The Life of a Volunteer
Tin Can Bay Coast Guard helped yachties during the Bay to Bay race
by Coast Guard Tin Can Bay
One of the best jobs you get to do as a Coast Guard volunteer, is to escort the fleet in the Bay to Bay trailer boat race. Traditionally held on the May long weekend, this year saw the 40th running of the event, a two-year wait after it was cancelled due to Covid in 2020.
The wind started to build just as the fleet were gathering before the start, and by the time Division 1 boats started, it was gusting to 20 knots, providing a great spectacle, even though it was heavily overcast.
On the leg from Carlo to Garry’s anchorage, there were some incidents, the flying sports boat Lambourdini shattered her carbon fibre rudder, with the result that the boat went upside down with the crew in the water.
Two Coast Guard boats were on hand in minutes and no injuries were sustained. Several other boats were forced to retire before reaching the overnight anchorage at Garry’s. We always look forward to working with the Hervey Bay Sailing Club, the organisers of the event.
The working life of a Coast Guard volunteer is so varied that we just expect the unexpected. Our basic jobs of maintaining a 365 days a year radio watch and rescuing those in need, are just a part of what we do. There is a job for most people who want to help their local community with boating safety.
Coast Guard volunteers also get free training in first aid and CPR, in marine radio operations, as well as a range of other survival skills and boat handling techniques.
If you have ever thought about joining, call the base on 5486 4290 and we will arrange to meet with you and tell you all about volunteer membership options.
