Australian Search and Rescue Awards presented in Sydney

The 2023-24 Australian Search and Rescue Awards were held in Sydney last night, organized by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). These awards are presented every year by the National Search and Rescue Council (NATSAR Council) to recognize people and groups who have made outstanding efforts in search and rescue operations across Australia.

A New Award Category for Professional Volunteers

For the first time, the NATSAR Council introduced a new category called the “Professional Volunteer Award.” This new category highlights the efforts of trained volunteers who go above and beyond to help save lives during emergencies.

Mark Morrow, the Chair of the NATSAR Council and AMSA’s Executive Director of Response, expressed his admiration for the winners, saying:
“Every year, I am amazed by the dedication of the search and rescue teams and even ordinary people who show incredible courage. The recipients this year have displayed true selflessness and professionalism, and they deserve this recognition.”

Award Winners for 2023-24

Here are the 2023-24 award winners for their remarkable rescue efforts:

• Professional Award:
  Victoria Police Search and Rescue Squad – Recognized for their challenging operation on Mount Bogong in August 2019. (Award delayed due to legal proceedings.)
• Professional Volunteer Award:
  Marong SES Swift Water Rescue Crew, VIC – Honored for their brave efforts during the January 2024 Wedderburn floods.
• Non-Professional Award:
  Tosh Nottle, Alek Nowak, and Matthew Thorburn – Saved several people caught in dangerous surf near Exmouth, WA, in June 2024.
• Long-Standing Contribution Award:
  Senior Sergeant Michael Gillies, Tasmania Police – Celebrated for over 30 years of service in search and rescue, since 1993.

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Special Commendations

Several teams and individuals also received commendations for their remarkable efforts:

• Professional (Joint Awardees):
  • Victoria Water Police – For rescuing the crew of a pilot vessel in distress near Point Lonsdale, Victoria, in October 2023.
  • AMSA Response Centre Team (Peter Myers, Andrew Johnson, Peter Welch, Steven Cross, Dion Curtis, Clare Draper) – For coordinating the rescue of two pilots from a light aircraft that crashed off the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, in 2023.
• Professional Volunteer:
  Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, NSW – For rescuing two sailors from a vessel caught in heavy seas off Port Macquarie in October 2023.
• Non-Professional:
  Charlotte Blake, Parks Tasmania Ranger – For assisting seven hikers through tough alpine conditions on Western Arthur’s Track, Tasmania, in December 2023.
• Long-Standing Contribution:
  Senior Sergeant Michael Potts, NT Police – Recognized for his leadership, innovation, and years of service in search and rescue operations.

Celebrating Courage and Commitment

The 2023-24 Australian Search and Rescue Awards shine a spotlight on the bravery and dedication of individuals and teams who risk their lives to save others. Their actions remind us of the importance of search and rescue efforts and the power of teamwork, professionalism, and selflessness.

These awards honor not just the winners but all those involved in rescue efforts, making a difference in times of crisis.