BY NIGEL MOORE, RADIO OFFICER, COAST GUARD BRISBANE
Hello Baysiders! I’m Nigel Moore, Radio Officer at Coast Guard Brisbane, QF2, Manly, and I have volunteered to write regular articles in The Community Leader.
As many of you may know, later this year, we expect to transition to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) along with other Coast Guard and Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) units in the region.
At the time of writing, we do not have any firm dates for the transition, but it is starting to happen in the background, so watch this space for future news. It will, I’m certain, be both an interesting and challenging change for us, after over 50 years of providing an on-the-water rescue service from our base in Manly, which was first established in 1973. We look forward to continuing to service our local boating community in the same way we always have – with dedication and professionalism – and we all thank you for your continued support over the years.
My background is Merchant Marine, having served at sea for a few years as Radio/Electronics Officer, and I have been involved in the radio industry all my working life; therefore, my interest in all things radio fitted in perfectly with the role of Radio Officer at the Coast Guard.
I conduct radio courses for the boating public, as well as for our members. These courses are usually held every month except January, and provide the opportunity to obtain SROCP – Short Range VHF, or LROCP – Long Range, with a one-day course and examination.
Please get in touch if you would like more information or to chat. Courses are usually on a Sunday, starting at 7:30am, with SROCP finishing at around 1:30pm and LROCP finishing at around 4:00pm. It’s an enjoyable day, usually with a joke or two and an old salty sea-dog story as well for good measure, so please contact me if you are interested or need any further information or advice about anything radio on your boat.
QF2 also offers Marine Assist, just like RACQ, for on-the-water rather than on-road activities, breakdown cover for a tow back home, all for just $80 a year, so contact Coast Guard if you want to subscribe to this service. Marine Assist costs and availability will be reviewed as we approach the transition to MRQ.
And if you’re leaving Manly Boat Harbour for a trip out in your boat, perhaps fishing or out with the family, don’t forget to use our free safety facility and give us a call on VHF Ch 73 or via our landline number (07) 3396 5911 to go on the Tripwatch log. It’s a free service that helps keep you safe while on the water by having your trip recorded and monitored. You can also do this via the Tripwatch app directly from your phone.
