Volunteer Coastal Patrol Jervis Bay to Assume Marine Rescue Service Previously Provided by the AFP

The Australian Federal Police (AFP), after extensive consultations with the local community and the New South Wales Police Service, has made a decision about the future of the vessel the "Colin Woods".

The AFP has negotiated the sale of the vessel to the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol at Jervis Bay. The Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol is accredited by the NSW State Rescue Board to service Jervis Bay and environs. Its area of operation covers the area previously serviced by the AFP.

The critical safety needs of the local community were foremost in the AFP’s considerations about the future of the vessel. The sale of the vessel to the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol means that the local community will continue to have a marine rescue service.

The sale of the vessel and the disposal of related assets is in recognition of the fact that maritime rescue is not the role of the AFP.

In conjunction with the sale of the "Colin Woods" other marine equipment owned by the AFP will be given to the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol and the Shoalhaven Marine Rescue Association.

The gift of equipment to the Shoalhaven Marine Rescue Association is in recognition of its role in maintaining a 24 hour radio watch and coordination of search and rescue activities across the region.

In future the AFP role at Jervis Bay Territory in relation to maritime emergencies will be limited to providing a contact point for members of the public reporting marine accidents. The AFP will then activate the resources of the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol to respond and coordinate search and rescue activities as appropriate.

Media inquiries: Steve Jiggins 041 113 2761