About
We are a volunteer-run organisation providing marine rescue and radio watch services for Geraldton and the surrounding Mid West waters.
Our role is to help keep people safe on the water by assisting vessels in trouble, monitoring marine radio communications, and supporting safe boating practices in our local area.
Who We Are
Marine Rescue Geraldton is made up of trained local volunteers who give their time to support the boating community.
Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and complete regular training to ensure they are ready to respond when needed. Whether it’s assisting a vessel in difficulty, monitoring radio traffic, or supporting community events, our team works together to provide a reliable and professional service.
What We Do
Marine Rescue Geraldton provides the following key services:
Emergency marine rescue and assistance
Marine radio watch and log on/log off services
Support for boating safety and education
Volunteer training and development
Community engagement and events
We work closely with other emergency services and maritime authorities to ensure a coordinated response when incidents occur.
Our Area of Operation
Marine Rescue Geraldton operates in the coastal and offshore waters around Geraldton and the Mid West region.
We support both recreational and commercial vessels and provide assistance across our designated area when required.
Our History
Marine Rescue Geraldton began in 1987, formed by local fishermen to support each other in emergencies. With support from the Geraldton S.E.S., the group was incorporated in 1988, operating from basic facilities with limited visibility and unreliable communications.
A tragic boating incident at African Reef in 1990 highlighted the need for better infrastructure, leading to the construction of a dedicated base at Point Moore, opened in 1994 and later expanded to support training and community education.
The facility was upgraded again in 2013–2014 through state funding, strengthening operations and services for the region.
In 2023, coastal erosion threatened the site. Despite community efforts, the base was vacated and demolished in June 2024.
Marine Rescue Geraldton now operates from a temporary base at Stow Gardens while working towards a new permanent home.
Our Volunteers
Our organisation relies entirely on volunteers.
Volunteers are trained to operate rescue vessels, conduct radio watch duties, and support day-to-day operations. Ongoing training ensures our team is well prepared and confident in their roles.
If you’re interested in volunteering, no boating experience is required, and training is provided.
Our Committee
Marine Rescue Geraldton is overseen by a local volunteer committee responsible for governance, operations, and ongoing management of the organisation.
The committee works closely with volunteers to ensure the organisation runs smoothly and continues to meet the needs of the community.
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COMMANDER
Julie Anne Sproule
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VICE COMMANDER
Ian Astill
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ASSISTANT COMMANDER
Lee Rausch
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SECRETARY
Sasha Stevens
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TREASURER
Cass Courtney
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COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Other names here.
Committee Appointed Positions
Marine Rescue Geraldton is overseen by a local volunteer committee responsible for governance, operations, and ongoing management of the organisation.
The committee works closely with volunteers to ensure the organisation runs smoothly and continues to meet the needs of the community.
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COMMUNICATIONS & IT OFFICER
Ian Astill
Craig Nuttal -
OPERATIONS OFFICER
Lee Rausch
Jim McCombe -
BOATSWAIN / FLEET MANAGER
Paul Pettet
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TRAINING OFFICER
Ian Astill
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VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIP OFFICER
Ken Morris
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BATAVIA MEMBERSHIP OFFICER
Anett Nuttall
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SAFETY OFFICER
Paul Pettit