Written by Peter Mallett the following shares two rescue stories of two navy veterans and current RCMSAR volunteers. This article was featured in the Lookout Navy News on May 25, 2021. 

Two men with ties to the Royal Canadian Navy have a few yarns to tell about their work as volunteers with the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue.

SLt Ilya Chudakov, a 39-year-old Marine Systems Engineer with HMCS Winnipeg, and Earle Shirley, a 68-year-old retiree who previously served 28 years in the navy mostly as a reservist, both volunteer at RCMSAR’s Victoria Rescue Station, located at Ogden Point

Back in 2015, a large wave toppled a scuba diving club’s boat sending nine divers into the water off Race Rocks. A worker at a nearby lighthouse saw the boat capsize and immediately put out a call to the Canadian Coast Guard via the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre. Shirley and team were dispatched. “We worked with a vessel from our [RCMSAR] sister station in Sooke to rescue all nine divers in extremely rough sea conditions,” he says.

When they arrived on the scene some of the divers had climbed on to the overturned boat, others were hanging on. Due to rough seas, it was too dangerous to come alongside the overturned vessel; so they were forced to throw a line and pull each diver to safety. They were suffering from mild hypothermia and sea sickness
but the RCMSAR team was able to bring them ashore at nearby Pedder Bay where they received medical treatment.

SLt Chudakov recalls a SAR operation four years ago that was a “valuable learning experience” in handling a tense situation. It began with an urgency call from a sailboat proceeding under power near the Ogden Point lighthouse. Winds were light and the seas calm, he remembers.

The boat had broken down in a narrow and busy channel between the sea terminal and seaplane runway. SLt Chudakov was part of a RCMSAR team that came alongside the stricken vessel. It was Shirley, serving as the boat’s coxswain, who communicated with both the sailing vessel and Victoria Coast Guard radio on how to proceed. The occupants of the boat grew rapidly impatient and upset about the delay, but Shirley defused the situation with his calm composure.

Operators of the boat were eventually able to regain power and the sailboat made its way safely to port. SLt Chudakov says it wasn’t the nature of the call that stuck with him, but more importantly the lesson learned in terms of remaining calm and following the necessary procedures no matter what the circumstances or how frantic those are at the scene.

—

RCMSAR has strong ties to the military among our volunteers. Military members are a perfect fit for our organization because they bring with them their willingness to work in a team under pressure, able to deploy and respond to any scenario whatever it might be. We are honoured to have many past and current veterans serving our communities saving lives on the water.

The post A Tale of Two Rescues appeared first on RCMSAR.

It’s not every day that you get rescued by Santa.

For Martin, Monica and their children who suddenly faced trouble on the water July last year, “Santa” and the RCMSAR crew from Station 1–West Vancouver responded to their call for help.

“When we left the marina from Granville Island that day the only thing on our mind was enjoying a few hours on the water with our children” shared Martin during an interview with RCMSAR Headquarters.

Soon after departure the wake of a nearby freighter that had passed minutes earlier quickly began to pummel the recreational boaters – splashing and spraying cold sea water inside their rental boat. Within minutes their boat was taking on too much water. Wet, scared and bailing water Martin and Monica instructed their eldest son to call for help.

The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre immediately tasked the nearest Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue station. “You never know when you are going to need help. Fortunately, RCMSAR was already on the water training and responded rapidly after we called,” says Martin.

With a calming smile and a steady hand, RCMSAR1’s Tony Wachmann (featured) was one of three volunteers who responded that day; a gentle man who often introduces himself with “They call me Santa! This is what he does in his off time.”

“There was such relief on our children’s faces when a RCMSAR volunteer, white beard and all, reached out his hand to retrieve us from our boat,” Martin continued.

Reflecting on that day, Tony Wachmann says that the family did everything right: everyone wore lifejackets, they stayed together and above all, they called for help.

A happy ending, this story not only demonstrates how hundreds of our volunteers stand ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to save lives on the water thanks to the training they receive. It also shows the power of generosity. When you support RCMSAR, you protect the lives of families like Martin and Monica’s.

Year-round our volunteers train for calls like these and could not save lives without supporters like you.

Consider a charitable gift to RCMSAR this holiday season or purchase a Save Lives on the Water 50/50 Raffle ticket by January 2, 2022.

Make a Charitable Gift    Support our 50/50 Raffle

The post It’s not every day that you get rescued by Santa appeared first on RCMSAR.

Manager of Training and Development

Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) is a not-for-profit organization that provides marine search and rescue services (SAR) on the coast of British Columbia. Headquartered in Sooke BC, RCMSAR has 31 fully equipped stations from Point Roberts, WA to Haida Gwaii, BC, operated by more than nine hundred (900) volunteers. Nationally, it is one of six Coast Guard Auxiliaries that provide SAR services in Canadian waters.

RCMSAR seeks a dynamic, driven individual to take on the role of Manager, Training and Development. The position that reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer is responsible for assessing the ongoing training and development needs of the organization and based on those needs, developing an organizational training strategy and an operational plan utilizing a variety of delivery mediums to respond to those needs.

The ideal candidate will have completed a post-secondary program in Adult Education or equivalent supplemented by five years of leadership experience in an adult learning environment. Marine experience is required and preferably in a search and rescue role.

This opportunity will appeal to candidates seeking an annual salary of $70,000-$80,00 supplemented by a comprehensive benefits package. Some flexibility in work location is available. The successful candidate will also have the option of taking on the role at 0.8 or 1.0 full time equivalent.

Expected Start Date is March 1, 2022.

Qualified candidates are asked to submit their resume to admin.coordinator@rcmsar.com. The job posting will remain open until filled.

Read more about the position here: https://rcmsar.com/wp-content/uploads/RCMSAR-Manager-Training-Development-2022-01-14.pdf.

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Executive Director, The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary | Directrice générale ou directeur général, La Garde côtière auxiliaire canadienne

• Ottawa, ON

The following job posting for the Executive Director Role at the The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary based in Ottawa is found on Odgers Berndtson’s recruitment website. Visit https://www.odgersberndtson.com/en-ca/opportunities to search for this posting and to apply.

Saving Lives at Sea.

Formed in 1978, The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) is a not-for-profit organization that provides assistance to the Coast Guard and the National Defence with Search and Rescue and Safe Boating programs. Funded primarily by the Federal Government, CCGA is a major player in Canada´s national search and rescue (SAR) response network – Annually, the Auxiliary responds to approximately 25% of nearly 8000 marine SAR incidents, which translates into more than 200 lives saved each year. Currently, the CCGA fleet includes over 1,130 vessels with a combined asset value of over 300 million dollars. Vessels are either privately owned or community owned. CCGA National represents five regional Auxiliaries, and acts as a central point of contact and key voice with the Federal Government and other stakeholders.

This critical organization is now seeking a new Executive Director to drive CCGA’s growth, continue to advocate for SAR funding with the Federal Government, and seek out partnerships and sponsorships to diversify and grow CCGA’s funding. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the new ED will work closely with regional Auxiliaries and their volunteers to develop a unified brand and messaging, while working with the government to influence issues of policy and regulation. The ED will build deep relationships with the Coast Guard and a variety of Federal Departments to ensure that the lifesaving efforts of CCGA volunteers are understood and recognized for the contribution they make to Canada’s maritime safety.

As the sole employee of the National organization, the new ED will bring a passion for CCGA’s volunteers who put their lives at risk, and take a hands-on leadership role in advocating for issues germane to the industry. The ED will bring experience in communications and marketing, and have the ability to recognize regional differences in finding a communal voice and vision. Well-versed in government relations, the ED will build strong relationships with sponsors and stakeholders, and will work to ensure that the organization is financially solid looking toward the future. They will work with the Board in strategic planning, while working with the regional bodies to drive marketing, visibility, and awareness of the importance of CCGA’s efforts. Fluency in French and English is required.

To apply, submit your application online below. We thank all those who express an interest, however only those chosen for further development will be contacted. For more information on this tremendous leadership opportunity, please contact Kyle Mechar at kyle.mechar@odgersberndtson.com.

The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the Accessible Canada Act, 2019 and all applicable provincial accessibility standards, upon request, accommodation will be provided by both Odgers Berndtson and The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) throughout the recruitment, selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities.

Odgers Berndtson is deeply committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in all the work that we do. As part of our efforts to better understand our ability to reach as broad a pool of candidates as possible for our searches, our DEI team would like to encourage you to take a moment and access our Self-Declaration Form.

Sauver des vies en mer.

Créée en 1978, la Garde côtière auxiliaire canadienne (GCAC) est un organisme sans but lucratif qui aide la Garde côtière et la Défense nationale grâce à ses programmes de recherche et sauvetage ainsi que de sécurité nautique. Principalement financée par le gouvernement fédéral, la GCAC joue un rôle primordial dans le réseau national d’intervention en recherche et sauvetage (SAR) du Canada. Chaque année, la GCAC intervient dans environ 25 % des quelque 8 000 incidents SAR en mer, ce qui se traduit par plus de 200 vies sauvées. Actuellement, la flotte de la GCAC compte plus de 1 130 bateaux, soit une valeur d’actifs combinés de plus de 300 millions de dollars. Les bateaux appartiennent à des propriétaires privés ou à la communauté. La GCAC nationale agit au nom de cinq corporations régionales en tant que point de contact central et porte-parole clé auprès du gouvernement fédéral et d’autres parties prenantes.

Cette organisation essentielle cherche à pourvoir le poste de directrice générale ou de directeur général. Cette personne sera chargée de stimuler la croissance de la GCAC, de continuer à faire valoir le financement du SAR auprès du gouvernement fédéral, en plus de rechercher des occasions de partenariats et de commandites pour diversifier et accroître le financement de la GCAC. Relevant du conseil d’administration, la personne titulaire du poste collaborera étroitement avec les corporations régionales et leurs bénévoles afin de créer une marque et un message unifiés, tout en travaillant de pair avec le gouvernement pour exercer son influence concernant les questions de politique et de réglementation. Cette personne établira des liens forts avec la Garde côtière et plusieurs ministères fédéraux afin que les efforts de sauvetage des bénévoles de la GCAC soient compris et reconnus à juste titre compte tenu de leur contribution à la sécurité maritime du Canada.

Unique personne employée par l’organisation nationale, la personne titulaire du poste se démarquera par sa passion à l’endroit des bénévoles de la GCAC, qui mettent leur vie en danger, et jouera un rôle de premier plan dans la défense des intérêts de l’industrie. Forte d’une expérience en communication et en marketing, cette personne saura reconnaître les particularités régionales pour mieux définir une voix et une vision communes. Les relations avec le gouvernement n’ont plus de secret pour la personne titulaire du poste, qui établira de solides relations avec les commanditaires et les intervenants d’importance, en plus de veiller à la consolidation de l’avenir financier de l’organisation. La personne retenue travaillera avec le conseil d’administration à la planification stratégique, tout en collaborant avec les organismes régionaux pour favoriser le marketing, la visibilité et la sensibilisation à l’importance des efforts de la GCAC. La personne choisie doit savoir communiquer en français et en anglais.

Pour poser votre candidature à ce poste, veuillez postuler en ligne. Nous remercions toutes les personnes qui manifesteront leur intérêt, mais ne communiquerons qu’avec celles qui auront été retenues pour poursuivre la démarche.

Pour plus d’informations sur cette formidable opportunité de leadership, veuillez contacter Kyle Mechar à l’adresse kyle.mechar@odgersberndtson.com

La Garde côtière auxiliaire canadienne (GCAC) est un employeur offrant l’égalité des chances. Conformément à la Loi sur l’accessibilité du Canada de 2019 et à toutes les normes provinciales d’accessibilité pertinentes, Odgers Berndtson et le GCAC fourniront, sur demande, des mesures d’accommodement tout au long de la démarche de recrutement, de sélection ou d’évaluation aux personnes handicapées qui présentent leur candidature.

Odgers Berndtson prône la diversité, l’équité et l’inclusion dans toutes ses activités. Pour nous aider à mieux cerner notre capacité à atteindre un vaste bassin de personnes candidates dans le cadre de nos recherches, notre équipe responsable de la diversité, de l’équité et de l’inclusion (DEI) vous invite à prendre connaissance de notre Formulaire de déclaration volontaire.

The post Job Posting: Executive Director, The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – National appeared first on RCMSAR.

Victoria – For immediate release 

March 2, 2022

Today, marks Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day in British Columbia.

Representatives from the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, BC Search and Rescue Association, the Provincial Emergency Program (PEP) Air, Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary and the provincial government will meet on the grounds of the BC Legislature this afternoon to pay their respects to those who lost their lives trying to save others.

Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day also honours the contributions of over 4,500 search and rescue volunteer professionals who risk their safety to help those who are injured, stranded or face emergencies on the water, air, and land.

For many in the search and rescue (SAR) field, search and rescue volunteers across the province have met increased calls for help during the pandemic as more people took to nature than in recent years. In 2021, these selfless heroes devoted over 513,000 hours training and responding to taskings day and night, often in challenging conditions.

While facing the inherent risks that come with saving lives, 4,554 search and rescue volunteer professionals continue to serve British Columbia, putting the safety of others ahead of personal safety thanks to the professional training and equipment they receive funded by the communities they serve.

2021 Volunteer Search and Rescue Impact in British Columbia

Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue

• Marine Taskings: 515
• Volunteer Members: 974
• Marine Search and Rescue Stations: 31
• Assets (Vessels): 47
• Total Volunteer Hours: 57,436
• Lives Saved & Assisted: 455

BC Search & Rescue

• Missions/Taskings: 1,900
• Volunteer Members: 3,000
• Ground Search and Rescue Groups: 79
• Total Volunteer Hours: 430,000
• Lost or Injured Persons found: 2,100

Provincial Emergency Program Air

• Missions/Taskings: 59
• Volunteer Members: 500
• Assets (Aircraft): 62
• Total Volunteer Hours: 25,956
• Length Driven: 12,363 Kms

Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary (Western)

• Marine Taskings: 15
• First Nations Volunteer Members: 80
• First Nation CN-CGA Units: 8 (2 are operational)
• Assets (Vessels): 7

Download a copy of this Media Release here.

About the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR)
RCMSAR is a not-for-profit volunteer-based organization that operates more than 30 marine rescue stations along the coast of British Columbia and in-land waters since 1978. With over 900 volunteers, emergency response crews are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week ready to respond to marine emergencies. RCMSAR volunteers also provide the public boating safety information, conduct pleasure craft safety checks and provide free access to children’s lifejackets at PFD loaner stations located at many docks and marinas. RCMSAR’s mission is “Saving lives on the water”.

About BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA)
Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) in British Columbia is done solely by volunteers. On call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, these unpaid professionals provide their time, gear, dedication, and expertise to the people of BC and the subjects they rescue. BCSARA’s mission is to represent un-paid professional ground search and rescue community by providing advocacy, support for funding and health and safety, access to information as well as public education and prevention.

About Provincial Emergency Program Air (PEP Air)
PEP Air is a British Columbia-wide volunteer aviation association dedicated to the promotion of Aviation Safety. PEP Air’s primary role includes searching from the air and conducting electronic searches on the ground assisting the RCMP, the Canadian Military, PEP Ground Crews and local groups in searching for aircraft, boaters, hikers, and others. PEP AIR is an associate member of the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association, or CASARA.

About Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary (Western) Inc (CN-CGA)
CN-CGA was incorporated in 2018 under the sponsorship of the Federal Government, for the purpose of providing organized voluntary maritime Search & Rescue (SAR) in coastal areas of British Columbia. The CN-CGA in addition to SAR, promotes water safety and conducts coastal safety patrols in an auxiliary support role to the Canadian Coast Guard. CN-CGA’s mission is to ensure effective marine search and rescue services for people in distress throughout BC’s coastal region.

For interviews contact:  

• Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Inc (RCMSAR) –Ralph Mohrmann, Director of Readiness,  ralph.mohrmann@rcmsar.com, (250) 812-8976
• BC Search & Rescue Association (BCSARA) – Dwight Yochim, dwight.yochim@bcsara.com, Senior Manager, (778) 584-5882
• Provincial Emergency Program Air (PEP Air) – Alton King, Director General, PEPAir.CASARA@gmail.com,  (250) 489-9000
• Coastal Nations Coast Guard Auxiliary (Western) Inc (CN-CGA) – Conrad James Shaw Cowan CD, BA, MA-(DEM), Executive Director, c.cowan@cn-cga.ca,  (778) 700-9090

The post Remembering Lives Lost: Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day appeared first on RCMSAR.

For Immediate Release May 20, 2022 – North American Safe Boating Awareness Week takes place from May 21 to May 27, 2022.

Safe Boating Awareness Week promotes safe and responsible boating practices in all communities across Canada. This awareness campaign is managed by the Canadian Safe Boating Council and its boat and water safety partners including marine emergency responders like the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR).

The early days of the pandemic brought many new people to the water to experience recreational boating, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing while staying close to home in search of adventure. However, not all people are prepared to participate in outdoor activities and, as a result, search and rescue organizations across the province continue to report record high callouts.

“Last summer, all thirty-one local RCMSAR stations combined conducted the highest number of missions in recent years, answering calls for help day and night, 7 days a week,” says Bill Riggs, CEO of the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue. “Our highly skilled volunteers respond to all kinds of marine emergencies, many of which can be avoided or mitigated if you are prepared.”

As we enter Safe Boating Awareness Week, RCMSAR reminds all boaters that being prepared means always:

• • Wear a lifejacket
  • Boat sober
  • Bring Safety Equipment: Test prior to departure and replace expired items
  • Familiarize yourself with the area you visit like commercial traffic zones and remote areas that lack reliable cellular coverage
  • Be aware of submerged objects: Rocks, stumps, and log strikes can damage a boat’s hull or motor that can result in injury or death to people on board.
  • Leave a sail plan with loved ones and check the weather before departing
  • Call for Help: Always have a means of communicating in the event of an emergency. Call for help on channel 16 via a marine VHF radio or call *16, #727 or simply dial 9-1-1 on your cell.

RCMSAR also recommends that new boaters take a boating course and learn how to use a marine VHF radio. Increased calls for help are expected as the number of recreational boaters continue to climb. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, first time boat buyers accounted for 34% of sales in 2021 and it is expected that even more new boat owners plan to enter the market this summer as manufacturers work to fulfill the backlog of orders.

While facing the inherent risks that come with saving lives on the water, RCMSAR volunteers continue to put the safety of others ahead of personal safety thanks to the professional training and equipment they receive funded by people and the communities they serve.

For additional information on boating safety, visit any one of these Boating Safety partners:

• • Boating BC Association
  • Canadian Safe Boating Council
  • Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons
  • Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety

About Safe Boating Awareness Week
Safe Boating Awareness Week is promoted by the Canadian Safe Boating Council (CSBC), a registered charity, with support from its members, partners, and Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety. Since 1995, Safe Boating Awareness Week has been the mainstay of boating safety communication among millions of Canadian Boaters.

About Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue
The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) is a not-for-profit volunteer-based organization that operates more 31 marine rescue stations along the coast of British Columbia and in-land waters. With over 900 volunteers, emergency response crews are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week ready to respond to marine emergencies. RCMSAR volunteers also prevent emergencies by providing the public boating safety information, conduct pleasure craft safety checks and provide free access to children’s lifejackets at PFD loaner stations located at many docks and marinas in the communities that they serve through the Kids Don’t Float program. RCMSAR’s mission is “Saving lives on the water”.

Established in 1978 originally under the name the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – Pacific, RCMSAR is called on to respond to marine emergencies by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in British Columbia through an agreement with the Canadian Coast Guard.

– ENDS –

Email funds.media@rcmsar.com to arrange an interview with one of the following RCMSAR contacts:

Provincial Headquarters and Vancouver Island
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Chief Executive Officer, Bill Riggs
Cell: 250-888-4484 | ceo@rcmsar.com

North Coast
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue –Station Inspection Coordinator, RCMSAR Station 64 Prince Rupert, Marko Kessler | Cell: 250-600-5172 | info@marinerescue.ca

Lower Mainland
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Marine Safety Specialist and Station Leader RCMSAR 10 – Richmond, Aaron Harnden | boating.safety@rcmsar.com
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Station Leader RCMSAR 2 – North Vancouver, Bruce Chan
Cell: 604-260-1291 | bchan@rcmsar2.com (Available May 23-27)

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Ten years ago today, Angie and Beatrice departed for a planned navigation and towing training exercise with fellow volunteers from RCMSAR Station 12 Halfmoon Bay passing through the rapids of Skookumchuck Narrows. Angie and Beatrice’s lives were lost that day when the training exercise suddenly turned tragic.

No amount of sorrow or words can express just how much they are missed.

Today, local RCMSAR stations from across the province are honouring the lives of these two incredible women who were mothers, sisters, cousins, friends and valued crew members.

A moment of silence was held this morning at RCMSAR’s Headquarters in East Sooke which included the Assistant Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, Derek Moss, RCMSAR CEO, Bill Riggs and staff.

Never Forgotten: June 3, 2012 – June 3, 2022

To learn more on the lives of Angie and Beatrice, visit the Angie Nemeth and Beatrice Sorensen Memorial Page on Facebook.

The post Never Forgotten: Remembering Angela Nemeth and Beatrice Sorensen appeared first on RCMSAR.

It was a warm day in June when Kelly and her group set out to tackle the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail along the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island. Even as hikers with years of experience, the excursion quickly became an emergency.

“On the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, we were just trudging along in the mud and trying to be careful, watching every step. We even started singing a song about being in the mud because there was just so much,” said Kelly as she set the scene. “At one point, we stopped on a bridge, and right after I stepped off it, I felt my ankle snap and fell onto my back. I couldn’t stand up.”

Kelly’s rescue experience was a unique situation that required deep collaboration between RCMSAR, the Juan de Fuca Search & Rescue (ground SAR), and the Juan de Fuca trail crew.

Once Kelly and her group realized she was badly injured, they went into high gear to get help and used the InReach they had, which is a two-way satellite communicator that works where cell phones don’t. However, they struggled to contact help as the signals were only being reached in the USA. Fortunately, the Juan de Fuca trail crew came along as they worked on the trail and used a cell phone to call the Victoria RCMP for help.

“I was in a lot of pain while we waited to be rescued. At the time, I didn’t know that I had broken my ankle. When I fell, I landed in the mud across the trail, and they didn’t want to move me, so they carefully placed one of the trail crew’s heavy-duty rain gear underneath me,” said Kelly as she explained the waiting process. “Even though it was a warm day, I was getting cold laying there, so jackets and emergency blankets were being put on top of me to keep me warm.”

The Juan de Fuca SAR was the first group sent out to help. Not long after the ground crew arrived, they also heard the RCMSAR boat come. RCMSAR was called to the scene as getting Kelly down from the trail to the water and back to shore would be the fastest way to receive medical attention.

“I felt so relieved when help, including RCMSAR, arrived. All of the volunteers were so polite and respectful. I was expecting them to say, “what are you doing on this trail? You broke your ankle. You shouldn’t have been here.” But instead, they all said, “Oh, that could have happened to anybody,” and they were always asking how I was feeling. I was blown away by how professional, kind, and competent everybody was,” explained Kelly.

When asked whether any specific RCMSAR volunteer interactions stuck out, Kelly explained that when she got onto the boat, “a fellow sat and talked to me the whole way back to shore to keep me distracted. He also asked many questions about what we had with us and our hiking experience while letting us know how prepared we sounded. I appreciated the friendly conversation, which kept my mind off the pain.”

Once RCMSAR docked the boat, they lifted Kelly on the stretcher and quickly got her into the ambulance waiting for her, making the process of getting to the hospital easy. Kelly shared with great gratitude for the vital support she received that day.

“RCMSAR is as professional and competent as any commercial organization. I had no idea RCMSAR existed until they came to help save me. I’m so grateful.” 

Kelly sits wrapped in an emergency blanket waiting for Ground Search and Rescue and Marine Search and Rescue crews to arrive.  Read more here.

Story written by Meliha Ulker, RCMSAR Communications Intern 2022

The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) is a volunteer-based charitable organization that operates more than 30 marine rescue stations along the coast of British Columbia and inland waters. Established in 1978, and first known as the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – Pacific, RCMSAR is called on to respond to marine emergencies by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in British Columbia through an agreement with the Canadian Coast Guard. RCMSAR collaborates with a number of provincial and local first responder agencies – like ground search and rescue – to ensure the safety of our community members.

The post Kelly’s Rescue Story: Collaborative Rescue on the Juan de Fuca Trail appeared first on RCMSAR.

For release on September 17, 2022 – The annual RCMSAR Volunteer Awards takes place Saturday honouring the outstanding service of the organization’s volunteers and stations as recognized by their peers, the organization’s Board of Directors and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.

For the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR), the last year can be described as extremely challenging yet hugely rewarding. In 2021, more than 900 RCMSAR volunteers performed over 3,600 training exercises to conduct 515 search and rescue missions safely. The support and generosity of our partners and donors helped our volunteers selflessly dedicate over 57,000 collective hours in pursuit of saving and assisting 455 lives on the water.

“Each year, thousands of volunteer hours are directed towards the shared goal of saving lives on the water, protecting the communities we serve and putting the safety of others ahead of personal safety” says Bill Riggs, RCMSAR’s Chief Executive Officer. “The spirit of volunteerism is an intrinsic part of RCMSAR’s culture. It’s who we are and why we save lives.”

To RCMSAR, it is important that the achievements of our colleagues and crewmates are celebrated. This year the organization proudly recognizes the following RCMSAR volunteers for their countless hours of outstanding service:

Volunteer of the Year

• • Calum Davidson – Station 4 Squamish

Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) Administrative Excellence Medal

• • John Metzger – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Mike Murphy – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Tim Slaney – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Sheryl Eaton – Station 59 Deep Bay
  • Hugh Jackson – Station 59 Deep Bay
  • Larry Highcock – Station 59 Deep Bay
  • Kevin Cattell – Station 2 North Vancouver

CCGA Exemplary Service Medal

• • Gordie Robinson – Station 34 – Cowichan Bay
  • Shawn Burchett – Station 2 North Vancouver

CCGA Humanitarian Services Medal 2022

• • Amber Sheasgreen – RCMSAR 37 Sooke, RCMSAR 64 Prince Rupert and RCMSAR HQ

CCGA Leadership Medal

• • Ian Arklie – Station 39 Port Alberni
  • Kim Bentzon – Station 33 Oak Bay
  • Graham Smart – Station 60 Comox
  • David Cassidy – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Andrew Ross Collins – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Paul FitzZaland – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Gerard McKenzie – Station 1 West Vancouver
  • Hans Verbeek – Station 8 Delta

CCGA Long Service Awards

35 Years of Service

• • Bruce Falkins – Station 1 West Vancouver

30 Years of Service

• • Garry Brown – Station 60 Comox
  • Derek Harris – Station 60 Comox
  • Jerry Hunter – Station 33 Oak Bay
  • Hugh Kelsey – Station 1 West Vancouver

25 Years of Service

• • Kim Bentzon – Station 33 Oak Bay
  • Simon Gatrell – Station 35 Victoria
  • John Simpson – Station 8 Delta

CCGA Operational Merit Medal

• • Station 29 Ladysmith: John Oakes, Sue Wisely, Ross Hayes, Phillip Kelsey

RCMSAR CEO Commendation

• • Ross Davis (Awarded in 2021) – Station 29 Ladysmith
  • Sue Wisely (Awarded in 2021) – Station 29 Ladysmith
  • David Croal – Station 14 Gibsons
  • Barrie Anderson – Station 59 Deep Bay
  • Paul Murray – Station 31 Brentwood Bay
  • Simon Pearce – Station 10 Richmond
  • Ian Wright – Station 61 Pender Harbour

RCMSAR Life Membership

• • Ken Morisette (Awarded in 2021) – Station 25 Salt Spring Island
  • Brian Cromp – Station 29 Ladysmith
  • Hugh Kelsey – Station 1 West Vancouver
  • Randy Strandt – Station 2 North Vancouver

RCMSAR New Member Award

• • Peter Miles-MacKay – Station 1 West Vancouver
  • Dale Skoreyko – Station 59 Deep Bay

Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Top Missions

• • Station 70 Hartley Bay: Coghlan Anchorage Vessel on Fire, July 11, 2021
  • Station 37 Sooke: Call for Help Near Iron Mine Bay, November 24, 2021
  • Station 29 Ladysmith: Sinking of a Fishing Vessel in Georgia Strait, November 15, 2021

– ENDS –

 About Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue

The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) is a volunteer-based charitable organization that operates more than 30 marine rescue stations along the coast of British Columbia and in-land waters. With over 900 volunteers, emergency response crews are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week ready to respond to marine emergencies. RCMSAR volunteers also prevent emergencies by providing the public boating safety information, conduct pleasure craft safety checks and provide free access to children’s lifejackets at PFD loaner stations located at many docks and marinas in the communities that they serve through the Kids Don’t Float program. RCMSAR’s mission is “Saving lives on the water”.  Established in 1978 originally under the name the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary – Pacific, RCMSAR is called on to respond to marine emergencies by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in British Columbia through an agreement with the Canadian Coast Guard.

To arrange an interview with a volunteer at a local RCMSAR in your community, contact:

Jineane Eason
Manager of Fundraising
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue
Emails: media@rcmsar.com | jineane.eason@rcmsar.com
Direct line: 778-352-2016 or 1-800-665-4757 ext. 104
Media line: 1-778-352-1006

Download media release here: RCMSAR Volunteers Honoured at Annual Awards Ceremony 2022

The post RCMSAR Volunteers Honoured at Annual Awards Ceremony 2022 appeared first on RCMSAR.

RCMSAR & WESTERN GROUP PARTNER TO PROMOTE CHILDREN’S SAFETY ON THE WATER AHEAD OF THE BOATING SEASON & SAFE BOATING AWARENESS WEEK

For release on May 18, 2023 – Safe Boating Awareness Week takes place from May 20 to May 26, 2023

Ahead of Safe Boating Awareness Week, the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) and Western Group are pleased to announce a new funding partnership that will serve to promote and elevate children’s safety on the water through RCMSAR’s Kids Don’t Float program.

The Kids Don’t Float Program is built and operated by volunteers who work with community partners and funders like Western Group to provide infants, children, and youth free access to nearly one thousand lifejackets/personal floatation devices (PFDs). These PFDs are housed in over one hundred loaner stations at marinas and public docks along coastal British Columbia and inland waters of the Shuswap.

“Parents and guardians who do not own lifejackets, or who do not have appropriately sized PFDs for their children, can simply grab one and return it to the Kids Don’t Float PFD Loaner Station at the end of the day,” says Bills Riggs, CEO of RCMSAR. “More families can enjoy a day on the water knowing their children are safe thanks to water safety partners like Western Group.”

Western Group is committed to making a meaningful and sustainable impact that shapes and improves the future for communities. In doing so, Western wanted to select a nonprofit with roots and reach into each of the communities they operate and who holds shared values on safety and education. Safety is one of Western’s core values, and many of their employees are volunteers of RCMSAR from Prince Rupert in the North to the tip of Vancouver Island and in the port communities. “We place significant importance on education, youth and the environment when choosing organizations to support,” shares Bill Mooney, President for Western Group.

“Our organization is celebrating 75 years, and together with our employees, we are extremely proud to support RCMSAR and the Kids Don’t Float program which serves to keep children safe on the water in communities where our employees live, work and play,” Mooney continues. “We are thrilled to help RCMSAR purchase new and replacement lifejackets which will be placed at a number of PFD loaner stations over the next three years.”

Since 1978, RCMSAR volunteers have assisted and saved thousands of lives responding to calls for help on the water 24 hours a day, year-round. RCMSAR volunteers not only respond to emergencies on the water; they also work to prevent them by advocating for safe boating and offering complimentary pleasure craft safety checks in communities they serve.

Safe Boating Awareness Week promotes safe and responsible boating practices in all communities across Canada. Whether you are on a boat, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, jet ski or simply spending time at a nearby beach, RCMSAR and its partners remind everyone to stay safe on the water by following these boating safety principles:

• • Wear a lifejacket always! You and your family.
  • Call for Help immediately: use channel 16 on VHF marine radio or call *16, #727 or simply dial 9-1-1 on your cell.
  • Familiarize yourself with the area you visit like commercial traffic zones and remote areas that lack reliable cellular coverage
  • Boat sober 
  • Bring Safety Equipment: Test prior to departure and replace expired items.
  • Be aware of submerged objects: Rocks, stumps, and log strikes can damage a boat’s hull or motor that can result in injury or death to people on board.
  • Leave a sail plan with loved ones and check the weather before departing
  • Take a boating course 

RCMSAR also recommends boaters consult Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide through the Office of Boating Safety which encourages safe recreational boating practices through compliance with regulations. If you are new to boating be sure to visit BetterBoater.ca or STARTBoating.ca to access additional information through the Canadian Safe Boating Council.

About Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue
The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCMSAR) is a not-for-profit volunteer-based organization that operates more 31 marine rescue stations along the coast of British Columbia and in-land waters. With over 900 volunteers, emergency response crews are on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week ready to respond to marine emergencies tasked by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in B.C. through an agreement with the Canadian Coast Guard. RCMSAR volunteers also prevent emergencies by providing the public boating safety information, conduct pleasure craft safety checks and provide free access to children’s lifejackets at PFD loaner stations located at many docks and marinas in the communities that they serve through the Kids Don’t Float program. RCMSAR’s mission is “Saving lives on the water”.

The Kids Don’t Float PFD Loaner Stations are built by RCMSAR volunteers and graciously funded by our boating and water safety partners like Western Group. To support the Kids Don’t Float program, go to: rcmsar.com/kdf.

About Western Group
Western Group is made up of strong and diverse operating divisions: Terminals & Stevedoring and Intermodal Services. These divisions connect Canada’s marine, rail, road, and transportation corridors to global business. But our most valuable assets are our people. Instinctive, agile, and creative, we rely on them to generate new and unique solutions and deliver the highest level of service to our customers.

Western Group is located in North Vancouver, Canada and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Seattle, Washington based Carrix Inc.

About Safe Boating Awareness Week
Safe Boating Awareness Week is managed by the Canadian Safe Boating Council, a registered charity, with support from its members, partners, and Transport Canada’s Office of Boating Safety. Since 1995, Safe Boating Awareness Week has been the mainstay of boating safety communication among millions of Canadian Boaters. Safe Boating Awareness Week takes place each year starting Saturday of the May long weekend.

 ENDS –

For interview opportunities, please reach out to:

Western Group Ltd
Vice-President, People & Sustainability, Kim Stegeman-Lowe
kstegeman@westerngroup.ca | www.westerngroup.ca

Provincial Headquarters
Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue – Chief Executive Officer, Bill Riggs
ceo@rcmsar.com | www.rcmsar.com

Download Media Release PDF here

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