DRONE OPERATOR

DRONE OPERATOR
The Queensland Drone Operations Program has been established to integrate ‘rescue drone’ operations within Surf Life Saving Queensland’s (SLSQ) activities. The program will assist SLSQ with its efforts to increase public safety on Queensland beaches, prevent drownings up and down the coast, and effectively mitigate the potential risks of dangerous marine creatures including crocodiles and sharks

Drone Operators purpose is:
• Provide aquatic supervision by way of RPAS/ Drone operations
• Undertake surveillance and rescue with the use of a drone
• Keep the bathing public informed of dangerous marine creatures and or beach conditions
• Monitor aquatic activity
• Use cutting edge technology to save lives.
• Work towards zero preventable deaths in Queensland public waters.

Drone Operators Minimum Qualifications:
• Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue) (Bronze Medallion) or
• Radio Operators Certificate or
• Observers Award

Drone Operators Prerequisites:
• 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 completed a minimum of three years SLS beach patrol service
• Have no limiting disabilities
• Hold a current vehicle driver’s license
• Have a current Working with Children Check
• ARN (Aviation Reference Number)
• Be proficient in the minimum awards as outlined above

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
• Complete an annual SLS Club proficiency by 31 December each year
• Maintain currency in pre-requisite SLSQ awards
• Maintain currency in internal RPAS Certificate
• Complete a flight check every 90days
• Attend scheduled training sessions which will be in addition to rostered patrols

Other Requirements
Drone Operators may be required to undertake one or a series of other assessments from time to time.

Drone Logbook
All Clubs and drone operators are to use the below link to access the Drone Log Book.
SLSQ Drone Logbook

NOTE: All Surf Life Saving Queensland operations support craft and crew must operate within the policies and procedures set by Surf Life Saving Queensland and their service standard operations manual.

Drone SOPS SLSQ Lifesaving