Marine Rescue NSW Annual Report 2019-20 by Marine Rescue NSW

ANNUAL REPORT 2019 - 2020

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS & ANNUAL REPORT 2019 - 2020

A SINGLE MISSION

Navigational nerve ... Ulladulla 30 sinks into a trough during a search for a missing boat off the harbour entrance. Photo: David Hall.

Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW ABN: 98 138 078 092. CFN: 21153 (A company limited by guarantee) Registered Office & Contact Details Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (Trading as Marine Rescue NSW) Building 1, 202 Nicholson Parade, Cronulla NSW 2230 Mail: PO Box 579, Cronulla NSW 2230 Phone: 02 8071 4848 Web: mrnsw.com.au Email: admin@mrnsw.com.au

Report Design and Layout Nicole Brown Photos Cover: Newcastle 30, one of 10 boats delivered this year, on its sea trials at Yamba on the Northern Rivers. Photo: Yamba Welding & Engineering. Thank you to all the MRNSW personnel who have supplied photos. ÂŠ Copyright Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales. Reproduction in whole or in part prohibited without permission of the publisher.

SAVING LIVES ON THE WATER

CONTENTS Everyday heroes. Extraordinary service

Chair’s Report

Commissioner’s Report

Our commitment in action

A decade of life-saving service

Team represents the best worldwide

Operations

Regions

People & resources: Might & power

The heart of our service

Learning flexibility

Building better workplaces

Robust radio & telecommunications

Technology for our mission

Support for our volunteers

Achieving together

Fleet: Investing in safety

Governance: Corporate management

Directors’ qualifications & experience

Auditor’s independence declaration & audit report

Responsible entities’ declaration & declaration by the Principal Officer

Statement of profit or loss & comprehensive income

Statement of financial position

Statement of changes in funds

Statement of cash flows

Notes to the financial statements

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

EVERYDAY HEROES EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE

2 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OUR YEAR

3,136 EXTRAORDINARY VOLUNTEERS

2,541 RESCUE MISSIONS

5,947 BOATERS HOME SAFELY

67,632 BOATS LOGGED ON

235,221 RADIO CALLS

10 NEW RESCUE VESSELS

$2.5 MILLION RAISED

350 AWARDS & MEDALS Everyday people performing extraordinary feats. Marine Rescue NSW crews respond around the clock to save lives on the water. Photo: Brad Whittaker.

100% COMMITMENT TO SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

WELCOME

CHAIR’S REPORT It is my pleasant duty to present this Annual Report at the conclusion of our tenth anniversary year. While we were not immune from adversity this year, we have entered our second decade stronger together.

his has been a year of remarkable contrasts, of disruption and uncertainty but also of promise and achievement. We began 2019-20 with pride, celebrating the tenth anniversary of the foundation of Marine Rescue NSW as a single, unified service and reflecting on the strides we have made since 2009: our committed volunteers and staff working together as one team, our world-class fleet and our leadership in the sector nationally. Our exponential development and the benefits of our increasingly professional resourcing and training over our first decade have been exemplified by the members of Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, whose courage and life-saving skill was recognised on the world stage this year with an International Maritime Rescue Federation award. The team’s determination to locate three seriously injured men on a cruiser offshore in the dark was praiseworthy in itself but the bravery of Chris Condon and Bill Richardson in boarding the sinking vessel and their ingenuity in extricating a man with a spinal injury by using the rising water in the cabin to float him to safety was indeed extraordinary. Everyday heroes, indeed. It was a distinct pleasure to personally congratulate all 10 volunteers at a ceremony to present them with Commissioner’s Commendations for Courage and Citations. It was equally as important to gather with our volunteer leaders and staff for our 2019 Leadership Conference. We were honoured to welcome newlyappointed NSW Governor Margaret Beazley to open the event. The Governor not only thanked our volunteers for their extraordinary contribution but also congratulated our leaders and exorted them to draw in young people and women to our organisation. Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott struck a chord when he told the members that awards and accolades were for their families so that “when you get called out from Christmas lunch, they can put that award on the table so they know we appreciate what you do, your sacrifice”. While we did not know it at the time, we were soon to witness leadership and sacrifice in equal measure as our State faced an unparalleled bushfire emergency, followed quickly by a health crisis the likes of which none of us had seen in our lifetimes. Our people responded to both with characteristic professionalism and generosity. I want each of them, both volunteers and staff, to know their contribution was seen and recognised not only across our own organisation but more widely in the emergency services sector, at all levels of government and by our community. The first day of this financial year also marked the start of our four-year State Government funding supplementation, which has this year enabled us to make great advances in our fleet delivery, improvements in our volunteer facilities and in bolstering the marine radio network on which the boating community, other maritime agencies and some commercial operators rely. The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted much in our lives this year and obviously led to significant changes in our operations and day-to-day business. For the Board, it has kept us from our usual routine of visiting units throughout the year to speak to our members about their volunteer

4 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

JAMES GLISSAN AM, ESM, QC Chair of MRNSW Board General Director

experience, interests and ideas. We look forward to resuming this schedule as soon as conditions permit. The Board has continued to work assiduously, whether meeting in person or via Zoom, to advance our organisation. I believe the 2019 Board elections were a vote of confidence in the strategic leadership and direction of the organisation. With four Directors to be elected, members in only one region were required to vote, with the other three Directors returned unopposed. This would indicate general satisfaction with the activities of the Board and management. The election resulted in Darcy Henriksen joining the Board as the new Northern Rivers Regional Director. Darcy has made a considered contribution to our decision-making processes and I look forward to continuing to work together for the good of the organisation and our people. The depth of corporate knowledge around the Board table was preserved with the return of Mid North Coast Regional Director John Lynch and Hunter/Central Coast Regional Director Jim Wright. I was honoured also to be returned as a General Director and I thank my fellow Directors for their trust in again electing me as the Chair of the Board. This is a distinct privilege. Commissioner Stacey Tannos and all our staff have again worked tirelessly this year. Their remote workplaces and conditions have not diminished their professional contribution and value. The Board thanks them all. Marine Rescue NSW sails on the experience of our volunteers. Our mission relies on their willingness to serve the public good. Our people have this year stood together in the face of the most trying conditions. The Board is proud to stand beside each of them. We thank each for their service and their individual contribution to saving lives on the water.

Chair James Glissan AM, ESM, QC

COMMISSIONER’S REPORT Despite every challenge, Marine Rescue NSW stayed the course to save lives on the water in 2019-20.

f there is anything that 2019-20 has revealed to us, it is the depth of the fortitude, resilience and community spirit of our volunteers and staff. While I never take the skill and commitment of our people for granted, I am proud of the way our organisation has risen to the challenges thrown at us all this year. The combined threats of the Black Summer bushfires, storms and floods and the COVID-19 pandemic have had a significant impact on our people and our services over most of the year. Despite this, our personnel have not only maintained their dedication to our own mission but also stepped up to support their emergency services colleagues, their communities and each other. Boating activity on our waterways was significantly reduced this year, particularly over a summer marked more by fire danger than carefree days on the water. The effect of the pandemic was more varied, with some areas reporting fewer boats on the water but others likening the amount of traffic in autumn to the height of a “usual” summer season. The overall decline in boating had a corresponding effect on our operational workload, with our volunteers deploying on 2,541 rescue missions to return almost 6,000 people safely to shore. While this was seven per cent down on our 2018-19 rescue numbers, 30 per cent of our operations were in response to life-endangering emergencies. Disturbingly, there were 25 boating-related deaths on NSW waterways across the year - 14 more than the previous year. Half of our units deployed on extended search operations that ended in tragedy. I thank our crews for their compassionate response in difficult circumstances and extend our condolences to the families of all those lost. Our radio operators, whose contribution is critical to mission success, handled more than 235,000 radio calls this year, including Logging On more than 67,600 boats. The strong uptake of the MarineRescue App saw a record number of boaters using this technology. While these statistics tell a story, they do not paint a textured portrait. While this year’s operational report may indicate that our response rates were indeed lower, the context is important. As fire spread south down the coastline from July to February, our members were unstinting in supporting the emergency response, wherever and whenever they were called upon, whether pre-deploying to transport fire crews or evacuees, working in emergency operations centres, operating NSW Rural Fire Service communications or assisting at evacuation centres. Our response to the onset of COVID-19 was swift and comprehensive. We quickly sent staff to work remotely, limited our radio bases to core numbers of personnel and our crews operated on-call from home. I appreciate that this was difficult and in some cases frustrating but I make no apology for putting the health and welfare of our personnel first. Again, our people did not shirk their commitment to the boating community. Despite all the challenges of operating remotely, we maintained our core services to protect and assist the boating community without fail. I thank each and every one of our people - volunteers and staff - for their professionalism, cooperation and the care they showed for each other in isolation. Despite the turmoil, we have also continued to set the standard in fleet development, IT and communications quality, training innovation, volunteer support and community engagement. The year began with the celebration

STACEY TANNOS ESM Commissioner Chief Executive Officer Chair, State Rescue Board

of our tenth anniversary and ended with the announcement of our Marine Rescue NSW Training Academy; our valuable work over our first decade laying the groundwork for our future, supported by our new State Government funding. Emergency Services Minister David Elliott has consistently ensured our people and their life-saving work have received well-deserved recognition and I thank him and his staff for their ongoing assistance and support. We remain grateful to the members of the boating community for their financial contribution through the levy on recreational boat licences and registrations. Many are also members of our units’ Radio Clubs, contributing to their local operations not only financially but also through their enhanced safety consciousness. We work in close partnership with our emergency service and maritime colleagues, particularly the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command, NSW Maritime, Surf Life Saving, NSW Ambulance, the NSW Rural Fire Service and Resilience NSW. I thank all their personnel for their cooperation and collaboration. The interests and wellbeing of our volunteers are of the utmost importance in the deliberations of the MRNSW Board. The Directors have been steadfast in their leadership and support throughout this challenging time and I thank them for their constructive approach. While acknowledging our volunteers, it would be remiss not to express our gratitude to their families and employers, who also are part of our mission. Thank you to all our personnel for their contributions in 2019-20. I hope for calmer waters ahead over the coming year but set forth on our continuing journey to save lives on the water with pride and confidence.

Commissioner Stacey Tannos ESM

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

WHAT WE DO

OUR COMMITMENT IN ACTION

WE SAVE LIVES ON THE WATER

WE TAKE PRIDE IN OUR PEOPLE

This is our mission, 24 hours a day, every day. The boating community can be confident that when they call for help, a professionally trained and equipped crew will be quickly under way. This year, we launched 2,541 rescue missions, returning 5,947 boaters safely to shore.

Our 3,136 inspirational volunteers are the mainstay of our service. These trusted and reassuring emergency services personnel serve with skill and determination, no matter how rough the seas or dark the radio watch. They share their commitment with our Board and staff.

WE PUT SAFETY & WELFARE FIRST

WE WORK AS ONE TEAM

Our fundamental commitment is to the safety of our people and the boating community. This year, this included the introduction of new measures to safeguard the health and welfare of our volunteers and boaters during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saving lives is a shared mission. We work in a seamless partnership with our colleagues across the emergency services to save lives on the water. This year, we joined the response to the bushfire crisis, supporting firefighting operations and impacted communities.

WE SERVE OUR COMMUNITY

WE ARE LEADERS

We stand ready to serve when and where we are needed. This year, our team stepped in to support the coordinated emergency services response to the Black Summer bushfires and opened their doors and their arms to comfort those evacuated from harmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way.

We are recognised leaders in the national marine rescue sector. Our rescue vessels, training, equipment and technology set the benchmark. We have now delivered 101 world-class boats and our online vessel tracking system and MarineRescue App remain groundbreaking operational aids.

6 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2009-2019

A DECADE OF LIFE-SAVING SERVICE Marine Rescue NSW this year proudly marked the milestone of the tenth anniversary of our foundation on July 1, 2009.

n 2019-20, we reflected on the immense progress we had made over our service’s first decade and charted the course for a bright future of continuing development and innovation. Now recognised as the leader in the national volunteer marine rescue sector, MRNSW is a professional emergency service built on the contributions of volunteers from the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol and Volunteer Rescue Association marine fleet, who took the far-reaching decision to amalgamate as a single rescue service that began operations on the water and airwaves on New Year’s Day 2010. In the first decade under the new MRNSW banner, crews launched more than 25,000 rescue missions, returning more than 50,000 boaters safely to shore. Records since 2011-12 show that to mid-2019, our radio operators had handled 2.38 million radio calls and Logged On 583,113 boats, including more than 51,000 via our groundbreaking MarineRescue App. This is an unrivalled operational record to be applauded. Our Patron-in-Chief, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, Governor-General of Australia Peter Cosgrove, Prime Minister Scott Morrison, NSW Governor Margaret Beazley, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott extended their congratulations and thanks on the occasion of our anniversary and our members were issued with commemorative pins. Our anniversary year began with the first tranche of the State Government’s four-year $37.6 million investment to support our volunteers’ life-saving work and boating safety, funding the delivery of 10 rescue vessels, the establishment of our first offshore rescue unit on Lord Howe Island and work to upgrade a range of volunteer facilities and marine radio infrastructure. We surpassed 100 new and refurbished rescue vessels delivered under the Fleet Modernisation Program, delivering on our commitment to volunteer safety as our highest priority. The 2019 Leadership Conference, opened by Governor Beazley, was a celebration of our decade of achievement and an opportunity to set out our

Members and supporters of Marine Rescue Shoalhaven mark our tenth anniversary. Photo: Danielle Carter.

plans for future growth in our capability and volunteer support. Our volunteers’ courage, skill and determination was recognised on the world stage, with members of Marine Rescue Port Macquarie winning a prestigious International Maritime Rescue Federation Award (see Page 9). The year, however, was marked by peril, with bushfires of unprecedented ferocity raging from July 2019 to February 2020, followed by storms and floods and the onset of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic that changed the way we, like the rest of the community, lived and operated. The versatility and adaptability of our people came to the fore in these crises. The bookend to the year was the announcement by Emergency Services Minister David Elliott and Attorney General Mark Speakman of the Marine Rescue NSW Training Academy, to be developed at the State Headquarters. Our organisation is built on the skill and commitment of our volunteers, supported by the Board of Directors and management team. This year we recorded a 4.35 per cent increase in our volunteer cohort. The sustainability of our service relies on harnessing the experience of our existing membership and building a new generation of volunteers. The maturity of the organisation made our tenth year an ideal time to freshen our public image, with a refinement of our corporate logo and branding. Reflecting our organisational attitude, the renewed roundel embraces our history, while turning a vibrant face to the future.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

8 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OUR FINEST

TEAM REPRESENTS THE BEST WORLDWIDE

Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence with Marine Rescue Port Macquarie members Rob Breskal, Gary White, Bill Richardson and Chris Condon and Mattias Malmgren, from International Maritime Rescue Federation awards sponsor CM Hammar. Below: The team who responded.

en volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie were this year lauded on the world and national stages for an operation to save the lives of three seriously injured men on a sinking motor cruiser in the pitch dark off Crescent Head in April 2019. The MR Port Macquarie members were named as the winner of the Outstanding Team Contribution to a Maritime Search and Rescue Operation category of the 2019 International Maritime Rescue Federation Awards, announced in London on September 10. The trophy was presented to four unit representatives by Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence in a ceremony on board HQS Wellington, which is permanently moored on the Thames. On the same night, the unit also received a Professional Commendation Award in the National Search and Rescue Awards. The Port Macquarie 30 crew members who took part in the operation were Chris Condon, Bill Richardson, Yolanda Bosschieter, Reg McGlashan and Tony Hallett, along with the PM 20 crew, Rob Breskal and Owen Coulls. Deputy Unit Commander Graham Gibbs and Gary White were the Watch Officers on duty, with Unit Commander Greg Davies and Mid North Coast Regional Operations Manager Randall Gawne providing coordination support. Commissioner Stacey Tannos presented Commissioner’s Commendations for Courage to Chris Condon and Bill Richardson and Commissioner’s Citations to the remaining eight volunteers. Unit Commander Davies said the unit had been thrilled to be recognised in the awards. “They reflect the quality of the continuous training we undertake,” he said. The three men on board the Aussie Joy sustained a number of serious injuries, including broken bones, severe lacerations, punctured lungs and a spinal injury, when their 10 metre cruiser struck a submerged object offshore in the early hours of April 14, 2019. None had been wearing a lifejacket. The MR Port Macquarie radio base received a Mayday call from the cruiser at 1.07am but the location given by the caller - later found to have a broken jaw - was difficult to determine. The crew of PM 30 spent nearly an hour searching until the fishermen were able to deploy their EPIRB and the crew

located the damaged cruiser with the aid of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, just south of Crescent Head. When PM 30 arrived on scene, Leading Crew members Bill Richardson and Chris Condon bravely boarded the holed vessel to provide emergency first aid to the three men. As the cruiser began sinking, the pair ensured all three escaped, painstakingly extricating a patient with a spinal injury from below deck, where he had been trapped among debris, by using the rising water in the cabin to float him out into the sea. All five men were then swiftly retrieved by the crew of PM 30 and transported to shore, rendezvousing en route with PM 20 with a medical crew on board. At the 2019 MRNSW Leadership Conference, Chair Jim Glissan said the team represented the best of marine rescue worldwide. “But for the prompt, professional and courageous acts of the crew, all those men would have drowned,” he said. “It shows that courage, enhanced by training and supported by a dedicated team, leads to an extraordinary outcome.”

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

Good Samaritan mission ... Ulladulla 20 evacuates a family, including five children, who had sought refuge on the Bawley Point beachfront from the Currowan bushfire in December. Photo: Michelle Cuthbert.

10 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

SAVING LIVES ON THE WATER Boating behaviour was this year impacted by bushfires, floods and COVID-19 but our volunteersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment to improving safety on our waterways was unwavering.

arine Rescue NSW volunteers proved their commitment and versatility throughout 2019-20, not only saving lives on the water but also supporting the response to the unprecedented Black Summer bushfires and adapting to new ways of operating in a pandemic. The organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service to the community and operational capability continued to expand this year, underpinned by the remarkable commitment of our volunteers and the first instalment of a new four-year $37.6 million State Government funding package. This funding supported greater boating safety through the establishment of our 45th rescue unit - and the first offshore - on Lord Howe Island, the delivery of another 10 rescue vessels to improve crew safety and efficiency, the elimination of blackspots in marine radio reception and the continuing roll-out of innovative technology, resourcing and training. Our volunteer workforce this year grew by 4.35 per cent to 3,136 as more people joined our mission to save lives on the water.

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW Bushfires, storms and floods drove many boaters off the water along the NSW coastline throughout much of this year, particularly at the peak of the summer season, and while the COVID-19 pandemic led to less traffic in some regions, this was in contrast to a rush to the water in others. An overall reduction in the number of emergencies and other incidents resulted in MRNSW volunteers deploying on 2,541 rescue missions throughout 2019-20 - a fall of seven per cent from 2018-19 and 11.8 per cent below the five-year average (2,881). Upon future reflection, these figures are likely to appear as a statistical anomaly, with results influenced by the prevailing environment rather than boating behaviour alone. While there were fewer operations overall, the proportion of those launched in response to life-endangering emergencies remained steady at 30 per cent across the year. The severity of many of these resulted in numerous extended joint-agency searches for missing individuals that ended in tragic circumstances. There were 25 boating-related fatalities on NSW waterways in 2019-20 - 14 more than last year. In an indication of the breadth of these emergencies, crews from half of our units, from every region, were tasked to operations searching for victims on the water. These included a three-year-old girl who fell from the family boat on the Hawkesbury River, a fisherman washed off rocks at Timber Beach on the Hunter coast and three people who died when their catamaran capsized off Stockton in July; all five people on board a helicopter that crashed into the sea south of Fingal Bay and a man whose boat overturned on the Nambucca bar in September; a man who could not be revived after being knocked overboard from a 15m sloop 5nm off Cape Hawke in October; and two fishermen who left Coffs Harbour for Sawtell Reef, a diver south of Bermagui, a missing jet ski rider off the Gold Coast and a swimmer lost on the

OPERATIONS 2019-20 Life-endangering emergencies

778

Other rescues

1,763

Total Rescues

2,541

Persons On Board - emergencies

1,621

Persons On Board - other rescues

4,326

Total Persons On Board Rescued

5,947

Local Log Ons

40,791

Offshore Log Ons

7,439

MarineRescue App Log Ons

19,402

Total Vessels Logged On

67,632

Persons On Board Logged On vessels

247,111

Radio Transmissions Logged

235,221

RESCUE MISSIONS 2019-20

Emergencies

778

Other rescues

1,763

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

Radio operators Lynne Wyatt and Mark Eames on socially-distanced duty at MR Terrey Hills, whose members shouldered an additional burden to support their colleagues in units impacted by bushfires and COVID-19 this year.

Murray River in December. The New Year began with the continuing search for a kayaker lost on Budgewoi Lake, an Argentinian backpacker caught in the surf on Mullaway Beach on the Mid North Coast, an English backpacker whose body was located off Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diamond Head, a wakeboarder on the Hawkesbury River and a man whose cruiser capsized off Blueys Beach near Forster on Australia Day. Searches were mounted for a kayaker lost on the Macleay River at South West Rocks in February; two men whose boat overturned on the Narooma bar in March; a man fishing with his nephew when their boat capsized at Rocky Island at Port Kembla on the way home and a five-year-old boy and a man, 28, at Bulli Point in June. As always, MRNSW crews responded with great professionalism and compassion in traumatic situations, particularly when entrusted with the grim but important responsibility of returning those lost to their families. The professional training and resourcing and individual skill and commitment of our volunteers, however, meant many more lives were saved on the water during 2019-20. Successful operational response strategies, incorporating streamlined crew activation processes and technology and the pre-deployment of assets to high-risk locations, continued to ensure crews were quickly on the scene to rescue boaters in trouble. In all, almost 6,000 people were returned safely to their families and friends, including two men whose fishing boat capsized off Bermagui in November, a couple whose cruiser sank 6nm off Ballina in the early morning darkness in June and a husband and wife who were overcome by carbon monoxide poisoning and unable to provide rescuers with their location on the Crookhaven River. The rapid response of frontline MRNSW crews prevented grief for many more families and significant economic and lost opportunity cost to the community.

A SUMMER LIKE NO OTHER The Black Summer bushfires began in the north of the State in July 2019, raging down the coast until early February, destroying homes, businesses,

12 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

bushland, wildlife and livelihoods, particularly in coastal locations dependent on summer tourism. Our versatile volunteers along the coast stepped up and stepped in to support the bushfire emergency operations, performing resupply operations, predeploying vessels, conducting communications duties for the NSW Rural Fire Service, staffing emergency operations centres and supporting impacted communities and evacuees fleeing from danger. The fire crisis ended in early February when severe storms extinguished the flames but caused flooding in many coastal regions, choking waterways with burnt vegetation and other debris and tearing boats off moorings. Up to 300mm of rainfall over some river systems, accompanied by strong winds and damaging surf on top of abnormally high tides, created dangerous conditions for boaters. MRNSW crews reported 4-5 metre breaking waves inside Broken Bay and 2.5 metre waves under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. An operation by a crew from MR Hawkesbury to free a houseboat wedged on a large tree on the swollen, muddy river took a bizarre turn when the boat ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s helicopter landed on its roof to assist. As well as detailed logistical planning to manage the impact of the fire season on its services and assets, MRNSW stepped up its service to the boating community over summer. Senior liaison personnel were again based at the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command to assist with rescue coordination. Units pre-positioned boats and Rescue Water Craft in hightraffic and potentially risky locations such as coastal bars. The agile rapidresponse capability of RWCs was instrumental in life-saving responses. The situational awareness behind daily RWC patrols on the hazardous Nambucca bar saw operators rescue 11 people in two hours on a hot January afternoon. And on Australia Day, two RWC operators from MR Lake Macquarie were the first responders on the scene when a woman was found floating face-down in Swansea Channel, providing initial first aid. Daily patrols were mounted on Sydney Harbour for the December-January holiday peak and crews from the Greater Sydney Region and Norah Head

Help from above ... the crew of Hawkesbury 22 was assisting this houseboat, wedged tight on a large tree in the murky Hawkesbury River in the aftermath of the February storms, when the owner’s chopper landed on the boat’s rooftop helipad to lend a hand. Photo: Sarah Adair.

marshalled on the harbour to support operations for the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and New Year’s Eve fireworks. The prevailing conditions along much of the coastline, however, combined to keep many boaters on shore over the three months from the start of December to the end of February, particularly on the Illawarra and South coasts, which faced immense fire danger. The number of boaters Logging On over summer consequently fell 12.7 per cent. Our crews launched 947 rescue operations over the three months - 10.2 per cent lower than the 1,055 missions during the equivalent period in 201819. The summer workload represented 37 per cent of the rescue effort for the year, consistent with last year at 38.6 per cent, despite the stark differences in boating activity. Twenty-six per cent of the summer operational workload was in response to life-threatening emergencies - up slightly from 25 per cent last year.

LOGGING ON With less boating traffic on the water, fewer vessels Logged On. MRNSW radio bases kept watch over 67,632 boats with 247,111 people on board, down from 74,930 boats and 283,799 people last year. After continuing to increase year-on-year, this reduction is again likely to be due to environmental factors rather than poorer boating safety. MRNSW offers the only official trip planning service in the State, providing boaters with the peace of mind of knowing a professional emergency service is tracking their journey and keeping watch for their safe return. The MarineRescue App is a proven success with the boating community. The proportion of boaters Logging On via the App this year was a record 28.6 per cent, up from 22 per cent last year.

RADIO OPERATIONS Our major investment of almost $1 million in marine radio network infrastructure and radio base equipment was this year supported by new

State Government funding of more than $3 million over four years. Major infrastructure improvements were carried out on the Illawarra and South coasts, with work almost complete on projects on the Mid North Coast. These will eliminate large blackspots in reception along the coastline from Point Danger to Eden and 20 to 30 nautical miles out to sea. Improved boating safety is the direct result of a stronger marine radio safety net. While the number of radio transmissions fell by 10 per cent this year, to 235,221, our radio operators maintained their duties around the clock to ensure boaters in distress received help fast. These operations were sustained in the third quarter of the year despite COVID-19 management procedures limiting base operations to core numbers of personnel. The MR Terrey Hills communications hub this year routinely monitored overnight radio traffic to 32 marine radio bases. The unit’s members shouldered an additional burden to support their colleagues from seven bases impacted by bushfires over summer and extended their safety watch again to remotely monitor traffic to three bases taken offline as a COVID-19 risk management strategy.

BOATING SAFETY Despite the challenges faced throughout the year by the boating community and our personnel, our volunteers have again delivered on our mission to save lives on the water. Our operational outcomes, expanding capability, radio network improvements and advocacy have contributed to safer boating on NSW waterways. We have maintained our boating community engagement, education and public messaging across various channels and media to encourage responsible practices on the water. As well as promoting the use of lifejackets and Logging On, we have also focused on the safety benefits of switching from older 27MHz technology to VHF radio, which provides greater range and higher quality reception. We will maintain this focus over the coming year to help boaters to stay safer while enjoying the State’s waterways.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

OPERATIONS 2019-20 Total

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

778

101

Other rescues

1,763

106

102

163

144

269

286

Total rescues

2,541

171

150

157

224

201

348

40,791

3,923

2,900

2,956

3,598

2,457

7,439

605

437

574

847

Log Ons - MarineRescue App

19,402

1,483

1,033

1,122

Total Log Ons

67,632

6,011

4,370

4,652

Life-threatening emergencies

Log Ons – local Log Ons – offshore

April

May

June

146

147

100

123

387

212

206

146

154

185

4,217

4,716

2,661

3,382

3,943

2,572

3,466

651

942

1,108

520

565

379

317

494

1,514

1,008

1,894

2,357

1,188

1,700

2,630

1,626

1,847

5,959

4,116

7,053

8,181

4,369

5,647

6,952

4,515

5,807

235,221 20,639 16,824 17,589 20,742 16,287 23,863 26,451 16,350 18,978 19,818 16,017 21,663

Radio calls

1. RESCUE MISSIONS: FIVE-YEAR TREND

2. VESSELS LOGGING ON: FIVE-YEAR TREND

3500

80,000

3000

70,000

2500

60,000

2000

50,000

1500

40,000

1000

30,000

500 0

Feb March

20,000 2019-20

Total rescues

2018-19

2017-18

2016-17

Life-endangering emergencies

2015-16

10,000 0 2019-20

Other rescues

Log On (Total) 1. Following years of increasing rescue activity, the number of rescue missions launched by MRNSW crews has trended downwards over the past three years. A total of 2,541 missions was launched in 2019-20, a 22% fall from the five-year peak of 3,257 in 2016-17. Source: Seahawk.

2017-18

Log On (App)

2016-17

2015-16

(*App launched March 2015)

3. RADIO TRANSMISSIONS: FIVE-YEAR TREND 350,000

2. After steadily rising over the past five years, the number of vessels Logging On with MRNSW fell by 9.7% in 2019-20 as bushfires, floods and COVID-19 impacted the boating season. The rate of boaters Logging On via the MarineRescue App has continued to grow, this year reaching a record 28.6 per cent - up from 22 per cent last year. Source: Seahawk.

300,000

3. The decreasing number of radio transmissions handled by MRNSW over five years reflects increasing efficiency, more boaters Logging On via the App, improved recording & reduced boating activity this year. Source: Seahawk.

100,000

250,000 200,000 150,000

50,000 0 2019-20

14 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2018-19

2017-18

2016-17

2015-16

HELP WHEN ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEEDED Daylight reveals the sad fate of a trawler that ran aground in the dark on the Swansea Channel bar. Members of MR Lake Macquarie rescued the skipper and gave him dry clothes and a bunk for the night before ferrying him out to inspect the damage. Photo: Peter Lorimer.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

WHO DID WE RESCUE? Common risk factors again contributed to boating incidents, our rescue response and operational resourcing.

he rescue missions launched by Marine Rescue NSW crews throughout 2019-20 again highlighted several common risk factors impacting safe boating and subsequently, our rescue resourcing. More than half the operations this year (53.4 per cent) were again in response to vessels with one or two people on board. In 921 instances, two boaters needed rescue and in another 437, just one person was on board. This is not unexpected, given the number of boaters who head out alone or with a single companion chasing the catch of the day. Boating alone carries heightened risk, particularly for older boaters who may be in poorer health. This year, 103 children were among those rescued as family groups took to the water. The extreme vulnerability of babies and small children requires heightened safety awareness on board and an accelerated rescue response. There was a 58 per cent increase in operations to retrieve unoccupied boats and other craft. These included vessels coming off their moorings, particularly during the February storms and floods, and drifting loose across the water. MRNSW consistently advises boaters to check the security of their moorings ahead of forecast adverse weather in order to avoid their boats becoming navigation hazards and washing ashore or colliding with nearby vessels. A number of anecdotal reports also pointed to boaters not using a kill switch lanyard to stop the engine should they fall overboard or lose control. Small boats up to eight metres in length again were likeliest to need assistance back to shore, accounting for 63.7 per cent of all rescue operations. Tinnies and small runabouts can be unstable and susceptible to capsize, particularly on coastal bars, with numerous instances throughout the year of boaters heading out on vessels unsuited to the conditions or distance travelled offshore. Demonstrating the diversity of boating activities, along with powered recreational boats and various sailing vessels, craft rescued this year included 64 jet skis, 13 houseboats, 23 kayaks, outrigger canoes and similar craft, nine dinghies, two ferries, two pontoons and a BBQ boat. Sixteen on-board dogs were rescued. Crews also removed navigation hazards including construction mesh, steel drums, crab traps, logs and buoys adrift.

Almost six per cent of operations involved empty boats. Two men were thrown from this runaway runabout on Port Hacking.

16 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Port Stephens 31 readies for a deployment under darkness.

AROUND THE CLOCK RESPONSE MRNSW operational resourcing is planned to meet peak demand, with the majority of unitsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crews rostered on duty on weekends and operating on-call during the week. In order to comply with the COVID-19 need for social isolation and distancing, significant changes to these routines were introduced from March 15 to May 20, with all crews directed to operate on an on-call basis, deploying from home, rather than on standby at their unitsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bases. This ensured core services were maintained while also minimising the risk of infection to frontline volunteers and members of the public. The majority of rescue missions again were mounted on weekends (56.7 per cent this year). There was little change in the number of weekday operations, despite some boaters having more time to head on to the water during the pandemic and some units reporting record numbers of mid-week traffic at local boat ramps. These responses averaged 21 a week (down minimally from 22 in 2018-19). Incidents were concentrated during daylight hours from 8am to 6pm, with the highest numbers between 11am and noon (264), noon and 1pm (262) and 1pm to 2pm (261), likely times for a boater wanting to head home from an early morning fishing trip but finding the engine will not start, the battery is flat, they are out of fuel or dirty fuel has worked its way through the lines. These factors are consistently the most common causes of the non-life threatening incidents to which our crews respond. While night operations were far fewer - totalling 266 between 6pm and 5am - response operations under darkness are inevitably more challenging and hazardous for rescue crews, who dedicate time throughout the year to night training exercises to build navigational skill and situational awareness. Boaters running into trouble late in the day while chasing game fish off the Continental Shelf led to a number of lengthy operations stretching well beyond nightfall for crews on the South Coast, while serious emergencies after dark also saw crews deploy from MR Forster-Tuncurry, Ballina, Port Kembla, Port Stephens, Shoalhaven, Norah Head, Lake Macquarie and Tuggerah Lakes, among others.

NUMBER OF PEOPLE ON BOARD RESCUED

SIZE OF BOATS RESCUED

Up to 6 metres

45%

10.1-15 metres

10.7%

0 People On Board

5.9%

1 Person On Board

17.2%

5-10 People On Board 8.9%

6.1-8 metres

18.7%

15+ metres

2 People On Board

36.2%

Other/unspecified

8.1-10 metres

10.6%

Unspecified/not known 14.5%

3 People On Board

15.4%

4 People On Board

8.8% 7.6%

DAYS BOATERS ARE RESCUED

0.5%

TIMES RESCUE MISSIONS ARE LAUNCHED

Sunday

767

Thursday

202

Monday

235

Friday

243

Tuesday

211

Saturday

674

Wednesday

209

0.00-0.59 1.00-1.59 2.00-2.59 3.00-3.59 4.00-4.59 5.00-5.59 6.00-6.59 7.00-7.59 8.00-8.59 9.00-9.59 10.00-10.59 11.00-11.59 12.00-12.59 13.00-13.59 14.00-14.59 15.00-15.59 16.00-16.59 17.00-17.59 18.00-18.59 19.00-29.59 20.00-20.59 21.00-21.59 22.00-22.59 23.00-23.59 0

100

150

200

250

300

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

BLACK SUMMER As an unprecedented bushfire emergency gripped the State throughout much of 2019-20, our volunteers redoubled their efforts to support their communities and the firefighting effort.

he Black Summer bushfire season was one of extraordinary ferocity and duration, with the fires taking hold in the State’s north in July 2019 and ending more than eight months later. As the fires ran down the NSW coastline, MRNSW units were ideally placed to assist both emergency operations and their local communities. Coordinated response planning was activated to ensure MRNSW could maintain its essential services while also supporting firefighting efforts, our people and impacted communities. Detailed communications planning provided back-ups and redundancies in case of fire damage to infrastructure or loss of power and essential communications networks. This ensured the MR Terrey Hills base was ready to monitor radio traffic to MR Iluka Yamba, Kioloa, Batemans Bay, Merimbula, Bermagui, Narooma and Eden when their bases were inaccessible or without power. When fires burnt out newly-installed radio infrastructure at Round Hill, near Batemans Bay, technicians were quickly on site to conduct repairs. Two days later the tower was instrumental in relaying a call for help made from a boat’s VHF radio from a group of isolated residents surrounded by fire to MR Terrey Hills. New radio equipment on Mt Imlay, south of Eden, was damaged beyond repair. Interim installations were in place by March, ahead of a permanent fix. Volunteers and staff were based in local and regional Emergency Operations Centres, provided communications services for the NSW Rural Fire Service, assisted at evacuation centres and opened their unit doors to residents and visitors forced to seek shelter after being evacuated. Commissioner Stacey Tannos thanked volunteers and staff for their extended contribution to the bushfire emergency operations and support for

Our volunteers’ communications expertise is highly prized by combat agencies. their communities, all while maintaining their core operations. “This wasn’t your classic boating summer,” he said. “Conditions were far from ideal and traffic on the water was down in many areas as a result. But our members steadfastly maintained their watch over those vessels that were out and sadly, again were integral to operations searching for missing people and boats. Volunteers in all regions demonstrated their versatility and determination to step in where required to assist people in need throughout the fires, followed by the storms and coastal flooding. I am proud that our people responded so generously and effectively.” Detailed logistical strategies throughout the extended fire season saw units placed on standby and vessels from Port Macquarie, Nambucca, Ulladulla and Jervis Bay, among others, pre-positioned to transport firefighters and carry out emergency evacuations if needed. South Coast crews joined forces in a relay resupply operation to transport generators and first aid supplies to our bases and Surf Life Saving Clubs, while MR Hawkesbury transported fire crews and worked with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to patrol closed National Parks. On January 4, as the temperature reached 48.9

18 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Our volunteers filled 208 shifts on the NSW Rural Fire Service Bush Fire Information Line, providing vital information to the public.

degrees in Penrith, the crew of Hawkesbury 21 spotted campers with a lit fire. Moving quickly to extinguish the fire, the volunteers prevented a potential blaze taking hold in the Greater Sydney metropolitan area. As the huge Currowan inferno burnt through almost half a million hectares in the Shoalhaven region, a crew from MR Ulladulla on a resupply mission for firefighters evacuated a family of six, including five children, from the Bawley Point beachfront where they had sought shelter and later led a resupply mission for the isolated Lake Conjola community. Our volunteers’ communications expertise, honed by their marine radio operations, is highly prized by combat agencies. Almost 120 MRNSW volunteers filled 208 shifts on the Bush Fire Information Line at the RFS State Headquarters and another 27 at the NSW Police Public Information Inquiry Centre to keep the public updated on topics such as fire activity, transport and road access, evacuations and school closures. Volunteers from MR Merimbula maintained overnight communications for the RFS, while MR Port Stephens conducted radio operations in the communications centre at the Hunter Fire Control Centre. Staff were based at the RFS Headquarters as liaison officers to coordinate requests for deployment and support the volunteer effort in the call centre and our own units. Our volunteers reached out to support displaced residents and visitors as well. MR Crowdy Harrington opened its training facility as a makeshift evacuation centre for people evacuated from a local caravan park late at night and MR Camden Haven volunteers who needed to leave their homes at Laurieton also spent the night at their unit base. Members of the Merimbula, Batemans Bay, Eden, Bermagui and Narooma units joined community service agencies operating evacuation centres. MR Merimbula Deputy Unit Commander Sonia Teston said “our volunteers in blue were everywhere”, doorknocking, catering, providing a kind word, taking evacuees into their own homes and providing personal supplies when local shops ran out of goods. The Narooma base opened its grounds for people to camp and use its facilities, including the bathrooms, kitchen and phone. Watch Officer Ian Noormets slept on the floor of the radio room to keep the facilities open.

BEST ON BOARD

Marine Rescue NSW vessels are fitted with the latest technology and rescue equipment. MR Cottage Point members show what is packed on board their boats. Photo: David Cocks. MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

Warning for fellow boaters

wo fishermen whose boat sank offshore from Bermagui in November paid tribute to the “awesome” rescue teams who rushed to save them as they clung to the hull of their upturned runabout. Lindsay McGown and Daren Bayldon were fishing off Beares Beach when their boat overturned about 12.20pm on November 28, 2019, with the EPIRB still inside. They managed to send a desperate VHF radio call for help. Next day, Mr McGown thanked the MRNSW radio operators and the volunteers on board Bermagui 30 and Narooma 30 and the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter and Surf Life Saving personnel who came to their rescue. He also had a safety message for other boaters, urging them to wear lifejackets and know how to use their marine radios. “I think people are unsure of them. We have this ‘she’ll be right’ attitude. It’s the Aussie way but it’s not really the right way at all,” he said. The pair’s on-board EPIRB was under a shelf and under water within an instant, prompting the men to encourage others to keep the device at hand and also consider Personal Locator Beacons as an additional safety measure.

They saved my family: Mum

arine Rescue Ulladulla has been applauded for its Good Samaritan mission to rescue a family of six, including five children, who had sought refuge from the huge Currowan bushfire on the Bawley Point beachfront in December. The crew of Ulladulla 20 was battling low visibility and choking smoke to deliver water and medical supplies to fire crews when they were alerted to the family sheltering by the water. The children, three girls and two boys, were aged between six and 14 years. Unit Commander Dave Hall and crew member Allan Brook evacuated them and their mother, who was also the aunt of one, to the safety of Ulladulla to be checked by NSW Ambulance paramedics. Sandra Zerafa thanked the crew on social media. “They saved my family from the fires. Allan and Dave I commend you. I love you all so much,” she said. “What would I have done without them. I (am) forever in their favour and debt. God please help our emergency personnel get through this time. You’re all amazing.”

‘Amazing rescue’ in darkness

couple rescued when their 45-foot cruiser sank in the dark 6nm south of Ballina on June 12 demonstrated the need to be prepared for the worst. When their boat began sinking bow-first, Guy Peluso and his wife activated their EPIRB and grabbed life rings, a fender and phone, put on their lifejackets and tied everything together. The crew of Ballina 30 and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter were activated when the couple’s Mayday call was detected by MR Terrey Hills about 2.10am. With guidance from the helicopter crew, BA 30 located the pair and returned them to a waiting NSW Ambulance. “I have a very clear memory of the four members that saved us standing shoulder to shoulder smiling as we were escorted to the ambulance,” Mr Peluso said. “A happy ending to a rescue, given it was pitch black and a 2m swell (was) breaking across that bar. (They were) proud members of Marine Rescue who had trained and developed their skills over years to pull off an amazing rescue. We are very thankful.”

20 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

PANDEMIC RESPONSE COVID-19 posed a threat to the health and wellbeing of our volunteers and the boating community but our people adapted to operating and training under the “new normal”.

arine Rescue NSW reacted switfly to manage the risks posed by the COVID-19 crisis, introducing a series of escalating risk management measures to protect its volunteers and staff while maintaining its essential services to save lives on the water. Like the rest of the community, we needed to adapt and find new ways of operating in the midst of a health crisis. Commissioner Stacey Tannos said it had been confronting to face such a severe crisis, especially so soon after the summer bushfires, storms and floods. “Our major concern has been to ensure that we have taken every possible step to minimise the potential risks to the health and welfare of our people,” he said. “We needed to be agile and flexible in our response to ensure we kept pace with evolving govenment rules to help manage the pandemic and also meet our own operational needs.” The organisation’s response was reviewed daily to ensure it was in line with government health requirements and SafeWork NSW guidelines. The first risk management procedures were introduced on March 3 and escalated twice to support members’ social isolation and social distancing. Headquarters staff began working remotely on March 17. Radio base operations were limited to core numbers of personnel and rescue vessel crews operated on a call-out basis, deploying from home rather than on standby from their units. All unit meetings and events, including fundraising,

Units and staff became adept in using Zoom for official business and informal catch-ups. were cancelled at the height of the health response and the roll-out of the MRNSW E-Learning platform was expedited to shift training activities online. Units and staff became adept in the use of Zoom for official business and informal catch-ups to help reduce the impacts of isolation and maintain engagement. On March 30, instructions were issued taking 10 strategically located radio bases offline and limiting six others to weekend and public holiday operations to maximise opportunities to preserve a healthy alternative workforce that would be able to provide continuity of service in the event the organisation developed its own virus hotspot. MRNSW appealed to boaters to ‘Stay Safe. Stay Home’ to help protect their own and frontline volunters’ health. The aim was to reduce the number of boats on the water and thus the incidence of emergencies in order to ensure as many volunteers as possible were able to comply with the Commonwealth and State government health guidlines for people to stay home unless essential and reduce the potential risk of infection for those forced to break their own social isolation to respond. Getting out on the water, however, proved an ideal way for many boaters to break loose from their social isolation. While boating traffic fell in some areas, including on the border region of the Far South Coast, some units, such as MR Wooli, witnessed unprecedented numbers of boaters on the water and Evans Head reported that perfect conditions and abundant fish had sparked a boating boom. Almost 12,600 boats Logged On with MRNSW in

Marine Rescue Point Danger Unit Commander Glenda Ashby stops at the police checkpoint on the NSW-Queensland border, closed as a COVID-19 measure, on her way home from duty.

Volunteers saving lives on the water

Stay Safe. Stay Home. For us all. We miss being out on the water, too but please don’t risk your own or our volunteers’ health.

Marine Rescue NSW appealed to boaters to stay home to help protect their own and frontline volunteers’ health.

March (5,647) and April (6,952). While this was 26 per cent fewer than the same period last year, anecdotal reports from numerous units indicated the number of boats Logged On was a fraction of those on the water, with boaters possibly under the mistaken belief they would be reported for heading out. The State Government issued public health directions on March 31 to clarify that people should stay home unless they had a “reasonable excuse” to use a boat. Individuals were required to maintain social distancing of four square metres of space per person on board.The average number of people on board each Logged On vessel subsequently fell from three in March to 1.95 in April. As community restrictions were eased in May, units began returning to the “new normal”, re-establishing radio and vessel duties and some activities, albeit socially distanced and with close attention to hygiene, cleaning and individual health. The government relaxed social distancing requirements on boats ahead of the June long weekend, with members of the same household no longer needing to follow social distancing on board.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OPERATIONS

Accredited Marine Rescue Units Search & Rescue Coordination Centres (with vessels) Point Danger PD 30, 11.5m Naiad PD 20, 7.5m Naiad

Ballina BA 30, 10m Naiad

Iluka Yamba IY 30, 11.5m Steber IY 20, 5.5m Naiad

Coffs Harbour CO 30, 9.5m Naiad

Port Macquarie PM 30, 11.5m Steber PM 20, 6.25m Cobia PM 10 & PM 11, RWC

Forster-Tuncurry FO 30, 11.5m Steber FO 20, 6.8m Naiad

Port Stephens PS 31, 11.5m Steber PS 30, 8.5m Gemini

Lake Macquarie LM 30, 10m Naiad LM 20, 7.8m Sailfish LM 13, RWC

Botany Port Hacking BY 30, 8.5m Kevlacat PH 30, 8.5m Kevlacat

Port Kembla PK 30, 8.5m Kevlacat PK 20, 6.3m Naiad

Shoalhaven SA 30, 11.5m Steber SA 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder

Ulladulla UL 30, 11.5m Steber UL 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder UL 10, 4.2m Milpro

Batemans Bay BM 30, 11.5m Steber BM 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder BM 21, 6.2m Cobia

Narooma NA 30, 10m Naiad NA 11 & NA 12, RWC

Search & Rescue Coordination Centres (radio only) Terrey Hills

Eden

Marine Rescue Radio Bases (with vessels) Brunswick BR 30, 9.5m Naiad

Evans Head EH 30, 8.5m Kevlacat

Wooli WI 30, 9.5m Naiad

Woolgoolga WO 30, 10.85m Ellis Jet

Trial Bay TB 30, 10m Naiad TB 11 & TB 12, RWC

Lord Howe Island LH 40, 16m Austal

Camden Haven CH 30, 10m Naiad CH 10, 4.2m Milpro

Crowdy Harrington CB 30, 9.5m Naiad CB 20, 6.8m Naiad

Central Coast CC 30, 10m Naiad CC 21, 7.5m Naiad CC 22, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder CC 11, RWC

Lemon Tree Passage LT 30, 8.5m Naiad

Newcastle NC 30, 10m Naiad

Norah Head NR 20, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder

Tuggerah Lakes TL 20, 6.8m Naiad TL 21, 6.25m Cobia

Jervis Bay Hawkesbury JB 40, 13.2m Steber HW 21, 8m Broadbill Cat HW 22, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder JB 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder

Kioloa KL 20, 6.2m Cobia

Sussex Inlet SI 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder

Bermagui BG 30, 11.5m Steber

Merimbula MB 30, 9.6m Naiad MB 20, 6.8m Naiad

Marine Rescue Units (vessel only) Nambucca NH 20, 6.8m Naiad NH 11 & X 10, RWC

Broken Bay BB 30, 10m Naiad BB 20, 6.5m Gemini

Cottage Point CP 30, 11.5m Sailfish CP 31, 9m Sailfish

Middle Harbour MH 30, 11.5m Steber MH 20, 6.8m Naiad

Shellharbour SH 30, 10m Naiad

Tuross TU 20, 6.8m Naiad TU 12, 4.8m Cobia TU 13, RWC

Alpine Lakes AL 21, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder AL 20, 7m Sailfish

Moama MO 20, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder MO 10, 4.6m Ocean Cylinder

Marine Rescue Radio Base (radio only) Cape Byron

22 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Port Jackson PJ 30, 8.5m Kevlacat PJ 20, 7.5m Naiad

SIX REGIONS 3,136 volunteers 45 units One team

Volunteers such as Marine Rescue Evans Head Unit Commander Andy Adams operated and trained under a smoke haze for many months in 2019-20. Photo: Brad Whittaker.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

REGIONS

Emergencies

114

Other rescues

Total

190

Persons on Board

430

Local Log Ons

Northern Rivers

9,518

Offshore Log Ons

758

App Log Ons

4,069

Total Log Ons

14,345

Mid North Coast Emergencies

226

Other rescues

632

Total

858

Persons on Board

1,945

Local Log Ons

5,960

Offshore Log Ons

1,689

App Log Ons

3,276

Total Log Ons

10,925

Hunter/Central Coast

Greater Sydney Emergencies

135

Other rescues

130

Total

265

Persons on Board

571

Local Log Ons Offshore Log Ons App Log Ons Total Log Ons

Emergencies

122

Other rescues

109

Total

231

Persons on Board

414

Local Log Ons

9,471

Offshore Log Ons

1,066

App Log Ons

2,875

Total Log Ons

13,412

Emergencies

103

Other rescues

758

Total

861

Persons on Board

2,302

Local Log Ons

1,896

Offshore Log Ons

2,583

App Log Ons

4,205

Total Log Ons

8,684

Illawarra

7,764 467 2,656

Emergencies

10,887

Other rescues

Monaro

Total

136

Persons on Board

285

Local Log Ons Offshore Log Ons

6,171 462

App Log Ons

2,272

Total Log Ons

8,905

TOTAL

Emergencies Other rescues

1,763

Total

2,541

Persons on Board Local Log Ons Offshore Log Ons

+ 474 (11 Local, 414 Offshore & 49 App) Seahawk Log Ons by Seaway Tower, Southport, for boaters travelling from Queensland waters south to New South Wales.

24 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

778

5,947 40,791 7,439

App Log Ons

19,402

Total Log Ons

67,632

REGIONAL RESCUE WORKLOAD 2019-20

OPERATIONS IN EACH REGION 800

700

600

500

400

300

200

Northern Rivers

7.5%

Greater Sydney

33.9%

Mid North Coast

9.1%

Illawarra

10.4%

33.7%

Monaro

5.4%

Hunter/Central Coast

100 0 NR

MNC

HCC

Emergencies

SYD

ILL

MON

Other rescues

LOG ONS BY REGION 15,000

12,000

9,000

6,000

3,000

0 NR Local Log Ons

MNC

HCC Offshore Log Ons

SYD

ILL App Log Ons

MON Total Log Ons

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

REGIONS

NORTHERN RIVERS UNITS: Point Danger, Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba and Wooli. MISSIONS: 190 rescues, including 114 emergency responses and 76 other rescues. This represented 7.5 per cent of all rescues for the year. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • MR Ballina floating crew ready room, $100,000. • MR Brunswick waterfront office, training & meeting facility, $69,000. • Fuel trailer for MR Brunswick & new unit vehicle for MR Point Danger. • $47,000 Community Building Partnership grant for CCTV camera on Brunswick bar & generator for MR Cape Byron radio base. • Major refit for Wooli 30, including upgraded electronics & new pontoons. • $18,000 SOLAS Trusts grant for upgraded Raymarine Multi Function Device on rescue vessel Ballina 30. ON THE WATER: Six boaters from Evans Head were commended in Federal Parliament for saving the lives of an elderly man and his son whose small fishing boat overturned on Father’s Day. The men’s 5.25m runabout tipped in challenging conditions about 3nm south of Evans Head. The nearby boaters rushed to help the men, including one who leapt into the water to retrieve the barelyconscious 83-year-old, before MR Evans Head gave vital first aid. New warning signs about dangerous ocean currents have been erected after two surfers were caught in a hazardous rip sweeping north from Tallows Beach around Cape Byron on December 8. The crew of Brunswick 30 and the Westpac helicopter located the men on the rock cliffs below the lighthouse, from where they were winched to safety. A crew from MR Point Danger was deployed to relieve Queensland teams in an air-sea operation to find a missing Gold Coast jet ski rider on December 30. A man and woman were rescued after making a Mayday call and activating their EPIRB as their 45-foot cruiser sank in the early morning darkness 6nm south of Ballina on June 12, 2020. The cruiser began taking on water and sinking bow-first. The crew of Ballina 30 and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter were activated when the Mayday was detected by MR Terrey Hills about 2.10am. With guidance from the helicopter crew, BA 30 retrieved the pair and returned them across the bar, illuminated by the chopper, to a waiting NSW Ambulance.

26 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

RESCUES BY UNIT All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Point Danger

Brunswick

Cape Byron

Ballina

Evans Head

Iluka Yamba

Wooli

Total

190

114

MID NORTH COAST UNITS: Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Trial Bay, Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, Crowdy Harrington, Forster-Tuncurry and Lord Howe Island. MISSIONS: 231 rescues, including 122 emergency responses and 109 other rescues. This represented 9.1 per cent of all rescues for the year. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • New Lord Howe Island unit established. • Lord Howe 40 (Fearless) former NSW Police Force vessel, $700,000 refit. • Nambucca 12, new $18,000 Sea-Doo Rescue Water Craft. • Repairs to MR Port Macquarie radio base following two fires within a year. • Progress on major marine radio infrastructure works at the Coolongolook remote site to eliminate black spots in radio reception. ON THE WATER: A man died when his 3m aluminium punt capsized after being hit by a wave on the Nambucca bar about 6.40am on September 20 in a prescient warning of the hazards ahead over the peak summer holidays. Crews from MR Nambucca rescued 11 people caught in six emergencies on the bar including five swimmers, two snorkelers, a paddleboarder and three people thrown off a jet ski - within two hectic hours on the afternoon of January 8. A man who had not been seen since leaving home on a crabbing trip on the Macleay River was located early on Christmas Day after a two-day search involving MR Trial Bay crews, who also joined a search for a missing kayaker after his craft was found floating on the murky Macleay River on February 15. His body was found on the beach the next morning. Two fishermen who left Coffs Harbour for Sawtell Reef on December 28 were not found despite a multi-agency search joined by MR Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Nambucca. On January 20, crews from MR Woolgoolga, Wooli and Coffs Harbour were again activated when an Argentinian backpacker got into trouble in the surf on Mullaway Beach. His body washed ashore a week later. Forster 30 was deployed when a cruiser capsized off Blueys Beach early on Australia Day. A 74-year-old man was lost but another rescued. The overturned cruiser was located off Bronte in Sydney four days later. The crew of FO 30 also responded late at night in turbulent seas after a man was seriously injured when he was knocked overboard from a 15m sloop 5nm off Cape Hawke on October 6 and could not be revived.

RESCUES BY UNIT All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Woolgoolga

Coffs Harbour

Nambucca

Trial Bay

Port Macquarie

Camden Haven

Crowdy Harrington

Forster-Tuncurry

Total

231

122

109

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

REGIONS

HUNTER/CENTRAL COAST UNITS: Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes and Central Coast. MISSIONS: 858, including 226 emergency responses and 632 other rescues. This represented 33.7 per cent of all rescues. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • Construction starts on $1.8 million MR Lake Macquarie base. • $265,000 boat shed and $48,000 tractor at MR Norah Head. • New $170,000 jetty for MR Port Stephens. • Newcastle 30, 10m Naiad, $535,000. • Lemon Tree 30, 8.5m Naiad, $450,000. • Tuggerah Lakes 20, 6.8m Naiad, $355,000. ON THE WATER: The year began tragically in the region. Crews from MR Lake Macquarie and Norah Head joined a search for a fisherman, 60, swept off rocks at Timber Beach on July 7. His body was recovered after a search over several days. Four days later, MR Newcastle and Port Stephens were tasked to recover three people who died when their catamaran overturned in rough seas off Stockton on July 11. A 16-year-old girl and her father, 50, were winched to safety. On August 7, crews from MR Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Newcastle, Lemon Tree Passage and Forster-Tuncurry joined forces to search for a motor cruiser missing on a trip from Swansea to Forster. It was located, without working communications, by Port Stephens 31. On September 6, PS 31 headed out in gale force winds, darkness and seas above 4-5m after a chopper crashed into the ocean south of Fingal Bay, killing all five on board. Wreckage was later located after an extensive search by NSW Police and Royal Australian Navy vessels and PS 31. Crews from MR Tuggerah Lakes saw in the New Year on Budgewoi Lake, searching for a kayaker caught in a blustery southerly change. While two of the three kayakers who set out at dusk on New Year’s Eve made their way to safety, the crew of TL 20 and police recovered a 25-year-old’s body on January 1. Two Rescue Water Craft operators from MR Lake Macquarie received a Unit Commander’s Citation for their rapid response to help save a young woman floating face-down in Swansea Channel on Australia Day. Seventy-five volunteers plus personnel from other agencies honed their rescue and radio skills in the Hunter/Central Coast Search and Rescue Exercise on Lake Macquarie in mid-October.

28 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

RESCUES BY UNIT All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Port Stephens

201

126

Lemon Tree Passage

Newcastle

Lake Macquarie

407

354

Norah Head

Tuggerah Lakes

Central Coast

153

137

Total

858

226

632

GREATER SYDNEY UNITS: Hawkesbury, Cottage Point, Broken Bay, Terrey Hills, Middle Harbour, Port Jackson and Botany Port Hacking. MISSIONS: 861, including 103 emergency responses and 758 other rescues. This represented 33.9 per cent of all rescues. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • $200,000 My Community Project grant for MR Broken Bay to help fund its new $500,000 boat due for delivery early in 2020-21. • $13,500 Central Coast Council grant for a new thermal imaging camera for Hawkesbury 22. ON THE WATER: Crews from MR Hawkesbury assembled on July 9 in response to the third tragedy on the Hawkesbury River in 2019, when a three-year-old girl fell from her family’s yacht, moored at Brooklyn. Emergency services stood down when the little girl was found about 100m from the boat. On January 12, MR Middle Harbour joined the search for an English tourist whose body was found off Diamond Head. MR Hawkesbury and Cottage Point responded to a wakeboarding accident on the river on January 28. Port Jackson 20 was on a training exercise on January 30 when it was tasked offshore to chart the location of an overturned cruiser that had drifted south after overturning near Forster on Australia Day, ending up off Bronte. In late October, the unit was training on Sydney Harbour when Port Jackson 20 was waved down by boaters who had just retrieved a kayaker who had spent an hour in the water after overturning. Another kayaker who had attempted to help had also fallen in the water and was swiftly rescued by PJ 30. MR Hawkesbury and Cottage Point supported bushfire operations, transporting fire crews and patrolling closed National Parks. MR Terrey Hills shouldered an additional load, monitoring radio traffic for seven additional units during the fires and later, when bases were strategically stood down to preserve a reserve workforce of radio operators during the pandemic, taking on responsibility for another three bases as well. Crews again boosted their visibility and rescue readiness by stepping up their operations for the busiest week on the water in Sydney and its surrounds, with vessels on duty every day between Christmas and New Year. Crews again took part in the major Harbour events, patrolling exclusion zones and providing emergency support for events including the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, New Year’s Eve fireworks, Australia Day and the F50 catamaran SailGP.

RESCUES BY UNIT All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Hawkesbury

157

135

Broken Bay

111

102

Cottage Point

Terrey Hills

Middle Harbour

161

145

Port Jackson

135

122

Botany Port Hacking

175

152

Total

861

103

758

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

REGIONS

ILLAWARRA UNITS: Port Kembla, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet, Ulladulla and Kioloa. MISSIONS: 265, including 135 emergency responses and 130 other rescues. This represented 10.4 per cent of all rescues. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • Port Kembla 20, 6.3m Naiad, $306,000. • Sussex Inlet 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder, $343,000. • Major repairs and upgrade of MR Port Kembla’s Hill 60 radio base & mast. • Radio communications projects: online radio technology at MR Jervis Bay & network infrastructure at Mt Pleasant, Vincentia and Maddens Plains, more than $300,000. ON THE WATER: Crews from MR Port Kembla launched searches under darkness in response to two separate emergencies when members of the public reported hearing calls for help from the water. On April 16, people heard a man yelling for help from Rocky Island at Port Kembla. The man had been returning from a fishing trip with his uncle - whose body was recovered the next day - when their boat capsized. A major air and sea search was mounted on June 6 when screams were heard near Bulli Point. A runabout with four people on board had capsized. Two men were winched from the water but a five-year-old boy died, along with a man, 28, who was recovered by Shellharbour 30. The crew of Shoalhaven 30 was quickly under way when tasked to locate a boat with two ill passsengers on board on the Crookhaven River between Greenwell Point and Nowra on May 17. The crew located the vessel in the dark and a crew member transferred on board, finding the couple had suffered carbon monoxide poisoning and the man serious burns to his arm. Members of MR Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet and Kioloa took part in the joint Illawarra/Monaro Regional Search and Rescue Exercise at Batemans Bay on November 23 and 24. While the Black Summer bushfires kept many boaters on shore, Illawarra crews carried out evacuation and resupply missions and were based in Emergency Operations Centres. Major flooding on the Shoalhaven and Crookhaven rivers in February washed thousands of tons of burnt debris into the water, with Shoalhaven 30 investigating vessels washed from their moorings and in danger.

30 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

RESCUES BY UNIT All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Port Kembla

Shellharbour

Shoalhaven

Jervis Bay

Sussex Inlet

Ulladulla

Kioloa

Total

265

135

130

MONARO UNITS: Batemans Bay, Tuross, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula, Eden, Alpine Lakes and Moama. MISSIONS: 136, including 78 emergency responses and 58 other rescues. This represented 5.4 per cent of all rescues. NEW & UPGRADED ASSETS: • Merimbula 20, 6.8m Naiad, $337,000 & $258,000 pontoon & AirBerth. • Narooma 11 & 12 replacement Rescue Water Craft, $18,000 each. • Upgrade to Batemans 30 and RediTalk system in Batemans Bay radio base. • MR Eden base extension and renovations, $217,000. • MR Narooma refurbished radio room & garage & new memorial garden. • Major radio network infrastructure at Bermagui, Round Hilll, Moruya & Dr George Mountain & repairs to Mt Imlay fire damage, $606,000. ON THE WATER: A man was charged after allegedly filing a false missing person report that sparked a mass search over three days offshore from Tathra in mid-August. Crews from MR Merimbula and Bermagui, NSW Police, Surf Life Saving, the Westpac and Toll helicopters and the State Emergency Service were deployed before police determined the report was false. Two Victorian fishermen praised the emergency services who came to their rescue when their boat sank off Beares Beach, south of Bermagui, on November 28. A month later, Bermagui 30 joined a search for a diver who disappeared at Barraga Bay. His body was located on December 28. MR Moama was quickly activated when a 23-year-old man was reported missing on the Murray River on December 29. A cross-border emergency operation was launched and the man was recovered on New Year’s Eve. One man died and another was lost overboard when their small open runabout rolled on the Narooma bar early on March 10. Crews from MR Naroooma, Bermagui, Batemans Bay and Tuross joined an air-sea search for the missing man, whose body was later recovered. The combined Illawarra/Monaro Regional Search and Rescue Exercise was staged at Batemans Bay in late November, bringing together more than 100 volunteers from 12 units to test their capability and new marine radio infrastructure. The region’s units were instrumental in supporting the summer bushfire response, with members working at Emergency Operations Centres, opening their bases to evacuees and joining resupply operations.

Rescues by unit All rescues

Emergency responses

Other rescues

Batemans Bay

Tuross

Narooma

Bermagui

Merimbula

Eden

Alpine Lakes

Moama

136

Total

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

PEOPLE & RESOURCES

Tuggerah Lakes 20, on its sea trials off Yamba, has “already given us additional confidence in our ability to serve the community safely”, says Deputy Unit Commander Bob Sutton. Photo: Yamba Welding & Engineering.

32 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

FLEET DEVELOPMENT

MIGHT & POWER

The 100th vessel ... Lord Howe 40 undergoes a total refurbishment after MRNSW took delivery of the boat from the NSW Police Force.

Another vessel was added to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet every five weeks on average this year, boosting volunteer safety and operational capability.

arine Rescue NSW has passed a significant milestone in the development of its world-class rescue fleet, with more than 100 new and refurbished vessels now delivered under the Fleet Modernisation Program, at a total cost of more than $24 million. Ten vessels were added to the fleet in 2019-20, taking the total number of boats delivered to units to 101. These 10 were the first of 38 vessels to be funded under an accelerated fleet renewal package worth almost $15 million over four years as part of a State Government investment of $37.6 million in MRNSW from July 1, 2019. The landmark 100th boat delivered was the largest in the fleet, the 16m ocean-going launch Lord Howe 40 (Fearless). The former NSW Police Force Marine Area Command boat, which MRNSW acquired at no cost, has undergone a full refurbishment at Birdon Marine in Port Macquarie, ahead of its deployment to the first offshore MRNSW rescue unit on Lord Howe Island when COVID-19 restrictions ease. The work included gutting the interior, building a new wheelhouse console, renewing the flybridge console, installing a full suite of Raymarine electronics, a mechanical overhaul and replacing bearings and corroded plates. The shafts and propellers were removed, inspected and aligned and the hull was blasted and the superstructure repainted before the vessel was re-launched in MRNSW livery. Boats from the existing fleet also were upgraded this year, including Batemans 30, which underwent a major half-life refit expected to extend its operational lifespan by seven to 10 years, with new electronics, communications, cabin layout, engine mounts and fuel lines, re-machined or

replaced shafts and bearings and new livery. Wooli 30 benefited from a new interior fit-out, upgraded electronics, new pontoons and fresh paint and livery. Almost $310,000 in fuel was used to power our operational fleet of more than 90 vessels across the 12 months. The strategic allocation of rescue resources under the Fleet Modernisation Program has continued to ensure crews operate on fit-for-purpose vessels designed and built to suit local conditions and handle the heavy operational workload of search and rescue, whether offshore, on coastal bars or more NEW VESSELS 2019-20 $ Lord Howe 40 (Fearless), 16m Austal

700,000

Newcastle 30, 10m Naiad

535,000

Lemon Tree 30, 8.5m Naiad

450,000

Tuggerah Lakes 20, 6.8m Naiad

355,000

Sussex Inlet 20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder

343,000

Merimbula 20, 6.8m Naiad

337,000

Port Kembla 20, 6.3m Naiad

306,000

Nambucca 12, Sea-Doo RWC

18,000

Narooma 11, Sea-Doo RWC

18,000

Narooma 12, Sea-Doo RWC

18,000

Total

3,080,000

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

The trial of the U SAFE prototype is launched from rescue vessel Botany 30 in a rescue simulation.

We launch Australia-first technology trial As part of its commitment to innovation, MRNSW this year launched the first Australian trial of new rescue technology, the U SAFE selfpropelled, remote-controlled life buoy. The prototype, produced by Portugese developer Noras Performance, was trialled to determine its capability in a marine rescue environment. Featuring a U-shaped hull, the device can travel up to 400 metres from the operator on a vessel or shore at a speed of up to 15km/h. Unlike a traditional life ring thrown to a person in the water and then hauled back to land or a rescue vessel, the U SAFE is selfpowered by an electric turbine in each leg. Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin said MRNSW had undertaken the first operational trial of the U SAFE by a professional rescue service in Australia. The trial tested its potential capacity to either retrieve a person from the water or carry a tow line to a boat in dangerous or inaccessible locations, such as on coastal bars or near rocks. Mr Parkin said while MRNSW had decided not to introduce the equipment as part of its vessel fit-out, it was important to test new products that had the potential to assist volunteers in their life-saving roles. “Innovation is a strong driver in our mission to save lives on the water,” he said. “If we can find new ways to help our volunteers work smarter and safer rather than harder, then we will investigate those possibilities. It is only through testing and trials that we continue to develop.” The equipment weighed 13kg. It was powered by a 3.6 volt lithium ion battery, with a run time of 30 minutes at a speed of 7.5km/h.

confined inshore waterways. The organisation’s momentum on the water is being maintained, with new vessels due for delivery to MR Broken Bay, Botany Port Hacking, Tuross and Jervis Bay in the second quarter of 2020-21. MRNSW not only aims to keep pace with new industry developments but also to continue to be a leader in the marine search and rescue sector. The size and scope of the build program is so extensive that the organisation needs the flexibility of a number of builders working simultaneously to meet our delivery and budgetary targets. To help support its remarkable rate of growth and the organisation’s focus on innovation in the design of larger offshore vessels, a partnership was this year established with a new boat builder, Harwood Marine. The first boat commissioned from Harwood is a 12 metre aluminium monoholl to replace the 13.5m Steber, Jervis Bay 40, which is approaching its rescue retirement. MRNSW is a committed supporter of the NSW boat building industry, not only for ease of access during construction, maintenance and servicing but also to provide valuable skilled employment in regional centres. Yamba Welding & Engineering - which builds our Naiad and Ocean Cylinder vessels acquired international design company Naiad New Zealand this year.

ROAD FLEET Regional Operations Managers’ vehicles were renewed this year, with new Toyota Landcruisers delivered under a preferred supplier agreement with Stewart Toyota in the Sutherland Shire. The vehicles are the first to be customised with eye-catching modern graphics reflecting new MRNSW brand designs incorporating a wave motif. The designs will be added to other vehicles as they are replaced.

CREW SAFETY A market review of Personal Protective Equipment for Rescue Water Craft operators was conducted during 2019-20, resulting in the introduction of new lifejackets. The Forward WIP Impact jackets are a more comfortable and less restrictive fit for all operators. Fitting close to the body to prevent the operator being snagged by overhanging vegetation or floating debris, the jacket’s neoprene grip strips, on the inside, grip the operator’s wetsuit to prevent the vest from riding up. They feature zipped accessory pockets for items such as personal locator beacons, a specific shoulder pocket for a radio, easily adjustable straps and removable bibs printed with the MRNSW roundel.

MRNSW on the road ... Regional Operations Managers Randall Gawne, Steve Raymond, Bruce Mitchell, Glenn Evans and John Murray and Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin with the first vehicle to feature the wave motif.

34 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

HONOURING THEIR SACRIFICE

We remember those who have paid the ultimate price while serving our community, including three marine rescue volunteers, at the Emergency Services Memorial Service.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OUR PEOPLE

THE HEART OF OUR SERVICE Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are the heartbeat of our service. Their distinctive blue uniform signifies responsibility, trust and service to members of our community.

arine Rescue NSW has this year recorded a 4.35 per cent increase in its volunteer workforce, ending the year with 3,136 members who give their time and energy to serve our community without recompense or reward. This growth includes the members of our newest unit, Marine Rescue Lord Howe Island. It is also a rewarding reflection of the value the community places on our mission to save lives and people’s desire to give something back to their community, learn new skills and make new friends. This growth was achieved despite the strictures imposed by COVID-19. The safety and welfare of our people, always the organisation’s highest priority, drove our response to the pandemic. MRNSW introduced the first of a number of escalating risk management strategies on March 3 to safeguard our volunteers’ and community health while maintaining our essential services. Protocols were stepped up to support members’ social distancing and isolation and in turn safeguard our workforce capacity on March 16 and 30. Following the easing of public health requirements, some operational restrictions were lifted before duties returned to the “new normal” on May 20. In a series of video messages and emails to the membership, Commissioner Stacey Tannos made it clear that the service’s paramount concern had been to ensure that every possible step had been taken to minimise the potential risks to people’s health. As well as managing the operational implications of the risk management processes, Headquarters’ Member Services also placed a priority on helping to support people’s mental health and wellbeing, distributing information on help services and government assistance packages for those impacted financially. Without the camaraderie of their normal operational routines, members were encouraged to maintain contact with each other, particularly those who might be feeling the strain of isolation. Social media was employed to help maintain engagement, with personnel reporting on working from home, new hobbies, home schooling, ways they were staying in touch with their colleagues and even introducing staff members’ pets. Zoom was widely adopted to hold meetings and less formal catch-ups. By the end of June, as the organisation, like the community, grew accustomed to living with Coronavirus, a gradual return to “normal” operations was well under way, within the bounds of maintaining social distancing, enhanced hygiene and cleaning practices and greater awareness of individuals’ own health.

3,136 Volunteer Members

36 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

WORKFORCE CHARACTERISTICS VOLUNTEERS Male Female

2,329 (74.3%) 807 (25.7%)

Membership category Regular

2,495

Provisional

599

Other

Total volunteers

3,136

Radio Club members

15,444

STAFF Regional Operations Managers

Regional Training Managers

Headquarters-based

Stores

Total staff

WORKFORCE PROFILE The increase in volunteer numbers this year was accompanied by a significant shift in the membership profile, pointing to the seeds of a generational change. The volunteers who have been with the organisation for more than a decade - transferring to MRNSW from one of the predecessor services, the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol or Volunteer Rescue Association marine fleet - are no longer the largest cohort. While these experienced volunteers make up 18 per cent of the membership (down slightly from 19 per cent in 2018-19), new recruits now comprise 20 per cent. Almost two-thirds of the membership - 63 per cent - joined five or fewer years ago. The ongoing sustainability of our service to the boating community relies

15,444 Radio Club Members

350

Medals & Awards

Leaders celebrate rich history and look to strong future

he 2019 Marine Rescue NSW Leadership Conference was staged in the Primus Hotel Sydney, with its blend of historical and contemporary features making it a fitting location for the event to mark the organisation’s tenth anniversary and chart a strong course for the future. The conference, on August 31 and September 1, brought together the leaders of the service’s units, Board Directors and staff. NSW Governor Margaret Beazley officially opened the conference, expressing the State’s deep appreciation for MRNSW and its volunteers. “Over 10 years of service, you have made an extraordinary contribution to our State and served with distinction,” she said. She said MRNSW volunteers had carried out more than 25,000 rescue missions over the decade, returning 50,000 boaters safely to shore. “A life lost is not one life lost. It has a ripple effect on many, many members of the community. It really is quite amazing work to do. You are such a support to the internal stength of our community, you’re right at the heart of it.” Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott thanked the volunteers, saying there was no way in the world the government could

afford to pay for the service and time of emergency services volunteers. He said when a volunteer received an award or accolade, it was for their family “so when you get called out from Christmas lunch, they can put that award on the table so they know we appreciate what you do, your sacrifice”. MRNSW Chair Jim Glissan said MRNSW had a new sense of enthusiasm, drive and cohesion. “The support we receive from every level of government, the emergency services, police - both Marine Area Command and Local Area Commands - confirms the level of confidence and trust they have in our members and our professionalism,” he said. Commissioner Stacey Tannos and staff outlined plans for the continuing growth and development of the organisation, including the investment of $37.6 million in State Government funding and plans for the MRNSW Training Academy. This year’s guest speakers were sailor Tony Mowbray and human resources specialists Belinda Moore, Brad Rilatt, Kurt Wrigley and Shelley McElroy.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

OUR PEOPLE

on our ability to maintain a membership mix of both experienced volunteers and a new generation of members keen to serve the community and take the organisation forward. Two new recruitment videos were launched ahead of the 2019-20 boating season to help draw more people to our units. Each MRNSW unit has a Radio Club of boaters whose regular presence on the water and raised safety consciousness makes them an auxiliary asset that can be used to support search operations and to provide initial assistance to another boater in trouble while rescue crews are under way to the scene. This year, the number of Radio Club members totalled 15,444 across 44 units. MRNSW is proud of the membership and accomplishments of our female volunteers, who comprise 25.7 per cent of the membership. This is one of the highest rates in the emergency services, with women represented at all levels of the organisational structure. Efforts to increase the representation of women on the Board of Directors are ongoing, with General Director Patricia Fayers remaining the only woman at the table.

AGE PROFILE OF OUR VOLUNTEER WORKFORCE

AWARDS & RECOGNITION Three members of MRNSW were this year awarded the Emergency Services Medal in recognition of their service and contribution to the safety of the boating community and development of MRNSW capability. MR Newcastle Unit Commander Ron Calman, MR Narooma Master Ross Constable and Monaro Regional Operations Manager and MR Batemans Bay member Glenn Sullivan received the prestigious award. The men have given a combined 90 years’ commitment to the boating community. MR Alpine Lakes Unit Commander Les Threlfo was awarded the Order of Australia Medal. Ten members of MR Port Macquarie earned national and international awards and were presented with Commissioner’s Commendations for Courage and Commissioner’s Citations (see page 39). MR Point Danger Unit Commander Glenda Ashby was awarded the organisation’s highest accolade when she was appointed a Life Member at the 2019 Annual General Meeting. She thanked the Board and the members who had nominated her and said she had spent 20 years of volunteer work with the love of her life, her husband Gary. Ray Angel, from MR Port Macquarie, was named the MRNSW Officer of the Year in a Volunteer Capacity in the 2019 Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards, announced in Sydney on August 2. The awards recognise

Up to 20 years

1.2%

51 to 60 years

15.9%

21 to 30 years

4.4%

61 to 70 years

34.8%

31 to 40 years

6.5%

71 to 80 years

23.5%

41 to 50 years

9.3%

81 years & above

4.4%

the Service Above Self of members of the emergency services. The other MRNSW finalists were Kevin Hill, from MR Jervis Bay, David Hand, from MR Port Jackson and Mitchell Harvey, from MR Woolgoolga. A total of 333 service medals were presented to members this year, representing an incredible 2,995 years of volunteer commitment. These included 170 five-year Long Service Medals, 109 10-year Medals and three 20-year Medals, along with 51 National Medals and clasps.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

MR Point Danger Unit Commander Glenda Ashby was joined by her brother-in-law Darcy Henriksen, sister Dianne Henriksen and husband Gary Ashby for the presentation of her Life Membership.

38 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Australia’s capacity to respond to disasters relies heavily on emergency management volunteers. The Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience’s Volunteer Leadership Program brings together volunteers from different organisations and agencies to build knowledge, share experiences and explore practical leadership, gaining an enhanced ability to understand and contribute to their organisations. Six MRNSW members attended the Leadership Program at Tamworth in November 2019: Steph Mayoh (Middle Harbour), Ben Skeen (Middle Harbour), Andy Adams (Evans Head), Rick Nevile (Newcastle), Jennifer Fryer (Port Stephens) and Jarrod Ison (Port Jackson). The scheduled 2020 session was cancelled due to COVID-19.

AUSSIE JOY OPERATION

WORKFORCE TENURE

Ten volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie this year earned acclaim on the world and national stages and were presented with Marine Rescue NSW awards for an operation to save the lives of three seriously injured men on a sinking motor cruiser, Aussie Joy, in the dark off Crescent Head on April 14, 2019. The men sustained a number of injuries, including broken bones, severe lacerations, punctured lungs and a spinal injury, when their 10m cruiser struck a submerged object offshore. None of the men was wearing a lifejacket and they could not be moved without the risk of further injury. They could not remain where they were without drowning. The MR Port Macquarie members’ courage, skill and determination ensured all three men survived. Less than 1 year

20%

6 years

One year

13%

7 years

2 years

10%

8 years

3 years

9 years

4 years

10 years

5 years

More than 10 years

18%

PROTOCOL SERVICES MRNSW Protocol Officer Bob Herbert has retired from this ceremonial role after three years. Mr Herbert’s last official protocol function was the 2019 Emergency Services Volunteer Memorial Service in October and we thank him for his service in this role, following on from his tenure as the Monaro Regional Controller. Mr Herbert’s fellow MR Batemans Bay member Greg Lee was subsequently appointed as the new Protocol Officer. A member since 2009, Mr Lee brings his former professional experience as a protocol officer in the Australian Federal Police to the position.

STAFF CHANGES Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey left the service after seven years in April 2020. A new Deputy Commissioner will be appointed in 2020-21. An organisational restructure in September 2019 created five new positions to support our volunteers and the organisation’s continuing development. The new positions and staff are Emergency Systems Manager Colin Williams, Training Manager Chris Jacobsen, Fleet Officer Sean Jewiss, Receptionist/Office Manager Stephanie Bruno and IT Developer/Project Manager Oscar Willems. Daniel Gatt replaced original Stores Manager Graham Foy.

OUTSTANDING TEAM CONTRIBUTION TO A MARITIME SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATION, INTERNATIONAL MARITIME RESCUE FEDERATION AWARDS PROFESSIONAL COMMENDATION AWARD, NATIONAL SEARCH & RESCUE AWARDS COMMISSIONER’S COMMENDATIONS FOR COURAGE Chris Condon & William Richardson (Port Macquarie 30)

COMMISSIONER’S CITATIONS Reg McGlashan, Yolanda Bosschieter & Tony Hallett (Port Macquarie 30) Robert Breskal & Owen Coulls (Port Macquarie 20) Graham Gibbs, Gary White & Greg Davies (MR Port Macquarie Search & Rescue Coordination Centre)

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

TRAINING & EDUCATION

LEARNING FLEXIBILITY The COVID-19 pandemic led to the expedited introduction of more flexible online learning to help maintain volunteer wellbeing and sustain training activities.

he onset of the Coronavirus pandemic and escalating risk management procedures interrupted MRNSW training activities in the third quarter of the year as members were required to maintain social distance. This prompted the accelerated roll-out of the E-Learning online platform in order to maintain skills development across the organisation. Purpose-designed by the Training and IT departments, the platform is accessed via the MRNSW website and covers core coursework, foundations training and prerequisite courses, as well as providing online learning support. Tools include core course materials, videos, tests and reviews. Volunteers embraced the new online learning, with 225 members attending facilitated training sessions on Zoom as they worked towards their Leading Crew, Coxswain, Radio Operator and Watch Officer ratings. As well as the pandemic benefits of enabling members to comply with health orders to stay home unless essential and to maintain social distancing, E-Learning also meets the organisation’s commitment to supporting flexible learning and reducing our environmental footprint. Helping members to better balance their training and other responsibilities by enabling them to learn when and where convenient will support volunteer retention.

NEW RATING Due to the responsibilities of the role, the Leading Crew training program and assessment process are in-depth, covering extensive subject areas in line with the minimum training competences set within AMSA Exemption 24 to the National Law. The perceived size, structure and content of the training pathway can be a barrier for some members’ participation. A new Senior Crew rating was introduced in November as an optional mid-way point between the Crew and Leading Crew ratings. Members can choose to be assessed for a Senior Crew rating at the end of Stage 1 of the Leading Crew curriculum. They can then either stay at this rating or proceed to Stage 2 to gain their Leading Crew rating. Members can still elect to complete the training in its entirety as a single process. New Learner Activity Workbooks and other resources were developed to facilitate these two routes of study.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

2019-20

TRAINING QUALIFICATIONS Provide First Aid

325

Provide Advanced Resuscitation

300

Radio Operator

Watch Officer

Crew

Senior Crew

Leading Crew

Coxswain

Rescue Water Craft Operator

Total

791

the Westpac Rescue Life Saver Helicopter also took part to help ensure a seamless operational response to emergencies. Seventy-five volunteers from eight units joined the Hunter/Central Coast SAREX on Lake Macquarie in midOctober. The Illawarra/Monaro Regional exercise was held at Batemans Bay in November, bringing together more than 100 volunteers from 12 units in the first major test of new marine radio infrastructure on the Far South Coast.

SUPPORT FOR LEADERS The Leadership Program introduced in 2018-19 continued to receive positive feedback from participants in 2019-20. A total of 85 Unit Commanders, Deputy Unit Commanders and members from 41 units attended six regional sessions to provide them with additional support and skills in managing their teams, operations and resources. The focus areas this year were training culture, managing effective teams and difficult conversations, member retention and psychological first aid.

EXERCISES

TRAINING ADVISORY GROUP

More than 200 volunteers joined in two Regional Search and Rescue Exercises staged in late 2019 to test units’ rescue readiness and agency inter-operability. Personnel from the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command, Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Surf Life Saving NSW and

Training Advisory Groups are established for specific projects and subject areas as required, this year working on projects including E-Learning reources, Zoom classes, COLREG assessment resources and the new Senior Crew rating.

791

Qualifications 2019-20

40 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Leaders Upskilled

225

Students on Zoom

NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman, Chair Jim Glissan, Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott announce the MRNSW Training Academy in June.

Dedicated Marine Rescue Training Academy first in Australia

arine Rescue NSW will develop Australia’s first dedicated Marine Rescue Training Academy in a multi-million dollar project to ensure more skilled volunteers are ready to save lives on the water. The world-class facility will deliver professional, intensive vocational education to the country’s largest volunteer marine rescue cohort. Emergency Services Minister David Elliott and Attorney General, Cronulla MP Mark Speakman, formally announced on June 6 that the Academy would be developed on the MRNSW Headquarters site on the Hungry Point Reserve at Cronulla. “This state of the art facility will ensure we have more fully trained first responders on the marine radio airwaves and water to rescue boaters caught in life-threatening emergencies on NSW waterways,” Mr Elliott said. The centralised facility will provide consistent training across the specific MRNSW curriculum, from first aid through to the most advanced qualifications. Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the announcement was another significant milestone in the service’s development, marking the end of its tenth anniversary year. “The Training Academy will be the first of its kind in Australia,” he said. The Commissioner said enabling members to complete their training more quickly in consolidated blocks of intensive learning would encourage volunteer retention and engagement, strengthening the service’s sustainability. It also would help units to more equitably share their operational workload among more members and importantly, help relieve their heavy burden of managing a range of training activities

simultaneously for members at different stages of their various courses, easing the demand on units’ finite resources and time. Chair Jim Glissan said there could not be a better investment for the boaters of NSW. “Marine Rescue volunteers are the first responders on the water,” he said. “If somebody suffers an accident or disaster on the water, it is we who will be the first people who are called out. We, therefore, need to make sure our volunteers are trained to the very, very best level that is possible. We are extraordinarily grateful to the government of NSW for both its monetary support and its support in securing for us this wonderful site.”

A preliminary concept design of the MRNSW Training Academy.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

FACILITIES

BUILDING BETTER WORKPLACES Volunteers are benefiting from new and upgraded facilities, with a series of capital works projects creating safe, modern, fit-for-purpose operating environments and higher-quality unit assets.

four-year State Goverment funding package of more than $13 million is enabling MRNSW to embark on its first dedicated capital works program to ensure our volunteer workforce has safe, fit-for-purpose operating bases and other assets such as boat sheds and jetties. With strong demand from units for funding for building works, the internal Facilities Development Program (FDP) developed in 2018-19 is guiding the strategic allocation of this capital funding to ensure expenditure is efficient, accountable and provides maximum benefit for both units and the community.

The clifftop MR Eden base has undergone a $217,000 upgrade and extension to add a dedicated search and rescue coordination space.

BUILDING WORKS The new $1.8 million Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie unit base and Search and Rescue Coordination Centre is the major construction project for 201920. Work began in April and was ahead of schedule on June 30, with an expected completion date in late September 2020. The base will provide the latest marine communications technology, dedicated operational command and control facilities, training and meeting space, storage for rescue equipment, offices, amenities and kitchen facilities, a viewing platform and a lift to improve access for volunteers living with disability. MR Eden completed a $217,000 extension and upgrade of its base. Funding from the FDP enabled the exterior of the clifftop base to be fully clad and the interior gutted, refurbished and painted, with a new bathoom and kitchen, wall linings and floor coverings. This followed an extension to add a new search and rescue coordination room and disabled access, funded with a $75,000 NSW Government Infrastructure grant. Rescue vessel Norah Head 20 now has a roof over its head following the completion of MR Norah Head’s new $265,000 boat shed. A $140,835 My Community Projects grant, awarded after a public vote of support, was allocated towards the project cost, with the remainder from the FDP. For the first time, MR Brunswick has a dedicated office, training and meeting facility. The $69,000 demountable complex is located in a prominent position between the boat harbour and the town’s busy boat ramp. MR Port Stephens improved crew safety through the development of a $170,000 modern new vessel dock to replace its old, deteriorated jetty. Funding for the project came from a $50,000 Community Building Partnership grant and a $40,000 allocation from MRNSW Headquarters, with the balance from a generous benefactor and donations. A new $100,000 crew room on a floating pontoon alongside its rescue vessel will improve MR Ballina’s response times; a new $258,000 jetty and pontoon has been developed to accommodate MR Merimbula’s two rescue vessels and provide safer access for crews; a $12,600 Clubs NSW grant assisted MR Tuggerah Lakes to install a new $56,500 pontoon and airlift and MR Central Coast replaced the boat ramp at its Terrigal Haven boat base, at a cost of $400,000, funded under an insurance claim.

42 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Easy does it ... MR Ballina’s David Jordan watches as the unit’s new $100,000 crew room is lowered on to a pontoon next to Ballina 30.

Work began in April to repair serious damage to the MR Port Macquarie radio base caused by a large fire that started in the women’s toilets beneath the base in September 2019. Work was completed on a project to upgrade MR Port Kembla’s Search and Rescue Coordination Centre at Hill 60, funded with a $164,080 Port Kembla Community Investment Fund grant. The project included a new observation deck, public access, building repairs and painting and an overhaul of the radio mast.

THE YEAR AHEAD Planning is well advanced on a series of projects to begin in the 2020-21 year, including new bases for MR Newcastle, Middle Harbour and Lord Howe Island; a relocation of the MR Terrey Hills communications hub to larger premises; and an over-water crew room for MR Narooma. MRNSW is working with government and council agencies to identify new sites for both MR Hawkesbury and Broken Bay, which are operating from ageing, cramped and deteriorating premises.

BUILDING THE FUTURE

The new $1.8 million Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie base takes shape alongside the radio tower that has served the boating community well for decades. Photo: Jim Wright.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

IT & COMMS

ROBUST RADIO & TELECOMMUNICATIONS Marine Rescue NSW has continued to make boating safer with a stronger marine radio network and new communications systems.

oating safety on the NSW coastline has been boosted with the completion of important projects to extend the VHF marine radio network and eliminate major blackspots in radio coverage on the South Coast, at a cost of more than half a million dollars. New network infrastructure was this year installed on Dr George Mountain near Bega, Bermagui, Moruya, Round Hill south of Batemans Bay and on the Illawarra coastline at Vincentia, Mount Pleasant and Maddens Plains. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia SOLAS Trusts generously contributed a $70,000 grant towards the works. Along with continuing work to complete a new installation at Coolongolook, inland from Forster-Tuncurry, these projects targeted the remaining large blackspots in coastal marine radio reception, providing consistent coverage from Point Danger to Eden and 20 to 30 nautical miles out to sea.

NETWORK RESILIENCE The bushfire emergency on the South Coast impacted heavily on critical marine radio communications infrastructure and coverage. Pre-season planning centred around the need to maintain services in the eventuality that key assets in the network were lost, with a range of measures identified to work around any failures. Widespread power and telecommunications outages across the region at the height of the fires around New Year’s Eve disrupted phone services and radio communications relayed via the internet as part of the MRNSW communications backbone. Just two months after its installation in October, the new equipment on Round Hill sustained significant damage when the Clyde Mountain fire swept across the site on New Year’s Eve. Communications were maintained through other locations and technicians from Karera Communications were given an emergency escort to cross fallen power lines to reach the site to carry out essential repairs. The site was operational again within days. Critical infrastructure in Mt Imlay National Park, south of Eden, was damaged beyond repair. Interim remedial work to install temporary VHF radios was completed in early March, at a cost of $44,000, ensuring core services could be maintained, with the permanent rebuild of the infrastructure expected to take a further three months. This strategic planning and concerted response ensured that radio services were maintained along the coastline throughout the fire emergency, with only minor disruptions to the south of Eden for two days in January, proving the resilience of the network and the benefits of our investment in infrastructure and systems improvements and commitment to preventative maintenance.

NEW COMMUNICATIONS SURETY MRNSW has signed a major new communications agreement for the development of a robust and stable Telstra platform to provide the service with essential telecommunications surety. Commissioner Stacey Tannos and Chief Financial Officer Todd Andrews signed the agreement on June 30, 2020 with the Managing Director and Sales Director of Telstra Platinum

44 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Director of Operations Andrew Cribb (second from left) with representatives of Telstra and Exigo Tech on board Middle Harbour 30 on Sydney Harbour.

Partner Exigo Tech Pty Ltd, Vivek Trivedi and Niten Davalia, who will manage the project with MobileCorp. The vital work of our volunteers was highlighted to representatives of Telstra and Exigo Tech when they joined a crew from MR Middle Harbour on Sydney Harbour to learn more about their roles and reliance on stable communications systems. The new agreement will see the development of a communications platform to support all the service’s needs, including phones, internet data and even satellite links for the first offshore MRNSW unit on Lord Howe Island. A suite of standard new telephone hardware and connection devices will be rolled out to every MRNSW unit. Importantly, all units will be provided with NBN and Telstra LANES 4G priority access to the network in peak traffic periods and 24/7 priority support for the repair and management of outages.

VHF: THE CHOICE FOR SAFER BOATING As well as investing heavily in upgrading infrastructure to eliminate blackspots in VHF radio reception along the coastline, MRNSW continued to work with communications authorities and government agencies on safety advances, advocating for VHF to be recognised as the safest marine communications technology. VHF offers greater range and clearer reception and maximises the chance that a boater calling for help will receive help fast. We also engaged with the boating community to encourage boaters to make every journey safer by switching to VHF. A dedicated social media campaign was launched in March, running until the end of the boating season, to highlight the benefits of VHF to boaters and encourage them to ‘Help us help you’ by choosing the safer technology. With the support of our suppliers Raymarine and Barrenjoey Marine Electrics, 36 free VHF radios, worth more than $20,000, were given away. The campaign reached 79,000 people through the MRNSW Facebook page and the giveaway attracted more than 3,000 entries. Of the 36 winners, 16 had no radio on their boat at all, another 12 had a 27MHz set and eight had an older VHF radio. Eleven of the winners were women.

TECHNOLOGY FOR OUR MISSION We were more reliant than ever on accessible electronic communications and robust IT systems to support our volunteers this year.

ike the rest of the community, MRNSW adapted to new ways of operating in isolation to protect the health and wellbeing of our personnel. With Headquarters staff working remotely from March 17 and meetings, training and other events cancelled, day-to-day business and operations were maintained by moving to online communication platforms and systems. Zoom was introduced as the electronic meeting place for units and staff due to its user-friendliness and accessibility. The IT Department established accounts for each unit and helped personnel to adapt to the system, which was used for staff and unit meetings, training courses for radio operators, watch officers, leading crew and coxswain trainees and a range of creative and informal gatherings to help prevent people from feeling isolated and disengaged. With continuing social distancing requirements preventing units from holding their Annual General Meetings in person in June, these also were held via Zoom. The online voting system introduced for the MRNSW Board elections in 2018 was extended to enable units to also hold their elections electronically. Almost 750 members lodged a vote for a Unit Commander and/or Deputy Unit Commander in 10 elections. Underscoring the organisation’s adaptability, from March until the end of June, 284 individual Zoom ‘meetings’ were attended by 3,107 participants over a total of 3,606 hours.

NEW WEBSITE & APPS The development of the new MRNSW website was a major IT project for the year. The new website is more modern in its look and functionality than the original, which was about a decade old. The layout is clean and clear, information is presented simply and concisely, with a number of quick links to essential information, and the functionality is logical and easy to follow. Information on how to become a volunteer and support MRNSW, along with safety information for boaters, is prominent. The site was due to go live in the first week of 2020-21. The MRNSW Risk Management App was first released in 2018 to automate the risk management assessment paperwork completed by crews before launching a rescue vessel. A redesign to extend the tool’s functionality to assess risks involved with training and community events was released in January. The redevelopment of the MarineRescue App, launched in 2015, also is under way. The App is the only one that enables boaters to Log On and Log Off with MRNSW and also provides a range of safety information and tools. The updated version will be built on newer technology and incorporate increased safety features and functionality for users, including real-time navigation warnings and safety information, such as boat ramp closures, speed limits and emergency information.

IT SUPPORT FOR UNITS & MEMBERS A continuing focus for the IT Department is on introducing new processes that ease the administrative and paperwork burden for our volunteers.

Commissioner Stacey Tannos (second from right, second row) holds a staff meeting via Zoom in March.

Volunteer recruitment and retention processes were automated this year to save time and double-handling of information. Interested members of the public can now lodge an expression of interest to find out more about our volunteering roles or submit a membership application and criminal record check via the MRNSW website, with their details automatically directed to the relevant unit, rather than via Headquarters. Volunteers also can now renew their annual membership online, again saving them time and eliminating paperwork and processing time for unit executives. Operational safety was supported through the introduction of a new status board to track the condition of crew members’ lifejackets. This online platform enables Regional Operations Managers and the MRNSW Stores Manager to quickly assess the condition of this essential Personal Protective Equipment to determine whether lifejackets have been serviced, are due for servicing or need replacing. The online Service Desk gives personnel a quick and efficient way of logging IT issues or lodging requests for assistance. MRNSW and Surf LIfe Saving NSW have a joint network maintenance agreement with Karera Communications and the Service Desk has now been extended to give both these organisations access. Throughout 2019-20, 587 Service Desk tickets were issued, of which 569 tasks had been completed by year’s end.

EXPANDED OTTER FUNCTIONALITY The Organisational Tracking, Training and E-Records (OTTER) member management network was redeveloped this year to provide expanded functionality and meet a range of organisational needs. Members’ service records are more clearly collated after a break in their membership to support their eligibility for long service recognition and the National Medal. The dispatch of uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment is facilitated through capturing members’ uniform sizing and preferences. Additional medical details, such as allergies and doctors’ contact information, also is now listed. Training and operational tasking is supported by recording members’ ratings, licence and certificate information, such as boat licences and first aid certificates, and course enrolments, scheduling and printed qualifications.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

GRANTS & FUNDRAISING

SUPPORT FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS More than $2.5 million in revenue from grants, donations and fundraising helped improve facilities, support training and keep our units rescue-ready in 2019-20.

MARINE RESCUE NSW REVENUE

he organisation continues to rely on these sources of finance to supplement its annual income received from the State Government and boating community, which this year totalled $18 million.

GRANTS FUNDING Marine Rescue NSW this year benefited from almost $1 million in grants from a range of government agencies, NSW Clubs and other funding bodies and three units had members of their local communities to thank. The State and Commonwealth announced the bulk of the funding, allocating $784,000 to assist units and Headquarters with a number of capital works, equipment, training and recruitment activities and resources. Three units will receive more than $430,000 in funding in the State Government’s inaugural My Community Projects grants program, in which members of the public had the opportunity to vote online for projects they wanted to proceed in their communities. MR Broken Bay was allocated $200,000 towards its new rescue vessel, due for delivery in the second half of 2020, MR Norah Head $140,835 for a now-completed boat shed to house rescue vessel Norah 20 and MR Jervis Bay $90,000 towards the refit of its radio base with new online marine radio technology. The State and Commonwealth governments committed $197,499 in joint Emergency Volunteer Support Scheme grants for 19 MRNSW projects focused on training equipment and activities. MR Ballina, Bermagui, Broken Bay, Brunswick, Forster-Tuncurry, Hawkesbury, Kioloa, Lake Macquarie, Merimbula, Middle Harbour, Moama, Newcastle, Port Kembla, Shoalhaven, Sussex Inlet, Terrey Hills, Tuggerah Lakes and Wooli received a total of $97,573 for training facility fit-outs and equipment and volunteer recruitment resources. State Headquarters received almost $100,000 to complete the roll-out of VHF radio training kits to 34 units. The State Government also allocated Community Building Partnership grants worth almost $120,000 to MR Evans Head, Norah Head, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Central Coast and Lake Macquarie for new and upgraded equipment and facilities, including a boat trailer, a jetty and pontoon, vessel repowering and an IT update. The Commonwealth Department of Social Services assigned $16,280 to MR Newcastle, Terrey Hills, Hawkesbury and Broken Bay for new IT equipment and travel costs. Emergency Services Minister David Elliott announced seven units would receive new automated external defibrillators, worth a total of $20,000, to ensure they could respond to medical emergencies. MR Ballina, Central Coast, Cottage Point, Middle Harbour, Newcastle, Port Kembla and Port Macquarie will install the life-saving devices in their bases. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s Safety of Life At Sea Trusts contributed $70,000 to support major works to eliminate blackspots in marine radio reception on the South Coast and another $18,000 to upgrade technology on rescue vessel Ballina 30. Another $106,000 in individual grants was committed to units from bodies including local clubs, Clubs NSW, councils, the Wallarah Coal Project and Essential Energy.

46 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NSW Govt funding

51%

Donations

Boat levies

31%

Other

Grants

Sales

Activities & fundraising

Games of chance

Marine Rescue NSW is grateful to receive 82% of its revenue from the NSW Government and the boating community, through the levy on recreational boating licences and registrations.

FUNDRAISING A total of $1.6 million in revenue was generated from fundraising activities and donations this year. Our units were not spared the financial impact of the dual crises facing the State, with the combined effect of the bushfire season and the Coronavirus eliminating many opportunities for fundraising to support local operations. Despite these challenges, units still managed to fundraise $959,600, representing a significant 21.5 per cent decrease over last year. Donations fell 16.7 per cent from 2018-19 to $709,759. This has not impacted core services, rescue vessel delivery or capital works projects, with units’ capacity to contribute to costs factored into financing decisions. We thank the businesses, individuals and community groups who continued to support our volunteers in their mission to save lives on the water. This assistance is always valued but never more so than in 2019-20.

TOGETHER IN ISOLATION

Marine Rescue NSW members, including MR Kioloa Unit Commander Peter White, were among Australians who lit up the dawn on Anzac Day.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

ENGAGEMENT

ACHIEVING TOGETHER Marine Rescue NSW engages with a range of operational, community and commercial partners who share our mission to save lives on the water.

Support from our Patron

PATRON His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is the Patron-in-Chief of Marine Rescue NSW, continuing his long association with the volunteer marine rescue sector in NSW as the Patron of the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol. The Prince extended his warmest congratulations and gratitude to the members for a decade of service to the NSW community on the occasion of the organisation’s tenth anniversary on July 1, 2019. In April, he again wrote to express his support as MRNSW and other charities and bodies of which he is Patron faced the challenges of COVID-19 (right).

REPRESENTATION Commissioner Stacey Tannos continues his tenure as Chair of the State Rescue Board, which oversees rescue service policy development and delivery on both land and water in NSW. The Commissioner also is a member of the State Emergency Management Committee. Units contribute to the safety of their communities through their representation on Local Emergency Management and Rescue Committees and many personnel were based at Emergency Operations Centres during the summer bushfire crisis. At a national level, MRNSW is a member of the Australian Emergency Management Volunteer Forum, National Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue Committee and Enterprise Registered Training Organisation Association. We also are a member of the International Maritime Rescue Federation, which represents marine search and rescue agencies, both professional and volunteer, military and civilian, around the world.

OPERATIONAL & COMMUNITY PARTNERS MRNSW works closely with the State’s network of emergency service, rescue, marine and medical organisations to protect and assist our boating community. Cooperation and collaboration are the basis of the NSW emergency management arrangements, ensuring a seamless response to emergencies, whether on land or water. The NSW Police Force Marine Area Command (MAC) is responsible for the coordination of rescue delivery on the water in this State. The MAC and MRNSW work cohesively in emergency operations, coordination and training. MRNSW Regional Operations Managers and senior volunteers again were posted to the MAC at East Balmain as liaison officers over the peak summer boating season to enhance tasking efficiency and operational awareness. We also work with agencies including the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter service and Toll Ambulance Rescue, both on emergency response and to support air crew winch training, and Surf Life Saving NSW at organisational and local levels. Marine Rescue Bermagui and the Bermagui Surf Life Saving Club were this year recognised with a national innovation award at the Surf Life Saving Australia Awards of Excellence for a joint project to strengthen search and rescue coordination and deployment on remote

48 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

stretches of the NSW Far South Coast. MRNSW units also support bodies such as Transport for NSW, NSW Maritime, sailing clubs and sporting and community groups by providing a communications safety net and on-water logistical and personnel support for numerous boating and community events. This year, these included events staged before the onset of the pandemic: the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and other sailing events, New Year’s Eve and Australia Day festivities in Sydney and regional areas and the second F50 catamaran SailGP on Sydney Harbour. Numerous other events were cancelled, including the Rose Hill Trailer Boat Show and Sydney International Boat Show, and others moved online.

WILDLIFE As well as saving human lives on the water, MRNSW also works with agencies whose charter is to protect wildlife. Crews regularly join personnel from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Primary Industries and ORCCA (the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia) for training and operations to free whales entangled in marine

debris as they migrate along the coastline. A Memorandum of Understanding is being finalised with the NPWS to guide these activities.

RADIO CLUBS MRNSW units’ Radio Clubs are a direct way to engage with their local boating communities and a valuable source of financial, safety and operational support. The 15,444 club members join our mission to save lives on the water through an annual subscription to support their local volunteers but their contribution is more than just financial. These boaters’ raised safety awareness makes them a valuable auxiliary asset on the water, potentially assisting crews searching for a missing vessel or giving initial assistance to a fellow boater in trouble while a rescue crew is under way to the scene. Each Radio Club member is provided a unique marine radio call sign that makes it quicker and easier to Log On when heading out on the water. Using the free MarineRescue App also is quicker and easier for Radio Club members, too. As a gesture of appreciation, Radio Club members receive a free e-edition of Soundings and new online newsletter each quarter and exclusive discounts on the range of safety, boating and fishing gear and MRNSW supporter merchandise available on the MRNSW online store at shopmrnsw.com.au

Port Jackson 30 maintains an exclusion zone for a light show off Luna Park. Photo: Brendan Trembath.

COMMERCIAL PARTNERS MRNSW established a commercial partnership with a new rescue vessel builder in 2019. Harwood Marine, based on the Clarence River on the North Coast, is reinforcing our large vessel build program, constructing a new 13.5m aluminium monohull for MR Jervis Bay. Our other fleet suppliers this year are: • Yamba Welding & Engineering • Sailfish Catamarans • Sea-Doo Watercraft • The Haines Group and Suzuki Marine • Raymarine, Barrenjoey Marine Electrics and GME • Stewart Toyota Karera Communications continues to support our radio infrastructure and a new partnership has been established with Telstra, Exigo Tech Pty Ltd and MobileCorp. Thanks must go to the suppliers for our e-shop and the organisations that advertise in our quarterly journal, Soundings, which showcases our work and their products and services.

course. MR Forster-Tuncurry, Wooli and Lake Macquarie topped the number of workshops offered, with Lake Macquarie recording the highest number of participants.

GOOD SPORTS MRNSW personnel proved their prowess in the sporting arena in October, winning medals and accolades in the Police and Emergency Services Games. Thirty-five events were staged over six days of competition in Wollongong. Assistant Director of Training and Education Brad Whittaker took gold in the longboard division of the surfing competition and silver in the Over 45s shortboard final. Fleet Manager Kelvin Parkin also progressed to the longboard semi-final. Development Officer Sophie Galvin became a dual silver medalist in the 50m and 100m freestyle events, while MR Lemon Tree Passage volunteer David Davies and IT Support Officer Matt Sims won bronze in the team darts competition. MRNSW had encouraged members and staff to sign up for the 18th Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games, planned to be held in October 2020, but the event has been cancelled.

SAFE BOATING EDUCATION Providing boaters with the skills and knowledge to stay safe on the water is an important way of engaging with our community of interest. MRNSW units offer recreational boat and Personal Water Craft licence courses under the NSW Maritime Approved Boat Driving Licence Training Provider Scheme. Members of the public undertaking a licence test at one of our units are required to take a mandatory theory course. Unit members teaching these courses required to hold a Certificate IV in Training and Education, a first aid certificate and boat/PWC licence, as well as undergoing Working with Children and police record checks. In 2019-20, 10 units conducted 58 Safe Boating and Personal Water Craft (jet ski) licence courses and testing. A total of 360 adults and 54 young adults undertook a boat driver’s licence course and test, with a further 35 adults and four young adults enrolling in a PWC

COMMUNICATIONS MRNSW engages with boaters and the broader community through a range of public communications channels. Boating safety warnings and information, details of our volunteers’ hard work and information on our organisational activities and development are communicated via media activities and on various social media platforms. This year’s activities included the ‘Help us help you’ VHF radio campaign and giveaway, run across the MRNSW and unit Facebook pages. The campaign, featuring our members, boaters and people we had rescued, reached 79,000 people from the corporate page alone. There was extensive reporting of our rescue missions both on our media sites and in the mainstream media. MRNSW has 17,000 Facebook followers and 15,945 page likes, 5,400 followers on Twitter and 1,800 on Instagram.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

FLEET

INVESTING IN SAFETY

arine Rescue NSW has developed a truly world-class fleet. The Fleet Modernisation Program has bolstered our operational strength with 101 new and refurbished vessels since the serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s establishment in 2009. This includes another 10 vessels delivered in 2019-20. All have been funded, at a cost of more than $24 million, with the financial support of the NSW Government and boating community and our unitsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dedicated fundraising, donors and sponsors. Lemon Tree 30 (on its sea trials, above) arrived on its new home waters in February 2020. Photo: Yamba Welding & Engineering.

Point Danger 20 (PD 20)

Point Danger 30 (PD 30)

Brunswick 30 (BR 30)

Ballina 30 (BA 30)

Evans Head 30 (EH 30)

Iluka Yamba 30 (IY 30)0)

Iluka Yamba 20 (IY 20)

Wooli 30 (WI 30)

Woolgoolga 30 (WO 30)

Coffs 30 (CO 30)

Nambucca 20 (NH 20) - replacement

Nambucca 11 & Nambucca 12 (NH 11 & NH 12) - replacements

Trial Bay 30 (TB 30)

Trial Bay 11 (TB 11)

Trial Bay 12 (TB 12)

Port Macquarie 30 (PM 30)

Port Macquarie 20 (PM 20)M 30)

Port Macquarie 10 (PM 10) - replacement

Port Macquarie 11 (PM 11)

Lord Howe 40 (LH 40)

Camden Haven 30 (CH 30)

Camden Haven 10 (CH 10)

Crowdy 30 (CB 30)

Crowdy 20 (CB 20) - replaced

Crowdy 20 (CB 20) - replacement

Forster 30 (FO 30)

Forster 20 (FO 20)

Port Stephens 31 (PS 31)

Port Stephens 30 (PS 30)

Lemon Tree 30 (LT 30) - replaced

Newcastle 30 (NC 30) - replaced

Newcastle 30 (NC 30) - replacement

Lake Macquarie 30 (LM 30)

Lake Macquarie 20 (LM 20)

Lake Macquarie 13 (LM 13) - replacement

Norah Head 20 (NR 20)

Tuggerah Lakes 20 (TL 20) - replaced - & Tuggerah Lakes 21 (TL 21)

Tuggerah Lakes 20 (TL 20) - replacement

Central Coast 30 (CC 30)

Central Coast 20 (CC 20)

Central Coast 21 (CC 21) - replaced

Central Coast 21 (CC 21) - replacement

Central Coast 11 (CC 11)

Broken Bay 20 (BB 20) & Broken Bay 30 (BB 30)

Hawkesbury 21 (HW 21) & Hawkesbury 22 (HW 22)

Cottage Point 30 (CP 30)

Cottage Point 31 (CP 31) - formerly TG 30

Middle Harbour 30 (MH 30)

Middle Harbour 20 (MH 20) - formerly NH 20

Port Jackson 30 (PJ 30)

Port Jackson 20 (PJ 20) - replaced

PPPPort Jackson 20 (PJ 20) - replacement

Botany 30 (BY 30)

Port Hacking 30 (PH 30)

PorPort Kembla 30 (PK 30)

PorPort Kembla 20 (PK 20) - replaced

PorPort Kembla 20 (PK 20) - replacement

Shellharbour 30 (SH 30)

Shoalhaven 30 (SA 30) & Shoalhaven 20 (SA 20)

Shoalhaven 10 (SA 10)

Jervis Bay 40 (JB 40)

Jervis Bay 20 (JB 20) - replaced

Jervis Bay 20 (JB 20) - replacement

Sussex Inlet 30 (SI 30) - replaced

Sussex Inlet 20 (SI 20) - replacement

Ulladulla 30 (UL 30)

Ulladulla 20 (UL 20)

Ulladulla 10 (UL 10)

Kioloa 20 (KL 20)

Batemans 30 (BM 30)

Batemans 20 (BM 20) - replaced

Batemans 20 (BM 20) - replacement

Batemans 21 (BM 21)

Tuross 20 (TU 20)

Tuross 13 (TU 13)

Narooma 30 (NA 30)

Narooma 11 (NA 11) - replaced

Narooma 11 (NA 11) - replacement

Narooma 12 (NA 12) - replaced

Narooma 12 (NA 12) - replacement

Bermagui 30 (BG 30)

Merimbula 30 (MB 30)

Merimbula 20 (MB 20)

Alpine Lakes 20 (AL 20)

Alpine Lakes 21 (AL 21) - replaced

Alpine Lakes 21 (AL 21) - replacement

Moama 20 (MO 20)

Moama 10 (MO 10)

X Ray 21 (X 21)

X Ray 22 (X 22)

X Ray 10 (X 10)

GOVERNANCE

Photo: Brad Whittaker.

60 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2019

CORPORATE MANAGEMENT

Marine Rescue NSW celebrates its tenth anniversary in a strong position underpinned by its responsible corporate governance and management.

n the decade since its formation on July 1, 2009, Marine Rescue NSW has developed into the recognised leader in the national volunteer marine rescue sector. Its professional performance is the result of the skill and service of its 3,136 volunteers, operational capability and innovation and the strength of its corporate management, led by the Board of Directors and staff. Unlike the majority of the state’s emergency services, Marine Rescue NSW is not a government body but rather, an independent, community-based service established by and for its volunteer membership.

LEGISLATION As a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, Marine Rescue NSW is a registered charity and complies with the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission Act 2012, the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the Corporations Act 2001. Our non-profit status underlines the importance of fundraising activities, grants, donations and sponsorship in supplementing our base revenue stream. In 2019-20, NSW Government funding accounted for 51 per cent of our revenue, with another 31 per cent from a levy on recreational boating licences and registrations. The remainder was raised through grants, donations and various fundraising activities. Marine Rescue NSW has operated under the legislative auspices of the State Emergency Management Act 1989 since its inception in 2009, with an amendment to provide it specific recognition as a legislated emergency service organisation passed by the State Parliament in November 2018. Although Marine Rescue NSW sits outside the NSW Government, it reports

It’s our tenth birthday ... NSW Governor Margaret Beazley does the honours at our 2019 MRNSW Leadership Conference with Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey, Police and Emergency Services Minister David Elliott, Chair of the Board of Directors Jim Glissan and Commissioner Stacey Tannos.

to the Minister for Emergency Services, along with Resilience NSW in the Department of Communities and Justice. MRNSW also is required to comply with State rescue policies and its units are accredited by the Minister for Emergency Services on the recommendation of the State Rescue Board, of which Commissioner Stacey Tannos is the Chair. The organisation’s training, fleet and operational standards meet the requirements of the Commonwealth’s Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012, specifically Exemption 24, which took effect for the volunteer marine rescue sector on July 1, 2016.

BOARD The strategic leadership of the company is vested in the democraticallyelected Board of Directors. The Board comprises nine Directors: three General Directors and six Regional Directors. General Directors are elected for threeyear terms and Regional Directors for two. Regular and Life Members are eligible to vote in Board elections but not Provisional or Honorary Members. The Chair is elected by the Board following each Annual General Meeting, usually held on the last Saturday in November. The Board met at Headquarters in August, October, November (the Annual

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

GOVERNANCE

The MRNSW State Headquarters and MR Botany Port Hacking sit on the Hungry Point Reserve at Cronulla, on the shores of Port Hacking.

General Meeting) and February. COVID-19 social isolation and distancing requirements and limitations on travel resulted in the April and June meetings taking place via Zoom. Similarly, some of the Board’s informal gatherings with members in different regions were curtailed. The Board is advised by the Commissioner and staff, with detailed management papers and recommendations presented to assist its decision-making processes.

DIRECTORS 2019-20 Marine Rescue NSW Directors during all or part of 2019-20: James Glissan AM, ESM, QC (Board Chair and General Director); Patricia Fayers ESM (General Director); Robert Wilson (General Director); Darcy Henriksen (Northern Rivers Regional Director); John Lynch ESM (Mid North Coast Regional Director); James Wright (Hunter/Central Coast Regional Director); Ken Edwards (Greater Sydney Regional Director); Keven Marshall ESM (Illawarra Regional Director); and Glenn Felkin ESM (Monaro Regional Director).

MANAGEMENT Marine Rescue NSW operates under the leadership of the Commisioner and Chief Executive Officer Stacey Tannos. Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey left the organisation in April. A new Deputy Commissioner will be appointed in 2020-21. Five new staff positions were established during the year to facilitate greater service delivery and support to units. Twenty-three of the 33 staff, including the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Financial Officer, are based at the State Headquarters in a range of professional specialties, such as finance, grants, IT, fleet and emergency systems management, operational communications, training development and service delivery, volunteer support services and media and marketing. The MRNSW staff:volunteer ratio is 1:95, underlining the centrality of the volunteer workforce in the organisation’s endeavours. Each of the six operational regions is overseen by a Regional Operations Manager. These personnel coordinate operational tasking, response

62 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2019

and coordination, resource management, unit executive support and Headquarters/unit liaison. The North, Central and South Regional Training Managers guide training development, service delivery and assessment in two regions each. The State Stores will be relocated from leased premises at Chatswood to a re-purposed building on the Headquarters site at Cronulla in early 2020-21. The Stores Manager coordinates the dispatch of uniform items, medals and other resources and manages the scheduled servicing of crew lifejackets.

ACCOUNTABILITY Marine Rescue NSW is committed to the responsible and transparent management of the organisation and its finances. The organisation’s consolidated accounts - those of Headquarters and units - are subject to annual independent audit. The financial statements and audit report are printed in the Annual Report, published online at mrnsw.com.au State Government and boating community funding is managed under a four-year Operational Funding Agreement and grants are expended and acquitted in accordance with each funding body’s specific requirements.

COMPANY SECRETARY Chief Financial Officer Todd Andrews

REGISTERED CHARITY STREET ADDRESS & PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters, Building 1, 202 Nicholson Parade, Cronulla, NSW 2230. PO Box 579, Cronulla, NSW 2230.

AUDITOR Grant Thornton

BANK Westpac

DIRECTORS’ QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE Mr James Glissan AM, ESM, QC CHAIR General Director Appointed Original Director 3 July 2009 – 11 December 2010 Elected 11 December 2010, 3 year term 23 November 2013, 3 year term 26 November 2016, 3 year term 23 November 2019, 3 year term

Mr Robert Wilson General Director Elected 24 November 2018, 3 year term Greater Sydney Regional Director 11 December 2010, 2 year term 24 November 2012, 2 year term

Mr Glissan is a member of Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking, after joining the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association Botany Bay flotilla in 2008. He has been elected as Chair of the Board each year since 2010. He has been a Barrister since 1971 and a QC since 1985. With extensive practice in Company and Commercial law, Mr Glissan has served as a Public Defender NSW (1981-1984), Associate Judge, District Court of NSW (1989-1991) and on numerous Boards, including the Firearms Safety Awareness Council NSW. He was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019.

Mr Wilson is a member of Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking. He joined the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association in 2007 and has held roles including Deputy Commander of the Botany Bay Coast Guard and MR Botany Bay and, since 2016, unit fundraising, public relations and events officer. Mr Wilson was MRNSW Company Secretary from 2011 until 2015 and Sydney International Boat Show and Trailer Boat Show coordinator for 10 years. A retired taxation agent and former staff member of the Australian Taxation Office, he holds qualifications in accounting, economics and taxation law.

Mrs Patricia Fayers ESM General Director

Mr Darcy Henriksen Regional Director Northern Rivers

Elected 29 November 2014, 3 year term 25 November 2017, 3 year term

Elected 23 November 2019, 2 year term

Mrs Fayers is a member of Marine Rescue Central Coast and the first woman elected to the MRNSW Board. She has served 22 years in volunteer marine rescue since joining the Central Coast division of the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP) in 1998. She was appointed Divisional Commander from 2006 to 2010 and elected as Unit Commander from 2012 to 2014. A Skipper One, Mrs Fayers has participated in many rescue operations and has served in positions including Watch Officer, Assistant Quartermaster, radio invigilator and boat licence tester in MRNSW.

Mr Henriksen joined Marine Rescue Point Danger in 2007 and has held roles including Administration Officer, Project Officer and unit fundraising. He successfully completed his Radio Operator’s licence in 2020. In addition to his volunteer commitment, he brings five years of executive level management from the civilian industry, along with 39 years in the Royal Australian Air Force. The last nine years of his career in Defence were focused on Leadership and Ethics education across the three Services. Mr Henriksen retired in June 2019, joining the Board the same year.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

GOVERNANCE

DIRECTORSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE Mr John Lynch ESM Regional Director Mid North Coast Elected 3 December 2011, 2 year term 23 November 2013, 2 year term 28 November 2015, 2 year term 25 November 2017, 2 year term 23 November 2019, 2 year term

Mr Ken Edwards Regional Director Greater Sydney Elected 24 November 2018, 2 year term

Mr Lynch is a member of Marine Rescue Forster-Tuncurry, after joining the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol in 1995. He is a Life Member of MRNSW and a qualified offshore skipper, Watchkeeper and Trainer and Assessor. He has held positions including Administration Officer, Secretary, Treasurer and Unit Commander, along with Senior Regional Officer North Coast, Member State Rescue Board Accreditation Team and Delegate Great Lakes Emergency Management Committee. He is a former member of the Royal Australian Navy and Company Secretary of a regional Australian bank and its subsidiaries.

Mr Edwards joined Marine Rescue Hawkesbury in 2010 before transferring to MR Cottage Point in 2019. He has previously served as MR Hawkesbury Unit Commander (2016-2018), Deputy Unit Commander (2013-2016) and Administration and Stores Officer. Mr Edwards holds a Certificate III Marine Operations, a Master rating and a Certificate IV Training and Assessment and maintains his role as a regional Trainer and Assessor. A Justice of the Peace and licensed real estate agent, he has been the director of both a franchise and a family real estate agency for 34 years.

Mr James Wright Regional Director Hunter/Central Coast

Mr Keven Marshall ESM Regional Director Illawarra

Elected 25 November 2017, 2 year term 23 November 2019, 2 year term

Elected 25 November 2017, 1 year term 24 November 2018, 2 year term

Mr Wright is a member of Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie. He joined the RVCP on Lake Macquarie in 2008 and was the Commander when the division agreed to merge with the Swansea Coast Guard flotilla in 2010, following the formation of MRNSW. Mr Wright served as Unit Commander from 2014 to 2016. A Radio Operator and Coxswain, he undertakes regular duties and participates in crew training. Mr Wright is a former investigator with the Office of Fair Trading and at the time of his retirement was in charge of the Licensee Investigations Team. He also is a Justice of the Peace.

Mr Marshall joined the RVCP at Ulladulla - now Marine Rescue Ulladulla - in 1998. He has held a number of positions including Deputy Unit Commander, Training Officer, Assessor and Operations Officer. Undertaking regular Radio Operator shifts, he assists with fundraising and has been instrumental in the maintenance of the unitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rescue vessels. A former skipper of an Australian Customs vessel, Mr Marshall holds a Master 5 marine qualification. Awarded the Emergency Services Medal in June 2017, he is a Justice of the Peace. Mr Marshall was originally elected for a one-year term to fill a casual vacancy.

64 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2019

The Board of Directors and the Commissioner after the 2019 Annual General Meeting. General Director Pat Fayers was absent.

Mr Glenn Felkin ESM Regional Director Monaro Elected 28 November 2015, 1 year term 26 November 2016, 2 year term 24 November 2018, 2 year term

Mr Felkin is a member of Marine Rescue Batemans Bay, after joining the RVCP in 2009. A Marine Master, he has held positions including Acting Deputy Unit Commander, Training Officer, Watch Officer, Crew Leader and maintenance controller. Mr Felkin was a crew trainer and assessor for the new MR Moama and an introductory trainer for the roll-out of the Seahawk vessel tracking system for units from Kioloa to Eden. He has a professional background in the aviation and motor industries, including more than 20 years with Qantas. He was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in 2019.

Record member participation in 2019 Board election

ecord voter turnout resulted in a close contest for the position of Northern Rivers Regional Director in the 2019 Board elections. While General Director Jim Glissan, Mid North Coast Regional Director John Lynch and Hunter/Central Coast Regional Director Jim Wright were elected unopposed, the vacant Northern Rivers seat was contested by two candidates. A record 37 per cent of eligible members voted in the poll, electing MR Point Danger volunteer Darcy Henriksen. The Board again elected Mr Glissan as Chair at the 2019 AGM. These were the second Board elections held online. This system was introduced to streamline the election process and reduce the organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental footprint and costs. The system was this year extended to unit elections to assist in maintaining membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; COVID-19 social distancing and welfare. Voting takes place via a portal on the MRNSW website. Under the MRNSW Constitution, Regular and Life Members are eligible to vote in Board elections but not Provisional or Honorary Members.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Level 17, 383 Kent Street Sydney NSW 2000 Correspondence to: Locked Bag Q800 QVB Post Office Sydney NSW 1230 T +61 2 8297 2400 F +61 2 9299 4445 E info.nsw@au.gt.com W www.grantthornton.com.au

Auditor’s Independence Declaration To the Responsible Entities of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW In accordance with the requirements of section 60-40 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, as lead auditor for the audit of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW for the year ended 30 June 2020, I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd Chartered Accountants

James Winter Partner – Audit & Assurance Sydney, 17 October 2020

Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd ACN 130 913 594 a subsidiary or related entity of Grant Thornton Australia Ltd ABN 41 127 556 389 ‘Grant Thornton’ refers to the brand under which the Grant Thornton member firms provide assurance, tax and advisory services to their clients and/or refers to one or more member firms, as the context requires. Grant Thornton Australia Ltd is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. GTIL and each member firm is a separate legal entity. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIL does not provide services to clients. GTIL and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate one another and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. In the Australian context only, the use of the term ‘Grant Thornton’ may refer to Grant Thornton Australia Limited ABN 41 127 556 389 and its Australian subsidiaries and related entities. GTIL is not an Australian related entity to Grant Thornton Australia Limited.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

www.grantthornton.com.au

Level 17, 383 Kent Street Sydney NSW 2000 Correspondence to: Locked Bag Q800 QVB Post Office Sydney NSW 1230 T +61 2 8297 2400 F +61 2 9299 445 E info.nsw@au.gt.com W www.grantthornton.com.au

Independent Auditor’s Report To the Members of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW Report on the audit of the financial report

Opinion We have audited the financial report of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (the “Registered Entity”) which comprises the statement of financial position as at 30 June 2020, and the statement of profit or loss and comprehensive income, statement of changes in funds and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies and the Responsible Entities’ declaration. In our opinion, the financial report of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, including: a)

giving a true and fair view of the Registered Entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its financial performance for the year then ended; and

complying with Australian Accounting Standards and Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulation 2013.

Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Registered Entity in accordance with the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

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Responsibilities of the Responsible Entities for the financial report The Responsible Entities of the Registered Entity are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Act 2012, and the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991, and for such internal control as the Responsible Entities determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial report, the Responsible Entities are responsible for assessing the Registered Entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Responsible Entities either intend to liquidate the Registered Entity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. The Responsible Entities are responsible for overseeing the Registered Entity’s financial reporting process. Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial report Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report. As part of an audit in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: •

Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

•

Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Registered Entity’s internal control.

•

Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Responsible Entities.

•

Conclude on the appropriateness of the Responsible Entities’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Registered Entity’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Registered Entity to cease to continue as a going concern.

•

Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the financial report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. Report in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Act NSW 1991 Opinion We have audited the accompanying financial report of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (the “Entity”) for year ended 30 June 2020. In our opinion, in all material respects: 1) 2) 3) 4)

the financial statements show a true and fair view of the financial result of fundraising appeals by the Entity for the year to which they relate; the financial statements and associated records have been properly kept by the Entity during that year in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Act NSW 1991 and Regulation 2015; money received as a result of fundraising appeals conducted during that year by the Entity has been properly accounted for and applied in accordance with this Act and the Regulation; and there are reasonable grounds to believe the Entity will be able to meet its debts as and when they fall due.

Emphasis of Matter We draw attention to Note 3 and Note 2c(iii) to the financial report which describes the revenue recognition policy of the Entity regarding revenue from donations and fundraising, including the limitations that exist in relation to the recording of cash receipts from donations and fundraising. Revenue from this source represents a significant proportion of the Entity’s revenue. Our opinion is unmodified in respect of this matter. Responsibilities The Responsible Entities of the Entity are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the Financial Report in accordance with the requirements of the Charitable Fundraising Act NSW 1991 and Regulation 2015. Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole is free from material misstatements, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion, based on our audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards.

Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd Chartered Accountants

James Winter Partner – Audit & Assurance Sydney, 17 October 2020

STRONGER TOGETHER

Eyes up ... the crew of Port Hacking 30 join their air colleagues from Toll Ambulance Rescue for a joint training exercise off Cronulla. Photo: Anya Slowenko.

70 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

GOVERNANCE

RESPONSIBLE ENTITIESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; DECLARATION

DECLARATION BY THE PRINCIPAL OFFICER

n the opinion of the Responsible Entities of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW: a. The financial statements of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW are in accordance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, including: i. Giving a true and fair view of its financial position as at 30 June 2020 and of its performance for the financial year ended on that date; and ii. Complying with Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements and the Australian Charities and Not-forprofits Commission Regulation 2013. b. There are reasonable grounds to believe that Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

eclaration by the Principal Officer in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 on behalf of responsible entities in respect of fundraising appeals: I, Stacey Tannos, Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of Marine Rescue NSW, declare that: 1. the attached financial statements give a true and fair view of all income and expenditure of the company with respect to fundraising appeals; 2. the attached statement of financial position gives a true and fair view of the state of affairs with respect to fundraising appeals; 3. the provisions of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW), the regulations under the Act and the conditions attached to the authority have been complied with; and 4. the internal controls exercised by the company are appropriate and effective in accounting for all income received.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Responsible Entities:

James L Glissan AM, ESM, QC Director Sydney, 17 October 2020

Stacey Tannos ESM Commissioner Chief Executive Officer Sydney, 17 October 2020

John Lynch ESM Director Sydney, 17 October 2020

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS & COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020 2020 $

2019 $

6,882,831

7,257,353

11,141,861

1,719,463

1,096,482

1,399,297

Donations

709,759

853,052

Activities income

390,496

438,526

Proceeds from insurance claims

253,440

16,772

42,621

1,460,267

1,718,837

21,977,757

13,403,300

178,219

33,063

Administration

1,036,829

1,029,714

Depreciation

4,019,249

3,391,892

33,639

86,734

294,882

355,310

49,123

2,394,225

2,505,872

Marketing

124,906

92,675

Staff costs

4,173,932

3,381,432

264,920

192,347

1,781,367

1,830,437

14,302,168

12,948,599

Note Revenue and other income NSW recreational boat licence & registration levy NSW Government funding Other grant income

Profit on sale of assets Other income Total revenue and other income

Expenditure Activities expenses

Grant expenditure IT expenditure Loss on sale of assets Maintenance & development of assets

Training expenses Other expenses Total expenses Net surplus

7,675,589

454,701

Other comprehensive income Other comprehensive income for the year Total comprehensive income for the year

The notes to the financial statements are on pages 76 to 92.

72 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

7,675,589

454,701

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2020

Note

2020 $

2019 $

Cash and cash equivalents

15(a)

9,833,810

7,737,802

Trade and other receivables

1,543,817

1,228,180

Inventories

429,612

465,939

11,807,239

9,431,921

Current assets

Total current assets Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment

24,390,443

19,702,673

Right of use asset

443,818

Total non-current assets

24,834,261

19,702,673

Total assets

36,641,500

29,134,594

1,555,444

1,801,864

Current liabilities Trade and other payables

Borrowings from non-related entity

10(a)

425,627

505,768

Provisions

11(a)

524,010

439,163

137,269

2,642,350

2,746,795

Lease liabilities Total current liabilities Non-current liabilities Borrowings from non-related entity

10(b)

418,969

844,597

Provisions

11(b)

257,712

217,505

321,183

997,864

1,062,102

3,640,214

3,808,897

33,001,286

25,325,697

Accumulated funds

33,001,286

25,325,697

Total funds

33,001,286

25,325,697

Lease liabilities Total non-current liabilities Total liabilities Net assets Members Funds Transferred assets reserve

The notes to the financial statements are on pages 76 to 92.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN FUNDS AS AT 30 JUNE 2020 Accumulated funds $

Total funds

24,870,996

454,701

Total comprehensive surplus for the year

454,701

Fair value of transferred assets transferred to accumulated funds

Balance at 30 June 2019

25,325,697

Balance at 1 July 2019

25,325,697

Net surplus for the year

7,675,589

Total comprehensive surplus for the year

7,675,589

33,001,286

Balance at 1 July 2018

Total comprehensive income for the year Net surplus for the year

Total comprehensive income for the year

Balance at 30 June 2020

The notes to the financial statements are on pages 76 to 92.

74 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

Note

2020 $

2019 $

Cash flows from operating activities Cash received from levies, grants, donations & other income

21,654,575

13,109,376

(10,398,605)

(8,821,564)

11,255,970

4,287,812

164,471

272,388

89,978

94,705

Payments for purchases of property, plant & equipment

(8,814,236)

(4,620,658)

Net cash used in investing activities

(8,559,787)

(4,253,565)

(94,407)

(71,529)

(497,768)

(868,492)

(8,000)

(144,000)

558,770

Net cash proceeds from financing activities

(600,175)

(525,251)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

2,096,008

(491,004)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of financial year

7,737,802

8,228,806

9,833,810

7,737,802

Cash paid to suppliers & employees Net cash provided by operating activities

15(b)

Cash flows from investing activities Proceeds from property, plant & equipment Interest received

Cash flows from financing activities Interest on equipment loans Repayment of capital on equipment loans Repayment of borrowings Proceeds of borrowings

Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year

15(a)

The notes to the financial statements are on pages 76 to 92.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. CORPORATE INFORMATION The financial statements of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW, operating as Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW), for the year ended 30 June 2020 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Directors on 17 October 2020. MRNSW is a company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. 2. SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES a. Basis of Preparation General Purpose Financial Statements These General Purpose Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the Australian Accounting Standards – Reduced Disclosure Requirements. The company is a ‘Not for profit’ entity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and registered under the Charitable Fundraisng Act 1991. Historical cost convention and currency The financial statements have been prepared on the basis of historical cost, except for the revaluation of certain noncurrent assets and financial instruments. Cost is based on the fair values of the consideration given in exchange for assets. All amounts are presented in Australian dollars, unless otherwise noted. b. Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions The preparation of financial statements requires the Directors to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of policies and reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other various factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis of making the judgments. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods. Significant accounting estimates and assumptions The key estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of certain assets and liabilities within the next annual reporting period are: Make good provisions Provisions for future costs to return certain leased premises to their original condition are based on the company’s experience with previous premises and estimates of likely restoration costs determined by management. These estimates may vary from the actual costs incurred as a result of conditions existing at the date the premises are vacated. Management has estimated that the lease make good provisions will be negligible. Provisions for employee benefits Provisions for employee benefits payable after 12 months from the reporting date are based on future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service, as discussed in Note 2(m). The amount of these provisions would change should any of these factors change in the next 12 months. Useful lives of depreciable assets Management reviews its estimate of the useful lives of depreciable assets at each reporting date, based on the expected utility of the assets. Uncertainties in these estimates relate to technical obsolescence that may change the utility of certain software and IT equipment. Inventories Management estimates the net realisable values of inventories, taking into account the most reliable evidence available at each reporting date. The future realisation of these inventories may be affected by future technology or where they no longer meet the requirements of the company through changes in design or equipment redunancy. No provision for impairment has been recognised at the date of this financial report. Long Service Leave The liability for Long Service Leave is recognised and measured at the present value of the estimated cash flows to be made in respect of all employees at the reporting date. In determining the present value of the liability, estimates of attrition rates and pay increases through promotion and inflation have been taken into account.

76 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

c. Revenue recognition AASB 15 and AASB 1058 – change in accounting policy The company has adopted AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and AASB 1058 Income of Not-forProfit Entities for the first time in the current year with a date of initial application of 1 July 2019. The key changes to company’s accounting policies and the impact on the financial report from applying AASB 15 and AASB 1058 are described below. The company has applied AASB 15 and AASB 1058 using the modified retrospective (cumulative catch-up) method which means the comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under AASB 118 Revenue, AASB 1004 Contributions and related interpretations. All adjustments on adoption of AASB 15 and AASB 1058 have been taken to accumulated funds at 1 July 2019. The company has further determined that the change in accounting policy from adoption of AASB15 and AASB1058 has not resulted in any change in the treatment of any of our revenue or associated costs. Revenue recognition policy for revenue from contracts with customers (AASB 15) AASB 15 requires revenue to be recognised when control of a promised good or service is passed to the customer at an amount which reflects the expected consideration. The customer for these contracts is the fund provider. Revenue is recognised by applying a five-step model as follows: 1. Identify the contract with the customer 2. Identify the performance obligations 3. Determine the transaction price 4. Allocate the transaction price 5. Recognise revenue Generally, the timing of the payment for sale of goods and rendering of services corresponds closely to the timing of satisfaction of the performance obligations, however, where there is a difference, it will result in the recognition of a receivable, contract asset or contract liability. None of the revenue streams of the company have any significant financing terms as there is less than 12 months between receipt of funds and satisfaction of performance obligations. Revenue recognition policy for revenue streams which are either not enforceable or do not have sufficiently specific performance obligations (AASB 1058) (i) Government funding Under an agreement with the Office of Emergency Management (now Resilience NSW), the company’s services are supported by funding received from the NSW Government in the form of a core Government grant, a biannual payment and through NSW Maritime as a portion of recreational boating registrations and licences. Grants received on the condition that specified services are delivered, or conditions are fulfilled, are considered reciprocal. Such grants are initially recognised as a liability and revenue is recognised as services are performed or conditions fulfilled. Revenue from non-reciprocal grants is recognised when the company obtains control of the funds. (ii) Interest revenue Interest revenue is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable, which is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset to that asset’s net carrying amount. (iii) Donations and fundraising Donations collected, including cash, in kind donations, donations of vessels and equipment and goods for resale, are recognised as revenue when the company gains control, economic benefits are probable and the amount of the donation can be measured reliably. Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW, in common with most organisations dependent upon such contributions, is unable to establish control over voluntary donations prior to their initial entry in the accounting records. (iv) Other grants Grants received for a specific project not yet completed are only recognised as income when the project occurs or the terms and conditions are met as these amounts are repayable if not fully utilised on the specific project. Grants received for general operational funding and which are not repayable are brought to account as income when received. Revenue from sales of goods comprises revenue earned (net of returns, discounts and allowances) from the sale of goods purchased for resale and gifts donated for resale. Sales revenue is

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

An iconic workplace ... Marine Rescue Port Jackson and Middle Harbour operate on Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busiest waterway. The two units launched 296 rescue missions this year, including returning this cruiser to safety under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Photo: Brad Whittaker.

recognised when the control of goods passes to the customer. Grants received by the company have been accounted for under both AASB 15 and AASB 1058, depending on the terms and conditions and decisions made. (v) Asset sales The gain or loss on disposal of all non-current assets and available-for-sale financial investments is determined as the difference between the carrying amount of the asset at the time of the disposal and the net proceeds on disposal. Compensation from third parties for items of property, plant and equipment that were impaired, lost or given up shall be included in profit or loss when the compensation becomes receivable. The impaired or lost assets shall be written off. The cost of items of property, plant and equipment restored, purchased or constructed as replacements is capitalised as capital assets. (vi) Investment income Investment income comprises interest. Interest income is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method. d. Expenditure All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to a particular category they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources. Fundraising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions by donation and do not include costs of disseminating information relating to the activities carried on by the company. Management and administration costs are those incurred in connection with the administration of the company and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. Other costs comprise investment management fees, information and education costs. e. Income Tax The company is exempted from paying income tax due to it being a charitable institution in terms of Section 50â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997, as amended.

78 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

f. Cash and cash equivalents Cash comprises cash on hand and demand deposits. Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value or term deposits longer than three months in duration that may be broken without prejudice and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value at call. g. Goods and Services Tax Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of Goods and Services Tax (GST), except: (i) where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the taxation authority, it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of expense; or (ii) for receivables and payables which are recognised inclusive of GST. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included as part of receivables or payables. Cash flows are included in the cash flow statement on a gross basis. The GST component of the cash flows arising from investing and financing activities which is recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is classified as operating cash flows. h. Financial Assets Loans and receivables Trade receivables, loans and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as loans and receivables. These are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less impairment. Interest is recognised by applying the effective interest rate. Impairment of financial assets Financial assets, other than those at fair value through profit or loss, are assessed for indicators of impairment at each balance sheet date. Financial assets are impaired where there is objective evidence that as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the financial asset the estimated future cash flows of the investment have been impacted. For financial assets carried at amortised cost, the amount of the impairment is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of the financial assets including uncollectible trade receivables is reduced by the impairment loss through the use of an allowance account. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the allowance account. Changes in the carrying amount of the allowance account are recognised in profit or loss. The company’s debt instruments carried at amortised cost (trade debtors) are subject to AASB 9’s new three-stage expected credit loss model. The trade debtors are considered low credit risk and therefore the impairment allowance is limited to 12 months’ expected credit losss. There has been no impact to the company upon initial adoption. i. Impairment of long-lived assets At the end of each reporting period the company assesses whether there is any indication that individual assets are impaired. Where impairment indicators exist, a recoverable amount is determined and impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss where the asset’s carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purpose of assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. Where it is not possible to estimate recoverable amount for an individual asset, recoverable amount is determined for the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs. j. Inventories Inventories comprise goods for distribution and goods for resale at no or nominal consideration as part of the company’s charitable activities. Inventories may be purchased or received by way of donation. Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or net realisable value. The cost is the purchase price of the items. The inventory is made up of supplies purchased for members and units, consisting of uniform items, items for the vessels, promotional and educational materials.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Goods for resale No value is prescribed to goods for resale that have been donated to the company where the fair value cannot be reliably determined. The cost of bringing each item to its present location and condition is determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs necessary to make the sale. k. Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost or deemed cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life, or in the case of leasehold improvements and certain leased plant and equipment, the shorter lease term, as follows: (i) Communications equipment – over 4 years (ii) Furniture and fittings – over 4 years (iii) IT and office equipment – over 3 years (iv) Motor vehicles – over 5 years (v) Rescue vessels and rescue vessel equipment – over 5-10 years The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed and adjusted, if appropriate, at the end of each reporting period. Gains and losses on disposals are calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the asset’s carrying amount and are included in profit or loss in the year that the item is derecognised. l. Trade and other payables Trade payables are recognised initially at their fair value, which is the amount expected to be paid, and subsequently at amortised cost. These amounts represent liabilities for services provided to the company prior to the end of financial year which are unpaid. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 60 days of recognition. m. Employee benefits Employee benefits comprise wages and salaries, annual, non-accumulating sick and long service leave and contributions to superannuation plans. Liabilities for wages and salaries expected to be settled within 12 months of balance date are recognised in other payables in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date. Liabilities for annual leave in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date which are expected to be settled within 12 months after the end of the period in which the employees render the related services are recognised in the provision for annual leave. Both liabilities are measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled. Liabilities for nonaccumulating sick leave are recognised when the leave is taken and are measured at the rates paid or payable. The company pays contributions to certain defined contribution superannuation plans. Contributions are recognised in the income statement when they are due. The company has no obligation to pay further contributions to these plans if the plans do not hold sufficient assets to pay all employee benefits relating to employee service in current and prior periods. Other long-term employee benefits The company’s liabilities for annual leave and long service leave are included in other long-term benefits as they are not expected to be settled wholly within twelve (12) months after the end of the period in which the employees render the related service. They are measured at the present value of the expected future payments to be made to employees. The expected future payments incorporate anticipated future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service and are discounted at rates determined by reference to market yields at the end of the reporting period on high quality corporate bonds that have maturity dates that approximate the timing of the estimated future cash outflows. Any re-measurements arising from experience adjustments and changes in assumptions are recognised in profit or loss in the periods in which the changes occur. The company presents employee benefit obligations as current liabilities in the statement of financial position if the company does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve (12) months after the reporting period, irrespective of when the actual settlement is expected to take place. Post-employment benefits plans The company provides post-employment benefits though defined contribution plans.

80 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

n. Economic dependence The company is dependent upon the ongoing receipt of State Government grants and community and corporate donations to ensure the ongoing continuance of its programs. At the date of this report, management has no reason to believe this financial support will not continue. o. Lease policy The company has elected to adopt AASB 16 Leases using the modified retrospective (cumulative catch-up) method from 1 July 2019 and therefore the comparative information for the year ended 30 June 2020 has not been restated and has been prepared in accordance with AASB 117 Leases and associated Accounting Interpretations. Under AASB 117, the company assessed whether leases were operating or finance leases based on its assessment of whether the significant risks and rewards of ownership had been transferred to the lessee or remained with the lessor. Under AASB 16, there is no differentiation between finance and operating leases for the lessee and therefore all leases that meet the definition of a lease are recognised on the Statement of Financial Position (except where an exemption election is used). The leases identified by the company (including building leases, motor vehicle leases and certain office equipment) have been recognised as a right of use asset with a corresponding lease liability on the Balance Sheet. The company has elected to use the exception to lease accounting for leases of low value assets and the lease expense relating to these leases are recognised in the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income on a straight line basis. The company has also elected to record concessionary leases at cost rather than fair value. Practical expedients used on transition AASB 16 includes several practical expedients which can be used on transition; the company has used the following expedients: • contracts that previously had been assessed as not containing leases under AASB 117 and associated Accounting Interpretations were not re-assessed on transition to AASB 16; • lease liabilities have been discounted using the company’s incremental borrowing rate at 1 July 2019; • right of use assets at 1 July 2019 have been measured at an amount equal to the lease liability adjustment by any prepaid or accrued lease payments; • a single discount rate was applied to all leases with similar characteristics; • leases with an expiry date prior to 30 June 2020 were excluded from the Statement of Financial Position and the lease expenses for these leases have been recorded on a straight-line basis over the remaining term; and • hindsight was used when determining the lease term where the contract contained options to extend or terminate the lease. The company has recognised Right of Use Assets and lease liabilities of $587,924 as at 1 July 2019 for leases previously classified as operating leases. The weighted average lessee’s incremental borrowing rate applied to lease liabilities at 1 July 2019 was four per cent.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Members of Marine Rescue Shellharbour put Commissioner Stacey Tannos to work serving customers when he dropped in to their fundraising barbecue at their local Bunnings store for a lunchtime sausage sandwich.

3. INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED UNDER THE NSW CHARITABLE FUNDRAISING ACT 1991

2020 $

2019 $

(a) Details of Aggregate Gross Income & Total Expenditure of Fundraising Appeals

Gross proceeds from Fundraising Appeals Donations

709,759

853,052

Market stalls, barbecues and functions

349,799

415,678

Bingo & raffles

317,327

486,487

Other fundraising

292,478

321,691

1,669,363

2,076,908

Market stalls, barbecues and functions

167,281

176,880

Bingo & raffles

126,315

154,707

34,712

70,228

328,308

401,815

20%

19%

1,341,055

1,675,093

Direct costs of Fundraising Appeals Donations

Other fundraising

Total Direct Costs of Fundraising as a percentage of gross income from fundraising appeals Net Surplus from Fundraising Appeals

The surplus of fundraising is applied in the charitable purposes of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW, including the acquistion of vessels and other equipment. Fundraising Appeals include all individual fundraising activities at units and at Headquarters, across the company.

82 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

AGAINST THE WIND

When others run for shore, our volunteers head into the worst of the weather to rescue those in trouble on the water. Photo: Brad Whittaker.

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

4. SURPLUS FROM REVENUE, OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSES

2020 $

2019 $

Activities income

390,496

438,526

Donations

709,759

853,052

6,882,831

7,257,353

11,141,861

1,719,463

Fundraising & sponsorship income

642,277

737,369

Games of chance

317,327

486,487

1,096,482

1,399,297

208,866

303,157

89,978

94,705

253,440

16,772

42,621

201,819

97,119

21,977,757

13,403,300

178,219

33,063

Administration

1,036,829

1,029,714

Staff costs

4,173,932

3,381,432

Maintenance of assets

2,394,225

2,505,872

49,123

Cost of sales

356,889

404,885

Depreciation

4,019,249

3,391,892

264,920

192,347

33,639

86,734

Fundraising expenditure

201,993

247,108

Games of chance expenditure

126,315

154,707

94,407

71,529

IT expenditure

294,882

355,310

Insurances

250,519

315,890

Marketing

124,906

92,675

Utilities

751,244

636,318

14,302,168

12,948,599

Revenue

NSW recreational boat licence & registration levy NSW Government funding

Grants Sales Interest Net insurance proceeds received Profit on sale of assets Other

Expenditure Activities

Loss on disposal of assets

Training expenditure Grant expenditure

Interest expense

84 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2020 $

2019 $

Trade receivables

1,116,336

1,077,105

Other receivables

427,481

151,075

1,543,817

1,228,180

323,842

355,752

Stock on hand - ratings & ranks

15,031

10,789

Stock on hand - unit items/equipment

90,739

99,398

429,612

465,939

1,696,064

277,464

At Cost

6,579,702

5,209,261

Less: Accumulated depreciation

(924,071)

(723,814)

5,655,631

4,485,447

4,512,865

3,626,511

(2,832,855)

(2,239,267)

1,680,010

1,387,244

561,865

540,049

(507,391)

(479,189)

54,474

60,860

1,541,493

1,396,243

(1,325,588)

(1,219,595)

215,905

176,648

At Cost

1,617,158

1,472,566

Less: Accumulated depreciation

(951,992)

(781,270)

665,166

691,296

5. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

6. INVENTORIES Stock on hand - uniforms

7. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Assets under construction - general

Buildings/leasehold improvements

Communications equipment At Cost Less: Accumulated depreciation

Furniture, fixtures & fittings At Cost Less: Accumulated depreciation

IT, office, plant & equipment At Cost Less: Accumulated depreciation Motor vehicles

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2020 $

2019 $

25,300,536

22,837,756

1,465,320

45,455

(13,410,033)

(11,306,864)

13,355,823

11,576,346

2,222,242

1,917,425

(1,154,872)

(870,057)

1,067,370

1,047,368

24,390,443

19,702,673

Rescue vessels At Cost Under construction Less: Accumulated depreciation

Rescue vessel equipment At Cost Less: Accumulated depreciation

Total property, plant and equipment

Reconciliations Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of each class of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current and previous financial year are set out below: Assets under construction 1,696,064

277,464

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

4,485,447

4,232,060

Additions at cost

1,370,442

429,151

Depreciation

(200,258)

(175,764)

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

5,655,631

4,485,447

1,387,244

823,202

Additions at cost

958,734

1,007,165

Disposals

(66,348)

Depreciation

(599,620)

(443,123)

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

1,680,010

1,387,244

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

60,860

54,448

Additions at cost

21,817

40,347

(28,203)

(33,935)

54,474

60,860

Additions at cost

Buildings/leasehold improvements

Communications equipment Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

Furniture, fixtures & fittings

Depreciation Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

86 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2020 $

2019 $

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

176,648

172,852

Additions at cost

163,868

118,497

(5,851)

(2,526)

(118,760)

(112,175)

215,905

176,648

Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

691,296

419,399

Additions at cost

313,185

442,386

Disposals

(109,061)

(6,297)

Depreciation

(230,254)

(164,192)

665,166

691,296

11,576,346

11,642,300

Additions at cost

2,844,228

2,968,418

Under construction

1,419,867

(495,006)

(72,819)

(293,620)

Depreciation

(2,411,799)

(2,245,746)

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

13,355,823

11,576,346

1,047,368

943,647

309,665

339,745

(3,412)

(19,068)

Depreciation

(286,251)

(216,956)

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

1,067,370

1,047,368

24,390,443

19,702,673

IT, office, plant & equipment

Disposals Depreciation Carrying amount at the end of the financial year

Motor vehicles

Carrying amount at the end of the financial year Rescue vessels Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year

Disposals

Rescue vessel equipment Carrying amount at the beginning of the financial year Additions at cost Disposals

Total Property, Plant and Equipment

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Rescue relay ... the crew of Evans Head 30 rescued this disabled 36 foot steel sloop - which was too large to cross the Clarence River bar before handing the tow to Ballina 30 (above) to complete the journey to Ballina. Photo: Bill Bates, on board EH 30.

Buildings $000

Total $000

8. RIGHT OF USE ASSETS Balance as at 30 June 2019

587,923

(144,105)

Reductions in right-of-use assets due to changes in lease liability

Impairment of right-of-use assets

443,818

Additions to right-of-use assets Depreciation charge

Balance at 30 June 2020

88 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2020 $

2019 $

1,555,444

1,521,936

279,928

1,555,444

1,801,864

8,000

425,627

497,768

425,627

505,768

418,969

844,597

418,969

844,597

524,010

439,163

524,010

439,163

257,712

217,505

257,712

217,505

9. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES Trade payables Bank overdraft - secured The average period for payment of creditors is 14 days. No interest is charged on the outstanding.

10. BORROWINGS a) Current Government loan Bank loan (Westpac Equipment Financing Facility) - secured

b) Non-current Bank loan (Westpac Equipment Financing Facility) - secured

11. PROVISIONS a) Current Annual leave

b) Non-current Long service leave

12. RELATED PARTIES AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Directors act in an honorary capacity and receive no compensation for their services. Directors may receive reimbursement for expenses incurred in fulfilling their roles. The Directors also are members of units and participate in unit activities. Key management personnel compensation Key management personnel are those with authority for planning, directing and controlling the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, directly or indirectly, including Board members, the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, Chief Financial Officer, Director of Operations, Director of Training and Education, Director of Corporate Services and Director of IT and Business Development. The compensation paid to the key management personnel noted above is:

1,422,327

1,366,446

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Fleet trial ... new rescue vessels were fitted with davits and winches on the transom this year to test the equipmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effectiveness in helping crews safely lift heavy objects, including unconscious people, from the water and load supplies on board.

13. MEMBERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LIABILITIES AND NUMBERS The liability of the Members is limited. Every Regular and Provisional Member of the company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the company, in the event of the same being wound up while s/he is a Member, or within one year after s/he ceases to be a Member, for payment of the debts and the liabilities of the company (contracted before s/he ceases to be a Member) and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required not exceeding two dollars ($2.00). The numbers of Members were: Regular Members 2,495 Provisional 599 Other 42 Total 3,136

90 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

2020 $

2019 $

14. LEASES The following is a reconciliation of total operating lease commitments at 30 June 2019 (as disclosed in the financial statements to 30 June 2019) to the lease liabilities recognised at 1 July 2019. Operating lease payments

466,354

Add Extension options reasonably certain to be exercised not included in the commitments note Less

420,140

Short term leases included in commitments note

(233,751)

Leases for low value assets included in commitments note

(64,819)

Lease liabilities recognised at 1 July 2019

587,924

Total cash outflow for leases is $695,686 (2019: $868,492).

15. CASH FLOW INFORMATION (a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand and in banks and investments in money market instruments, net of outstanding bank overdrafts. Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year as shown in the statement of cash flows is reconciled to the related items in the statement of financial position as follows: 9,833,810

7,737,802

7,675,589

454,701

(89,978)

(94,705)

4,019,249

3,391,891

Profit on disposal of assets

(42,621)

49,123

Interest on finance leases

94,407

71,529

Movement in receivables

(315,637)

(305,749)

Movement in inventories

36,327

(18,377)

Movement in provisions

125,054

57,407

Movement in payables

(246,420)

681,992

11,255,970

4,287,812

Cash and cash equivalents (b) Reconciliation of surplus for the year to net cash flows from operating activities Net (deficit)/surplus for the year Interest income received & receivable Depreciation charged

Changes in net assets and liabilities

Movement in other liabilities Net cash from operating activities

MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

16. REGISTERED OFFICE AND PRINCIPAL PLACES OF BUSINESS The Registered Office of the company is: Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (Trading as Marine Rescue NSW) Building 1, 202 Nicholson Parade, Cronulla NSW 2230 Phone: 02 8071 4848 Web: marinerescuensw.com.au Email: admin@marinerescuensw.com.au The Principal Places of Business are located at the following Marine Rescue NSW bases (from north to south): 1

Point Danger

Forster-Tuncurry

Port Kembla

Brunswick

Port Stephens

Shellharbour

Cape Byron

Lemon Tree Passage

Shoalhaven

Ballina

Newcastle

Jervis Bay

Evans Head

Lake Macquarie

Sussex Inlet

Iluka Yamba

Norah Head

Ulladulla

Wooli

Tuggerah Lakes

Kioloa

Woolgoolga

Central Coast

Batemans Bay

Coffs Harbour

Hawkesbury

Tuross

Nambucca

Cottage Point

Narooma

Trial Bay

Broken Bay

Bermagui

Port Macquarie

Terrey Hills

Merimbula

Lord Howe Island

Middle Harbour

Eden

Camden Haven

Port Jackson

Alpine Lakes

Crowdy Harrington

Botany Port Hacking

Moama

92 MARINE RESCUE NSW | ANNUAL REPORT 2019-2020

Marine Rescue NSW Operational Regions and Unit locations

MARINE RESCUE NSW Volunteers saving lives on the water Volunteer Marine Rescue New South Wales ABN 98 138 078 092 PO Box 579, Cronulla NSW 2230 Phone: 02 8071 4848 | Fax: 02 9969 5214 Web: marinerescuensw.com.au Email: admin@marinerescuensw.com.au

Marine Rescue NSW Annual Report 2019-20

Articles inside

Auditor’s independence declaration & audit report

Responsible entities’ declaration & declaration by the Principal Officer

Directors’ qualifications & experience

Achieving together

Governance: Corporate management

Support for our volunteers

Technology for our mission

Robust radio & telecommunications

Building better workplaces

The heart of our service

A decade of life-saving service

Team represents the best worldwide

Commissioner’s Report

Our commitment in action

People & resources: Might & power

Everyday heroes. Extraordinary service

Chair’s Report