Coast guard patrol
The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard is an organisation composed entirely of volunteers. Formed in 1961, its aim is to promote safety in the operation of small craft.
Marine Operations
- Radio Monitoring
- Safety Patrols
- Vessel Assistance
- Vessel Tracking
- Search and Rescue
Area covered
Coast Guard Frankston (VF1) patrols the south east part of Port Phillip approximately 70 square nautical miles.
However VF1 are not bound to those perimeters and will respond to a Search and Rescue incident, or assist another Coast Guard vessel in other parts of the bay. Our second response and support vessel can be transported across the state to aid for further emergencies. It is often used in Western Port.
The Rescue Vessel is on patrol on weekends and public holidays from sunset to sunrise.
Average callouts per year: 100
Crew are on standby 24/7 for Search and Rescue. Crew are activated by pagers and coordinated by Coast Guard Melbourne under the direction of water police.
Vessels and Equipment
VF1 have two rescue vessels.
The primary response vessel (CG01) is an 8.3m Promarine aluminium vessel with 2 x 200hp Suzuki outboards and is located at a mooring in Patterson River. This vessel is used for regular patrols, Search and Rescue, special events and training. It is equipped with state of art equipment such as: GPS/chart plotter, Radar and Infrared camera. CG01 is also equipped with a fire pump to fight marine fires, with a top speed in excess of 30 knots.
The inshore rescue vessel (CG 201) is a 5m Naiad Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat with two 90hp Suzuki outboards. CG 201 is on standby at VF1 Headquarters is easily transportable, allowing the vessel to respond to other assists around the state in support of other flotillas.
VF1's emergency vehicle (mobile 401) is a Nissan Patrol 4WD, primarily used for towing the inshore rescue vehicle.
Become a Marine Rescue Volunteer
We are looking for brave men and women with exceptional ability to care for the safety of Australian mariners and recreational boaties.
Whether you are an administrator or hands-on person, apply to be a member using the online application form below:
Regular members are needed for:
- Rescue Boat Crew
- Marine Radio Operators
- Education
- Administration
- Maintenance Team
- Fund Raising
- Public Relations
No experience necessary.
The AVCGA is a registered National Training Organisation and will provide all training needed.
Contact Us
VF1 Frankston Coast Guard
2 Pier Promenade,
Frankston VIC 3199
PO Box 297
Victoria 3199
Phone: (03) 9781 5198
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/vf1frankston/