2023-2024
3,453 Dedicated volunteers
4,598 Rescue missions
10,378 Boaters safely back to shore
75,845 Boats Logged On 332 Awards and medals
243,004 Radio calls
3 New rescue water craft
8 New vehicles
27,101 Media mentions
7 New rescue vessels 100% Commitment to saving lives on the water
$3.4 Million raised
I am honoured to provide the foreword for the 2023-24 Marine Rescue NSW Annual Report.
It was another incredibly busy year for Marine Rescue NSW, with volunteers undertaking more than 4,500 search and rescue missions.
I had the privilege of meeting some of the 3,400 dedicated Marine Rescue NSW volunteers at various events across the state, including the official opening of two new fantastic facilities: the new base at Stockton for Marine Rescue Newcastle and the new facility at The Spit for Marine Rescue Middle Harbour. It’s important that volunteers are supported with a safe and functional base, and these facilities deliver just that – as well as modern designs and amenities.
Tragically, 15 people lost their lives while boating on NSW waterways in 2023-24, six more than the number last financial year. Sadly, only three of the 15 were wearing lifejackets. These statistics serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of always wearing a lifejacket, no matter how safe and experienced you feel on the water.
In recognition of the dedication of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, the Minns Labor Government was proud to announce continued investment in the service, with $73 million allocated over four years. This funding will support the construction of new facilities, the replacement of ageing assets and essential equipment volunteers need to save lives on the water.
Whenever I meet Marine Rescue volunteers, I am struck by their passion and commitment to their roles. The longevity of many volunteers’ involvement with the service speaks
volumes of this, as well as how rewarding a role with Marine Rescue NSW can be.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the essential work of Marine Rescue NSW. Your dedication ensures that boaters across NSW can enjoy our beautiful waterways knowing highly trained and committed volunteers remain rescue-ready throughout the year. I also acknowledge the leadership of Commissioner Barrell, the Board and all the staff at Marine Rescue NSW; thank you and please stay safe.
The Hon. Jihad Dib MP
Minister
for Emergency Services
Minister
for Customer Service and Digital Government Minister for Youth Justice
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the essential work of Marine Rescue NSW. Your dedication ensures that boaters across NSW can enjoy our beautiful waterways knowing highly trained and committed volunteers remain rescueready throughout the year.
I am pleased to be able to present the 2023-24 Annual Report for Marine Rescue NSW, which again recognises the level of commitment and achievement of the only truly independent emergency service in NSW.
This year has been characterised by a continued high demand for our essential marine search, rescue and communication services. This trend began during Covid and has remained significantly greater than previous years. The dedicated band of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers has risen to the challenge reaching the highest number of search and rescue missions in the Service’s history. They have continuously displayed the expected level of commitment and professionalism in managing diverse, complex and frequently dangerous operational responses across state waters.
Commissioner Alex Barrell, has continued to provide dynamic leadership that enables the continued growth of Marine Rescue NSW. A significant milestone in late 2023 was the finalisation of a new funding agreement between Marine Rescue NSW and the NSW Government, which was secured by the joint efforts of Commissioner Barrell and Deputy Commissioner Todd Andrews. This agreement will inject around $73 million into our budget over the next four years. While this goes some way to ensuring Marine Rescue NSW remains well-resourced to meet future demands, it is important not to lose sight of the value of unit contributions and fundraising which remain vital to our viability and also raise community awareness of our work.
The new funding agreement, and changes to the Marine Rescue NSW Constitution in 2023 have resulted in alterations to the structure of the Board. The Government, as our major funder, sought our agreement to accept a Government seat on the Board. This change, and the changes to the constitution, were overwhelmingly approved by our members.
At the 2023 Marine Rescue NSW Annual General Meeting I recorded the appointment of two Regular Directors to the Marine Rescue NSW Board, the Honourable Robert McClelland AO and Nola Watson. In May 2024, the Board was fortunate to be able to appoint Hannah Damkar PSM as a Nominated Director, who joins as the Government nominee. Together these new Directors bring experience, business and professional knowledge and broad and new perspectives that will help ensure the future of our organisation, and further strengthen our governance and strategic direction.
At the last AGM elections were declared for the positions of Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast and Hunter Central Coast Regional Directors. The incumbent Mid North Coast Regional Director Ray Mazurek ESM was elected unopposed, while Captain Robin Heath was elected unopposed as Hunter Central Coast Regional Director. An election was held for Northern Rivers Regional Director and incumbent Director Darcy Henriksen was re-elected.
The Regional Directors for Greater Sydney, Illawarra and Monaro, Ken Edwards, Keven Marshall ESM, and Glenn Felkin ESM, maintained their positions on the Board over the last year. These three experienced Directors have not sought a further term of office and will step down at the upcoming 2024 AGM. I thank them for their diligent contributions and wish them well in the future.
These developments ensure that we maintain a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, essential to maintaining and enhancing our reputation as a world-class marine rescue organisation.
This year is a reflection of the resilience, dedication, and community spirit that define the Marine Rescue NSW family. Our volunteers and staff have shown incredible composure and strength in the face of challenges, always putting their local communities first. For their unwavering service and commitment, we extend our deepest gratitude.
The Board and I look ahead with optimism and confidence, knowing that the experience, dedication, and strategic direction displayed during this year will propel us toward continued success in our mission of saving lives on the water
JamesGlissanAMESMKC Chair
We were deeply honoured by the announcement that His Majesty King Charles lll has graciously chosen to continue his Royal Patronage of Marine Rescue NSW.
In a letter received in May 2024 His Majesty expressed that he is “delighted to retain the Patronage,” which is a reflection of the high regard in which our organisation is held both here in NSW and overseas.
Marine Rescue NSW Chair, James Glissan AM ESM KC acknowledged the significance of this news.
“With over one thousand Patronages reviewed, I am very pleased that His Majesty has chosen Marine Rescue NSW as one of the few organisations selected by him to retain the role as Patron.” Mr Glissan said.
His Majesty has been gracious in acting as Patron of Marine Rescue NSW from its establishment in 2009, first as Prince of Wales and the ongoing support from His Majesty as King should be recognised as an inspiring testament to the value and importance of our service to the community and our mission of saving lives on the water.
I am incredibly proud of the outstanding work our members and staff have accomplished over the last year.
This year has presented considerable operational challenges for our members, with a high volume of boaters on the state's waterways leading to a new record in rescue operations, surpassing last year’s figures. In total, 4,598 search and rescue missions were completed, returning 9,334 adults and 1,044 children safely back to shore.
Throughout the year 75,845 boaters Logged On, marking a 2.2 per cent increase from the previous year. It’s encouraging to see more boaters take advantage of our vital, and free, service. Logging On is a simple yet essential safety measure, offering boaters peace of mind knowing that their local Marine Rescue NSW base is monitoring their safe return.
Our Radio Operators, who maintain round-the-clock coverage of the marine radio network and stay alert for boaters in distress, managed an astounding 243,004 radio calls this year, averaging nearly one call every two minutes. Behind the scenes, our operational delivery has been supported by our many members who dedicate their time to carry out vital administrative and fundraising activities that keep our units running smoothly.
Under the leadership of the Minister for Emergency Services, The Hon. Jihad Dib, the NSW Government demonstrated its commitment to ensuring the safety of those who enjoy the state’s waterways with the signing of a new four-year Rescue Capability grant. This continued investment by the NSW Government provides not only financial stability, but also enables long-term planning, acquisition of new replacement rescue vessels, upgrades to unit facilities and improvements to communication services.
In the last year four new replacement rescue vessels were delivered to Alpine Lakes, Brunswick, Trial Bay and Woolgoolga, two new rescue watercraft bolstered capability at Jervis Bay and the first of two rescue watercraft arrived at Port Kembla. Two new state-of-the-art facilities were completed, the Marine Rescue Newcastle base at Stockton and the Marine Rescue Middle Harbour base at The Spit. The modern buildings enhance operational efficiency and provide a more comfortable working environment for our volunteers.
Our flood response capability has been strengthened with the construction of three multi-purpose vessels and acquisition of new support vehicles. Five additional MPVs and eight inflatable rescue boats are currently in production. This growth in capability was made possible through the NSW Government’s investment following the 2022 Independent Flood Inquiry. The State Operations Group (SOG), established in response to the inquiry, has experienced substantial growth and development. More than 70 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have completed specialised training and earned endorsement as SOG Field Operators, further strengthening our operational readiness.
The delivery of our core marine search, rescue and communication capability is reliant on our highly trained and dedicated volunteers. Keeping our members skilled and rescue ready is a key priority for the organisation. Over the past 12 months, we have held four major Search and Rescue Exercises (SAREXs) at Lake Macquarie, Batemans Bay, Shellharbour and Sydney.
These exercises, which involve partner agencies including NSW Police Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving NSW, Australian Maritime Safety Authority and rescue helicopter services sharpen our members’ skills and strengthen crossagency collaboration. Our ongoing close collaboration with our emergency service partners has led to more efficient emergency response strategies, resulting in improved outcomes for boaters in NSW.
Our cross-agency relationships extend beyond these training simulations to other valued maritime and emergency services partners including Transport for NSW (Maritime), Boating Industry Association (BIA) and NSW Ambulance. Our relationships with these organisations have gone from strength to strength resulting in new opportunities for Marine Rescue NSW, including an expanded presence at the Sydney International Boat Show thanks to the support of the BIA.
Last year, I had the honour of being appointed to the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) Board of Directors and am the sole Australian representative. Through my interactions with the IMRF it is clear that Marine Rescue NSW holds its own on the world stage as a professional search and rescue organisation.
The Marine Rescue NSW Board plays a key role in maximising the potential of our members and organisation. The commitment and support of the Board helps our members achieve the best possible outcomes and I express my gratitude to the Directors for their productive and collaborative approach.
It has been an incredibly busy year and I thank all members for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our mission of saving lives on the water. It would be remiss of me to not also acknowledge our volunteers’ families and employers, I express gratitude and appreciation for their continued support of our members.
Our hard working staff also deserve to be recognised for their professionalism, teamwork and contribution to the organisation. Their commitment to supporting our members is invaluable and greatly appreciated.
As we look to the future, we can be confident that no matter what challenges lie ahead, our people will continue their essential work with skill, resilience and unwavering dedication.
Alex Barrell Commissioner
In 2023-24 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers completed 4,598 search and rescue missions, reflecting the essential role the Service plays in ensuring the safety of boaters along the State’s vast coastline and selected inland waterways. This strong demand for Marine Rescue NSW’s services is fuelled by several factors; the popularity of recreational boating and fishing, extreme weather and the sometimes challenging nature of the State’s marine environment.
Responses to life-endangering emergencies accounted for 30 per cent of all deployments, with the number of MAYDAY calls increasing by 14 per cent on the previous year. Marine Rescue NSW's professionally trained, highly skilled and dedicated volunteers safely returned 10,378 people to shore.
A significant number of rescues were undertaken by Marine Rescue units in the Greater Sydney and Hunter Central Coast regions with Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie involved in 645 rescues missions, Botany Port Hacking 446, Port Stephens 272, Central Coast 261, Port Jackson 242 and Middle Harbour 184.
The rescues that took place across the year showcased the remarkable efforts and unwavering dedication of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
The following incidents represent just a small sample of the over 4,500 search and rescue missions carried out this year.
In the North, rescue watercraft operators on board Brunswick 11 and Brunswick 12 retrieved a man from the water after his boat capsized crossing the notorious Brunswick bar.
A long overnight rescue involved volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick and Marine Rescue Point Danger, who worked tirelessly to bring an 18-metre motor cruiser stranded off Cape Byron safely back to shore. Throughout the night, Marine Rescue Port Macquarie provided critical incident communication.
Battling 105-kilometre-per-hour winds and towering 4.5-metre swells, volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie faced a fierce battle to save two boaters after their 12-metre yacht broke its boom.
Marine Rescue Trial Bay rushed to the aid of a young man who suffered a medical episode while on board a fishing trawler. Crews safely evacuated the patient and returned him to shore for medical treatment.
On the Hunter Central Coast, four vessels from Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage and Newcastle searched extensively for three days for a man missing off Stockton Beach.
Two young girls who had drifted almost one kilometre away from their family were rescued by Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie rescue watercraft operators and reunited with their relieved loved ones.
In Sydney, crews combined for a number of multi-day, multiagency searches. Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, Marine Rescue Cottage Point and Marine Rescue Broken Bay joined forces to assist with a search for a boater missing near Clareville, Pittwater. Crews from Marine Rescue Port Jackson, Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking were deployed in a search for a swimmer missing off Bronte and a person missing off South Head.
Further South, a crew on board Jervis Bay 20 pulled three children from the water off Barfleur Beach after they were blown offshore on their watercraft. Marine Rescue Port Kembla ensured four people were safely returned to shore after their vessel started taking on water approximately six nautical miles off Scarborough.
Marine Rescue Narooma and Bermagui crews came together to rescue two anglers stranded 22 nautical miles offshore, while Marine Rescue Batemans Bay volunteers rescued four anglers stranded eight nautical miles off Malua Bay.
The Port Macquarie Hub also serves as a business continuity backup should that ever be required.
In 2023-24 the total number of boaters Logging On rose by 2.2 per cent to 75,845. The ongoing emphasis on promoting the Marine Rescue NSW app led to a 9.2 percent increase in Log Ons completed via the app.
The Service’s volunteers kept watch for the safe return of 285,016 people on board Logged On vessels, an increase of 1.9 per cent on the previous year.
These rescues are a testament to the unwavering courage and commitment of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, who dedicate their time to keep others safe on the water.
Tragically, there were 15 boating-related fatalities in 202324, an increase from nine the previous year. Along with responding to many of these incidents, our Radio Operators played a vital but often unseen role in several multi-agency searches. In every rescue mission, Marine Rescue NSW members demonstrated professionalism and compassion, especially when tasked with the delicate responsibility of returning lost loved ones to their families.
The Service’s dedicated Radio Operators handled 243,004 radio communications, averaging nearly one call every two minutes. These included 100 MAYDAY calls, where lives were in imminent danger, 63 PAN PANs for urgent but non-lifethreatening situations, and 21 reported flare sightings.
As a Tier 1 State Communications Hub, the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre at Belrose provided 24/7 marine radio coverage throughout the year, with Marine Rescue Sydney Radio Operators involved in over 1,200 rescues.
In November, a second Tier 1 Hub was established at Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, enabling units in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast to seamlessly transfer their marine radio communications to the Port Macquarie Hub when their base is unattended.
Over the last year, the Service’s volunteers came to the aid of 9,334 adults, 1,044 children and even 113 pets. This continues the trend of family participation in boating activities, which has been noticeable in recent years, with children accounting for 11.2 per cent of all people rescued, up from 10.4 per cent last year.
More than half of the rescue operations involved vessels with either one or two people on board. There were 1,453 instances involving two boaters on board and an additional 910 rescues where a single person was on board. This pattern reflects the common practice of individuals heading out alone or with a single companion, often in pursuit of a big catch or other water-based activities. Solo boating carries an elevated risk, particularly for older individuals who may have underlying health concerns.
Open runabouts remained the most common type of boat that required assistance to shore with Marine Rescue NSW volunteers assisting 1,304 runabouts, bowriders, rigid inflatables and centre console vessels over the course of the year. The second most common vessel type, involved in 1,128 search and rescue missions, were cruisers and motor cabin vessels, followed by sailing boats, accounting for 582 requests for assistance. The continued popularity of personal water craft (PWC), commonly known as jet skis, has resulted in an increased number of assists made to PWC riders.
Weekends continue to be the busiest time of the week with 52 per cent of rescues occurring on a Saturday or Sunday, a slight increase on last year. Thursday continued to be the quietest day on the water with 8 per cent of rescues occurring on this day. The busiest time of the day was
between noon and 3pm, as boaters are often returning from an early morning fishing expedition and encounter engine or battery issues.
Almost two thirds of the rescues carried out continue to be of a somewhat preventable nature. Engine malfunction, battery failure and fuel, or lack of, were cited as the most common causes, accounting for 60.1 per cent of all rescues. This highlights the importance of regular vessel maintenance and thorough pre-trip planning, messaging reinforced through the Service’s marketing campaigns.
The activities at the time of rescue have remained consistent with past years, with fishing, cruising, and sailing continuing to be the most common pastimes.
Number of people on board when rescued 2023-24
Vessel type involved in rescues 2023-24
Cause of incident 2023-24
Recorded activity when rescued 2023-24
Times rescue missions are launched 2023-24
boaters are rescued 2023-24
An adult male and young child were saved by a Marine Rescue Nambucca rescue watercraft (RWC) operator after being spotted struggling against the tide and heading towards the 'hole in the wall' on the Nambucca River just before lunchtime in late January.
Marine Rescue Nambucca Unit Commander Gary Nichols said rescue watercraft operators on board Nambucca 12 and Nambucca 10 were conducting their daily patrol of the inner and outer beaches around the Nambucca Bar when the swimmers were spotted.
"Our volunteer operator on NH 12, Bill Ries, noticed a male adult and young child battling against the tide and proceeded to check on them.
"As NH 12 approached, the pair were being washed through the 'hole in the wall'.
"Bill immediately went to their aid and assisted them onto the sled which is attached to the rear of the other rescue watercraft (RWC).
"He then took them to the nearest beach, assessed their condition and remained with them until they indicated they were okay.
"Our base provided clear communications for the mission, with all involved working seamlessly to effect a successful rescue," Unit Commander Nichols said.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the proactive approach to search and rescue at Nambucca Heads reinforces the unit's commitment to saving lives on the water.
"Marine Rescue Nambucca monitors the waters during the outgoing tide when the highest risk exists for swimmers to be taken out to sea.
"An outgoing tide in that area can run up to six knots, which is quite powerful and would challenge even the strongest of swimmers," Inspector Page said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes saved a man struggling for more than 40 minutes on Budgewoi Lake after his kayak overturned in rough conditions, throwing him into the water.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said a call for assistance was received at 3pm on the first Saturday in March.
“The initial report was that multiple kayakers were struggling, with one person in the water and in a life-threatening situation.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Tuggerah Lakes 21 was tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command to respond, along with Tuggerah Lakes 20.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board TL 21 retrieved a man in his 30s from the water.
“Our volunteers received aerial support from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, which was overhead during the response.
“It’s understood the man had been in the water for more than 40 minutes.
“Thankfully, he was wearing a personal flotation device, which saved his life.
“He was transported by TL 21 back to the Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Toukley base while volunteers on board TL 20 escorted two other kayakers safely to shore,” Inspector Greenslade said.
NSW Ambulance paramedics also responded to provide assistance.
Inspector Greenslade said conditions were rough on Budgewoi Lake.
“The winds have been swirling around in excess of 25 knots, creating a one metre chop in areas.
“Radio operators at Marine Tuggerah Lakes managed multiple incidents on the same day, and we remind boaters and paddlers to always check conditions before heading out,” Inspector Greenslade said.
In mid-October, two men and a child were rescued from a life-threatening situation during a Sunday fishing trip on board a 4.8-metre swift craft at Jervis Bay.
“A few seconds difference in our response time could have led to a total disaster.”
- Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Senior Crew member John Dawson
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay received a call from the skipper of the disabled vessel around 11.30am after his boat suffered mechanical failure and was drifting near Bowen Island.
Marine Rescue NSW vessels Jervis Bay 20 and Jervis Bay 41 were on the water undertaking a training exercise when Marine Rescue NSW Radio Operators took the call for help.
JB 20 was deployed with Unit Commander Kevin Hill and Senior Crew member John Dawson on board to assist. The precise location of the distressed vessel was unknown because it was drifting and unable to drop anchor after losing it earlier in the voyage.
“The coordinates were relayed together with the mobile phone number for the skipper of the disabled vessel and
we immediately headed towards the western side of Bowen Island,” Unit Commander Hill said.
“John plotted their last known position on the multi-function display, which was the seaward side of Bowen Island at Jervis Bay. I immediately contacted the skipper by phone to confirm their current position and he confirmed they were on the seaward side of Bowen Island,” Unit Commander Hill said.
With no anchor and drifting towards rocks, the skipper of the disabled vessel estimated they would be aground within ten minutes.
“It was a race against time and we proceeded as fast as we safely could,” Mr Hill said.
“The swell was substantial and as we arrived on the eastern side of Bowen Island, we couldn’t locate the vessel and feared the worst. As John and I scanned the coastline for a possible wrecked boat, we spotted the disabled vessel off Governor Head, metres from the breaking surf. We had seconds to respond,” Mr Hill said.
The crew on board JB 20 reached the disabled vessel and performed a fly-by towline throw, which was attached by the crew on the disabled vessel.
“We only moved the vessel a few metres away from the rocks before the tow rope detached from it,” Mr Hill said.
With a large uneven swell, Unit Commander Hill turned JB 20 back towards the disabled vessel to prepare for a second pass to throw the towline.
“They were extremely close to the crashing seas with the real possibility of being smashed against the rocks. I looked out of the rescue vessel and we had submerged rocks right beside us, the conditions were extremely challenging. John threw the tow rope which was successfully received by the crew on board the disabled vessel. We had to wait briefly after a three-metre wave hit the rescue vessel, then we powered on and began pulling the disabled vessel seaward into deeper water and away from danger,” Mr Hill said.
Unit Commander Hill was relieved to see the two men and child on board the disabled vessel return to land.
“This was without doubt the most challenging rescue mission I have ever been involved in during my decade with the unit. It literally came down to seconds and this incident could have ended with serious injuries or even fatalities.
“I cannot commend Senior Crew John Dawson highly enough for his actions; he was so calm during what was an incredibly tense and dangerous situation for the persons on board the disabled vessel. Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Radio Operators Martin Mikosch and Julie Carter also played a vital role during the rescue, they were brilliant with their communications,” Mr Hill said.
Senior Crew John Dawson said it was “touch and go” at times during the rescue mission.
“After the second towline was hooked up, a big wave came through and caught the disabled vessel. It ended up being held by our towline, with the front half of the boat totally out of the water and the vessel at a very steep angle. This could have been catastrophic for the disabled vessel without the towline in place. A few seconds difference in our response time could have led to a total disaster,” Mr Dawson said.
Unit Commander Hill said the incident was one of those unpredictable situations that can happen on the water.
“The skipper of the disabled vessel did absolutely nothing wrong. He had the correct safety equipment, regularly maintains his vessel and knew how to connect with Marine Rescue NSW for assistance. The seas and machines are unpredictable and no matter how prepared you are for your voyage sometimes things don’t go to plan. We are relieved that this rescue mission had a positive outcome and that the persons on board could return to their families,” Mr Hill said.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey praised all volunteers involved in the rescue mission.
“It’s moments like these when the hard work and training comes to the forefront and results in a positive outcome. The dedication and commitment shown by our volunteers in this rescue is true to our mission of saving lives on the water and they must be applauded for their efforts,” Inspector Massey said.
Accredited Marine Rescue Units
Search & Rescue Coordination Centres (with vessels)
Point Danger
PD31, 12.5m Naiad
PD20, 7.5m Naiad
Forster Tuncurry
FO30, 11.5m Steber
FO20, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder
Shoalhaven SA30, 11.5m Steber
SA20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder
Ballina
BA30, 10m Naiad
BA20, 6.3m Cobia
BA21. 5.7m Jet Boat
Port Stephens
PS30, 10m Naiad
PS31, 11.5m Steber
Ulladulla
UL30, 11.5m Steber
UL20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder
UL10, 4.2m Zodiac
Iluka Yamba
IY30, 11.5m Steber
IY20, 5.45m Ocean Cylinder
Lake Macquarie
LM30, 10m Naiad
LM20, 7.5m Sailfish
LM12, 3.4m Sea-doo
LM13, 3.4m Sea-doo
Batemans Bay
BM30, 11.5m Steber
BM20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder
BM21, 6.3m Naiad
Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (radio only)
Brunswick BR30, 9.5m Naiad
BR10, 3.8m Zodiac
BR11, 3.5m Sea-doo
BR12, 3.5m Sea-doo
Lord Howe Island
LH40, 16m Austal
Coffs Harbour CO30, 9.5m Naiad
Botany Port Hacking
BH30, 12.5m Naiad
BH32, 10m Naiad
Narooma NA30, 10m Naiad NA20, 6.3m Naiad Open
Port Macquarie
PM30, 11.5m Steber
PM21, 6.5m Naiad
PM11, 3.4m Sea-doo
PM12, 3.4m Sea-doo
Port Kembla PK31, 10.5m Naiad PK20, 6.8m Naiad
Eden X30, 11.5m Naiad
Marine Rescue Radio Base (radio only) Sydney Cape Byron
Marine Rescue Radio Bases (with vessels)
Evans Head EH31, 10m Naiad
Camden Haven CH30, 10m Naiad CH10, 4.2m Zodiac
Wooli WI30, 9.5m Naiad
Crowdy Harrington
CB30, 9.5m Naiad CB20, 6.8m Naiad
Newcastle NC30, 10m Naiad
Kioloa KL20, 6.3m Naiad
Nambucca
NH20, 6.8m Naiad
NH10, 3.4m Sea-doo NH12, 3.4m Sea-doo
Terrigal
TG30, 10m Naiad
TG10, 3.8m AB TG11, 4.9m Sealegs
HQ X20, 6m ProPunt X21, 5.45m Ocean Cylinder
Norah Head NR20, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder
Sussex Inlet SI20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder SI10, 3.4m Sea-doo SI11, 3.4m Sea-doo
Broken Bay BB30, 10m Naiad BB21, 7.8m Naiad
Shellharbour SH30, 10.0m Naiad
Tuggerah Lakes TL20, 6.8m Naiad TL21, 6.3m Naiad
Bermagui BG30, 11.5m Steber
Woolgoolga WO30, 10m Naiad Jet
Central Coast CC21, 7.5m Naiad CC22, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder CC10, 3.4m Sea-doo CC11, 3.4m Sea-doo CC13, 5m AB
Hawkesbury HW30, 8.5m Sailfish HW22, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder
Merimbula MB31, 11.3m Naiad MB20, 6.8m Naiad
Marine Rescue Units (vessel only)
Cottage Point CP30, 11.2m Sailfish CP31, 10.35m Sailfish
Tuross Moruya
TU21, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder
TU10, 3.4m Sea-doo
TU11, 3.4m Sea-doo TU12, 4.8m Naiad
State Headquarters
Middle Harbour MH30, 11.5m Steber MH20, 6.8m Naiad
Alpine Lakes AL20, 6.8m Gray's Marine
CNC design plate vessel AL21, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder
Trial Bay TB30, 10m Naiad
TB11, 3.4m Sea-doo TB12, 3.4m Sea-doo
Lemon Tree Passage LT30, 8.5m Naiad
Jervis Bay JB41, 14m Harwood JB20, 7.5m Ocean Cylinder JB10, 3.4m Sea-doo JB11, 3.4m Sea-doo
Port Jackson PJ31, 10m Naiad PJ20, 7.5m Naiad
Moama MO20, 6.8m Ocean Cylinder MO10, 4.6m Ocean Cylinder
X22, 5.95m Ocean Cylinder X23, 6.4m Naiad
X10, 3.4m Sea-doo X12, 3.4m Sea-doo X13, 3.4m Sea-doo X14, 3.4m Sea-doo
State Operations Group MR20, 6.1m utility
MR21, 6.1m utility
MR22. 6.1m utility
Operations in each region 2023-24
Log Ons by
Units: Point Danger, Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba and Wooli.
Rescues: 294 rescues, including 174 emergency responses and 120 other rescues, representing 6.4 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 581 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Ballina Jet Boat returned to service after transitioning to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet as Ballina 21
● Ballina 30, Brunswick 30, and Point Danger 31 involved in search for missing swimmer off Tallows Beach
● Brunswick 30 rescued six kayakers in waters approximately 1.5 nautical miles off Cape Byron
● Rescue watercraft operators on board Brunswick 11 and Brunswick 12 retrieved a man from the water after his boat capsized crossing Brunswick Bar
● Ballina 30 saved a fisherman after his vessel overturned on the Ballina Bar
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick and Point Danger combined to complete a successful overnight rescue of an 18-metre motor cruiser off Cape Byron
● Ballina 30 and Brunswick 30 assisted a solo sailor on board a 14-metre yacht after smoke appeared from the engine room
● Marine Rescue Evans Head provided on-water support for the RAAF CSAR Diamond Spear Exercise
● Marine Rescue Brunswick hosted flood capability training
● Long-serving Marine Rescue Iluka Yamba volunteers Jean Dengate, Elaine Pike, Linda Baker, Frank Bond and Matthew McLennan were honoured during visit by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales
Units: Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Trial Bay, Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, Crowdy Harrington, Forster Tuncurry and Lord Howe Island.
Rescues: 393 rescues, including 212 emergency responses and 181 other rescues, representing 8.6 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 924 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Woolgoolga 30 officially commissioned and named the ‘Tamieka Lee’
● Marine Rescue Port Macquarie returned two boaters to safety after their 12-metre yacht broke its boom in 105-kilometre-per-hour winds and 4-5 metre swell
● Coffs Harbour 30 shadowed a yacht safely into harbour in early October
● Trial Bay 30 and rescue watercraft Trial Bay 11 and Trial Bay 12 raced to assist two people washed overboard on the Macleay River Bar, safely returning them to shore
● A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry returned a disabled vessel with nine people on board to shore after the boat suffered engine failure and became beached near the western side of Wallis Island
● Marine Rescue Port Macquarie assisted Marine Area Command with a multi-day search for a reported missing man off Port Macquarie
● Rescue watercraft operators on board Nambucca 11 and Nambucca 12 saved a man and young child from the water after spotting them struggling against the tide
● Forster Tuncurry 30 completed a six plus hour rescue mission on Easter Saturday after a 48-foot yacht with two crew on board suffered a damaged propeller and shaft issues 10 nautical miles south east of Forster
● Trial Bay 30 completed a late night medical evacuation from fishing trawler after a young male on board suffered a medical episode
● Marine Rescue Crowdy Harrington assisted NSW National Parks and Wildlife with a baby Loggerhead turtle release off Crowdy Head
● Marine Rescue Trial Bay members played a vital role in a successful whale disentanglement operation off Scotts Head
● In November, Marine Rescue Port Macquarie celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Westport Club
● Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour unit held its inaugural Expo in September
● Woolgoolga 30 wins the ‘Best Search and Rescue RHIB’ in the World Workboat Awards, awarded by Baird Maritime
Note:
Note:
Units: Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes, Central Coast and Terrigal.
Rescues: 1,399 rescues, including 311 emergency responses and 1,088 other rescues, representing 30.5 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 2,839 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Tuggerah Lakes 21 officially commissioned and named the ‘Tony Younglove’
● Port Stephens 30 officially commissioned and named the ‘Shirley Clark’
● Official opening of the new Marine Rescue Newcastle base at Stockton
● Volunteers and vessels from Marine Rescue Central Coast, Terrigal and Norah Head provided on-water support for the start of 2023 Sydney to Hobart yacht race
● Rescue watercraft operators on board Lake Macquarie 12 and Lake Macquarie 13 rescued two young girls who drifted almost one kilometre away from family and couldn’t paddle against the wind
● Port Stephens 30 involved in search for a missing helicopter off Bennetts Beach
● Terrigal 30 responded to a large recreational fishing vessel with mechanical issues eight nautical miles off Terrigal, TG 30 transferred the tow to Cottage Point 30 who completed the mission
● Norah Head 20 safely returned a man to Cabbage Tree Harbour after his jet ski suffered engine failure seven nautical miles offshore
● Port Stephens 30, Port Stephens 31, Newcastle 30 and Lemon Tree 30 involved in multi-agency search spanning three days for a man missing off Stockton Beach
● Tuggerah Lakes 20 retrieved a distressed swimmer, suffering from suspected hypothermia and fatigue, from Budgewoi Lake
● Port Stephens 31 completed a marathon six-hour operation in rough conditions to rescue two people on board a 10-metre sail catamaran
● Newcastle 30 guided two exhausted sailors safely into harbour after a sail failed
Units: Hawkesbury, Cottage Point, Broken Bay, Sydney, Port Jackson, Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking.
Rescues: 1,743 rescues, including 276 emergency responses and 1,467 other rescues, representing 37.9 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 4,311 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Official opening of Marine Rescue Middle Harbour base
● Refurbishment of rescue vessels Hawkesbury 22 and Middle Harbour 30
● Marine Rescue Sydney Watch Officer at the State Communications Centre answered a MAYDAY call at 2.16am from the Crystal Jane following a knockdown and initiated a multi-agency interstate response
● Botany Hacking 30 involved in multi-agency search for a missing rock fisherman off the Royal National Park
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, Cottage Point and Broken Bay assisted in a search for a boater missing near Clareville, Pittwater
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Jackson, Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking assisted with two separate multi-agency searches, one for a missing swimmer off Bronte and the second for a person missing off The Gap
● Broken Bay 21 assisted a multi-agency response transporting paramedics and a patient to and from Great Mackerel Beach
● Port Jackson 31, Port Jackson 20 and Middle Harbour 20 provided a joint assist, rescuing two people in the water off Middle Head.
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Cottage Point assisted a disabled six-metre half cabin 4.3 nautical miles off Avalon, towing the vessel to Box Head before transferring the tow to Central Coast 21 for the final leg to Lions Park.
● Port Jackson 20 returned a seven-metre vessel safely to Cabarita after drifting close to rocks at Taylors Bay
● Botany Hacking 30 was tasked to a search after an EPIRB was activated by a distressed vessel with three people on board off the Illawarra Coast
● Five Marine Rescue NSW units from the Greater Sydney region provided on-water support on Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve
● Marine Rescue Hawkesbury tasked with transferring RFS personnel from Berowra Waters Marina to Neverfail Bay, and providing on-water support for hazard reduction burn
● Marine Rescue Cottage Point and Botany Port Hacking participated in Large Whale Disentanglement Annual Preparation Training led by National Parks and Wildlife Service
● Vessels and crew from Marine Rescue Broken Bay and Marine Rescue Cottage Point provided on-water support for the ‘Around the Bends Swim'
Note:
Units: Port Kembla, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet, Ulladulla and Kioloa.
Rescues: 485 rescues, including 249 emergency responses and 236 other rescues, representing 10.6 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 1,110 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Refurbishment of rescue vessel Shellharbour 30
● Port Kembla 31 and Shellharbour 30 involved in multi-agency search for a swimming missing off Fairy Meadow
● Crew on board Jervis Bay 20 rescued two men and a child from a life-threatening situation during a fishing trip on board a 4.8-metre swift craft at Jervis Bay
● Port Kembla 31 rescued two adults and two children from a vessel that was taking on water approximately six nautical miles off Scarborough
● Kioloa 20 safely returned two fisherman to shore after their vessel suffered battery failure off Pebbly Beach
● Sussex Inlet 20 safely returned a boater to shore after his vessel suffered mechanical failure four nautical miles offshore
● A crew on board Jervis Bay 20 pulled three children from the water off Barfleur Beach after being blown offshore on their watercraft
● Jervis Bay 41, Ulladulla 30 and Ulladulla 20 combined for a joint rescue after a motor cruiser with two persons on board suffered engine failure near Wreck Bay
● Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue Shellharbour completed multiple patrols following flare sightings off the Illawarra Coast
● Kioloa 20 rescued a fisherman from Belowla Island after his catch overturned his canoe
● Jervis Bay 41 rescued a fisherman after his 6.5-metre boat lost power seven nautical miles off Jervis Bay
● Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet provided on-water support for the Sussex Inlet Bowling Club and Fishing Club competition
● Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet hosted State Operations Group Flood Rescue and Support training
● Marine Rescue Port Kembla opened a new all accessible radio room for members with mobility challenges
● Marine Rescue Shoalhaven launched the Illawarra region’s first USafe device after receiving funding from the Manildra Group
● Marine Rescue Ulladulla and Marine Rescue Shoalhaven celebrated 50 years of saving lives on the water
● Marine Rescue Ulladulla marked International Women’s Day, by hosting a morning tea with members from the Sussex Inlet, Batemans Bay, Kioloa and Shoalhaven units along with representatives from MRNSW HQ at the Ulladulla Civic Centre
● Marine Rescue Ulladulla celebrated the 25th anniversary of its golf day at Mollymook’s Hilltop Golf Club
Note: One rescue may involve multiple units. Total Involved Rescues
Units: Batemans Bay, Tuross Moruya, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula, Eden, Alpine Lakes and Moama.
Rescues: 280 rescues, including 169 emergency responses and 111 other rescues, representing 6.1 per cent of all rescues for the year, with 604 people rescued.
Highlights:
● Merimbula 31 and Merimbula 20 commissioned in a ceremony attended by the Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns
● Delivery of replacement rescue vessel Alpine Lakes 20
● Refurbishment of rescue vessel Narooma 30
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Moama assisted with a multi-agency search for a missing boater on the Murray River near Barham
● Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes members assisted NSW Police with a search for two men who failed to return from a fishing trip on Lake Eucumbene
● Narooma 30, Tuross Moruya 21 and Batemans Bay 30 involved in a multi-agency search for a swimming missing off Congo Beach
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Eden and Merimbula assisted Marine Area Command in a multi-day search for a missing man near Lennards Island
● Bermagui 30 and Narooma 30 conducted a multi-day search for a boater believed to be missing after an unmanned vessel washed up at Haywards Beach
● Volunteers from Marine Rescue Eden completed a marathon five-and-a-half hour rescue mission after a fisherman became stranded 12 nautical miles off Green Cape
● Merimbula 31 and Bermagui 30 responded to a PAN PAN after a 36-foot flybridge cruiser began taking on water north of Tathra, the distressed vessel was safely shadowed to Bermagui Harbour
● Moama 20 assisted three people on the Murray River after their punt suffered mechanical failure and was drifting downstream towards Echuca
● Batemans Bay 30 completed a successful medical evacuation from a yacht six nautical miles southeast of the Tollgate islands after a sailor required urgent medical assistance
● Marine Rescue Narooma and Bermagui crews combined to rescue two anglers stranded 22 nautical miles offshore
● Marine Rescue Tuross Moruya hosted State Operations Group Flood Rescue and Support training
● Batemans Bay 20 and Batemans Bay 30 assisted National Parks and Wildlife Service with a whale disentanglement off Batemans Bay
● Marine Rescue Batemans Bay and Tuross Moruya participated in NSW SES Who Let The Boats Out training exercise
● Marine Rescue Moama volunteers provided onwater support for the Southern 80 race and assisted Maritime in closing the river following a fatality
Marine Rescue NSW is driven by an extraordinary group of volunteers who devote their time, expertise and passion to ensure the safety and wellbeing of boaters on NSW waterways.
workforce profile
This year the Service saw a 3.3 per cent growth in its volunteer workforce, closing the year with 3,453 members. The length of service among volunteers varies, with approximately one in five having joined within the last year, infusing the team with new ideas and perspectives. The unwavering dedication of the 18.7 per cent of volunteers who have been with the Service for over a decade highlights the deep sense of commitment and purpose that defines Marine Rescue NSW.
The average age remains fairly consistent at 62 years, with a median of 65 years and 80.7 percent of members aged 51 and over. These seasoned volunteers bring a wealth of experience to their roles, and when combined with the fresh perspectives and energy of younger members, the organisation benefits from a dynamic blend of skills and insights.
The proportion of female members has increased slightly to 26.5 per cent. As at 30 June, fifteen women held leadership positions across the Service’s 46 units.
Community recognition
Marine Rescue Ballina member Phil Causley was named Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year at the 2023 Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA). The three other 2023 finalists were Leona Curran - Marine Rescue Jervis Bay, Stewart Dietrich - Marine Rescue Merimbula and Jonathon Wilcock - Marine Rescue Brunswick.
On Australia Day, two Marine Rescue NSW members were recognised for their outstanding dedication to their local communities with Marine Rescue Broken Bay Unit Commander Jimmy Arteaga named Citizen of the Year in the
Northern Beaches Council Australia Day Awards. Further north, Marine Rescue Ballina Unit Commander Ken Delany was announced as Volunteer of the Year at Ballina Shire Council Australia Day Awards.
Gillian Kearney, a member of Marine Rescue Narooma, was honoured as the South Coast Volunteer of the Year in the NSW Volunteer Awards, recognising her outstanding commitment and dedication.
Marine Rescue Merimbula Unit Commander Bill Blakeman
ESM received the Safety Award at the NSW ACT Community Achievement Awards for his innovative and tailored approaches to the safety and wellbeing of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers and the boating community.
In June, the 2024 RESCA finalists were announced: David Bigeni - Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, Kelli JovanovskiMarine Rescue Port Jackson, Sonia Teston - Marine Rescue Merimbula and Nancy Weatherman - Marine Rescue Eden. Marine Rescue Port Jackson’s Sophie Baker was also named a finalist for the Dot Hennessy Youth Scholarship Award.
Four volunteers were awarded the Emergency Services Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours List, recognising their professionalism, commitment, leadership and skill; Ian Baker - Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking, Raymond (Ray) Mazurek - Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry, Colin TrittonMarine Rescue Batemans Bay and Anthony (Tony) Whybrow RFD - Marine Rescue Middle Harbour.
A total of 332 service medals were presented to members during the reporting period. These included 272 Marine Rescue NSW Long Service Medals and 60 National Medals and clasps.
Fortem Australia has continued to offer wellbeing and mental fitness support to our members. Additionally, the National Emergency Worker Support Service, launched by the Black Dog Institute, provides further assistance. This service offers members up to 12 free sessions with Black Dog Institute clinicians, with no need for referrals, Medicare, or GP information.
With the backing of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Marine Rescue NSW also maintains critical incident support services for its members.
Following Darren Schott’s appointment to Deputy Commissioner, Operations and Capability, Dan Duemmer was appointed as Zone Commander Central.
After an extensive and competitive recruitment process, Darren Hulm was selected as Zone Commander North, succeeding Mal Jeffs APM who retired in September 2023.
A new position of Emergency Systems Officer was created to support the Manager Emergency Systems in the management of emergency communications network and operations. Jay Challappa was the successful applicant and commenced in the role in June 2024.
Four Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, with a combined 115 years of service dedicated to saving lives on the water, were recognised on the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Ian Baker Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking
Ian Baker joined the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA) in 1975, which merged with other coastal patrols to form Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) in 2010. He has been a dedicated volunteer with MRNSW for more than 48 years, one of the longest-serving volunteers within the service.
His role as an operational Search and Rescue Support Officer and Marine Rescue NSW Coxswain has seen Ian participate in more than 400 rescues, many in difficult and life-threatening conditions. He has also served in numerous unit roles within Marine Rescue NSW and earned the respect of everyone he has volunteered with including members he has trained and mentored.
Prior to the establishment of Marine Rescue NSW in 2009, Ian’s efforts had been recognised by the former AVCGA, bestowing on him a Life Membership. Ian’s professionalism, dedication, and extensive maritime safety expertise continues to inspire other volunteers to maintain and extend their skills and knowledge in maritime safety for the benefit of the wider community.
Ian places the highest priority on the safety of his fellow crew members and the boating community, particularly when operating in dangerous conditions at night, in rough seas, or unfavourable weather. He has led numerous challenging search and rescue operations in response to traumatic emergencies and continues his vessel and radio duties to this day.
Roman (Ray) Mazurek has given meritorious service to the NSW community as a volunteer member of Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry for more than 20 years. His professionalism, commitment, and skill have directly contributed to the safety of the boating public on Mid North Coast waterways.
As the Division Commander of the former Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, Ray was an integral part of the completion of the new Forster Tuncurry unit base, purchasing a new rescue vessel, and managing the division as it grew to become an important part of emergency services in the Manning and Great Lakes area. After serving in the role of Unit Commander at Forster Tuncurry, Ray transferred to Marine Rescue Crowdy Harrington in 2016 to help rebuild the unit and assist them in operating a new rescue vessel, which was delivered earlier that year.
His commitment to training and mentoring members, as well as bringing through the next generation of operators, turned a once fledgling unit into a fully operational part of Marine Rescue NSW. Since Ray’s transfer back to the Forster Tuncurry unit, he has taken oversight of the unit’s two rescue vessels as the Operations Officer and senior vessel Master. Drawing on his past military experience, he has led numerous challenging search and rescue operations.
Ray has been a Regional Director of Marine Rescue NSW since 2021 with a seat on the Board of Directors. He continues to contribute positively to the organisation and to the boating public.
Colin Tritton has given meritorious service to the NSW community as a volunteer member of Marine Rescue Batemans Bay for almost 25 years, having joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP) in 1999. Prior to joining, Colin had a distinguished career with NSW Police, including as a Police diver and the Water Police (now known as Marine Area Command).
During his time with the RVCP, he was responsible for establishing a training regime. Through his training, he was able to assist in producing a new wave of qualified Coxswains in the Monaro region, which was much needed, particularly around the time of the merger to form Marine Rescue NSW. Colin was also a Technology and Further Education (TAFE) teacher who specialised in practical marine rescue specific courses and maritime studies, and used his experience as a teacher to contribute to Marine Rescue NSW membership and training.
As a qualified Marine Rescue NSW Master, he has led numerous challenging search and rescue operations in response to traumatic emergencies over his years of service. Colin has recorded hundreds of hours of sea time and, until a recent illness, made himself available around the clock to respond to emergencies on the water, personally conducting numerous rescue missions, often in dark and dangerous conditions. He was made a Life Member of Marine Rescue Batemans Bay in 2022 in acknowledgment of his significant contribution to the unit and region.
Anthony (Tony) Whybrow RFD
Marine Rescue Middle Harbour
Anthony (Tony) Whybrow is an active member of Marine Rescue Middle Harbour. He joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP), an antecedent of Marine Rescue NSW, in 2003. He was appointed as the Divisional Commander for Sydney of RVCP in 2009. Tony became Unit Commander of Marine Rescue Middle Harbour in 2010. During his command, Tony also took on the role of Training Officer and assisted unit members with requalifying their rating in accordance with new qualification requirements. He remains in a training role today.
Apart from continuing to be operational as a Marine Rescue NSW vessel Master, Tony is also the unit’s Training Systems Officer. He has mentored many senior Marine Rescue NSW members not only within the Middle Harbour unit but also across the Greater Sydney region and beyond.
Tony has spent hundreds of hours at sea conducting search and rescue efforts in company with other Marine Rescue NSW and Marine Area Command vessels, often in deteriorating conditions. During his extensive service with Marine Rescue NSW, he has demonstrated a distinguished and exemplary commitment to public service and to the Marine Rescue NSW mission of saving lives on the water.
In August, two long-serving Marine Rescue NSW members from the state’s South Coast were awarded the NSW Maritime Medal during a ceremony at the Sydney International Boat Show at Darling Harbour.
Kevin Hill
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Unit Commander Kevin Hill was awarded the NSW Maritime Medal for Safety. In his decade with Marine Rescue NSW, Kevin has gone above and beyond as a rescue vessel skipper and worked tirelessly to train, educate, and encourage boaters to be safe on the waters of Jervis Bay.
Kevin said that since becoming a volunteer with Marine Rescue NSW in December 2013, two incidents in early 2023 stand out in his mind. The rescue of a father and his daughter who had gotten into trouble while stand-up paddleboarding in Jervis Bay near Iluka Beach were saved in record time. The unit’s members were deeply moved by the family's gratitude the next day, however the joy quickly turned to sorrow when, in a nearly identical situation a week later, a young mother tragically lost her life.
William (Bill) Blakeman ESM
Marine Rescue Merimbula
Marine Rescue Merimbula Unit Commander William (Bill) Blakeman ESM earned the NSW Maritime Medal for his service to the community and for his outstanding contribution as a Training Officer, spending countless hours training and developing crew to conduct rescues and respond to incidents.
Bill has volunteered for Marine Rescue NSW since November 2008 and is a life member of the Merimbula unit. After a lifetime in the marine industry, which began as a deck boy on a Port Line vessel at the age of 16, volunteering with Marine Rescue NSW provides Bill with the chance to give something back to the community.
Membership
Three Marine Rescue NSW volunteers received the Service’s highest honour of Life Membership at the 2023 Annual General Meeting of the Marine Rescue NSW Board.
Harold (Harry) Gibson
Marine Rescue Port Stephens
Harry Gibson has dedicated nearly 40 years of service to Marine Rescue NSW and importantly the boating community. He is a valued member of the Marine Rescue NSW Protocol Committee and began volunteering with the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol in April 1985.
Kevin Hill joined Marine Rescue NSW in 2013. Over a ten year period of service, his membership has been characterised by sustained contributions to leadership, vessel operations, training of fellow members and an ongoing commitment to improving safety on the water.
James (Jim) Wright ESM Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie
Jim Wright has given meritorious service to the NSW community for more than 13 years. His professionalism, commitment and skill have directly contributed to the safety of the boating public in the Lake Macquarie region. His commitment sees him completing nearly double the number of shifts of other Coxswains within the unit, whilst ensuring that the vessels are maintained to the highest possible standard of operational readiness.
Shaun Smith, Darren Wright, Adrian Nicholas, Czeslaw Lawicki
Marine Rescue Terrigal
Four volunteers from Marine Rescue Terrigal were presented with Commissioner’s Citations for their actions during the 2017 New Year’s Eve display explosions at Terrigal Haven, which resulted in two people being thrown into the water and rescued by Marine Rescue NSW volunteers. The success of the operation in a potentially life threatening situation demonstrated the professionalism and flawless teamwork of the four crew members.
Karen Lowry
Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet
The commitment, experience and exceptional leadership of Karen Lowry transformed Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet from a small unit to a high-performing, larger team. Karen was awarded with a Commissioner’s Citation in recognition of her significant contribution to the performance and direction of the unit.
Peter Steigrad
Marine Rescue Middle Harbour
Peter Steigrad received a Commissioner's Citation in recognition of his outstanding dedication and commitment to Marine Rescue Middle Harbour. As Unit Commander, Peter’s unwavering devotion, hardwork and exceptional leadership played a pivotal role in the construction of a new facility for Marine Rescue Middle Harbour. His efforts have resulted in a high-quality building that will serve and benefit unit members for many years to come.
Todd Andrews, Deputy Commissioner
Marine Rescue NSW
Deputy Commissioner Todd Andrews received a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service in recognition of his key role in implementing the 2019-2023 NSW Government four-year funding agreement. Todd's dedication and expertise were essential to the successful fulfilment of the agreement's commitments.
Matthew King
Marine Rescue Sydney
Matthew King’s substantial contributions to marine communications at a local, regional and state level were honoured with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service. In his role as Unit Commander at Marine Rescue Sydney, Matthew’s commitment, experience and exceptional service have greatly influenced the performance and direction of Marine Rescue NSW, leading to enhanced outcomes for the NSW boating community.
Lance Miller Marine Rescue Middle Harbour
In recognition of his significant and meritorious contribution to vessel operations and training at Marine Rescue Middle Harbour, Lance Miller was awarded a Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner's Commendation for Service. Through his leadership and ongoing mentoring of volunteers, Lance has had a major influence on the performance and direction of Marine Rescue Middle Harbour, and has dedicated 50 years to saving lives on the water.
Michael O’Halloran
Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry
For more than 20 years, Michael O’Halloran has played a critical leadership role in the development of the capability and professionalism of Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry. Michael was presented with a Commissioner's Commendation in recognition of his dedication to the training and ongoing mentoring of the unit's volunteers.
Kelvin Parkin, Senior Manager Fleet
Marine Rescue NSW
Kelvin Parkin's outstanding contribution to the 2019-2023 NSW Government funding agreement was honoured with a Commissioner’s Commendation for Service. Over four years, Kelvin successfully led the delivery of 50 new and refurbished vessels, valued at over $15 million.
The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by operational members of recognised government and voluntary organisations that risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in times of emergency or natural disaster.
National Medal - 15 years service
Anthony
Kenneth
Robert
Anthony
Guy
Warren
Tony
Peter Dally
Paul
Colin
Michael
John
Sharyn
Janette
Phillip
Graeme
Joseph
Allan
Stuart
Graeme
Anthony
Penelope
Alec
National Medal 1st Clasp - 25 years service
Leanne
Jeffrey
John
David
Gordon
Michael
Graeme
Brent
Keven
Thelma
Stephen
National Medal 2nd Clasp - 35 years service
John Finn Terrigal National Medal 3rd Clasp - 45 years service Anthony Bray Middle Harbour Marine Rescue NSW Service Medals
Michael
Adrian
Robert
Erik
Todd
Helen
Gregory
Thomas
Asghar
Brian
Peter
John
Peter
Ailsa
Joseph
Leslie
Harry
Timothy
Daryl
David
Susan
Shane
Cathy
Charles
Oleh
Brian
David
Philip
Robert
Elizabeth
Gordon
Jeanette
Karen
Yvonne
Kenneth
Georgina
Colleen
Stephen
Jonathan
Joel
Coast
Danny Shoesmith Shoalhaven
Matthew Sims Central Coast
Daniel Smith Hawkesbury
Pauline Stang Port Kembla
Norman Stanley Jervis Bay
Catherine Stocker Jervis Bay
Margaret Stringer Crowdy Harrington
Victor Stringfellow Botany Port Hacking
Anthony Styan Lake Macquarie
Richard Suffield Sydney
Sean Sweeney Jervis Bay
Yvonne Thompson Tuggerah Lakes
Garry Thornton Eden Larisa Trapeznikova Port Macquarie
Ignatios Tsiriplis Hawkesbury
Ian Turner Trial Bay
Phillip Turner Port Kembla
Todd Ulin Port Kembla
Bernard Utteridge Cottage Point
Renganathan Vadiveloo Jervis Bay
James Wait Trial Bay
Dennis Walker Bermagui
Ursula Wall Eden
Thea Walsh Port Macquarie
Michael Watts Middle Harbour
Richard Weber Ballina
Grant Wellard Jervis Bay
Natalie Welsh Port Macquarie
Timothy White Sydney
Brad Whittaker State Headquarters
Debra Worgan Bermagui
Lynelle Wright Crowdy Harrington
Lawrence Zarb Forster Tuncurry
Robert Zwart Central Coast
Marine Rescue NSW Service Medal - 10 years service
Graeme Abberton Port Stephens
Lynda Bailey Bermagui
Andrew Baker Port Macquarie
Linda Baker Iluka Yamba
David Beeforth Middle Harbour
Frank Bond Iluka Yamba
Elizabeth Bond Point Danger
Philip Booth Batemans Bay
Timothy Boyle Port Stephens
Registered Training Organisation update
Marine Rescue NSW completed a comprehensive Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Audit and performance assessment in December to ensure the Service is operating in a compliant manner and in line with the National Standards for RTOs
The outcome of this process ensures that Marine Rescue NSW;
● deliver on quality education outcomes
● maintain compliance
● manage identified training risks
● retain a positive reputation in the maritime training sector
● build and maintain a robust training organisation into the future.
The Australian Skills Quality Authority approved the audit and extended the Marine Rescue NSW RTO operating licence for an additional five years.
The table highlights our performance over the past 12 months
A key area of focus and development has been cross-agency training, with members and staff engaging with the following organisations:
● NSW Police Marine Area Command
● Fire and Rescue NSW
● NSW State Emergency Service
● NSW Ambulance Special Operations Team
● NSW Ambulance Helicopter
● Surf Lifesaving NSW
● NSW Rural Fire Service
● NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
As an Authorised Training Provider under Maritime's Boat Training Provider Scheme, Marine Rescue NSW provided 54 high quality General Boat and Personal Water Craft courses to members of the public.
Four major Search and Rescue Exercises were held during 2023-24. The exercises are vital annual events that bring together volunteers from various Marine Rescue NSW units and representatives from partner Emergency Service organisations to sharpen their skills and foster collaboration in realistic, high-pressure scenarios.
During a SAREX, volunteers are tasked with responding to complex and dynamic scenarios that require quick thinking, teamwork, and proficient use of navigation and rescue equipment. This comprehensive approach ensures that all units are not only well-versed in their own procedures but also in working cohesively with search and rescue partners including NSW Police Marine Area Command, Surf Life Saving NSW, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Held at Lake Macquarie, the July exercise involved over 55 volunteers from all eight Marine Rescue NSW units in the Hunter Central Coast region along with a representative from Greater Sydney’s Cottage Point. Emergency responders were confronted with a large search area of about 70 square nautical miles
In September, more than 100 volunteers and staff from Marine Rescue NSW units in the Monaro and Illawarra regions teamed up to test rescue capability, teamwork
and communication in response to a simulated emergency situation involving an overturned vessel offshore. While the on-water exercise was taking place, over 25 Marine Rescue NSW Radio Operators, Watch Officers and staff participated in a Search and Rescue Desktop Exercise.
In the Illawarra, 10 Marine Rescue NSW vessels crewed by dozens of highly skilled and dedicated volunteers took part in a SAREX off Shellharbour in May. The emergency scenario involved a Triple Zero (000) call from an overturned yacht with four people on board. Exercise participants were tasked with planning and executing an immediate search of the area with the highest probability of locating and rescuing the sailors.
Due to adverse weather conditions, the Greater Sydney SAREX in June was scaled down to ensure participant safety. Two Marine Rescue Middle Harbour vessels and one Marine Rescue Port Jackson vessel were tasked to a simulated incident involving a capsized vessel with multiple people in the water. The on-water response was supported by volunteer Radio Operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre.
The experience gained from SAREXs is invaluable, reinforcing the commitment of Marine Rescue NSW to maintaining the highest standards of preparedness and operational excellence.
After receiving $3.7 million in NSW Government funding following the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW developed a State Operations Group (SOG). The SOG has seen significant growth and development over the past year, with key milestones achieved in training, asset deployment, and operational readiness.
Dozens of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from the Service’s northern zone were the first to earn SOG endorsement. By June, over 70 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers were endorsed as SOG Field Operators, following a series of training days held at various unit locations including Sussex Inlet, Tuross Moruya and Broken Bay. Marine Rescue NSW is on target to have 100 endorsed members by spring 2024.
These SOG Field Operators are now able to be deployed to support NSW SES flood response operations utilising seven support vehicles and three multi-purpose vessels delivered under the Flood Rescue Enhancement Program.
Marine Rescue NSW puts flood rescue capability to the test
Following detailed collaboration between Training and Capability, Fleet and Operations, Marine Rescue NSW put its State Operations Group (SOG) capability to the test with its first-ever multi-agency flood rescue and operational readiness exercise in the Northern Rivers in late June.
Marine Rescue NSW Northern Zone Commander Darren Hulm said a real-time exercise was held at Copmanhurst to test Marine Rescue NSW’s flood rescue and support capability.
“With involvement from NSW SES, a Marine Rescue NSW coordinated flood-specific exercise was conducted to see how our training supports a real-life scenario.
“The learnings our volunteers gained from working alongside NSW SES members were invaluable and will better prepare us for a real deployment.
“This exercise confirmed that our flood response training and capability align with NSW State Rescue Policy and the expectations of NSW SES, who is the lead agency on flood response.
“We will continue to develop and enhance our State Operations Group to ensure that when NSW SES requests our assistance, we are best prepared to assist with any onwater flood rescue and support operation.
“Communities across NSW can feel assured that Marine Rescue NSW’s SOG volunteers and assets (boats, vehicles, and equipment) can be deployed statewide when requested by the NSW SES. For example, a Marine Rescue NSW volunteer from Point Danger could be deployed to a weather event at Condobolin on short notice,” Zone Commander Hulm said.
Marine Rescue NSW Capability Manager Dave Bowing said volunteers involved in the Copmanhurst exercise were activated to simulate a real-time out-of-area deployment.
“To make the exercise as realistic as possible, volunteers were tasked to assist NSW SES with a tropical low set to drop excessive rain on the Upper Clarence and Orara catchments.
“The mission was for our crews to work with NSW SES teams to safely conduct evacuations, resupplies and rescues as requested in the simulated flood rescue area of operations.
“Fourteen Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from five units (Point Danger, Brunswick, Ballina, Evans Head, and Port Macquarie), supported by operational staff, three Marine Rescue NSW multi-purpose vessels, and one inflatable rescue boat, took part in the exercise.
“NSW SES also had 14 on-water and in-water operators and four vessels to support the exercise.
“Together, members launched and retrieved vessels, located and retrieved manikins, navigated hazards, and conducted resupply operations,” he said.
Mr Bowing said Marine Rescue NSW’s newly acquired multipurpose vessels performed well during the exercise.
“These six-metre vessels have a low draught, allowing them to navigate shallow waters and operate in challenging areas.
“They can also be launched and deployed in difficult locations, which is most likely during a real-life flood response.
“The bow loading door on each vessel also allows our crews to safely move people and supplies on and off.
“This exercise was the first of its type that Marine Rescue NSW has conducted, and it has informed refinements to our activation and deployment model,” Mr Bowing said.
Marine Rescue NSW State Operations Group members will continue to undergo training to earn endorsement over the coming months as the rollout of vessels, vehicles, and associated equipment continues. It is intended that three flood rescue and operational readiness exercises will be held each year, one in each Zone.
“The learnings our volunteers gained from working alongside NSW SES members were invaluable and will better prepare us for a real deployment."
Seahawk is the purpose-built vessel tracking and incident management system used by Marine Rescue NSW to monitor Logged On vessels and coordinate search and rescue operations. A new version with improved user experience, refreshed interface and technology enhancements was released in 2024. The cleaner, more intuitive interface makes it easier for the Service’s 1,000+ Radio Operators and Watch Officers to enter and manage the Logging On of vessels and coordination of incidents.
The ongoing implementation of Frequentis consoles continued this year with dispatch consoles installed at Marine Rescue Port Macquarie. This installation enabled the establishment of the Port Macquarie Hub to provide overnight coverage for Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast Regions. The Frequentis system provides Marine Rescue NSW radio
bases with high availability dispatch consoles that support Radio over Internet Protocol (RoIP). RoIP enables continuous 24/7 coverage of the marine radio network across the state, with regional radio bases ‘switching over’ to the appropriate 24/7 Tier 1 hub (Marine Rescue Sydney or Marine Rescue Port Macquarie) when the local base is unattended.
A new radio mast was installed at Shoalhaven Heads as a precursor to the planned new building for Marine Rescue Shoalhaven. The Shoalhaven unit was also provided with an interim technology upgrade that included Reditalk Dispatch Consoles. This installation coupled with the upgrade to the remote radio site at Point Perpendicular restored wide radio coverage for Marine Rescue Shoalhaven.
A comprehensive asset tracking system has been developed to efficiently manage and monitor the State Operations Group’s (SOG) extensive range of physical assets. The system plays a critical role in ensuring essential SOG resources - such as vessels, vehicles, equipment caches and other specialised equipment - are accurately tracked and readily available for deployment.
Following a successful pilot last year, Marine Rescue NSW has implemented a powerful Business Intelligence (BI) software suite to enhance data-driven decision making. The BI tool consolidates non-personal data from key Marine Rescue NSW systems including Seahawk, Otter, and Radio Club, providing a unified platform for analysing and interpreting crucial information. By leveraging open-source software, which is widely used by leading organisations such as Airbnb, Alibaba, British Telecom, Cisco, eBay, Netflix, and PayPal, Marine Rescue NSW benefits from a robust and reliable solution with no software costs. The BI tool enables the Service’s staff to efficiently process and visualise data, supporting more informed strategies and operational improvements.
Marine Rescue NSW has developed a prototype for the Telstra Desktop Messaging Service (TDMS) replacement, known as the Marine Rescue Messaging Service (MRMS). This new system is designed to seamlessly replace the existing TDMS texting platform, which is heavily utilised by all units, sending between 30,000 to 50,000 texts per month.
The MRMS has been carefully developed to ensure a smooth transition, with all contacts, groups, and templates from the current TDMS successfully ported over to the new system. The MRMS prototype is currently being trialled, providing an opportunity to refine and optimise its functionality before full deployment. It uses Otter usernames and passwords for authentication, ensuring consistency and security across platforms.
Marine Rescue NSW has transitioned from Zoom to Microsoft Teams for its communication and collaboration needs, thanks to an offer from Microsoft that provided the Service with free licences. This shift not only significantly reduced costs but also enhanced the functionality and flexibility available to units across the state. With Microsoft Teams, each unit now has the capability to maintain multiple accounts, such as for the Base, Unit Commander, and Deputy Unit Commander, facilitating more streamlined and efficient communication within and between units
The successful integration of Vasto, Marine Rescue NSW's Learning Management System (LMS) with the Otter platform, streamlined the management and visibility of member qualifications. This integration allows training achievements recognised by Marine Rescue NSW to be automatically updated in member profiles within Otter, eliminating the need for manual data entry. When a member completes a training course and it is recorded in Vasto, the information is instantly pushed to their Otter profile, ensuring that all qualifications are accurately reflected without any additional intervention.
Community outreach and engagement continues to grow
This year's communication and engagement initiatives focused on enhancing boating safety awareness, highlighting the remarkable efforts of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, and elevating the profile of the organisation. These efforts were guided by a detailed marketing and communications plan to ensure alignment with our key objectives.
In 2023-24, there were 27,101 mentions of Marine Rescue NSW in the media. This significant coverage and increased promotion of the organisation can be attributed to a few key factors. One of the most impactful was the increased use of the Andy Grace app by the Service’s volunteers. The app allows volunteers to capture and share footage instantly. This real-time content made it easier for the media team to distribute compelling visuals to media outlets, leading to increased coverage, particularly on TV networks.
Improved processes for incident notification ensured the media team were promptly informed about rescue missions and other noteworthy events, leading to more frequent and more timely media releases. Furthermore, there has been growing recognition within the Service of the value and potential of earned media. This understanding has led to
greater capitalisation on opportunities to highlight the heroic efforts of the Service’s volunteers, promote boating safety and reinforce the essential role of Marine Rescue NSW.
A number of marketing campaigns were developed and implemented across the year. The most significant, the summer boating safety campaign, executed across social media, radio and email marketing, was designed to remind boaters of the few simple steps that can help protect their life on the water. Campaign messaging was boosted through high-reaching third party channels including NSW Government social media and Service NSW email newsletters. Ambassadors, including Open World Champion sailor Nic Douglass, shared key messages via their own channels helping the Service reach new audiences.
Through a new partnership with Australian Radio Network (ARN), Marine Rescue NSW’s critical safety messages were amplified in the NSW South Coast and Far South Coast communities via ARN’s southern region stations, 96.5 Wave FM Wollongong, 2ST and Power FM across the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands and 2EC and Power FM Bega Batemans Bay. The partnership has also provided opportunities for targeted volunteer recruitment messaging. Each month, ARN southern region radio stations aired three
hours of important boating safety and volunteer recruitment messaging, along with other Marine Rescue NSW content, reaching an available audience of 550,000 people.
The 2023 Sydney International Boat Show was once again the key event on the 2023-24 calendar. Held at Darling Harbour in August, Marine Rescue NSW participated as part of the Transport for NSW Safer Boating Zone alongside key partners including NSW Police Marine Area Command and the Transport for NSW Maritime team. Marine Rescue Port Jackson members showcased rescue vessel Port Jackson 31 with the vessel berthed on the marina for the duration of the show.
Over the four day event, a dedicated team of over 45 members and staff volunteered their time to provide boat show visitors with boating safety advice, tips and raise awareness of the organisation.
Media support and event coordination was provided for several Ministerial events, including the commissioning of six Marine Rescue NSW vessels and the official opening of two brand new facilities.
Premier of New South Wales The Hon. Chris Minns travelled south for the commissioning of Marine Rescue Merimbula’s rescue vessels Merimbula 20 and Merimbula 31. Minister for Emergency Services The Hon. Jihad Dib attended
commissioning ceremonies for replacement vessel Batemans Bay 21 at Marine Rescue Batemans Bay. Minister Dib also attended the official opening events for Marine Rescue Newcastle’s new base at Stockton and the new facility at The Spit for Marine Rescue Middle Harbour.
The NSW Government was represented by Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin at the commissioning of Woolgoolga 30, Minister for the Central Coast The Hon. David Harris at the Tuggerah Lakes 21 commissioning and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington at the commissioning of Port Stephens 30.
All Aboard, the monthly member email newsletter, continued to keep Marine Rescue NSW members informed of key developments across the Service. In addition, Unit Executive members received a monthly email update designed to consolidate non-urgent communication into a regular newsletter, helping to reduce email volumes. Newsletter open rates have remained consistently strong.
Over the past 12 months major enhancements have been made to raise funds via grants and sponsorship to support the essential needs of Marine Rescue NSW.
Despite the highly competitive grant funding landscape in NSW, the improvements made by the organisation have enabled Marine Rescue NSW to achieve outstanding results.
In 2023-24 Marine Rescue NSW received over $922,000 in grants from a range of government agencies, NSW Clubs and other funding bodies, benefitting 31 of Marine Rescue NSW’s 46 units.
Applications and proposals were made to every level of government and many new philanthropic organisations, expanding the opportunities to increase the level of funds received. Many units were successful in securing funds locally from Councils, Clubs and Service Clubs.
Funding was requested for new bases, building infrastructure, vessels, vehicles, rescue watercraft, equipment and training based on the strategic needs of the organisation.
Grants training was provided to Unit Executive at all regional meetings, outlining the Grants Policy, upcoming grants and how to best attract funding. This training provided direction on what essential information, evidence and support documentation is necessary to rate highly in applications
Highlights from the past year include our stronger relationship with CYCA SOLAS Trust who provided funding for the fit out of new bases at Marine Rescue Broken Bay and Marine Rescue Middle Harbour and the upgrade of the Frequentis System at Port Macquarie. The Royal Agricultural Society funded the painting of the Ulladulla base. Bendigo Bank franchises supported the new Lake Eucumbene project and sponsored Marine Rescue Eden and Merimbula.
Grants and sponsorships greater than $10,000 were received from the following entities:
● Aurizon Community Giving Fund
● Bendigo Community Bank
● Clubs NSW
● CYCA SOLAS Trust
● Department of Industry, Science & Resources
● Department of Regional NSW
● Federal Government Volunteer Grants
● Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal
● James Frizelle Foundation
● Jemena Corporate Affairs
● NAB Foundation
● National Australia Day Council
● NSW Community Building Partnership
● NSW Department of Communities and Justice
● NSW Department of Crown Lands
● NSW Department of Customer Service, Office of Responsible Gambling
● NSW Department of Family & Community Services
● NSW Department of Primary Industries
● NSW Premier's Fund
● NSW Reconstruction Authority
● Port Kembla Community Investment Fund
● Royal Agricultural Society
● St George Motor Boat Club
● Twin Town Services Club
● Veolia Mulwaree Trust
Our volunteer units rely heavily on fundraising and donations to support the cost of their life-saving work. The fundraising efforts of members and generosity from the community help cover each unit’s day to day running costs.
Fundraising activities and donations for the year totalled $2.84 million.
In total, $1.71 million was raised, representing a 3 per cent increase over the previous year. Donations of $1.13 million were received.
Marine Rescue NSW thanks the businesses, individuals and community groups who over the past year generously continued to support our volunteers in their mission to save lives on the water.
Four new replacement rescue vessels have been added to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet over the past 12 months
Named the Best Search and Rescue RIB in the Baird Maritime 2023 Work Boat World Best, Woolgoolga 30 is a 10-metre Naiad jet boat purpose-built for the demanding local operating conditions. The vessel is launched and retrieved from the beach, which was a major factor in the design phase.
Powered by a 575 horsepower Cummins engine and featuring a full suite of navigation and communication technology, Marine Rescue Woolgoogla’s replacement rescue vessel is a significant improvement over the unit’s former boat.
Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes took possession of Alpine Lakes 20, a 6.8-metre CNC design plate vessel built by Gray’s Marine and Welding.
The purpose-built vessel can be launched quickly, which is crucial for rapid response in the extreme weather conditions of the Alpine Lakes area. Given the extensive shore work performed by Marine Rescue NSW crews in the region, the vessel’s bow was reinforced, and a fold-out ladder was added to the front. This allows easier access to the shore and enables people to board the vessel from the front.
Marine Rescue Brunswick and Marine Rescue Trial Bay also welcomed replacement vessels with both units adding 10-metre Naiads to their fleet. Brunswick 30 and Trial Bay 30 are each powered by twin Suzuki 300 horsepower outboard engines, making them capable of reaching a top speed of approximately 42 knots.
State-of-the-art navigation and communications technology including FLIR (forward looking infrared camera), 3D side scan sonar and doppler radar enhance search and rescue capability in the respective regions. Additionally, cut-outs on both the port and starboard sides provide safer and easier access on and off the vessels.
Vessel name Length and type
Total cost
Alpine Lakes 20 6.8m Gray's Marine CNC design plate vessel $308,730
Brunswick 30 10m Naiad $670,368
Trial Bay 30 10m Naiad $668,707
Woolgoolga 30 9.5m Naiad jet boat $862,930
Marine Rescue NSW flood and emergency response capability was boosted with the addition of three new vessels which can be quickly deployed across NSW. The vessels form part of Marine Rescue NSW’s response to recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry with the Service receiving $3.7 million NSW Government funding to build capability and capacity to support NSW SES and other agencies during significant emergencies.
Utility vessels MR 20, MR 21 and MR 22 have been specifically designed to operate in challenging conditions, featuring shallow draft hulls that provide excellent manoeuvrability and allow access to shallow waterways. Equipped with bow doors, these vessels can beach land for the transfer of people and supplies, while a Raymarine multi-function system is utilised for charts and navigation.
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay has added to its fleet with the arrival of two 3.4 metre Sea-doo rescue watercraft. Marine Rescue Port Kembla received the first of two 3.4m Sea-doo rescue watercraft, with the second due to arrive in late 2024.
$24,295
Eight new motor vehicles joined Marine Rescue NSW’s growing on-road fleet. Seven Ford Ranger XLTs funded by the NSW Government as part of the recommendations from the Independent Flood Inquiry have been assigned to the State Operations Group.
The eighth vehicle, also a Ford Ranger XLT, was purchased by Marine Rescue Nambucca.
● Point Danger 31 - PD 31
● Point Danger 20 - PD 20
● Brunswick 30 - BR 30
● Brunswick 10 - BR 10
● Brunswick 11 - BR 11
● Brunswick 12 - BR 12
● Ballina 30 - BA 30
● Ballina 20 - BA 20
● Ballina 21 - BA 21
● Evans Head 31 - EH 31
● Iluka Yamba 30 - IY 30
● Iluka Yamba 20 - IY 20
● Wooli 30 - WI 30
Mid North Coast
Woolgoolga to Forster Tuncurry
● Woolgoolga 30 - WO 30
● Coffs Harbour 30 - CO 30
● Nambucca 20 - NH 20
● Nambucca 10 - NH 10
● Nambucca 12 - NH 12
● Trial Bay 30 - TB 30
● Trial Bay 11 - TB 11
● Trial Bay 12 - TB 12
● Lord Howe Island 40 - LH 40
● Port Macquarie 30 - PM 30
● Port Macquarie 21 - PM 21
● Port Macquarie 11 - PM 11
● Port Macquarie 12 - PM 12
● Camden Haven 30 - CH 30
● Camden Haven 10 - CH 10
● Crowdy Harrington 30 - CB 30
● Crowdy Harrington 20 - CB 20
● Forster Tuncurry 30 - FO 30
● Forster Tuncurry 20 - FO 20
Port Stephens to Central Coast
● Port Stephens 30 - PS 30
● Port Stephens 31 - PS 31
● Lemon Tree 30 - LT 30
● Newcastle 30 - NC 30
● Lake Macquarie 30 - LM 30
● Lake Macquarie 20 - LM 20
● Lake Macquarie 12 - LM 12
● Lake Macquarie 13 - LM 13
● Norah Head 20 - NR 20
● Tuggerah Lakes 20 - TL 20
● Tuggerah Lakes 21 - TL 21
● Terrigal 30 - TG 30
● Terrigal 10 - TG 10
● Terrigal 11 - TG 11
● Central Coast 21 - CC 21
● Central Coast 22 - CC 22
● Central Coast 10 - CC 10
● Central Coast 11 - CC 11
● Central Coast 13 - CC 13
Hawkesbury to Botany Port Hacking
● Hawkesbury 30 - HW 30
● Hawkesbury 22 - HW 22
● Cottage Point 30 - CP 30
● Cottage Point 31 - CP 31
● Broken Bay 30 - BB 30
● Broken Bay 21 - BB 21
● Middle Harbour 30 - MH 30
● Middle Harbour 20 - MH 20
● Port Jackson 31 - PJ 31
● Port Jackson 20 - PJ 20
● Botany Hacking 30 - BH 30
● Botany Hacking 32 - BH 32
Illawarra
Port Kembla to Kioloa
● Port Kembla 31 - PK 31
● Port Kembla 20 - PK 20
● Shellharbour 30 - SH 30
● Shoalhaven 30 - SA 30
● Shoalhaven 20 - SA 20
● Sussex Inlet 20 - S! 20
● Sussex Inlet 10 - SI 10
● Sussex Inlet 11 - SI 11
● Jervis Bay 41 - JB 41
● Jervis Bay 20 - JB 20
● Jervis Bay 10 - JB 10
● Jervis Bay 11 - JB 11
● Ulladulla 30 - UL 30
● Ulladulla 20 - UL 20
● Ulladulla 10 - UL 10
● Kioloa 20 - KL 20
Monaro
Batemans Bay to Eden
● Batemans Bay 30 - BM 30
● Batemans Bay 20 - BM 20
● Batemans Bay 21 - BM 21
● Tuross Moruya 21 - TU 21
● Tuross Moruya 10 - TU 10
● Tuross Moruya 11 - TU 11
● Tuross Moruya 12 - TU 12
● Narooma 30 - NA 30
● Narooma 20 - NA 20
● Bermagui 30 - BG 30
● Merimbula 31 - MB 31
● Merimbula 20 - MB 20
● Eden - X 30
● Alpine Lakes 20 - AL 20
● Alpine Lakes 21 - AL 21
● Moama 20 - MO 20
● Moama 10 - MO 10
State Headquarters
Headquarters
● X 20
● X 21
● X 22
● X 23
● X 10
● X 12
● X 13
● X 14
State Operations Group
● MR 20
● MR 21
● MR 22
Marine Rescue NSW’s commitment to providing volunteers and staff with the best property and infrastructure facilities to enable safe and efficient operational responses, training and meetings, continued apace in 2023-24.
The new base for Marine Rescue Newcastle became operational in September and was officially opened by Minister for Emergency Services The Hon. Jihad Dib MP on 15 December 2023.
Located at Stockton, the new facility has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Marine Rescue NSW members, other emergency services agencies, and the local community. The new building provides the unit with a state-ofthe-art radio room, crew facilities and an all-weather space for training and coordinating life-saving emergency responses.
Situated next to the Spit Bridge in Mosman, the new Marine Rescue Middle Harbour base mirrors its surroundings, with a design inspired by the contours of a ship and a colour scheme replicating the water, sky and nearby bushland.
Spanning 350 square metres, the contemporary single-storey structure includes crew readiness facilities, radio, training and meeting rooms, offices and a kitchen/dining area. With Middle Harbour and surrounding waterways being some of the busiest boating areas in NSW, the new facility helps to ensure our volunteers are rescue ready when emergencies arise.
The base was officially opened on 1 May 2024 by Minister for Emergency Services, The Hon. Jihad Dib MP.
Completion of the Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse refurbishment works by Tweed Shire Council in early 2024 enabled Marine Rescue Point Danger to recommence operations from the facility in March 2024. The building upgrade, funded by the NSW Government, City of Gold Coast and Tweed Shire Council, includes a new radio room with state-of-the-art communications equipment and a dedicated search and rescue room for the Point Danger unit.
The radio room provides Marine Rescue Point Danger Radio Operators and Watch Officers with visibility of the Tweed River Bar, enabling quick and efficient initiation of search and rescue missions when incidents are observed.
In May 2024, a new shed for Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes was completed, providing a much-needed facility for the unit's recently acquired replacement rescue vessel. Located at Lake Eucumbene, the new shed allows the unit to securely house the vessel on-site, eliminating the need to transport it from Lake Jindabyne. This improvement significantly reduces response times to this popular yet potentially hazardous location. The project was made possible through the generous support of Bendigo Bank and Buckenderra Holiday Village, which provided the land and frequently granted access for trades during construction.
Through the diligent efforts of the Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour unit, members have successfully secured the use of a shed at the Coffs Harbour International Marina to store essential service equipment. This achievement ensures vital rescue tools and supplies are readily accessible, enhancing the efficiency and readiness of their operations. By having critical resources centrally located at the marina, the unit can better support the safety of the local boating community and continue delivering their invaluable service to the region. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of the Coffs Harbour volunteers.
Lucy’s Wall wharf, used by Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie and destroyed several years ago during severe storms, has now been replaced with a new and improved structure. This upgrade enhances the unit’s ability to carry out their vital work on the water. The new wharf not only provides a secure and reliable docking point for the unit’s vessels but also supports more efficient deployment of rescue operations and training exercises. With this modern facility, Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie is better equipped to respond swiftly to emergencies, ensuring the safety of the local boating community.
A significant milestone for Marine Rescue Central Coast has been achieved with the approval and funding of a new base at Point Clare. This project is expected to be completed by March 2025 and will provide the hardworking members of the unit with new, fit-for-purpose facilities.
Development Applications (DAs) for Marine Rescue Jervis Bay and Marine Rescue Shoalhaven have been lodged with Shoalhaven City Council. Both applications are anticipated to receive approval in late 2024. These projects have faced considerable delays due to various planning complexities, including, for Shoalhaven, additional heritage and Aboriginal cultural considerations. The patience and understanding of our members during this extended process is highly commendable.
For the Jervis Bay project, the plan includes the removal of the existing first-floor area, along with the remodelling and expansion of the ground floor. The new design will feature a radio room, training and meeting spaces, toilets and showers, a kitchen, and an office. Pending DA approval, construction is expected to begin in early 2025.
The project at Marine Rescue Shoalhaven will involve demolishing the existing 1940’s fibro cottage and constructing a modern, fit-for-purpose facility on a single level, which will include much-needed storage space.
Progress is also being made on a DA for a new base and shed at Brunswick Harbour for Marine Rescue Brunswick. The previous facility was destroyed during the severe flooding that impacted the Northern Rivers region in 2022. Extensive discussions with the Mayor and senior staff at Byron Shire Council, Transport for NSW (TfNSW), Crown Lands, and local members of Parliament have progressed the project to its current stage.
Additionally, a new shed for the Marine Rescue Port Kembla unit, located at the port facility, is currently being assessed for approval through a Complying Development Consent process.
Marine Rescue Iluka Yamba is also set to benefit from a new base, which is expected to be completed by late 2024. A large factory warehouse with a mezzanine, located near Yamba Boat Harbour, has been purchased by Marine Rescue NSW for the unit’s use. It will house a radio room, training and meeting spaces, storage, and offices, significantly improving the unit’s operational capabilities.
Marine Rescue NSW has a strong history of sound corporate governance and management, with the Service’s strategic leadership democratically vested in its volunteer membership.
In May 2024, His Majesty King Charles lll confirmed he will retain his role as the Patron of Marine Rescue NSW, continuing his long association with the volunteer marine rescue sector in NSW.
Commissioner Alex Barrell continued his tenure as a member of the State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC), and the State Rescue Board and as the Deputy Chair of the SEMC Capability Development Sub Committee.
Commissioner Barrell remains on the International Maritime Rescue Federation Board of Trustees, after his appointment in June 2023 and is the Deputy Chair of the National Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue Committee.
Key staff and unit representatives contribute to the safety of the boating community through their representation on Local and Regional Emergency Management Committees.
Marine Rescue NSW personnel continued to be based at the NSW Police Marine Area Command Search and Rescue Coordination Centre on weekends in peak boating season periods. The organisation is also represented on the NSW Maritime Recreational Vessel Advisory Group.
At a national level, Marine Rescue NSW is a member of the Australian Emergency Management Volunteer Forum and the Enterprise Registered Training Organisation Association.
Unlike the majority of the state’s emergency services, Marine Rescue NSW is not a government agency but rather, an independent, community-based service established by and for its volunteer membership.
The organisation is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and registered charity, complying with the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-forProfits Commission Act 2012, the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991, the Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2021 and the Corporations Act 2001. Fundraising activities, grants, donations and sponsorship opportunities are important supplements to the Service's base revenue.
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 to the Minister for Emergency Services, along with the Premier’s Department.
Marine Rescue NSW 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.
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.
The strategic leadership of the company is exercised by the Board of Directors. The Board comprises a Chairperson, no more than two Regular Directors, whom the Board appoints following consultation with the Chair, one Nominated Director from the Premier’s Department, or a Major Sponsor, and six Regional Directors, elected by eligible members in their respective regions.
The Chair is elected by the Board following each Annual General Meeting. The Board is advised by the Commissioner and staff at Board meetings, with detailed management papers and recommendations presented to assist its decision making processes.
The Board met in person in July and October in 2023 and in February, April and May in 2024. Three meetings were held at Cronulla, one at Stockton and one at Wollongong.
Marine Rescue NSW Directors during all or part of 2023-24:
James Glissan AM, ESM, KC (Board Chair and Regular Director)
Robert Wilson ESM (General Director)
John Lynch ESM (General Director)
Robert McClelland AO (Regular Director)
Nola Watson (Regular Director)
Hannah Damkar PSM (Nominated Director)
Darcy Henriksen (Northern Rivers Regional Director)
Roman Mazurek ESM (Mid North Coast Regional Director)
Robin Heath (Hunter/Central Coast Regional Director)
Ken Edwards (Greater Sydney Regional Director)
Keven Marshall ESM (Illawarra Regional Director)
Glenn Felkin ESM (Monaro Regional Director)
At a national level, Marine Rescue NSW is a member of the Australian Emergency Management Volunteer Forum, National Volunteer Marine Search and Rescue Committee and Enterprise Registered Training Organisation Association.
At the 2022 Marine Rescue NSW Annual General Meeting changes to the Marine Rescue NSW Constitution passed by special resolution of the Members of the company, replaced General Directors with Regular Directors. This change allowed the appointment of external candidates to the Marine Rescue NSW Board.
To enable the appointment of new Regular Directors, General Director Robert (Bob) Wilson ESM graciously stepped down from his position on 25 November 2023.
The Board also bid farewell to General Director John Lynch ESM at the conclusion of his term.
In 2023-24 Marine Rescue NSW operated under the leadership of Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer Alex Barrell. Commissioner Barrell was supported by Deputy Commissioner Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer, Todd Andrews and Deputy Commissioner Operations and Capability, Darren Schott.
In 2023-24 the Marine Rescue NSW Board proposed one amendment to the Marine Rescue NSW Constitution that required special resolution of the Members of the company, all Regular and Life Members were eligible to vote on the proposed amendments online.
The amendment, replacing the existing Sponsor Director with a Nominated Director, was passed by special resolution of the Members of the company at the 2023 Marine Rescue NSW Annual General Meeting.
The Nominated Director will be a person nominated by the Premier’s Department or a Major Sponsor who possesses specific expert experience and skills that the Board considers desirable. The appointment of a senior executive of the Premier’s Department as a Director of Marine Rescue NSW is a requirement of the new 2023-2027 funding agreement that Marine Rescue NSW signed with the Premier’s Department.
The Marine Rescue NSW Constitution was updated to reflect the amendment.
Marine Rescue NSW is committed to the responsible and transparent management of the organisation and its finances. The organisation’s consolidated accountsthose of Headquarters and units - are subject to annual independent audit.
The financial statements and audit report are printed in the Annual Report, and published online at mrnsw.com.au.
State Government and boating community funding is managed under an Operational Funding Agreement overseen by the Premier’s Department and grants are expended and acquitted in accordance with each funding body’s specific requirements.
Deputy Commissioner Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer, Todd Andrews
Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters Building 1, 202 Nicholson Parade, Cronulla, NSW 2230 PO Box 579, Cronulla, NSW 2230
Auditor
Grant
Thornton
Mr James Glissan AM ESM KC
Chair
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
19 November 2022, 3 year term
James 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 KC since 1985. With extensive practice in Company and Commercial law, James 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. In 2022, James was made a life member of Marine Rescue NSW.
James Glissan AM ESM KC
Chair, Regular Director
Robert McClelland AO
Regular Director
Appointed
25 November 2023, 3 year term
The Honourable Robert McClelland AO is an Australian judge and former politician who has served on the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia since 2015 and is a former member of the Australian Labor Party. He is currently the Deputy Chief Justice of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and is the Chair of the Family Law Council. In 1996, Robert was elected as the Member for Barton, and held this position until his retirement from politics in 2013. During his political career, he held numerous Ministerial appointments and was the Commonwealth AttorneyGeneral for five years from 2007-2011. He was responsible for implementing recommendations of the Victorian Bushfire Royal Commission, including the implementation of a National Emergency Warning System. In 2022, Robert was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours for “distinguished service to the people and Parliament of Australia, to the law, social justice and law reform”.
Robert McClelland AO
Regular Director
Nola Watson
Regular Director
Appointed 25 November 2023, 3 year term
Nola Watson has deep Board and management experience across private sector, government and not for profit organisations. She is currently a Director of CareSuper and Chair of Australian Business Lawyers & Advisers. She is also a Director of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a Director of Business NSW and Vice Chair of the global World Chambers Federation. For 16 years, she held executive leadership roles in Insurance Australia Group (IAG) and prior to this worked in Senior Executive Service positions within Commonwealth and New South Wales governments, including NSW Police. Nola is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a former Telstra Australian Businesswoman of the Year.
Watson
Hannah Damkar PSM
Nominated Director
Appointed 3 May 2024, 2 year term
Hannah Damkar PSM is the Executive Director, Partnerships and Engagement at the Premier’s Department and is Chair of the Premier’s Department WHS Committee. In January 2020, Hannah sought out a secondment to the Bushfire Recovery Taskforce to assist the community impacted by the 201920 bushfires. This turned into an 18-month secondment as Communications Director at Resilience NSW, before being appointed to her former role as Director of Communications at the Department of Premier and Cabinet. She is involved in the NSW Government’s Senior Leadership Aboriginal Mentoring Program and is a mentor in the NSW Government Young Professionals Network program.
Darcy Henriksen
Regional Director, Northern Rivers
Elected
23 November 2019, 2 year term
20 November 2021, 2 year term
25 November 2023, 2 year term
Darcy Henriksen joined Volunteer Rescue Association Marine Point Danger in 2007 and has held roles including Administration Officer, Project Officer and Unit Fundraising. He successfully gained his Radio Operator’s qualification 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. Darcy Henriksen retired in June 2019, joining the Board the same year.
Darcy Henriksen Regional Director, Northern Rivers
Roman (Ray) Mazurek ESM
Regional Director, Mid-North Coast
Elected
20 November 2021, 2 year term
25 November 2023, 2 year term
A member of Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry, Ray Mazurek joined the then Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol in 2009. Ray served as a Marine Engineer in the Australian Army before moving to private industry, ultimately running his own earthmoving and heavy haulage business. Ray Mazurek brings 18 years’ experience as a Marine Rescue NSW volunteer including roles as Divisional Commander, Watch Officer and Coxswain to the position of Director.
ESM
Regional Director, Mid-North Coast
Captain Robin Heath
Hunter Central Coast Regional Director
Elected 25 November 2023, 2 year term
Captain Robin Heath has been appointed as Hunter Central Coast Regional Director for a two-year term. Robin joined Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie in 2021 and in early 2023 gained the rating of Coxswain. He is a recently retired Marine Pilot with over 40 years’ experience in the maritime domain in Canada and Australia. He currently sits on the Board of the Canadian Coast Guard College Alumni and was the technical advisor to the Sydney Pilot Service Board.
Heath
Kenneth (Ken) Edwards Regional Director, Greater Sydney
Elected
24 November 2018, 2 year term
21 November 2020, 2 year term 19 November 2022, 2 year term
Ken Edwards joined Marine Rescue Hawkesbury in 2010 before transferring to Marine Rescue Cottage Point in 2019. He has previously served as Marine Rescue Hawkesbury Unit Commander (2016-2018), Deputy Unit Commander (2013- 2016) and Administration and Stores Officer. Ken 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 licensed real estate agent, he has been the director of both a franchise and a family real estate agency for 35 years.
Kenneth (Ken) Edwards Regional Director, Greater Sydney
Keven Marshall ESM
Regional Director, Illawarra
Elected
25 November 2017, 1 year term
24 November 2018, 2 year term
21 November 2020, 2 year term
19 November 2022, 2 year term
Keven Marshall ESM joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol 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. A former skipper of an Australian Customs vessel, Keven holds a Master 5 marine qualification and was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in June 2017. Mr Marshall was a member of the Army Reserve for 27 years and a legatee with Mid-South Coast Legacy for the last 20 years.
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
21 November 2020, 2 year term
19 November 2022, 2 year term
Glenn Felkin ESM is a member of Marine Rescue Batemans Bay, after joining the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol in 2009. A Marine Master, he has held positions including Acting Deputy Unit Commander, Training Officer, Watch Officer, Crew Leader and maintenance controller. 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.
Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd
Level 26
Grosvenor Place 225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Locked Bag Q800
Queen Victoria Building NSW 1230
T +61 2 8297 2400
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 2024, 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, 18 October 2024
www.grantthornton.com.au
ACN-130 913 594
Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd ACN 130 913 594 a subsidiary or related entity of Grant Thornton Australia Limited ABN
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 Limited 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 ACN 127 556 389 and its Australian subsidiaries and related entities. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
To the Members of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW
Report on the audit of the financial report
Opinion
Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd
Level 26
Grosvenor Place
225 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Locked Bag Q800
Queen Victoria Building NSW 1230
T +61 2 8297 2400
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 2024, and the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including material accounting policy information and the Responsible Entities’ declaration.
In our opinion, the financial report of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW has been prepared in accordance with Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, including:
1) giving a true and fair view of the Registered Entity’s financial position as at 30 June 2024 and of its financial performance for the year then ended; and
2) complying with Australian Accounting Standards AASB 1060 General Purpose Financial Statements -Simplified Disclosures for For-Profit and Not-for-Profit Tier 2 Entities and Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Regulation 2022
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 (including Independence Standards) (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.
www.grantthornton.com.au
ACN-130 913 594
Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd ACN 130 913 594 a subsidiary or related entity of Grant Thornton Australia Limited ABN 41 127 556 389 ACN 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 Limited 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 ACN 127 556 389 and its Australian subsidiaries and related entities. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
Those charged with governance are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the Declaration in accordance with the Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2021 (NSW), but does not include the financial report and our auditor’s report thereon.
Our opinion on the financial report does not cover the other information and accordingly we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial report, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial report or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
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 – AASB 1060 General Purpose Financial Statements - Simplified Disclosures for For-Profit and Not-for-Profit Tier 2 Entities, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012, the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) and the Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2021 (NSW), 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.
Grant Thornton Audit Pty Ltd Chartered Accountants
James Winter Partner – Audit & Assurance
Sydney, 18 October
2024
In the opinion of the Responsible Entities of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW:
a. there are reasonable grounds to believe that the registered entity is able to pay all of its debts, as and when they become due and payable; and
b. the financial statements and notes satisfy the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012.
Signed in accordance with subsection 60.15(2) of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission Regulations 2022.
James Glissan AM ESM KC Chair, General Director
Sydney, 18 October
2024
In my opinion, regarding Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW (the Company) for the year ended 30 June 2024:
a. The Company is able to pay all of its debts as and when the debts become due and payable;
b. The 30 June 2024 financial statements of the Company satisfy the requirements of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 and the Charitable Fundraising Regulation 2021;
c. The contents of the 30 June 2024 financial statements of the Company are true and fair; and
d. The Company has appropriate and effective internal controls.
Alex Barrell Commissioner Chief Executive Officer
Sydney, 18 October 2024
Robin Heath Director
Sydney, 18 October 2024
The financial statements of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW, operating as Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW), for the year ended 30 June 2024 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Directors on 18 October 2024. MRNSW is a company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia.
Compliance with Australian Accounting Standards -Simplified Disclosures
The financial report is a general purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards - Simplified Disclosures, Interpretations of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991, and the Australian Charities and Nonfor-profits Commission Act 2012. The company is a ‘Not for profit’ entity registered with the Australian Charities and Nonfor-profits Commission and registered under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991.
There have been no changes in Accounting Standards impacting the financial statements in the current year
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:
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 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.
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.
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 redundancy. No provision for impairment has been recognised at the date of this financial report.
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.
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)
Under an agreement with the Office of Emergency Management (now NSW Reconstruction Authority), 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 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 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)
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 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.
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.
Investment income comprises interest. Interest income is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method.
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.
The company is exempted from paying income tax due to it being a charitable institution in terms of Section 50–5 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997, as amended.
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.
The company holds certain amounts of cash in its capacity as a NSW Crown Land Manager. These amounts are controlled by the company, however they can only be used for specific purposes relating to the Crown Land.
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.
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.
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 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 loss.
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.
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.
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.
Property, plant and equipment is carried at cost or deemed cost less accumulated depreciation.
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life 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
(vi) Building and leasehold improvements on leased property - over 25 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.
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.
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.
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.
The company provides post-employment benefits through defined contribution plans.
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.
The Company has leases over buildings.
At the lease commencement, the company recognises a right-of-use asset and associated lease liability for the lease term. The lease term includes extension periods where the company believes it is reasonably certain that the option will be exercised. The right-of-use asset is measured using the cost model where cost on initial recognition comprises of the lease liability, initial direct costs, prepaid lease payments, estimated cost of removal and restoration less any lease incentives. The right-of-use asset is depreciated over the lease term on a straight-line basis and assessed for impairment in accordance with the impairment of assets accounting policy. The right-of-use asset is assessed for impairment indicators at each reporting date.
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments at the commencement of the lease. The discount rate is the rate implicit in the lease, however where this cannot be readily determined then the company’s incremental borrowing rate is used. Subsequent to initial recognition, the lease liability is measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. The lease liability is remeasured whether there is a lease modification, change in estimate of the lease term or index upon which the lease payments are based (e.g. CPI) or a change in the company’s assessment of lease term. Where the lease liability is remeasured, the right-of-use asset is adjusted to reflect the re-measurement or is recorded in profit or loss if the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset has been reduced to zero.
The company has elected to apply the exceptions to lease accounting for leases of low-value assets. For these leases, the company recognises the payments associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The company has elected to measure the right of use asset arising from the concessionary leases at cost which is based on the associated lease liability.
(a) Details of aggregate gross income and total expenditure of fundraising appeals
proceeds from fundraising appeals
Direct
The surplus of fundraising is applied in the charitable purposes of Volunteer Marine Rescue NSW, including the acquisition of vessels and other equipment. Fundraising appeals include all individual fundraising activities at units and at Headquarters across the company.
7.Property, Plant And Equipment
12,367,193
8,181,196
(6,600,708) (5,477,593)
16,022,852
1,465,971
Reconciliations
Reconciliations of the carrying amounts of each class of property, plant & equipment at the beginning and end of the current and previous financial year are set out below: Assets under construction
6,298,280
Buildings/leasehold improvements
amount at the beginning of the financial year 12,367,193 10,994,399
1,826,893
(454,099)
(1,123,115) (1,210,218) Carrying amount at the end of the financial year 2,063,074 2,703,603
Furniture, fixtures and fittings
9. Trade and Other Payables
The average period for payment of creditors is 14 days. No interest is charged on the outstanding balance.
10. Contract Liabilities
The Directors act in an honorary capacity and receive no compensation for their services, with the exception of Director Nola Watson who was remunerated for fulfilling her role as a Director. Directors may receive reimbursement for expenses incurred in fulfilling their roles. Compensation received by Directors 8,695
Key management personnel compensation
Any person(s) having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling the activities of the entity, directly or indirectly, including its committee members, is considered key management personnel.
The liability of the members is limited. Every 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 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).
Auditor's Remuneration
paid to Auditor for:
(a) Lease impact in the statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income
The amounts recognised in the statement of profit and loss and other comprehensive income relating to leases where the company is the lessee are shown below:
(a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents
For the purposes of the cash flow statement, 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 cash flow statement is reconciled to the related items in the balance sheet as follows:
15,659,395
(b) Reconciliation of surplus for the year to net cash flows from operating activities
Changes in net assets and liabilities
Radio
Radio
Vessel
Norah
MARINE RESCUE NSW
Volunteer
ABN 98 138 078 092
PO Box 579, Cronulla NSW 2230
Phone: 02 8071 4848
Web: marinerescuensw.com.au
Email: admin@marinerescuensw.com.au