The Werribee Volunteer Coast Guard is calling on the community to come join its Werribee South flotilla ahead of the busy summer season.
Coast guard volunteers perform a variety of tasks both on and off the water to uphold the organisation’s motto of ‘safety by all means’.
Boat duties, training drills, public engagement and media outreach are just a few of the tasks a volunteer might find themselves doing in a role where one must be always at the ready.
A typical day begins at 8am with safety checks and a morning briefing before getting to work with training, and when duty calls, dispatching to assist vessels in distress. The day usually culminates with ensuring the vessel is prepared for immediate deployment.
When asked about the most rewarding aspects of serving the coast guard, Commander Chris Bie pointed to the community engagement and assistance that comes with being a part of The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association (AVCGA).
“Keeping those who use our waters safe from danger is important and comes with an air of education to mitigate any future risks,“ he said.
Priding itself on leadership, teamwork and the diversity of their flotilla, the Werribee outfit are always welcoming people of all walks of life and professional backgrounds to their ranks.
While there is no such thing as an ‘ideal volunteer’, there are some traits and virtues that the coast guard value in their volunteers.
Mr Bie said that “someone who is willing to contribute to public safety and water safety” is the ideal person to take the plunge.
Summer may be the coast guard’s busy season due to heavy water use, but it is by no means their only season, meaning that volunteers will be trained to navigate the challenges of all conditions.
“The colder months usually means less water users, but it’s never zero,“ he said.
“Rough seas and adverse weather conditions do not stop us from going out, so we must prepare for the inevitable.”
The coast guard keeps a constant presence on the water, meaning that volunteers will need to be ready to take the call all year round.
Jaidyn Kennedy
