VMR Southport’s Charter
Misuse of CH-16 VHF
marine radio
by Senior Constable Gene Hill
To save and assist in
saving life and property
at sea.
To provide personnel and
equipment in order to carry out
search and rescue operations
at sea and on the Gold Coast
waterways.
To liaise and work with other marine
rescue groups.
To undertake campaigns to educate
members of the boating public in
matters of marine safety.
On the afternoon and evening of the 2nd of January 2019, a male
person was heard broadcasting on Channel 16, VHF marine radio in an
improper manner. Channel 16 is a designated emergency frequency
primarily for calling, distress, urgency and safety priority calls between
ships and coastal radio stations.
The broadcasts contained vulgar and offensive language, insults
and targeted marine rescue volunteers conducting listening watches
between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. At times the male person
was rambling, and his transmissions were repetitive and unintelligible.
The male person was politely requested to keep the emergency channel
clear and desist from transmitting further broadcasts. The male person
continued his reckless and belligerent conduct for hours during which
time water police and volunteer organisations were following up on
a search and rescue incident involving a genuine ‘mayday’ call. The
actions of the male caused substantial interference and disruption of the
emergency frequency by recklessly occupying the frequency without
reason and potentially putting lives at risk.
Water Police Brisbane subsequently conducted an investigation
which resulted in a 41 year old male from Manly being taken into
custody. The male was issued a notice to appear in relation to unlicensed
operation of a radio-communication device and recklessly causing
interference with radio-communications.
Water police would like to remind recreational boaties that all
broadcasts on the emergency frequencies are recorded and there are
serious penalties for misuse. The Australian Communication and
Media Authority website contains information on correct marine radio
protocols and how and where to obtain a marine radio licence.
If you have
information for police,
contact Policelink on
131 444 or provide
information using
the online form 24hrs
per day.
You can report
information about
crime anonymously
to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community
volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or
via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
Working
together
in your
community
Vsheet -
MARCH 2019
7