Marine Rescue Central Coast is putting out the call for more radio operators as the weather starts to warm up and more and more people are enjoying the region’s popular waterways.
Unit Commander, Ian Morrow, said the volunteer rescue operation, which has been going strong at its Point Clare base for more than four decades, has outgrown its current premises and is in the process of building a $2M state-of-the-art two-storey glass encased HQ.
“It’s essential we have a good support team as summer approaches,” Morrow said.
“All you need is enthusiasm to work with a friendly group of volunteers.”
Two introduction meetings will be held from 6.30 pm on Thursday, September 29, and Wednesday, October 5, to give those interested an idea of what’s involved.
“All training is carried out by qualified volunteer radio operators; Marine Rescue NSW is a Registered Training Organisation that delivers nationally recognised qualifications,” Morrow said.
“Full uniforms and equipment are provided, and no experience is necessary.
“We are ramping up our recruitment efforts as we’ll need extra operators over the summer and early next year as we finally upgrade our new premises on our existing land at Point Clare.”
Meanwhile, the unit has received a $10,000 grant to install solar panels at the new base.
The Jemena Community Grant will see solar panels installed on the new base.
Marine Rescue Zone Commander Central, Darren Schott, welcomed the grant.
“Marine Rescue NSW is committed to lowering its carbon footprint, and the generous donation of $10,000 from Jemena’s Community Grants program will be used to install solar panels at our (new) base,” Schott said.
“The solar panels will help our members reduce their electricity bills, enabling valuable funds to be used for our rescue services.”
Morrow said Jemena’s support would help the unit achieve its mission of saving lives on the water.
Since the launch of its grants program in 2019, Jemena has awarded more than $500,000 in local grants to 51 groups, supporting critical emergency relief, mental and physical health, education and other benefits for thousands of Australians.
Jemena also provides support to community members who may need additional help navigating the energy sector and taking control of their energy bills through its Uniting Energy Assist program.
This program has helped participants save around $650 on their energy bills on average.
For more information about this program, visit https://jemena.com.au/electricity/our-services/uniting-energy-assist or phone 1800 313 126.
Marine Rescue Central Coast came into force when it amalgamated with the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol about 15 years ago to cover Brisbane Water, while the Terrigal sister base handles the ocean side.
Terry Collins
