What you can expect from a typical day:

• Logging trip reports from boaties – at peak a call every 23 seconds in some parts of the country
• Issuing weather reports and vital information across the VHF radio
• Taking calls regarding incidents on the water from the public
• Handling marine emergencies and calls for non-urgent assistance
• Communicating closely with other agencies, such as the Police, St John, Fire and the local Harbourmaster.

To become a Coastguard Volunteer Radio Operator, you do not need any formal qualifications. We provide you with the training and skills you need to make a difference at no cost to you. The training process take approximately 3 months to complete and also includes internationally recognized qualifications such as the VHF Marine Radio Operator Certificate.

What we’re looking for:

• Someone with a keen eye for detail and professionalism
• Someone who can work with confidence and multi-task during high-pressure situations (40 wpm on keyboard)
• Someone with good hearing (with or without aids) and a clear voice that is understandable over the airwaves
• A team player with the ability to influence, make critical decisions and encourage those around
• Someone who can plan accurately and exhibit pronounced organisational skills
• Someone who can give 15-30 hours a month to Coastguard (ideally more over the busy summer season) for at least 12 months or more.

Please note: acceptance as a Coastguard Volunteer is subject to a clean Police Vetting Report being received.