Surf Life Saving Queensland is currently conducting a trial on Drone operations within Surf Life Saving Clubs. The trial is for clubs to have drone operations as an additional surveillance tool on patrol. Clubs will put forward members to undertake training in order to operate sub 2kg drones only within their patrol service location as outlined in the clubs Patrol Service Contracts.
In order for clubs to be eligible for the trial they must have member capability and be meeting their patrol service contract.
The trial is open to three clubs per branch, with a maximum of 10 candidates per club.
Prior to a club being selected the lifesaving coordinator/supervisor will complete the Jotform checklist to ensure the club meets all the requirements.
Clubs/operators will be required to input statistics into Drone Logbook for all drone operations while the trial is being conducted.
Drone Operator Requirements
Minimum Entry Requirements
- Applicants must fulfil the following minimum requirements prior to lodging an application:
- Be a minimum of 16 years of age
- Be a current financial and proficient member of a Surf Life Saving Queensland affiliated Surf Life Saving Club
- Have no limiting disabilities
- Have a current Working with Children Check
- ARN (Aviation Reference Number)
- Complete (free) Casa Operation accreditation (Click Here)
- Be proficient in the minimum awards as outlined below
Minimum Qualifications
- Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue) (Bronze Medallion)
or - Radio Operators Certificate
Or - Observers Award
Training
Candidates will be required to complete a one day training course consisting of theory and practical flying. Courses will be organised by the Regional Lifesaving Services Coordinator/Manager and Chief Remote Pilot.
Ongoing Drone Operator Requirements:
To remain an active Drone Operator, successful applicants will be required to:
- Remain a financial member of their SLSC Club
- Maintain currency in pre-requisite SLSQ awards
- Attend scheduled training sessions which will be in addition to rostered patrols
- Ensure they are familiar with POM Section 10
Other Requirements
Drone Operators may be required to undertake one or a series of other assessments from time to time. All operators must ensure they have completed pre and post op flight checks in drone logbook and completed the statistics form at the end of patrol and submitted in Drone Logbook.
Trial Conclusion
The trial will conclude at the end of the 23/24 season.
Drone Logbook
All Clubs and drone operators are to use the below link to access the Drone Log Book.
SLSQ Drone Logbook
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