Geelong Coast Guard celebrated 60 years of continuous service to the Greater Geelong community this week at a civic reception hosted by Council.
Each year the Geelong Coast Guard is involved in around 80 calls for help with marine search and rescue operations and also supports the cruise ship industry and provides water safety initiatives.
Squadron Administration Commodore Ian Graham received a gift from Wathaurong Glass and a certificate of appreciation from mayor Trent Sullivan, while 12 coast guard members were awarded certificates.
Mayor Sullivan praised the work the Geelong Coast Guard does for the community.
“The Geelong Coast Guard has provided tireless service, invaluable skills and often life-changing support to our local community over the last six decades,” he said.
“Our Civic Reception was about recognising the sacrifices these volunteers make to ensure people have help when they need it the most.”
“Volunteers make emergency search and rescue callouts in the middle of the night, work on weekends and public holidays, and keep irregular and demanding hours.”
“The Geelong Coast Guard is always on hand to support the community, Council, event organisers and the cruise ship industry and for that, we are incredibly grateful.”
David McGowan, purser and crew member of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard invited members of the community to consider volunteering for the coast guard.
The Geelong Coast Guard is extremely proud of having kept a close eye on the water for so long and ensuring people are safe,” Mr McGowan said.
“We have a pretty low profile but we actually maintain a 24/7 response service and work closely with the Water Police, who often rely on us as first responders for boats in distress.”
“I’ve been a member of the Geelong Coast Guard for a number of years and I encourage local community members interested in volunteering to make contact.”
“We’ll train you, so you don’t need to have any boating experience, and aside from meeting other great volunteers and learning seamanship skills, you’ll make a real difference in the community.”
For more information about the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, visit coastguard.com.au.
