Sydney’s recent hosting of the International Maritime Rescue Federation’s (IMRF) Women in Search and Rescue (SAR) training course and the IMRF Australia Regional Seminar was more than just another event on the maritime calendar. It was a catalyst for change, a proving ground for innovation, and a reminder that the future of maritime safety hinges on diversity, collaboration, and forward-thinking leadership.
The Women in SAR program, now in its third year, is breaking barriers in a sector long dominated by men. By bringing together 15 women from eight countries, the course didn’t just teach skills—it built confidence, fostered networks, and challenged norms. For Alison Cameron-Brown and Sonia Teston, volunteers from Marine Rescue NSW, this was a chance to represent their local units on a global stage. Their participation wasn’t just personal growth; it was a step toward reshaping the culture of maritime rescue. “It’s not just about us,” Cameron-Brown said. “It’s about what we bring back to our teams, our communities, and the industry as a whole.”
The practical exercises—simulated offshore rescues, mission planning, and high-pressure decision-making—were a masterclass in real-world readiness. But the real power lay in the classroom discussions, where leadership, communication, and resilience were dissected and honed. These aren’t just skills for the women in the room; they’re the foundation of a stronger, more adaptable SAR workforce.
The regional seminar, with over 150 delegates, was where theory met strategy. Speakers from AMSA, IMRF, and international rescue organisations tackled everything from mass rescue operations to the rise of electric propulsion and its risks. Kaylene Dale of AMSA put it bluntly: “The maritime environment is changing faster than ever. If we’re not adapting, we’re falling behind.” Sessions on sustainability, medical factors affecting survival, and private-sector innovation underscored that SAR isn’t just about reacting—it’s about anticipating.
One of the most gripping moments came from Australian surfers Elliott Foote and Steph Weisse, who recounted their 36-hour ordeal lost at sea. Their story was a raw reminder of why SAR matters—and why the work being done in Sydney isn’t just professional development, it’s lifesaving.
This event wasn’t just about training or networking. It was about setting a precedent. For IMRF, it proved that Women in SAR is more than a program—it’s a movement. For Marine Rescue NSW, it reinforced their commitment to diversity and global engagement. And for the delegates, it was a call to action: to take these lessons back to their organisations, to push for change, and to keep driving maritime safety forward.
The real test, of course, will be what happens next. Will the momentum from Sydney translate into more women in leadership roles? Will the insights from the seminar lead to tangible improvements in SAR operations? Will the international collaborations forged here result in stronger, more coordinated rescue networks?
The answers to these questions will shape the future of maritime safety. But one thing is clear: the work done in Sydney didn’t just raise the bar—it redefined it. And that’s a wave worth riding.