ALISON Cameron-Brown has joined colleagues from around the globe in Sydney after being selected to take part in the International Maritime Rescue Federation’s (IMRF) Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) training course.
Port Macquarie based Alison and Merimbula’s Sonia Teston are among 16 participants from eight countries representing 10 search and rescue organisations.
This is the first time the exclusive and intensive training course has been held in the Southern Hemisphere.
It is part of the IMRF’s #WomenInSAR initiative, which aims to increase the representation of women in the maritime sector while providing them with greater support.
Training begins on Friday 22 August and runs for three days.
Alison and Sonia began volunteering just over a decade ago and have risen through the ranks.
Both are Deputy Unit Commanders and are highly experienced on the water.
Alison, who is a rated Master, said she was surprised to be invited to attend the course.
“I look forward to learning new skills and sharing some of the procedures we use to ensure crew and boater safety,” she said.
“It will be great to see how Marine Rescue NSW procedures compare with other search and rescue agencies from across the globe.”
Alison recently embarked on the Marine Rescue NSW radio operators’ course, which will eventually give her a 360-degree operational view of the volunteer lifesaving service.
“The dedication and skill of the radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Macquarie has inspired me.
“Communication from the water is very different to managing comms from the radio base, and I look forward to joining and supporting their ranks.”
CEO of the IMRF, Caroline Jupe, said the training is a landmark opportunity for women in maritime search and rescue to advance their leadership and communication skills.
“For female coxswains, or those working towards that role, it offers hands-on experience in mission handling, vessel operations, and unit leadership.”
Participants will take part in both facilitated classroom sessions and practical exercises on Marine Rescue NSW vessels, culminating in an offshore search and rescue drill off Sydney Heads.
Most #WomenInSAR participants will remain in Sydney for the IMRF regional seminar, to be held at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia at Darling Point on 25–26 August.
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