Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers continue to assist search for missing swimmer at Maroubra
Marine Rescue NSW vessels and volunteer crews from the Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking units have this morning resumed the multi-agency search for a male swimmer who failed to return to shore at Maroubra Beach last Sunday afternoon (1 February).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Jane Shirriff said volunteers on board Botany Port Hacking 30 and Middle Harbour 30 conducted a coastal search closer to shore en route to the search area.
“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels began a parallel line search offshore alongside NSW Water Police at 8.45am today (Tuesday 3 February),” she said.
“Our crews are focusing on an area from Clovelly Beach in the north to Malabar Beach in the south,” Inspector Shirriff said.
“Conditions have improved offshore, but it remains lumpy with a 2.5-metre swell and eight-knot winds.
“Our vessel crews are being supported by volunteer radio operators from Marine Rescue Sydney and Botany Port Hacking.”
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers assist multi-agency search for missing swimmer off Maroubra Beach
Volunteers and vessels from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking and Marine Rescue Middle Harbour are assisting in a multi-agency search for a male swimmer who failed to return to shore at Maroubra Beach this afternoon (Sunday 1 February).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Harding said crews and vessels were rapidly deployed from the Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking units after 4pm.
“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels are conducting a coastal search off Maroubra Beach alongside Water Police.
“Conditions are not favourable offshore this afternoon, with choppy seas and squally rain showers.”
“Volunteer crews on board Middle Harbour 30 and Botany Hacking 32 will continue searching this evening until instructed otherwise by NSW Police Marine Area Command.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessels and crews are on standby to assist should the search continue tomorrow,” Inspector Harding said.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers complete more than 4,500 rescues during demanding year on the water
The Lake Macquarie region has been identified as the waterway where boaters are most likely to need assistance in NSW as almost a third of Marine Rescue NSW units across the state experienced record demand last year.
Marine Rescue’s Lake Macquarie unit performed more than 594 search and rescue missions, coming in ahead of the Marine Rescue Sydney, State Communications Centre on 493 during a busy year for the volunteer rescue organisation.
Volunteer crews performed 4,512 search and rescue missions across the state and safely returned almost 10,000 people to shore during 2025.
The five busiest Marine Rescue NSW units for search and rescue missions were: Lake Macquarie – 594 Sydney – 493 Botany Port Hacking – 396 Middle Harbour – 254 Port Jackson – 243
Fourteen of the 46 Marine Rescue NSW units across the state experienced record demand for volunteer services in 2025. The Point Danger, Nambucca, Lord Howe Island, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes, Broken Bay, Middle Harbour, Sussex Inlet, Kioloa, Narooma, Bermagui and Eden units all recorded record demand.
Greater Sydney was the busiest region with 1,737 search and rescue missions performed by volunteers. The Monaro region, which covers Batemans Bay to Eden and inland waterways including the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama, recorded its busiest year ever.
Marine Rescue NSW has credited improved boating education and boaters heeding weather warnings for a six per cent reduction in incidents compared with the record 4,786 search and rescue missions conducted in 2023.
In 2025, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers responded to a wide range of incidents, including missing person searches, vessel fires and medical emergencies.
Sixty-one per cent of responses could have been prevented with improved boat maintenance, with engine, battery and fuel issues again the leading reasons for boaters requesting assistance.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators kept watch over almost 270,000 people on board 71,487 logged-on vessels in 2025 and managed 226,946 radio calls, including 105 MAYDAYs and 56 PAN-PANs (A MAYDAY is a distress call for life-threatening emergencies, a PAN PAN is an urgent call signalling a serious situation).
Boaters are urged to follow these steps to stay safe on the state’s waterways:
Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW via VHF Channel 16 or use the free Marine Rescue NSW app available for iOS and Android devices
Ensure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket
Check that your vessel’s engine and battery are working
Carry enough fuel, including a reserve
Always check conditions and ensure required safety equipment is carried
In 2025, Marine Rescue NSW surpassed 3,500 volunteers, with 50 under the age of 20, including 16-year-old Noah Blackwell, who followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the Botany Port Hacking unit.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said: “The demand on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers is constant throughout the year. These volunteers play a vital role in keeping everyone safe on the state’s waterways, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
“Sadly, in recent weeks we have seen lives lost on our coastline including two at Palm Beach when their boat capsized, demonstrating the challenges that can be faced on our waterways.”
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers stand ready to provide a rapid response to assist boaters in need, at any time of day or night, and we know this summer will continue to be busy on our waterways.”
“Through simple steps like checking you have the right equipment we can help ensure everyone returns home safely from a day out enjoying our beautiful coastline and waterways.”
“Whether operating on enclosed or open waters, it is essential that boaters carry the appropriate safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket, ensure their vessel is in good working order, carry sufficient fuel, regularly monitor weather conditions and always Log On with Marine Rescue NSW.”
“I commend our highly skilled and dedicated Marine Rescue NSW volunteers for their unwavering commitment to saving lives on the water, often in challenging conditions.”
“I’d encourage anyone thinking of volunteering to reach out to Marine Rescue NSW, including younger members of the community who will become the next generation playing a vital role in supporting their local communities.”
Marine Rescue NSW Acting Commissioner Todd Andrews said: “Our dedicated volunteers responded to numerous fatalities on the state’s waterways in 2025.”
“There is a fine line between a great day on the water and the worst—or possibly last—day of your life. A single poor decision or lack of preparation can lead to a life-threatening situation. Conditions can deteriorate quickly, with weather, water, wind and waves all combining to create serious risk.”
“Always wear a lifejacket, continually monitor conditions and never put your life, or the lives of others, at risk.”
“Consistent boating safety education plays a vital role in reducing preventable incidents.”
“Marine Rescue NSW wants to see preventable issues reduced. Sixty-one per cent is too high, and boaters have a role to play in bringing this number down.”
“Marine Rescue NSW radio operators are the vital link between land and sea and are often the first voice heard by a boater in distress. They play a critical role in search and rescue operations, and boaters can be assured that Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are available around the clock.”
Marine Rescue NSW volunteer, Noah Blackwell said: “I joined Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking to learn, give back to the community and spend time with dad.”
“There is so much to learn including first aid and boating safety and I really enjoy learning how to drive the rescue vessel.”
Breakdown of 2025 rescues across regions: Across NSW, volunteer crews performed 4,512 search and rescue missions, including 1,326 emergency responses, safely returning 9,886 people to shore who required assistance on the state’s waterways.
Northern Rivers – 327 search and rescue missions including 179 emergency responses with 722 people safely returned to shore across all 7 Northern Rivers units – Point Danger, Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba & Wooli. Locations of highest demand were Point Danger 149, Ballina 56 and Iluka Yamba 48. Of note: Marine Rescue Point Danger set a new unit calendar year record with 149 missions surpassing 145 set in 2022.
Mid North Coast – 345 search and rescue missions including 183 emergency responses with 702 people safely returned to shore across all 9 Mid North Coast units – Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Trial Bay, Lord Howe Island, Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, Crowdy Harrington and Forster Tuncurry. Locations of highest demand were Forster Tuncurry 102, Port Macquarie 84 and Coffs Harbour 57. Of note: Marine Rescue Nambucca equalled its unit calendar year record with 17 missions first set in 2020.
Hunter/Central Coast – 1,362 search and rescue missions including 295 emergency responses with 2,729 people safely returned to shore across all 8 Hunter Central Coast units – Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes, Brisbane Water and Terrigal. Locations of highest demand were Lake Macquarie 594, Brisbane Water 235 and Port Stephens 234. Of note: Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie was the busiest in the state. Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage set a new unit calendar year record with 99 missions surpassing 83 set in 2023. Marine Rescue Newcastle set a new unit calendar year record with 77 missions surpassing 62 set in 2023. Marine Rescue Norah Head equalled its unit calendar year record of 18 missions first set in 2024. Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes set a new unit calendar year record with 93 missions surpassing 69 set in 2024.
Greater Sydney – 1,737 search and rescue missions including 261 emergency responses with 4,182 people safely returned to shore across all 7 Greater Sydney units – Hawkesbury, Cottage Point, Broken Bay, Sydney (State Communications Centre), Middle Harbour, Port Jackson and Botany Port Hacking. Locations of highest demand were Sydney (State Communications Centre) 493, Botany Port Hacking 396, Middle Harbour 254 and Port Jackson 243. Of note: Marine Rescue Middle Harbour set a new unit calendar year record with 254 missions surpassing 199 set in 2022. Marine Rescue Broken Bay set a new unit calendar year record with 153 missions surpassing 147 set in 2023.
Illawarra – 457 search and rescue missions including 226 emergency responses with 955 people safely returned to shore across all 7 Illawarra units – Port Kembla, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet, Ulladulla and Kioloa. Locations of highest demand were Port Kembla 124, Jervis Bay 120 and Sussex Inlet 71. Of note: Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet set a new unit calendar year record with 71 search and rescue missions surpassing 60 performed in 2023 and 2024. Marine Rescue Kioloa set a new unit calendar year record with 8 missions surpassing 6 set in 2018.
Monaro **REGION RECORD** – 284 search and rescue missions including 182 emergency responses with 596 people safely returned to shore across all 8 Monaro units – Batemans Bay, Tuross Moruya, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula, Eden, Alpine Lakes and Moama. Locations of highest demand were Batemans Bay 121, Eden 43 and Bermagui 43. Of note: Marine Rescue Eden set a new unit calendar year record with 42 search and rescue missions surpassing 32 set in 2022. Marine Rescue Bermagui equalled its busiest calendar year of 32 missions set in 2022.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue Port Jackson crews continue search for swimmer missing off Coogee Beach
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Jackson have joined the multi-agency search for a swimmer missing off Coogee Beach.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Harding said Marine Rescue Port Jackson volunteers were deployed this morning, Friday 2 January, resuming the search undertaken by Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers yesterday.
“Two volunteer crews were assembled and rescue vessels Port Jackson 31 and Marine Rescue 30 departed the Marine Rescue Port Jackson base shortly after 7.30am.
“The Marine Rescue Port Jackson volunteers are continuing yesterday’s parallel search off the coast of Coogee Beach from Mackenzies Point, Tamarama to Rocky Point in the south.
“Conditions have eased slightly overnight, however crews are still facing rough conditions close to shore.
“Crews will continue searching under the direction of NSW Police Marine Area Command,” Inspector Harding said.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking crews search for missing swimmer off Coogee Beach
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking are assisting with a multi-agency search for a swimmer missing off Coogee Beach.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Jane Shirriff said Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking was tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command early this morning, Thursday 1 January.
“Two volunteer crews were assembled and rescue vessels Botany Hacking 30 and Botany Hacking 32 were deployed around 7.30am.
“The Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers are conducting a parallel line search off the coast from the north end of Coogee Beach to Rocky Point under the direction of Marine Area Command.
“Conditions are challenging with large swells and reduced visibility,” Inspector Shirriff said.
In Sydney’s north, Marine Rescue Cottage Point volunteers on board Cottage Point 30 are continuing to assist Marine Area Command in the search for a missing 14-year-old boater off Barrenjoey Head.
Comments Off on More crews, faster response: Marine Rescue NSW prepares for summer surge on Sydney Harbour
Marine Rescue NSW has ramped up its presence on Sydney Harbour for the busy summer boating period, with volunteers from Marine Rescue Middle Harbour and Marine Rescue Port Jackson providing daylight coverage seven days a week throughout December and January, starting Monday 1 December. Crews will also remain on call overnight to respond to emergencies.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Dan Duemmer said the enhanced coverage reflects the high volume of recreational boaters expected on the state’s busiest waterway.
“From Sydney Heads west to the Lane Cove and Parramatta Rivers, our volunteers and vessels will be on the water for 62 consecutive days, ensuring we can reach boaters quickly when things go wrong,” he said. “This increased visibility will significantly reduce response times.”
During the same period last summer, the two Harbour-based units undertook 149 search and rescue missions and brought 420 people safely back to shore. More than half of those incidents stemmed from preventable mechanical issues such as flat batteries, engine failures, and running out of fuel.
“We’re urging boaters to thoroughly check their vessels before heading out and to carry adequate clean fuel with plenty in reserve,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Duemmer said. “On such a busy waterway, with large shipping and commercial vessels, a mechanical breakdown for a recreational boater can quickly become dangerous.”
More than 200 volunteers from Marine Rescue Middle Harbour and Port Jackson are equipped to respond not only across the Harbour and surrounding waterways but also up to 30 nautical miles (55 kilometres) offshore.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Duemmer reminded boaters that preparation and weather awareness remain critical.
“Every safe trip starts before you hit the water,” he said. “Carry the right safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket, and monitor conditions at all times. If in doubt, don’t go out. Conditions can change quickly, and capsizing or running aground can have life-threatening consequences.”
He also renewed the call for boaters to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW via the free app or on marine radio VHF Channel 16.
“There is definite room for improvement from the Greater Sydney boating community,” he said. “Logging On provides us with your trip details, so if you don’t return as planned, we can start searching straightaway. It only takes a minute and could save your life.”
The Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre maintains continuous radio coverage of Sydney Harbour and surrounding waters, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
“Our radio operators are often the first point of contact for boaters in distress, providing a lifeline between sea and shore,” he said. “Their work is vital to every search and rescue response.”
“We want everyone heading out on Sydney Harbour to enjoy a safe day on the water. If assistance is needed, our crews from Middle Harbour and Port Jackson are ready to respond without delay.”
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW celebrates Botany Port Hacking volunteer Ian Baker’s 50 years of service
Marine Rescue NSW has honoured one of its longest-serving volunteers, Ian Baker ESM, who has reached the extraordinary milestone of 50 years of service to the boating community.
Baker, a highly respected Coxswain and Search and Rescue Support Officer with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking, is one of only a handful of volunteers in the organisation’s history to achieve this exceptional milestone.
Image: (L to R) Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell, Ian Baker ESM and Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott
Today, the 83-year-old was presented with the Marine Rescue NSW 50-year service pin during a ceremony at the unit’s Hungry Point base.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell paid tribute to Ian’s lifelong commitment to saving lives on the water.
“Half a century selflessly serving boaters and supporting his community is an incredible achievement,” Commissioner Barrell said.
“The sacrifices Ian and his family have made over five decades of service are deeply appreciated. He is a wonderful person who epitomises dedication, and we are also grateful to his family for supporting his commitment to the Service.
“Since joining the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association in 1975, Ian has been involved in hundreds of search and rescue missions. His contribution is nothing short of remarkable.”
Following the amalgamation of the Coast Guard with other organisations to form Marine Rescue NSW in 2010, Baker continued to serve with distinction and remains an active operational volunteer. He is a Life Member of Marine Rescue NSW and the recipient of several significant honours.
Image: Ian Baker ESM with wife Dianne and son Peter who has also spent the past 30 years volunteering with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking
He was awarded the 2021 NSW Maritime Medal in recognition of his sustained contribution to maritime safety. Most recently, he received the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell said Baker has long been a cornerstone of the unit.
“Ian has served in a variety of roles, including Treasurer, Training Officer and Training System Officer,” Unit Commander Blackwell said.
“He is a calm, grounded and knowledgeable leader who has earned the deep respect of all who serve alongside him.
“He places the utmost importance on crew safety and has led numerous high-pressure rescue operations, often in challenging conditions. His steady hand and mentoring have made a lasting impact on countless members of our unit.”
Ian Baker continues to actively serve in both vessel and radio operations, exemplifying the highest standards of volunteerism and public service.
“Marine Rescue NSW extends its heartfelt congratulations and thanks to Ian for five decades of unwavering commitment to community safety,” said Commissioner Barrell.
Baker said he never thought he would reach half a century serving the boating community.
“I never thought I would get anywhere near it. Never, ever thought about going that far. Then, all of a sudden, it’s here. Just like my 60th wedding anniversary, which is coming up in December — I never thought I would get there either,” he said.
Baker said saving lives on the water has been a rewarding journey.
“The camaraderie, the people, what we do — we help people. I got to enjoy boating and helping people at the same time, which is killing two birds with one stone.”
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW crews assist multi-agency search for missing fisherman off southern Sydney
Marine Rescue NSW vessels and volunteers from the Shellharbour and Shoalhaven units are today assisting a multi-agency search for a missing fisherman off southern Sydney.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said volunteer radio operators from the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre were tasked last night (Tuesday 12 August) with conducting numerous radio calls in an attempt to contact the fisherman, which went unanswered.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel crews were placed on standby overnight and deployed this morning at the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers were deployed on board Shellharbour 30 and Shoalhaven 30 and began searching at 8:30am today (Wednesday 13 August).
“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels are conducting a parallel line search along with a NSW Water Police boat.
“The search area extends from 15 nautical miles (28 km) off Port Kembla seaward.
“Conditions are favourable for an offshore search this morning.
“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels and crews will continue searching until instructed otherwise by Marine Area Command,” he said.
Inspector Massey is encouraging all boaters always to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW, either via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue app.
“Logging On ensures our skilled radio operators keep watch for a boater’s safe return.
“It is also crucial that boaters enable the position update option when using the app — doing so means our rescue crews can respond faster and with greater accuracy, which could save your life,” Inspector Massey said.
Comments Off on Double Callout: Marine Rescue Broken Bay assists two medical emergencies in one morning
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Broken Bay have assisted two separate medical missions this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said rescue vessel Broken Bay 30 was tasked with transporting emergency services personnel to a medical emergency on Scotland Island just before 8:30am.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and Broken Bay 30 activated.
“BB 30 transported emergency services personnel to the island, which is only accessible by boat.
“As the emergency services personnel were disembarking the Marine Rescue NSW vessel, we received another medical assist request.
“Broken Bay 30 was immediately deployed to Palm Beach Wharf to collect NSW Ambulance paramedics and transport them to Great Mackerel Beach to attend to a person.
“The volunteer crew on board Broken Bay 30 then transported the paramedics and patient back to Palm Beach Wharf,” Inspector Greenslade said.
Volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Sydney managed communications for this morning’s medical assists.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW crews search for missing male at Mona Vale
Three Marine Rescue NSW units from across Greater Sydney are assisting in a multi-agency search for a missing man at Mona Vale.
The man was last seen on Mona Vale Beach at 11am yesterday.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said vessels and volunteer crew from the Marine Rescue Middle Harbour, Broken Bay, and Cottage Point units were tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command this morning to assist in the search.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessels Middle Harbour 30, Broken Bay 30, and Cottage Point 30 were deployed at 9 am.
“The three Marine Rescue NSW vessels are conducting a parallel line search, along with a NSW Water Police boat, between Mona Vale Headland and Turimetta Head.
“Conditions are favourable for an offshore search.
“All three Marine Rescue NSW crews will continue searching today until instructed otherwise by Marine Area Command.
“Marine Rescue NSW has crews on standby to assist tomorrow, if requested,” Inspector Greenslade said.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking crew continues search for man missing from Little Bay Beach
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking resumed the multi-agency search for a man missing off Little Bay Beach this morning (Sunday 20 April).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said volunteers were back on water at 9.30am.
“After searching for over seven hours yesterday, our volunteers are continuing the search on board Botany Hacking 32.
“They have been searching an area off the coast of Sydney from Cape Baily in the south to Maroubra in the north and will continue to do so until instructed otherwise by NSW Police Marine Area Command,” Inspector Raymond said.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers search for man missing off Little Bay Beach
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking have joined the multi-agency search for a man reported to be swept off rocks in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs yesterday (Friday 18 April).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said a volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking were on-water at 8am this morning (Saturday 19 April) after being tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command.
“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking was deployed on board rescue vessel BH 32 and commenced searching at 8.30am.
“Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers are conducting a parallel line search off the coast from Cape Baily in the south to Maroubra in the north.
“Volunteers will continue to search under the direction of Marine Area Command,” Inspector Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Comments Off on Double celebration for two long-serving Marine Rescue Cottage Point volunteers
A combined half-century of service by two volunteers at Marine Rescue Cottage Point was celebrated today, with Christopher Gillett ESM and Paul Millar both honoured during a ceremony at the unit base on the banks of Cowan Creek.
Image: (L to R) Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney Regional Director Peter Steigrad, Marine Rescue Cottage Point Acting Unit Commander Leanne Chandler, Marine Rescue Cottage Point Deputy Unit Commander Elizabeth Watts, Chris Gillett ESM, Paul Millar, Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell and Marine Rescue NSW Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer
One of Marine Rescue Cottage Point’s longest-serving volunteers, Christopher Gillett, was acknowledged for more than 35 years of dedicated service and was presented with his Second National Medal Clasp. He was also awarded a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service by Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell.
“Chris is an incredible individual who has dedicated more than three decades to serving the local boating community and carrying out Marine Rescue NSW’s mission of saving lives on the water.
“He has played a crucial role in developing and providing leadership, capability, and professionalism at the unit. The quality of training and ongoing mentoring of volunteers has ensured that Marine Rescue Cottage Point has the capability to deliver a professional rescue service.
“Chris is a highly skilled vessel Master and continues to impart his knowledge to other volunteers in his role as the unit’s Trainer and Assessor. He has had a major influence on the performance and direction of the unit and has made a significant contribution to the safety of the boating community on NSW waters.
“Chris began volunteering with the Coast Guard back in 1989. He has saved countless lives over the years, and Marine Rescue NSW is grateful for his service,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Image: (L to R) Director Steigrad, Chris Gillett ESM, Commissioner Barrell and Central Zone Commander Duemmer
The Second National Medal Clasp and Commissioner’s Commendation for Service are the latest on a long list of honours for the retired teacher, who was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in the 2001 Queen’s Birthday Honours list and Life Membership of Marine Rescue NSW in 2010. The unit’s rescue vessel, CP 30, bears his name and is affectionately known as the Chris Gillett.
Marine Rescue NSW Greater Sydney Regional Director Peter Steigrad and Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer also attended the ceremony, with Director Steigrad presenting Coxswain Paul Millar with the National Medal for 15 years of service. The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in times of emergency or natural disaster.
“Paul is a valued and trusted member of Marine Rescue Cottage Point. The local community is privileged to have such a highly skilled seaman ready to assist them in their time of need.
“Paul knows the operation inside out. He began his journey at the unit with Volunteer Coast Guard and has previously served as Unit Commander and Treasurer. We congratulate him on his diligent service,” Regional Director Steigrad said.
Image: Chris and Paul were all smiles following the ceremony
Marine Rescue Cottage Point Acting Unit Commander Leanne Chandler said both Gillett and Millar continually go above and beyond to ensure the safety of boaters on local waterways.
“Chris and Paul are brilliant operators, and Marine Rescue Cottage Point is extremely appreciative of what they bring to the unit day in, day out.
“Both men continue to give their time to train and educate our members. They are excellent teachers and great mentors,” she said.
Comments Off on Botany Port Hacking volunteers make swift rescue during Boating Regatta
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers sprang into action whilst taking part in yesterday’s Port Hacking Putters Regatta.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Brad Whittaker was on board a classic vessel leading the flotilla when he noticed two kayakers struggling in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve.
“The kayakers had capsized their craft and were finding it very difficult to get back into the tandem kayak due to the outgoing tide and gusty winds, so a rescue was initiated,” Mr Whittaker said.
A new inflatable Marine Rescue NSW state flood rescue and support asset, which was taking part in the regatta, was tasked with assisting the kayakers.
“Rescue vessel MR 13 immediately broke away from the flotilla to go to the aid of the two paddlers in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve,” said Rod Harris, skipper of MR 13.
Image: Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Rod Harris gives the thumbs up following the successful rescue off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking quickly reached the paddlers and took them safely on board MR 13.
“They were uninjured, and their kayak was secured before being towed back to shore,” Mr Harris said.
MR 13 is one of 16 new flood rescue and support vessels recently added to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet. Following recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW received $3.748 million in State Government funding to build capacity and capability to support NSW SES and other agencies during major weather emergencies.
When Marine Rescue NSW flood rescue and support vessels are not tasked with weather emergencies, they are used to assist boaters and paddlers on local waterways across the state.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteer receives ultimate honour
Long-serving Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteer and Life Member Noel Parkinson has today been recognised for his decades of loyal service by having a vessel named after him.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said rescue vessel Botany Hacking 32 will now also be known as the Noel Parkinson.
“The naming of a Marine Rescue NSW vessel is a significant honour, and Noel is thoroughly deserving of the recognition.
“For more than two decades, he has dedicated his time and skills to supporting the local boating community and saving lives on the water.
“Noel has been volunteering with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking since February 2001 and is a highly respected and experienced member of the unit.
“As a Marine Rescue NSW Coxswain and Watch Officer, Noel has played a vital role in countless search and rescue missions. He is a former Unit Commander at Botany Port Hacking and is currently serving as Admin Officer and the Returning Officer for Marine Rescue NSW.
“Noel’s dedication to service on and off the water is greatly appreciated, and Marine Rescue NSW is proud to name a rescue vessel in his honour,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Image: Noel Parkinson (centre) is supported by family (left), Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell, Deputy Unit Commanders Neil Tinker and Rosemary Holloway and Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell.
Botany Hacking 32, the Noel Parkinson, is a 10-metre Naiad built by Yamba Welding and Engineering in 2022. The vessel is powered by twin Suzuki 300-horsepower outboard engines, capable of reaching a top speed of 45 knots.
The Noel Parkinson can travel up to 30 nautical miles offshore and features a state-of-the-art suite of Raymarine navigation equipment, as well as vital search and rescue technology, including a FLIR (forward-looking infrared) camera and side-scan and 3D sonar systems.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell said Mr Parkinson has held numerous key roles at the unit, consistently demonstrating exemplary leadership.
“His contributions are significant. Noel has mentored countless members, fostered their skills, and contributed to the success of Marine Rescue NSW. He has been recognised for his exceptional service with Life Memberships from Marine Rescue NSW and the Botany Port Hacking unit.”
Unit Commander Blackwell said Mr Parkinson is a highly experienced mariner and a great asset to not only Marine Rescue NSW but also the boating community.
“Noel has commanded numerous vessels throughout his career. He has been a valuable mentor, generously sharing his expertise and guiding aspiring skippers. His leadership and dedication serve as an excellent example for those who now operate Botany Hacking 32, the Noel Parkinson,” he said.
