Awards Categories

Whether they take to the skies in our aircrafts, are the voice on the radio, coordinate incidents, deliver exceptional training, keep your unit running as support crew, carry out a critical leadership role, make an impact in your local community or give it their all by heading out on the water when often others are heading in, they all deserve to be celebrated.

Handy tip: Make sure you've read the criteria for the award you've chosen to nominate an individual or unit for and have addressed the criteria in your nomination. 

Read the Nomination and Criteria Guide here

Community Engagement Unit of the Year

Recognising excellence in the areas of public relations, fundraising or community engagement by an individual or Unit.

Communications/Incident Management Volunteer of the Year

Recognising excellence in the performance of Radio Operators and Volunteers working in Incident Management roles that support Search and Rescue and Coastguard Operations. 

Emerging (Young) Volunteer of the Year

Recognising a newer volunteer under 30, who demonstrates the commitment and dedication required to be an outstanding volunteer, and who has already made a great contribution to their Unit.  

Operational Crew Member of the Year

Recognising crew members who have significantly contributed to the operational success of their unit, showcasing outstanding skills, reliability, and a commitment to safety.

Outstanding Leadership Award

Recognising those who make a difference and lead the way. These volunteers are held in high regard for the leadership, initiative, and commitment they bring to their Unit and Coastguard. 

Rescue of the Year

The Coastguard Rescue of the Year is a prestigious award that recognises an exceptional rescue crew who has undertaken an outstanding search and rescue or Coastguard operation. 

Unit of the Year

Recognising the unit who in the past year has achieved excellence in all aspects of its management and operational activities. 

Unit Innovation of the Year

Recognising exceptional creativity and innovation within our organisation. 

Unit Support Volunteer of the Year

Recognising excellence in supporting roles such as board or committee roles, shore crew, training officers, secretaries and other non-operational volunteers.