UAV Program

UAV Operations, Roles and Accreditation Requirements at Yamba SLSC

UAV operations at Surf Life Saving New South Wales (SLSNSW) fall under the Excluded Commercial Operator category and are governed by the following SLSNSW awards:

• UAV Operator (non-RePL)

• UAV Pilot (RePL)

UAV Operators and Pilots form an essential component of the Patrol team at Yamba Main Beach, undertaking various surveillance duties, including but not limited to:

• Marine Wildlife Surveillance

• Dangerous Shark Species Activation

• Event Safety

• Cliff Line Assessment

• Beach management including rip identification assistance

• Monitoring the patrol area

• Overseeing junior activities (Nippers)

• Supporting club training sessions

• Assisting with special events such as ocean swims and triathlons

• Participating in local community activities

• Engaging in search and rescue operations

• Conducting marine fauna surveys

Award proficiency is mandatory for operating any SLSNSW UAV. All Operators and Pilots must complete both online and practical proficiency assessments annually between 1 July and 31 December to maintain their accreditation.

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Eligibility to Operate Drones for Surf Life Saving

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Individuals interested in piloting drones for SLSNSW must complete the Operator Induction Program (OIP), which comprises both theoretical and practical components. Successful completion of both elements is required to achieve proficiency.

Upon obtaining UAV Operator accreditation, candidates will be paired with an experienced Operator or Pilot to acquire practical beachside experience. Accredited individuals are subsequently rostered for regular Surf Patrol duties as integral members of the team.

Minimum requirements are as follows:

• Must be at least 16 years old;

• Willingness to attend an OIP at Yamba or another designated location;

• Commitment to participate in a Surf Patrol, which operates on weekends and public holidays from September through April. Prospective applicants should consider existing Surf Life Saving and family commitments prior to applying.