Purpose
To outline the requirements of Surf Life Saving fixed-wing, rotary aircraft and UAVs conducting lifesaving operations in NSW.
Policy
All Surf Life Saving aircraft must ensure/maintain the following:
- Hold a service/SLSNSW endorsed Lifesaving Service Agreement/Contract/MOU (operational) for each operational year.
- Should include the provision of roving patrols in regular patrol times (where able).
- Volunteer crew shall be active/financial members of an affiliated SLSNSW SLSC.
- Operations shall be run in accordance with the SLSNSW SOPS.
- Service training must be in accordance with the SLSA awards structures (excluding specialist requirements).
- No service may seek or hold a State Rescue Board ‘accreditation’ or be represented at any local or regional rescue or emergency management committees without written approval from SLSNSW.
- Service must align its emergency response policies and procedures with the SLSNSW Emergency Response System (no separate arrangements with emergency services or government may be entered into without SLSNSW approval).
- Must utilise endorsed SLSNSW radio frequencies and communications channels as per SLSNSW requirements.
Procedure
Overview
Aerial services may provide enhanced preventative patrolling and search and rescue capacity for coastal/offshore areas.
New Services
Any proposed new service and expansion of existing services must apply to SLSNSW for endorsement under the requirements set in the SLSNSW Guide to Establishing a Support Operation.
Non-Surf Life Saving Aerial Services
No Surf Life Saving services shall undertake joint-operating arrangements with non-SLS aerial services without the written authorisation of SLSNSW.
This includes ‘private’ shark patrol companies/organisations.
Design/Layout/Branding
All newly aerial services must have approval from Surf Life Saving NSW for the design and layout of the aircraft.
Branding must meet the specification of SLSA equipment branding requirements and be approved by SLSNSW.