Governor Pays Tribute to Esperance Rescue Teams for Perilous Shark-Boat Mission

Key facts

• Marine Rescue Esperance received the Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award at the 2024 WAFES awards.
• The rescue occurred in October 2023 when five people were stranded on a damaged dinghy after a shark bit their boat.
• The rescue crew on board the Neptune battled perilous conditions for two hours to reach the stranded vessel.
• Governor Chris Dawson and Mrs. Dawson visited the Chadwick base and the Esperance Goldfields Surf Life Saving Club during a regional tour.
• The Esperance Goldfields Surf Life Saving Club has served the community for over 30 years, primarily at Twilight Beach.
• The Club's Emergency Response Team (ERT) operates around the clock, supporting police, ambulance, and marine rescue services.
• The Governor toured the Club's recently upgraded facilities, including modernised equipment storage and expanded training areas.

A Rescue in Dire Peril

In October 2023, five people found themselves adrift on a damaged dinghy after a shark they were trying to land bit back, severely damaging their boat. The Marine Rescue Esperance team launched their vessel Neptune, powering through perilous conditions for two hours to reach the tiny stranded craft. Upon arrival, the crew had to safely bring the five cold and scared individuals aboard, secure the dinghy, and navigate back to shore.

Governor’s Tribute and Award Recognition

For their bravery, Marine Rescue Esperance was honored with the Marine Rescue Team Achievement Award at the 2024 WAFES awards. This week, Governor Chris Dawson and Mrs. Dawson paid their own tribute during a regional tour of the Goldfields and Esperance region. The Governor visited the Chadwick base, which also houses the Esperance SES and the DFES Volunteer Fire Brigade, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among local emergency services.

A Lifeline for Twilight Beach

The Esperance Goldfields Surf Life Saving Club has been a cornerstone of safety along Western Australia’s southern coastline for more than 30 years. As the primary guardian of Twilight Beach, the club’s volunteers are the first line of defense in some of the state’s most picturesque but unpredictable coastal conditions. Their Emergency Response Team (ERT) is a highly trained group providing rapid, coordinated assistance during critical incidents on water and across the wider region.

Around-the-Clock Emergency Support

Operating around the clock, the ERT supports police, ambulance, and marine rescue services, often responding to emergencies in remote or challenging environments. Their readiness, professionalism, and deep local knowledge have made them indispensable to the community. The Governor and Mrs. Dawson met with the volunteers during their visit, acknowledging the essential role they play in safeguarding the Esperance coastline.

Upgraded Facilities for Enhanced Response

The Governor toured the Club’s recently upgraded facilities, which include modernised equipment storage, expanded training areas, and upgraded communications infrastructure. These improvements ensure the ERT and broader volunteer base are better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively when lives are at risk. The visit highlighted the Club’s commitment to continuous improvement and community protection.

Collaboration in a Unique Environment

In towns like Esperance, it is crucial that all local emergency response services work together to support the unique environment. The Chadwick base’s co-location of Marine Rescue, SES, and Volunteer Fire Brigade exemplifies this integrated approach. The Governor’s tour underscored the importance of such cooperation in maintaining safety along the remote coastline.

A Legacy of Dedication and Community Spirit

The Governor and Mrs. Dawson expressed their appreciation for the dedication, resilience, and community spirit shown by the volunteers. Their visit not only acknowledged the Club’s proud history but also its ongoing commitment to protecting the community through preparedness and teamwork. The recognition serves as a reminder of the vital, often unseen work performed by volunteer emergency services in regional Australia.

The bottom line

• Marine Rescue Esperance was awarded for a dangerous rescue of five people after a shark bit their dinghy in October 2023.
• Governor Chris Dawson visited both Marine Rescue Esperance and the Esperance Goldfields Surf Life Saving Club to honor their service.
• The Surf Life Saving Club has operated for over 30 years, with its ERT providing 24/7 emergency support.
• Recent facility upgrades include modernised equipment storage, training areas, and communications infrastructure.
• Collaboration among local emergency services is critical in Esperance’s unique coastal environment.