news
VEST © Copyright Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales.
• Eden • Alpine Lakes
• Bermagui • Batemans Bay
Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited without permission of the
publisher. FEATURES
19-22 Spotlight on boating safety equipment
Marine Rescue NSW encourages the use of Soundings articles on boating
safety. Permission to use and supply of relevant images can be obtained 30-31 Introducing the powerful Steber 38
from the publisher. PICTURE GALLERY
13 & 35 What we’ve been up to
ICON
32 Boat building legend Carl Halvorsen
EXTRAS
33 South Coast gets new communications boost
34 Jet ski riders urged to take it easy
MARINE RESCUE NSW FUNDRAISING
Volunteers saving lives on the water
36-37 Creative ideas for donation dollars
About SOS Marine Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales MRNSW ONLINE
ABN 98 138 078 092 38 Website showcases our members
SOS Marine supplies 7 navies worldwide and has a 30 year history of producing innovative safety equipment Level 5
IN MEMORIAM
for maritime working environment. The International Award Winner manufactures rescue equipment as well 9-13 Young Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8071 4848 Fax: 02 9969 5214 39-40 Tributes to valued members
as the comfortable SOS Worker`s Lifejacket-Vest recognising the health & safety responsibilities around Email: admin@marinerescuensw.com.au LETTERS
the waterfronts. 40 Feedback
www.sosmarine.com SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 
ON THE RADAR
Things to look out for
From the Commissioner Welcome to our new IT training sponsors
Making it mandatory for members to wear lifejackets is good safety policy. Hewlett-Packard and Pivot Maritime International join forces with MRNSW.
W elcome to the new-look
Soundings, the voice of
Marine Rescue NSW and its
NSW is recognised as a leading
advocate of boating safety. Our
members at Port Stephens, Jervis
There are specific exemptions at the
discretion of the vessel master but
the overall intent is clear: if you’re
M arine Rescue NSW welcomes
Hewlett-Packard (HP) and
Pivot Maritime International as our IT
HP South Pacific Personal
Systems Group Vice President
Janice Cox said: “We are proud
volunteers. Bay, Forster-Tuncurry and other on a moving boat, you must wear and training supporters. that HP products and solutions
Our volunteers inspire us with units have been building awareness your lifejacket. It is your personal Commissioner Stacey Tannos said were selected to help improve the
their acts of skill and courage, of safety on the water at boat ramps, protective equipment. the companies’ generous support productivity and efficiency of Marine
their community spirit and their major emergency service displays This policy is a step beyond the had enabled MRNSW to accelerate Rescue NSW, so its volunteers can
commitment to boating safety. and other community events. recreational boating requirements. the roll-out of training programs and focus on offering what is a vital
Soundings is an important way for While the summer weather I make no apologies for that. As equipment to volunteers in all units. community service for the State.”
us to acknowledge and thank them wasn’t ideal for boating, it seems an emergency service, we need to “HP’s support for our volunteers The specialised IT equipment is
for their hard work and dedication. plenty of boaters were still keen to uphold the highest safety standards and the vital services they provide being funded through a $100,000
This year we’re working to get out on the water and more than and to set a positive example for the means we are now able to supply Emergency Volunteer Support
MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos and HP Vice President and
Commissioner, extend our distribution to more a few found themselves in need of boating community. Our volunteers’ each of our units with a much Scheme grant.
Stacey Tannos ESM General Manager of the Personal Systems Group, Janice Cox.
outlets where the boating and wider our volunteers’ help. safety on the water must be our larger suite of training technology MRNSW IT and Business
community will be able to find a As our dramatic cover shots highest priority and wearing a life to enhance their training activities,” Development Director Florian Glajcar “The desktops come complete competitively by Pivot Maritime, was
copy of Soundings and learn more show, you cannot always predict jacket is the simplest step you can Commissioner Tannos said. said HP’s pricing support meant units with high-end graphics capabilities a great way to set realistic training
about our work and other matters of when an emergency is about take to help preserve your safety in “This has been reinforced by Pivot would get bonus IT equipment. An and multi-screen outputs, a high scenarios.
general boating and safety interest. to occur. Thankfully, these two the event of an emergency. Maritime, whose boat simulation integrated package of IT hardware, definition 24 inch monitor, web “The equipment and applications
We’ve developed a fresh new style fishermen on the notorious Given the choice, I think most of software will allow our volunteers to including HP 8200 Elite Small Form cameras and headsets.” we can supply with the support of
but you’ll still be able to find our Brunswick River bar were reported us would rather bet our lives on the put the skills learnt in their training Factor Desktops and HP ProBook State Training Manager Nicole HP and Pivot will promote members’
units’ reports on their activities: to have escaped without serious flotation benefits of a jacket than to the test in simulated water and 6560b Notebooks, plus driving Allen said the BoatSim training participation in online learning and
the rescues, assists, community injury but as commercial fisherman, on our ability to tread water in the weather conditions.” console, will be rolled out in April. simulation package, supplied enhance our training delivery.”
support, fundraising, training and Aaron Royle, whose boat was on the open sea or even inland waters for
comradeship that fill their days. scene, told the Byron Shire News: an extended period while waiting
I’d like to acknowledge the “My deckhand pulled them in over to be rescued in the wake of an
generous support of HP and Pivot the side of the boat and I’ve got unforeseen accident.
Maritime International in helping no doubt the smaller fellow would I am aware, however, that some
us roll out an integrated suite of have been dead if it wasn’t for his members find full life jackets hot
training IT equipment and software lifejacket.” and restrictive so we will be making
to our members as part of our new Marine Rescue NSW’s new new yoke-style jackets available to
training arrangements. Attracting lifejacket policy makes it mandatory overcome this issue.
sponsors who are willing to work for our members to wear lifejackets Remember, safety comes first. It’s
in partnership with Marine Rescue at all times when they are on board just common sense. Whether you’re
NSW is integral to our corporate our vessels undertaking operational, a recreational boatie or a MRNSW
strategic direction. training, event support or any member, wear your lifejacket.
As many of the reports in this other activities, unless the vessel Stacey Tannos ESM
edition make clear, Marine Rescue is stationary at a mooring or berth. Commissioner
Say thanks to a vollie
“
V olunteers – Every One Counts”
is the theme of this year’s
National Volunteer Week, the largest
– are volunteers,” he explained.
“MRNSW is extremely fortunate
to have more than 3000 volunteer
to our ranks. The opportunity to
contribute to their community and
perform a worthwhile service is no
and improving boating safety.
“You give your time for no
reward except the satisfaction that
celebration of volunteers in Australia. members, who give their time doubt a driving force among people you have made a difference and
Marine Rescue NSW willingly to save lives on the water, who have an interest in the water for that we owe you a great debt
Commissioner Stacey Tannos said assist boaters in trouble, monitor and boating and are looking to of gratitude.”
the week from May 14 to 20 would the radio networks and fulfil a range volunteer their time.
be a chance to thank all volunteers of other essential roles, including “I want to thank each and
for their contribution to the wellbeing education, fundraising, catering, every one of our volunteers
of our community. administration and rostering. for their time and commitment
“About 38 per cent of our adult “Unlike many other organisations, to our organisation and to
population – or 6.4 million people we continue to attract new recruits saving lives on the water
MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 
ON THE RADAR
Things to look out for
From the Chairman MRNSW to feature in TV series
Maintaining high safety standards confirms our professional image in the public eye. New documentary Coastwatch will focus on the work of our volunteers.
A nother issue of Soundings
– and one that reflects the
many changes and achievements of
of our organisation’s new lifejacket
policy. This will require all boat
crews to wear lifejackets at all times
management and growth strategy.
Following the Board elections at
the end of last year, we are currently
A new television series following
the men and women who patrol
and protect New South Wales’
The series is being made by
Greenstone Pictures Australia, which
has been producing television series
Marine Rescue NSW. when on the water. It is important to examining a series of refinements to marine environment and boating and documentaries for more than
Since Soundings last went to remember those people not wearing our constitution. This document was community is being filmed along 16 years, including the Australian
press, we have been through a lifejackets who have lost their lives written in the organisation’s infancy our coastline. prime time hits, Highway Patrol
busy and challenging summer by drowning in boating emergencies and was always intended to be a Coastwatch, an observational and CIU – Crash Investigation Unit,
season. MRNSW has punched in recent times. By adopting the use transitional document. documentary series, is featuring for Channel 7, and New Zealand
well above its weight. We have of lifejackets in so public and visual A committee of members, the work of volunteers from Marine successes such as Coastwatch,
been involved in rescues, assists, a manner we are seen to practice including two Board Directors, has Rescue NSW, Fisheries personnel Motorway Patrol, The Zoo and
recoveries, fires at sea and continual what we preach. reviewed the existing documents from the Department of Primary Border Patrol. Caught on camera: Coastwatch sound operator Dale Nelson and
cameraman Justin Lewis with MR Botany Bay members Graham
fundraising at state and local level, As a member of a boat crew, with a view to identifying areas Industries and members of the NSW Greenstone Associate Producer Clarke, Sharon Hainin and Colin Kline.
Chairman, as well as escort and support I recognise this will sometimes for revision. Members will have Police Force Marine Area Command. Georgina Baker said Coastwatch
James Glissan QC
duties for the recent Etchells World involve some discomfort but we the opportunity to comment on Shooting has been under way was a great opportunity for able to publicly acknowledge our Middle Harbour Unit Commander
Championships off Sydney Harbour. are moving to distribute the new the revised constitution and will since last November on the series, Greenstone to work with a dedicated volunteers’ efforts,” he said. Tony Whybrow added: “Our
All of these are fundamental lightweight 150N lifejackets which ultimately need to vote on any to screen nationally on Channel 7. volunteer organisation and show the “Through Coastwatch, the wider members have enjoyed having
to raising our public profile and give the wearer much greater proposed amendments. At this Members of Marine Rescue Middle valuable work of Marine Rescue. community will have a far greater the Greenstone crew on board our
cementing our reputation as a major freedom of movement and are stage, it is hoped to hold an Harbour and Botany Bay have been MRNSW Commissioner Stacey understanding of the services new Steber during major events
emergency service with our marine cooler to wear. extraordinary general meeting mid- shadowed by film crews over the Tannos said the new documentary Marine Rescue provides and the such as the start of the Sydney
colleagues. This behoves us to It is important we portray a year to permit all members to have summer whenever the rain stopped series would showcase all three efforts of our volunteers, who often to Hobart, New Year’s Eve and
be and be seen to be leaders professional image of ourselves a voice in and, if satisfied, adopt a long enough to encourage some organisations’ members. are called on to risk their own safety Australia Day, as well as during
in maritime safety. All of our new as a strong organisation. We have revised constitution. boaters out on the water. “It’s always a great thing to be to rescue people in trouble.” our routine patrols.”
boats are fitted out to the highest launched our new website to more As we move from our busiest
standard with SAR electronics and accurately reflect the work of our time to a less demanding period,
safety equipment. members and the services we I encourage everyone to take
We are seen to be a leader provide the community. Our standard advantage of our new RTO training
and need to set a standard to corporate livery is our professional systems as they come online so that
be followed. face to the world, helping our we can continue to improve our
That is why the Board volunteers obtain the community service to the boaties of NSW.
unanimously supported recognition and support they so Good sailing
Commissioner Tannos’s introduction richly deserve. This is part of our Jim Glissan
New face joins Board
M arine Rescue NSW members
on the Mid North Coast have a
new representative on the Board of
directors to review and implement
the business and strategic plans
adopted in November and to build
dual position of secretary-treasurer
for the next decade.
He qualified as a skipper and
Directors as a result of the annual on the excellent work done so far by joined the rescue vessel crew,
elections held in December. the volunteers and executive. drawing on his experience in the
Mr John Lynch, from the Forster “With the Registered Training Navy and cruising the coast in his
Tuncurry Unit, was elected as the Organisation now approved, the 36-foot Riviera cruiser.
John Lynch is the Mid North
region’s new Director, replacing Mr basic policies and procedures “As the unit commander for Coast’s new representative on
Tony Breen, who retired. already in place can now be refined six years and with a dedicated the Board of Directors.
Northern Rivers Regional Director, and put into practice. This will team in support, I was able to
Mr Peter Campton, was re-elected enable our members to receive gain community support, and fund Marine Advisory Committee for more
unopposed, Mr Peter Phillipson ESM the best possible training and the and build a Search and Rescue than 12 years.
was returned as Hunter/Central respect they deserve,” he said. Co-ordination Centre on the Forster Mr Lynch’s professional
Coast Director and Mr Michael Mr Lynch joined the Forster Royal breakwall,” he said. background was in the investment,
Stringer AM ESM was re-elected as Volunteer Coastal Patrol in 1995, A member of the State Rescue finance and banking sector,
a General Director. and after completing his Marine Board accreditation team, Mr Lynch culminating in his retirement as
Mr Lynch said he intended Radio Certificate of Proficiency was also was the RVCP North Coast the company secretary of a
to work closely with his fellow appointed unit secretary, holding the delegate to the Mid North Coast regional bank.
MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 
THE WORLD’S MOST
ON THE RADAR
Things to look out for
TECHNOLOGICALLY
Lifejackets in good nick? Check!
New service centre set up at MRNSW Stores warehouse in Sydney.
A new lifejacket service centre has
been established at the Marine
Rescue NSW Stores warehouse in
Robards said units could be assured
that the annual service would be
carried out professionally and swiftly,
ADVANCED OUTBOARDS
Sydney to provide a coordinated with 11 volunteers trained and
and accredited inspection regime
for these vital pieces of safety
equipment.
certified by the manufacturer, SOS,
as service technicians.
The service centre has been set
*
Units will be able to send their up in a $6000 project including the
jackets to the centralised centre for installation of benches, hanging
annual inspection, as required by racks, a compressor and IT support.
the manufacturer and Roads and Any items that are suspected of
Maritime Services. being defective will be removed and '%#$/!- ) (*-!"0!'!; %!)/050&%
The process involves checking replaced, as the service centre does
*0/ * - !'%1!-.4*0-$*-.!+*2!-%)
the inflatable bladder remains not have the specialist equipment
intact and testing its ability to hold for repair work, and any badly
*(+ / ) -!'% '!+ & #!2%/$"! /0-!.
Marine Rescue Hawkesbury Deputy Unit Commander Merv Collins
pressure over 12 hours. The carbon damaged jackets will be destroyed. checks the components of a lifejacket are in good working order at
.0 $ .
dioxide cylinder responsible for “We need to do this to ensure the Sydney service centre.
inflating the bladder when activated their integrity and the safety of the (*-! *(+ / !.%#)
is checked for corrosion, integrity people who will be relying on them We will now have a centralised Units will soon be notified of
and gas content, along with the in an emergency,” Mr Robards said. service record of all our jackets to the process for booking service
%#$/!-2!%#$/
light’s operation and batteries. “This is important for our ensure they have all been serviced inspections and for despatch
MRNSW project officer Frank Workplace Health and Safety. according to the required standard.” and return.
! 0 ! "0!'0. #! 40+/*
/$-*0#$/$!%))*1 /%1!8'! ) 0-)9.4./!(
Boating Manual now
Looking for cheap spare !'% %'%/4/$ /%. &! 4
parts and accessories? available as eBook 4! -2 -- )/4
Hunts Marine is Australia’s largest supplier of genuine
spare parts for Yamaha, Johnson, Mercury, Mariner and T he fourth edition of Captain
Dick Gandy’s Australian Boating
Manual, the most comprehensive
)#%)!. 0%'/.+! %: ''4"*-( -%)!0.!
Mercruiser. All trade and retail enquiries welcome.
and best-known boating book in ' ..'! %)#"! /0-!. ) /! $)*'*#4
Fast, reliable overnight delivery.
Our huge boating accessory supermarket has a great Australia, has now been released in
range of electronics, safety gear, deck hardware, sail both print and eBook formats.
fittings, trailer parts, polishes, ropes, paints and more. The electronic version is suitable
*-!'% '!"0!'!; %!)/,0%!/ ) .(**/$/$ //$!
Visit us online www.huntsmarine.com.au for both PC and Mac.
The Manual, known for its
!)#%)!2%'' !/$!' .//$%)#*)4*0-(%) 2$!)4*09-!
currency and relevance to both *0/ * /%)#*-:.$%)#
recreational and commercial
boaters, is used by Marine Rescue
NSW in its training programs. The
Sydney: Service and Spares: 259 West Street Carlton reference/text book also contains
Showroom: 629 Princes Highway Blakehurst 2600 multiple-choice Q&A to
Ph: 02 9546 1324 Open 7 days Carry the Boating Manual
test yourself or to set examinations eBook with you as a mobile
Wollongong: 434 Princes Highway Corrimal for others. reference.
Ph: 02 4284 0444 Open 6 days
This edition includes important
Batemans Bay: 2 Kylie Crescent Batemans Bay
information on the new Workplace together but to assist existing
Ph: 02 4472 2612 Open 6 days
Health and Safety Act. owners of the hard copy to also
While many people find it easier acquire an eBook, it is available
to study from a printed book, the to everyone at half price ($44)
eBook ABM will provide a mobile until May 30, 2012. Visit the *:) 4*0-)! -!./050&% ! '!-#*/*/$!$ %)!.#-*0+ *(*- ''
reference. The eBook will be half online shop at www. DF2.5 DF4 DF5 DF6 DF8 DF9.9 DF15 DF25 DF40 DF50 DF60 DF70 DF80 DF90 DF100 DF115 DF140 DF150 DF175 DF200 DF225 DF250 DF300
price if the two versions are bought AustralianBoatingManual.com.
!3/#!)!- /%*)67.!-%!. 050&% *(+ -! /*+-!1%*0.#!)!- /%*)050&%
6 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 7
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
ON THE RADAR Members talk about life as a volunteer
Things to look out for
New one-stop-shop for emergency reporting David Simpson
Centralised emergency number will streamline the search and rescue process. Chaplain, Crowdy Harrington, Mid North Coast
M arine Rescue NSW units can
now ring a new centralised
1800 number to report search and
aware of an incident fitting the set
notification criteria, alleviating the
need to make multiple local calls.
David Simpson is a retired
Anglican priest who joined
Crowdy Harrington Marine
rescue emergencies on the water to Once a unit has reported the Rescue two years ago. A
the NSW Police Force Marine Area incident on the 1800 line, the sprightly 68 years of age, he
Command (MAC). search officer at the MAC will task is the unit’s radio officer
MAC Commander Detective and deploy the appropriate rescue and chaplain.
Superintendent Mark Hutchings services and notify any other
said MAC had introduced the new relevant parties, such as VKG and I WANTED TO GIVE SOMETHING
notification number to provide a the local police. BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
more direct “one-stop-shop” for The new operating procedures when I retired – joining NSW
MRNSW units to notify Police of have been designed to clarify the Marine Rescue was a way to do
serious incidents. types of incidents that need to be that. I began as a radio officer,
“It is anticipated that the reported to MAC. If members are and because I had been a police
new number will streamline the unsure of whether an incident fits chaplain for 17 years I was asked
MAC Commander Detective Superintendent Mark Hutchings says
process for your organisation, the criteria, they should contact the the new arrangements will improve capacity to save lives. to be the chaplain as well. I also do
improve our customer service to number and ask for advice. community transport driving.
you and supersede any other local “I would like to acknowledge the our ability to save lives.” is responsible for the overall
arrangements that may exist,” Det excellent work and support of your MRNSW Commissioner Stacey coordination of search and MEMBERS MINDED THEIR Ps
Supt Hutchings said. organisation and the volunteers,” Tannos welcomed the single rescue activities on the water,” AND Qs WHEN I FIRST STARTED
Under the new Standard Det Supt Hutchings said. reporting process. Commissioner Tannos said. because I was a priest, but when
Crowdy Harrington chaplain and radio officer David Simpson, a retired Anglican priest, blesses a new
Operating Procedure ratified by the “I believe the new arrangements “This will make it far easier “This improvement in service you show you haven’t come with an rescue boat before it goes out to sea.
State Rescue Board, MRNSW units will only further strengthen for our members to quickly delivery shows the benefit of the agenda they become more relaxed
are required to contact MAC on the the cooperation between both and efficiently report serious strong and cooperative relationship around you – they open up and CHAPLAINS HELP WITH THE
1800 number when they become our organisations and enhance emergencies to the MAC, which between MRNSW and MAC.” you earn their respect. I wasn’t a EFFECTS OF TRAUMA AT SEA
mariner or fisherman so it was all and also with things that might be
brand new to me. I had to learn all affecting a unit member at home.
Grants to upgrade the bits and pieces. We’ve got a chap in our unit up here
who is seriously ill and I’ve been
ramps for boaties I JOKINGLY DESCRIBE CHAPLAINCY
AS CREATIVE LOITERING. You are
able to talk with him and be
of benefit to him.
Australia’s Largest Specialist
Inflatable Boat Service Centre
T he State Government has convenient is good news for there, but you are not needed unless
announced more than $4.5 the community.” you are needed – unless there is a THINGS CAN GO AWRY WITH
million in grants for new and Regional projects approved in real crisis. BOATING THAT NO ONE WOULD Rigid Hull inflatables and
upgraded boat ramps and facilities the state’s north include the EVER EXPECT. We had to give a Replacement Inflatable Collars
across NSW. Brushgrove Pontoon construction MY ROLE IS TO BE A SUPPORT chap a tow in who’d been fishing for
PERSON. You have to communicate donkey’s years and had never had
MAC Commander Detective Superintendent Mark Hutchings presents
NSW Roads and Ports Minister on the Clarence River and upgrading
with the person, sit with them – and any trouble. But he was appreciative
(Achilles DuPont)
Duncan Gay said the $4.53 million the boat ramp and installing a
MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos with certificates of appreciation.
allow them to respond in confidence, of the fact we were there to help Hypalon fabric with 10 year guarantee
in funding under the 2011/12 new pontoon at Westport Park,
Police honour units Roads and Maritime Services Better
Boating Program would support 52
Port Macquarie.
Other projects will include
to share things with you that have
been troubling them. You have to be
him. Word gets out that you are
doing a good job as a unit. We’ve
able to listen.
T he efforts of three Marine presented MRNSW Commissioner projects in regional NSW and four the upgrading of the Wangi Wangi been fortunate so far – there
Rescue NSW units in a search Stacey Tannos with certificates boat ramp developments in Sydney RSL jetty, Lake Macquarie; haven’t been any life-threatening
sparked by a report of a flare west of appreciation recognising the Harbour. restoring the Davy Robinson Park I REMEMBER A POLICEMAN WHO situations – we’ve got people safely
of Laurieton on the Mid North Coast assistance and professionalism the “By supporting improved boating boat ramp at Moorebank; the HAD TO INVESTIGATE A FIRE IN home.
have been commended by the NSW three MR crews demonstrated. facilities, Roads and Maritime Loop boat ramp replacement at A CARAVAN. As he was about to
Police Force Marine Area Command. He said the volunteers’ work during Services is putting customers first in Narooma and the Tuross River enter he was told a child had died ANYONE CAN CALL ME if they
in the fire on the radio. That trauma have a difficulty they feel they
Marine Rescue Camden Haven, the operation was greatly appreciated. our boating communities statewide,” Bridge boat ramp relocation
impacted on him because he had a need to share. My number is
Port Macquarie and Crowdy Commissioner Tannos will present Mr Gay said. at Bodalla.
Harrington all took part in the the certificates to the three units on “It is estimated more than 1.5 To have a look at the complete young child of his own at home. He 0411 546 969.
search on February 21. behalf of Det Supt Hutchings. See MR million people go boating in NSW project list, please visit www. was in a terrible state about it, but
MAC Commander Detective Camden Haven’s report on the flare each year and making access to maritime.nsw.gov.au/mpd/infra_ we talked through how he felt so MRSNW members who need a Huskisson | 02 4441 8108
Superintendent Mark Hutchings has search on Page 15. our waterways safer and more grants.html. that he could come to terms with it. chaplain can find them on gbase.
MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 
MAKING WAVES
Northern Rivers News
Heroic Tweed crew perform daring rescue
Unit saves man, woman and child on rudderless yacht in rough seas.
M arine Rescue Point Danger
Unit Commander Bernie
Gabriel has praised members of his
A tow rope was attached for the
journey north to Southport, where
the yacht was moored after the
unit for their efforts in rescuing a Southport Coast Guard escorted
yacht in “extremely difficult” weather PD 30 through the unfamiliar
conditions off Burleigh Heads, Qld. Southport Seaway.
A man, woman and child, who Rough seas and low visibility
were all sick, were aboard the meant the Point Danger volunteers’
yacht when it lost the use of its return trip to their Tweed base took
rudder in rough seas on December two hours, rather than the usual 40
30. Gold Coast rescue crews were minutes. The crew then faced seas
responding to other emergencies above four metres and breaking
and called on MR Point Danger waves at the front of the bar on an
to assist. outgoing tide.
Point Danger 30, with skipper Mr Gabriel told The Daily
Kerry Kane, Stirling Ryan, Chris News the operation had been a
Ingall, Rick Hinfelaar and Kyle hazardous rescue carried out with
Osmond on board, responded at professionalism by Point Danger
1.30pm, crossing the Tweed River rescue personnel on both the boat
bar in a four-metre swell and 15- and at the operations centre.
knot southerly. “There were no injuries sustained
MR Point Danger volunteers Rick Hinfelaar, Kerry Kane and Chris
They found the yacht about four by any person or major boat damage Ingall, who rescued a stricken yacht in hazardous conditions.
nautical miles off Burleigh Heads. suffered,” he said. Photo: John Gass, The Daily News.
Brunswick bar a danger for seafarers
Three emergencies in 45 minutes for skippers and rescuers.
T wo fishermen were lucky to
survive when their five-metre
twin hull fishing boat capsized on
on the bar, up-ending the two men
on board into the water and leaving
them clinging to the upturned
the rough and tricky Brunswick River hull of the aluminium boat, which
bar early on February 12. soon sank.
The emergency – captured on the Marine Rescue Brunswick’s BR
cover of this edition of Soundings 20, with Skipper Gavin Grace and
– was the second of three within crew members Michael Reina and
the space of 45 minutes on a full Lance Burger aboard, was heading
tide with the bar rated as “extreme to assist when a commercial fishing Seconds from disaster on the Brunswick bar.
caution required”. boat also at the bar picked up
At 5.43am, a five-metre half- the two men from the water and in Canberra alerted MR Brunswick people off board, ferrying them
canopy vessel with two people returned them to the Boat Harbour. that an EPIRB had been activated in back to the Boat Harbour.
aboard approached the entrance, Fisherman Aaron Royle, whose the area. MR member Des Wraight, The vessel remained at sea until
attempting to put to sea for a deckhand pulled the two men on who had called in during his the tide changed and conditions
day’s fishing. While attempting the board, told the Byron Shire News the morning walk, launched his kayak to improved, allowing it to re-enter
crossing at 6.15am, the skipper was pair was lucky not to have drowned join the BR 20 crew in the search for without incident.
thrown overboard, with the vessel on the bar, which was “really shallow the EPIRB, which was found in In the midst of these
almost capsizing before he could be and dangerous to cross”. a mass of foam. emergencies, 11 other vessels also
pulled from the water. “I’ve got no doubt the smaller By 7am, an 8.5-metre charter Logged On with the unit, whose
At 6.30am, after another near- fellow would have been dead if it vessel with seven people aboard response proved that training
capsize, the skipper put the vessel wasn’t for his lifejacket. His lungs that had logged on and crossed the and practice are essential to the
on the beach, with both passengers were full of water and he was bar earlier radioed to ask for help as preservation of life at sea.
safe and accounted for at 6.35am. conscious, but only just,” he said. the boat was taking water through Sylvia Van Rossum
At 6.40am, the twin hull capsized The Rescue Coordination Centre a split hull. BR 20’s crew took five Duty Watch Officer
10 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 11
Picture gallery
Engaging with the community
What we’ve been up to
North Haven Bowling Club has been a long-term sponsor of Marine Rescue Camden Haven. In January, several of the Club’s board members
joined volunteers aboard the unit’s rescue vessel for a trip up the Camden Haven River. The journey included a bar crossing and a short trip to
sea to demonstrate the conditions volunteers encounter when called out for a search operation or to tow a stricken vessel back to base. The
Board members, from left to right, are: Chairman Gary McLoughlin, Treasurer Brian Johnson and Director Greg Clarke.
MR Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Jim Wright presents Bruce Marine Rescue Mid North Coast Regional Coordinator Linda Jones
Maddison with the Member of the Year 2011 award at the unit’s presents Woolgoolga Unit Commander and Northern Training
February meeting. Officer John Murray with his 10 Year Long Service Medal.
More than 1000 residents and visitors flocked to MR Forster- Queen Mary 2 dwarfs all vessels on Sydney Harbour, including
Tuncurry’s huge Boat Safety and Trailer Maintenance Day in January. Middle Harbour 30 with member Robbie Fidler aboard, as she makes
(see story p 14) a grand entrance on Valentine’s Day.
12 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 13
MAKING WAVES
Mid North Coast News
Rescue display thrills holiday crowd Flare sparks big search
MRNSW Forster-Tuncurry hosts spectacular emergency services skills demonstration. Camden Haven Rescue 2 crew excel.
M ore than 1000 residents and
holiday makers turned out to
watch a breathtaking demonstration
MRNSW members and grab a bite
at the barbecue and coffee shop
throughout the day, which is now
of emergency services skills planned as an annual event.
organised by Marine Rescue Forster- Other participants included Roads
Tuncurry during the summer break. and Maritime Services from Forster,
The highlight of the Boat Safety Port Stephens NSW Police Force
and Trailer Maintenance Day was a Marine Area Command, Barclay
precision winching operation by the Marine Forster and the Westpac
Westpac helicopter, which dropped Helicopter Fundraising team, along
a crew member on to the deck of with the helicopter crew. MR Crowdy
the police vessel Intrepid before Harrington trailered its boat down for
retrieving him again. the day before returning by water for
Camden Haven search team Terry Sturgeon, Ken Clancy, Gordon
The crowd on the breakwall some extra sea training. The Westpac helicopter performed a precision winching operation.
Gray, Ken Smith and Alan Malcolm aboard Rescue 2.
alongside the Marine Rescue NSW December and January are meant
base watched on as the helicopter to be “another day in paradise” at again highlighted the problem of and Judith Tyne with ribbons for
then buzzed two MRNSW vessels
on the channel to give their crews
Forster-Tuncurry but the weather
gods forgot about summer this year.
boaties forgetting their basic safety
checks before venturing on to
five years each.
Our fundraising efforts were
A report of a flare sighting at sea
turned a routine training session
into a major search operation for
to suit the conditions reported by the
crew, while Ken directed operations
and kept MAC and others notified.
experience in working under a While this limited the number the water. extensive over summer with an members of Marine Rescue Camden As the morning progressed, MAC
chopper draft. of boaties on the water, it also New Mid North Coast Board extra market held in fine weather, Haven last month. brought both Marine Rescue Crowdy
Members of the public had the reduced the number of assists, Director John Lynch visited to making up for a couple in the rain At 8.20am on February 21, the Harrington and Port Macquarie into
chance to inspect the helicopter, which were of a minor nature and present John Zalockar with his Long late last year. crew on Camden Haven Rescue 2, the search.
attend a talk on boat and trailer generally required only a tow back Service Medal for 20 years’ service Dennis Travers Gordon Gray, Ken Clancy, Ken Smith, Rescue 2 searched along the NE/
maintenance, seek advice from to moorings. Some of these tasks and Graeme Parker, Norm McLeod Unit Commander Charlie Snudden, Terry Sturgeon and SW paths with no result other than
Alan Malcolm, were completing Man a sighting of a dolphin and a sea
Overboard and Abandon Ship drills bird. Two vessels in the search area
Coffs Harbour encounters a marauding shark when radio operator Robert Sargent
asked them to conduct a search.
were approached to ask if they had
seen anything that might assist but
Unit kept busy over summer helping out yachties, anglers and boaties. A member of the public had with no result. A drift test provided
reported to the NSW Police Force additional information.
D espite the weather, members of
Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour
still managed to assist yachties
Marine Area Command. One of
these was the hard luck story of the
month when a yacht motoring up
Marine Area Command that he had
seen a flare to the north-east from
the top of North Brother, just west
The conditions were reasonable
at first with visibility to 15nm, calm
seas and 5-10 knot SE winds but
passing in the night, anglers chasing the coast trolling a few lures hooked of Laurieton. Rescue 2 was tasked worsened with very choppy 1.5 to
game fish and a boat that came off a shark, which ran the line around with initially searching along a NE 2m seas and winds at 15-20 knots.
second best in a tangle with a shark. the prop and rudder, fouling the heading from Grants Head to a Travelling along the northerly legs
Returning from slipping for works. The shark was cut free and point 6nm seaward, then continuing was easy enough but the southerly
maintenance and starboard engine Marine Rescue was called to assist. to search in a parallel pattern at legs were most uncomfortable.
repairs in November, CR2 led the Another yacht reported engine 700m spacing, later changed to one At noon it was time for a crew
competitors in a sail-past at the start problems offshore from the Macleay nautical mile, due to the conditions. change. Crowdy 20, skippered
of the Hot Current Game Fishing River soon after midnight on January Robert is a young, relatively by John Peers, with Joe Bell and
Tournament. The unit also recorded 12. Shortly afterwards, the engine recent member of our unit who Brian Hulton aboard, had been
Pittwater to Coffs race competitors’ failed completely and the vessel MR Coffs Harbour member Kevin Recknell aboard CR 2 at the start has picked up the skills of Leading searching closer in shore and
estimates of their finishing times as was unable to make way, with no of the Hot Current Game Fishing Tournament. Crew and Radio Operator extremely then took over the southern part
they passed Nambucca on their way sea anchor and unable to raise its well. He immediately began plotting of the search area while Rescue
north. Many of the vessels passed mainsail. MR Coffs Harbour relayed were considered, but when 503 offshore voyages and put in the search pattern and relayed the 2 returned to base. Shortly after,
during the night, making for a busy messages between the vessel and conditions improved Fearless 25,732 volunteer hours. Off the positions to Rescue 2. Operations MAC called off the search, placing
shift for the duty watch keeper. Coffs Harbour MAC throughout the headed south and by 12.37pm had water, Coffs Harbour held an open Officer Ken Rutledge was appointed all vessels on standby awaiting
January was full, with up to 50 night. The MAC vessel, Fearless, the vessel under tow. After breaking day in December and members lent onsite coordinator and Annette further developments. A helicopter
boats logged on for several days left Coffs at 5.20am but at 8.14am the tow line twice, both vessels a hand at the Lions Club Christmas Gainey, Brian Burton and Peter was organised to make a couple of
– and up to 73 on January 2. Seven advised it was too dangerous to arrived safely at Coffs at 7.19pm. Party for disadvantaged children. Wheeler-Smith also assisted. passes, again with no result.
vessels were assisted and the unit continue in 6m seas and 40 knot In 2011, we helped 84 vessels, Alison Bowling Robert handled the navigational Ken Clancy
also supported Coffs Harbour Police winds. Other rescue arrangements logged on 4480 vessels, tracked Publicity Officer work, adjusting the search pattern Duty Skipper
14 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 15
MAKING WAVES
Hunter Valley/Central Coast news
Central Coast powering along Port Stephens spreads the Log On ethos
Main rescue boat gets a new diesel engine and gearbox. Twelve per cent more boaters are now following this essential safety procedure.
M arine Rescue Central Coast
is going more strongly than
ever in its 41st year thanks to a new
March 29. Toni Stevens, Liz Taylor,
Lambeth Bennett, Lillian de los
Reyes, Wayne Horsburgh, the
M R Port Stephens has been
spreading the safety word,
urging boaters to log on and off and
We have now held five boat
ramp days and two marina days at
Soldiers Point that have attracted
diesel engine and gearbox fitted to Andrew Swan Trio and Hardly Jazz join the unit’s Marine Radio Service. almost 100 new members to our
the unit’s principal rescue vessel, will star at the Gosford RSL event. A safety awareness campaign Marine Radio Service (MRS).
Central Coast 20, before Christmas. The unit also has received an in the local boating community The results were clear on
The 12-year-old engine had been NRMA Community Grant, which resulted in 12 per cent more boaters January 7, when our watchkeepers
using excessive oil and blowing it has used to buy a portable logging on in January 2012 than at handled a huge number of calls,
smoke and even with repairs it Davey Fire Fighter Honda Pump, the same time last year. including 65 log ons – one of the
could not be guaranteed reliable for firefighting on the water and The unit, in conjunction with busiest days this summer by far.
as parts were no longer available. pumping out sinking vessels. the local NSW Police Force Marine Twenty five per cent of those log
Concerns were raised about fitting a In 2011, the unit received 10,670 Area Command and NSW Maritime, ons came from an MRS campaign
new engine to the old gearbox and radio calls and 7444 phone calls, embarked on the campaign in at Soldiers Point boat ramp.
it was found to be less expensive to including one on December 12 October 2011, setting up displays Sadly, during an early January MR Port Stephens members Kevin Walker, Laurie Nolan and Bob Young.
Engineers from Yanmar Dealer, Minnards, guide Central Coast 20’s
fit a new gearbox than to refurbish to help a family of four on board new engine on to its mounts. at local boat ramps. visit to a significant local marina,
the existing model, so both were their 13m catamaran. Overnight, The favourable public response we found that of 87 skippers we conversations added another six this marina sample.
replaced, costing $50,000. the vessel’s anchor had dragged Mackellar headed out on Central needed help to return to Woy Woy. gave us the impetus to continue, spoke to, 70 had never logged to the MRS register and one vessel We really need to continue with
A crane was needed to remove when the weather changed and it Coast 11, which moved the 13.5m This tow was not quite completed as it was clearly evident that on with MRNSW, nine had logged to the offshore tracking system. our awareness program. But it won’t
the old engine and gearbox and lift was stranded, aground in Paddy’s yacht to navigable water. when the MR crew was assigned to many boaties were wary of using on at least once in the past year While we are all very aware happen if we remain unseen in
the new 350hp Yanmar into place, Channel. Once the vessel was freed, Less than an hour later, Central help two people on another runabout their radios, often didn’t turn them and a further eight were members of the value of logging on with the radio room!
overseen by Norm Smith and Peter call-out crew Al Morris and Dennis Coast 11 deployed to Lobster Beach with a mechanical problem aground on and were unaware of the of our MRS service. Marine Rescue, we did not feature Robert Young
Ashworth and the vessel is now Byrne towed it back to Ettalong. to assist a 7m half-cabin launch near an oyster lease in Paddy’s basic protocol. This particular morning of on the radar of 80 per cent of PR Officer
better than new. About 2.30pm on January 3 an with six people on board that had Channel. This tow was picked up at
The unit’s fundraising committee, Ettalong resident reported that a reported an electrical failure, towing about 5.35pm and taken to its berth
headed by Penny Booth, enlisted yacht was stuck on a sandbank near it back to its Blackwall berth. At 5pm at Davistown.
Barbara Guerrero to organise a Half Tide Rocks. Duty skipper Hunter a 4.3m runabout at Orangegrove Ron Cole
variety concert benefit night on Leeder and his crewman Andrew suffered a mechanical failure and PR Officer Central Coast
Members lend a hand on $30,000 project
The Entrance welcomes new jetty and additional training and storage space.
M embers of Marine Rescue The
Entrance will benefit from a
$30,000 upgrade to provide a new
and an extra $10,000 raised by
the unit’s fundraising team, led by
Deputy Unit Commander Ken Lawrey
jetty and additional training and and his wife Lorraine.
storage space at their base at Members of The Entrance unit
North Entrance. carried out more than a dozen
Work on the project began on the rescues and assists in December-
Australia Day weekend, with many January, including capsized boats,
members chipping in under the wind surfers and jet skis in trouble
guidance of MRNSW member and and boats with mechanical or
local builder, Michael Rizzi. fuel problems.
The new jetty will mean the unit’s Tuggerah Lakes was the focus of
MRNSW The Entrance member and local builder Michael Rizzi at
Shark Cat can sit comfortably on its a strong law enforcement campaign work on the unit’s $30,000 extensions.
Versa-Dock (donated by the local in the lead-up to Australia Day,
Freemasons) and launched in just a with NSW Police Force Marine Area children, and fisheries staff were its watch crews. Many of the new
couple of minutes in an emergency. Command, NSW Maritime and NSW actively ensuring there will be plenty recruits joined after speaking to
Funding for the project came Fisheries on the water. of fish stocks for the future. our raffle teams, so well done to all
from a $20,000 grant presented Local maritime officers were Ten new members joined the unit concerned.
by former Member of Parliament particularly checking boaters were over summer, boosting numbers to Denis O’Mara
for The Entrance, Grant McBride, carrying life jackets, especially for 52 and enabling the unit to build PR Officer
16 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 17MAKING WAVES
Hunter Valley/Central Coast news
Lake Macquarie breaks communications records Spotlight on boating safety equipment
Super-busy radio room shows community’s respect for unit’s professionalism.
M arine Rescue Lake Macquarie
broke its communications
rescue people in the water.
In two weeks of January, our
records over the summer as
members of the local boating
members helped rescue 12 people,
including 10 from the water, in four
Boaters choosing advanced technology
community kept the unit’s radio separate emergencies. We also Emergencies keep safety at sea on public radar.
operators occupied on the airwaves. provided safety vessels for fireworks
Our radio room, which is on air
24/7, was busy with a stack of
shows and escorts into and out of
Lake Macquarie due to the Swansea F ive men clinging to their
capsized offshore fishing boat
were winched to safety from
a look at advances in boating safety
equipment.
We contacted some of Marine
and reception provided by VHF sets
and VHF with DSC.
EPIRBs with GPS functionality
communications over the Christmas Channel silting up.
break and in January alone the In January we celebrated our pounding seas off Port Stephens on Rescue NSW’s suppliers and are featuring on new equipment
radio operators handled 2019 first year as an amalgamated unit March 6 in a major rescue operation Soundings advertisers to find any shopping lists.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie volunteers hard at work on anti-
radio calls, 251 local log ons and following the merger of Coastal that again demonstrated the value trends in the safety equipment boat Instead of opting for the lowest
fouling maintenance on their rescue vessel.
353 originating offshore tracking Patrol Lake Macquarie and Swansea of modern safety technology. buyers and owners were ordering acceptable standard of life jackets,
schedules. At its peak, three Coast Guard. The merger has Medal), Mary Griffith, Tom Case and Our training program has kicked This was the latest in a string of for new vessels or upgrades. there appears to be a better
operators were on each shift. gone well and we are going from Nicki Mayler (five-year Pins). in under the guidance of our training marine emergencies that has kept In addition to the list of understanding that a comfortable,
Although we didn’t see much strength to strength, with about 150 Bruce Maddison also was named officer Phil Hart and our members safety on the water on the public mandatory safety gear required by modern lifejacket that can be worn
sunshine, our crews were also members and new trainees. our Member of the Year for 2011. are getting involved and increasing radar in 2012. NSW Roads and Maritime Services, for long periods, or a lightweight GME Combo GPS Chartplotter/
Fourteen people were rescued it emerged that two separate inflatable life jacket is a better, safer Digital Fishfinder
busy on the water. We attended At our February unit meeting, Our unit is lucky to have a wealth of their knowledge and learning new
42 incidents in December and 67 Hunter/Central Coast Regional Board talented members who contribute to skills to enable them to progress from the water in open sea boating categories of advanced safety gear solution.
in January, ranging from the usual Director Peter Phillipson presented making our unit great. Bruce is one and contribute further to the unit. mishaps in January, the Brunswick are being sought out by the boating The second category is owners personal Man Overboard (MOB)
flat battery and out-of-fuel assists long service awards to members, of our silent achievers and a worthy Jim Wright River bar lived up to its treacherous market. and buyers who are looking at more systems for safety on coastal
through to emergency calls to including Bruce Oliver (10 year recipient for the award. Unit Commander reputation and search and rescue The first is smart boat owners/ advanced technology that increases cruising vessels.
agencies mobilised on an overnight buyers looking beyond the minimum the level of safety available on their Marine Rescue NSW strongly
search for two missing divers in standard and opting for additional boats. For example, combined GPS advocates safe and responsible
February. safety on the water. chartplotter/fishfinders, thermal boating and is encouraged by this
These and other incidents on the There appears to be a growing night vision cameras, Personal move to greater safety awareness
water prompted Soundings to have understanding of the better signal Locator Beacons for individuals and among skippers.
EPIRBs
19 owe their lives to distress beacons.
T he five fishermen pulled from
the sea by Westpac and RAAF
rescue helicopter crews after their
and the five, clinging to the rope and
the boat’s motor, were pulled from
the water two hours later.
two nautical miles or more offshore
are required to carry an EPIRB.
Skippers should ensure their EPIRB
In 2010-11, AMSA reacted to
2,451 beacon incidents around
Australia, of which 566 led to a
boat capsized off Port Stephens had This rescue operation followed is up-to-date as only 406 MHz search. As at February 16, beacons
their EPIRB to thank for summoning three in January in which EPIRBs distress beacons are now being registered in NSW included:
help. guided rescuers to people in detected. The 121.5MHz analogue • EPIRBs: 27,840 (of which 3,619
The men were returning to shore trouble in the water: two fathers signal is no longer monitored. are GPS equipped)
on the afternoon of March 6 when a and their sons clinging to an esky Relying on a beacon that is no • Personal Locator Beacons: 16,686
four-metre wave flipped their boat. were rescued from the sea off longer detected by satellite places (14,516 GPS equipped)
Skipper Tony Egeberg told the Sydney’s North Head, a man was the user and all passengers at • Emergency Locator Transmitters
Newcastle Herald that while treading rescued from an overturned kayak extreme risk of not being found in on aircraft: 5,239
water in the overturned boat’s hull, in Cronulla and nine men returning an emergency. There were 213,286 registered
Britton Marine are the proud manufacturers behind NSW Marine Rescue’s newest vessel.
he had grabbed the distress beacon from a diving expedition to the Each 406 MHz beacon – which vessels in NSW as at November
Britton Marine Aust Pty Ltd Introducing the latest 2011 model Gemini 8.5M RIB with fully enclosed fibreglass cabin
and a lifejacket and tied a piece of sunken HMAS Adelaide off Terrigal must be registered to an individual 2011. If it is assumed that all
with bi-folding rear doors. The cabin can comfortably carry 4 crew with comfortable
suspension seating. Fitted with twin powerful 200HP Mercury Verado L4 supercharged rope to a chair before swimming to activated an EPIRB when their boat person and their craft with AMSA 27,840 EPIRBs are carried on board
engines for rapid acceleration, the vessel can reach speeds up to 42 knots. Equipped with the surface. capsized outside Broken Bay. – carries a unique identification boats, then only about 13% of the
the lastest in marine search and rescue technology inluding an integrated FLIR night vision “Without the EPIRB we were All of these incidents could have code, transmitted when the beacon registered vessels appear to be
camera, for both day and night searches and the latest 120W Raymarine GPS chart plotter gone,” he said. ended in tragedy if those involved is activated. This provides vital satisfactorily equipped to go further
AIS system. The vessel has electronic shift, power assisted hydraulic steering for easy and The emergency distress signal had not been carrying EPIRBs to information about the boat and its than 2nm offshore. There is also
smooth handling and has been widely accepted by the members of the NSW Marine
alerted the Australian Maritime help rescue crews locate them. owner, ensuring a faster search and anecdotal evidence that some
Rescue with one Vessel in Port Stephens and a Second vessel in Narooma.
Safety Authority (AMSA) in Canberra All registered vessels navigating rescue response. (Cont. P20)
18 MARINE RESCUE NSW | SOUNDINGS SOUNDINGS | MARINE RESCUE NSW 19You can also read
