Marine Rescue Port Stephens members routinely put their lives on the line to assist people in need, often in severe conditions.
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Last month, 21 members were recognised for a series of rescues conducted in abominable weather during last January’s east coast low.
Indeed, the only Medal of Valour ever awarded – the highest recognition of bravery that Marine Rescue can bestow – went to Laurie Nolan.
There have been seven situations in the history of Marine Rescue where the commissioner’s award for bravery has been commended, and of those, four have been to Port Stephens members.
So they obviously do a lot of good work, but to cope with the expanding rescue requirements in open and closed waters in and around Port Stephens Marine Rescue needs to add to its 200 volunteer members.
“Our biggest battle each year is the costs of operation which total upwards of $180,000,” deputy unit commander Neil Hansford said.
“The government only covers a fraction, so we have to raise the rest from donations and fundraising. That’s why volunteers are critical.’’
Marine Rescue is a volunteer non-government Emergency Service that is a not-for-profit charity.
The Radio Room is a fully accredited Search & Rescue Co-ordination Centre that never closes.
Marine Rescue volunteers provide a listening watch on the emergency marine radio channels and respond to requests for assistance by radio and telephone or if tasked by the NSW Water Police.
Marine Rescue Port Stephens also serves as the Communications Centre for the Rural Fire Services outside of normal office hours covering the Shires of Port Stephens, Dungog, Cessnock and Maitland.
The same qualities that make Port Stephens waters a fertile base for acquatic events like Interclub, also bring into focus the invaluable work Marine Rescue Port Stephens does.
“The island elements off Port Stephens and the shallow base of the bay, can create challenging boating conditions,” Mr Hansford said. “Particularly if swells, winds and currents conspire, as they often do.”
Marine Rescue Port Stephens is the largest unit in NSW with 200 members. Thirty-five per cent are female, with one lady skipper and three deckhands currently working.
In addition to he rescue boats and radio centre, volunteers operate the Nelson Head Gift Shop and act as guides in the Museum and as fund raisers.
“There is a volunteer job for almost everyone at Marine Rescue Nelson Head,” Mr Hansford said. “It’s takes 200 volunteers, and then some, to cope with these duties and we’re keen to get new members.”
For membership inquires ring 0437 584 383.
