Fiona Rist
Coastguard Hibiscus
Fiona has made an outstanding contribution to Coastguard Hibiscus over more than 10 years, combining operational skill, leadership, and unwavering dedication. As a core member of the rescue crew, Fiona consistently demonstrates calm, professional decision-making on the water, supporting fellow volunteers through complex and high-pressure taskings. Her role as Radio Operator at the National Operations Centre further exemplifies her versatility and knowledge.
Fiona’s impact extends into training and mentoring, where she ensures all crew are competent, confident, and well-prepared. She organises skippers’ rosters, coordinates training aligned with operational priorities, and fosters a positive, inclusive culture. Her community engagement, from promoting water safety with young sailors to supporting fundraising initiatives, strengthens Coastguard Hibiscus’ standing in the community.
Bo Baines
Coastguard Marlborough
With over 16 years of dedicated volunteer service, Bo has made an extraordinary impact on Coastguard Marlborough, particularly through her leadership of the Incident Management Team. Her calm, methodical approach and deep operational knowledge have strengthened team confidence and sharpened response effectiveness.
Bo has transformed the communications room into a hub of clarity and coordination. She developed a comprehensive 30+ page operations manual and trained the unit in her structured procedures, ensuring consistent, reliable incident management. Her leadership has been pivotal during high-pressure missions - most notably, coordinating multiple vessels and over 20 crew members in the search for a missing jet skier, while working seamlessly with Rescue Coordination Centre NZ, Police, and other agencies.
Beyond operations, Bo manages sensitive documentation, oversees Coastguard Online Reporting System requirements, and mentors new volunteers with patience and clarity. Her professionalism, dedication, and steady leadership have elevated the unit’s performance, enhanced safety outcomes, and fostered a culture of excellence that benefits both crew and community.
Jason Bartlett
Coastguard Riverton
Jason has made an exceptional impact on Coastguard Riverton since joining in 2023. Quickly embracing an onshore role, Jason became a reliable and highly skilled radio operator, providing calm, clear, and precise communication during high-pressure incidents. Of note was the August 2024 bar incident, where his meticulous logging and coordination with multiple units, Police, and helicopter personnel was pivotal.
Beyond operational contributions, Jason has demonstrated initiative and leadership by rewriting the unit’s Constitution and drafting Standard Operating Procedures for the jet ski - tasks essential for governance and safe operations. His tech expertise has driven significant upgrades to the unit’s IT and communication systems, including new computer networks and a pan-tilt night-vision bar camera, enhancing real-time situational awareness.
As Vice President, he leads with professionalism, guiding committee meetings and fostering collaboration. Jason’s commitment to training, community engagement, and problem-solving has strengthened the unit’s effectiveness, safety, and cohesion, making him an invaluable member of Coastguard Riverton.