‘We’re Here!’ is aimed at having Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel who are considering transitioning from the ADF to consider the Nambucca Valley as a location to relocate after leaving the services.

For those of us in the veterans’ community who have already settled in the Nambucca Valley it is hard to imagine anywhere else more perfect to plant some family roots. 

Throughout 2019 I will introduce a number of the Valley veterans in this column and highlight the community groups and services they are involved in. 

A major drawcard for many who move to the Nambucca Valley is the pristine marine environment we enjoy.

As beautiful as it is, our coastline and waterways are not without their dangers and this is where Marine Rescue NSW comes in.

According to Marine Rescue NSW they are the integrated marine response organisation that brings a world-class emergency response, boating safety and radio communications service to NSW waterways and to more than 1.5 million people who enjoy boating.

This volunteer organisation is responsible for 70% of all rescues in NSW waters, annually going to the aid of thousands of people and boats who find themselves in a position that needs assistance. 

Former Royal Australian Airforce (RAAF) officer, Ken Brandli, who spent time in both the enlisted and commissioned ranks during his 21 year RAAF career, is one of those Marine Rescue NSW volunteers who operates from the Nambucca Unit of Marine Rescue NSW. Ken says it was the opportunity to serve the community that drew him to undergo training with Marine Rescue NSW and become a volunteer. He says the highlights of his duties include participating in saving lives on our waterways and training other members of the unit to obtain qualifications as Marine Rescue NSW volunteers. 

Nambucca Unit Commander, Graham Horne, who has been with the unit for 21 years, told me that it is all about saving lives on the water. The 14 member Nambucca Unit of Marine Rescue NSW operates over an area between Scotts Head and Urunga, covering the regions waterways and seven nautical miles out to sea. Graham explained the various tasks they are ‘called out on’ such as marine breakdowns, boat rollovers; wildlife rescues such as pelicans caught up in fishing line and kangaroos who have become stranded in the water. Graham’s team also provides transport to other emergency services over water, operates a search and rescue centre when required and even spreads ashes at sea on request from bereaved families.

The Nambucca Unit operates two Sea-Doo Jet-ski watercraft and a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) that runs on two 140 hp engines. Those interested in being a member of Marine Rescue NSW start on a six month probationary period where they undergo training to a standard that has seen Marine Rescue NSW become known as one of NSWs top training organisations. Following the probation period a candidate may get offered the opportunity to sign up as a regular member of the unit and be a part of a team dedicated to saving lives on our waterways.

If being a volunteer with Marine Rescue NSW is something that appeals to you, call for a chat with Graham, Ken and the rest of this dedicated team by visiting them at their headquarters on Wellington Drive, Nambucca Heads on Monday nights where they train between 5-7 pm or visit them on the first Sunday of each month.

For more information about the We’re Here launch at Nambucca Shire Council and to RSVP, contact hereinnambucca@gmail.com.au