The annual Australian Search and Rescue Awards are back again this year. The Awards recognise outstanding contributions to search and rescue in Australia. Nominations for the 2024/25 close on 14 July.
The National Search and Rescue Council (NATSAR Council) has hosted the Awards since 1996 in cities across Australia. This year the awards will be held in Brisbane.
Members of the public can nominate individuals, groups or organisations that have made a significant contribution to search and rescue in Australia and may deserve recognition at a national level. There are 4 categories:
- Professional.
- Professional volunteer.
- Non-professional.
- Long-standing contribution to search and rescue.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is a member organisation and secretariat for the NATSAR Council alongside the Australian Defence Force and state, territory and federal police agencies.
Acting AMSA Executive Director of Response Jamie Storrie said professionals, volunteers and members of the public who perform selfless acts for others in a time of peril deserve to be recognised.
"These awards provide a platform to recognise these life-saving acts."
"We encourage nominations from professional and volunteer search and rescue organisations, as well as the broader community," Mr Storrie said.
Last year's recipients of the 2024 Australian Search and Rescue Awards included:
- Professional Award: Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad in recognition of extremely challenging search and rescue efforts on Mount Bogong in August 2019.
- Professional Volunteer Award: Marong SES Swift Water Rescue Crew Victoria in recognition of their extraordinary efforts during the Wedderburn floods in 2024.
- Non-Professional Award: 3 locals from Jansz Beach in WA for their successful efforts saving people from dangerous surf conditions near Exmouth in June 2024.
- Long-Standing Contribution Award: Senior Sergeant Michael Gillies, Tasmania Police in recognition of his long-term commitment, dedication and passion for search and rescue work throughout Tasmania, since 1993.
Commendations were also awarded to:
- Victoria Water Police (jointly) for the rescue of the crew of a pilot vessel in distress off Point Lonsdale, Port Phillip Bay in 2023.
- AMSA Response Centre (jointly) for coordinating the rescue of 2 pilots from a light aircraft that ditched in the ocean off the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, in 2023.
- Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, NSW, for their rescue of 2 crew from a stricken sailing vessel in strong winds and heavy seas off Port Macquarie, in 2023.
- Charlotte Blake, Wilderness Ranger, Parks Tasmania for outstanding efforts assisting 7 hikers in difficult, remote alpine wilderness on Western Arthur's Track in 2023.
- Senior Sergeant Michael Potts, NT Police for his outstanding contribution to search and rescue, coupled with leadership, innovation and professionalism.
The 2025 Australian Search and Rescue Awards will be presented at a ceremony in Brisbane on 16 October.
Nominations can be made online at: http://www.amsa.gov.au/national-search-and-rescue-council/national-search-and-rescue-awards
