When Port Hedland VTS received notification of four people clinging to a vessel in the anchorage zone, they wasted no time co-ordinating local assets to effect a rescue worthy of a nomination for the Australian VTS Award.
If you are serving or have served in the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) as a Maritime Warfare Officer, this information explains how to qualify for an International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarer (STCW) certificate of competency for a:
Chief mate
Master less than 3000 GT
Master
The inaugural Australian VTS Award saw Brisbane VTS operators Todd Stewart and Ricky Blake commended for their actions, which had a profound impact on the outcome of two men and a young boy lost at sea.
The PSL applies to vessels that have carried 10 tonnes or more of oil while operating in Australia, any time during a quarter. It helps fund the response to marine pollution incidents.
The MNL applies to most commercial vessels operating in Australia. It helps fund the cost of operating and maintaining marine aids to navigation systems.