Rescue Volunteers among Most Trusted Professions

Rescue volunteers have once again been listed in the top three most trusted professions in Australia.

The results were released today in the 2013 Australian Readers Digest “Most Trusted Professions” poll. Firefighters and paramedics shared equal top placing, with rescue volunteers coming in at number three — the same position as in 2012.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said he was proud to see rescue volunteers ranked so highly by the Australian people.

“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers, along with all their rescue and other emergency services colleagues, are an incredible force for good in our community,” he said.

MRNSW has 3200 volunteers in 47 units along the NSW coastline and inland on the Alpine Lakes in the Snowy Mountains and the Murray River at Moama. They provide vital emergency search and rescue, boating safety education and a marine radio safety net for boaters on NSW waters.

“Our members give their time freely to assist and protect boaters on our waters and it is rewarding to know that people appreciate their hard work and commitment,” Commissioner Tannos said.

“Giving something back to their community is a powerful motivation for our volunteers and they will be grateful to see that they are highly trusted and respected.”

He said MRNSW volunteers were skilled, experienced and trained to professional standards.

“They are standing ready to help, no matter whether that is rescuing a boater from a sinking vessel, towing in a fisherman whose tinnie has broken down or providing first aid in a medical emergency.”