WHY DID I JOIN the AUSTRALIAN VOLUNTEER COAST GUARD?
FRANK ROBARDS
NF-02 BOTANY BAY FLOTILLA
Why did I join the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard?
The answer to that question is most likely for a reason that is common
to a number of our members. Having been a volunteer official with a sporting
organisation for some fifteen years because of our children's activities,
the ethos of volunteerism was a normal part of our lives. 
After purchasing my first vessel, I found myself disabled on the water without a functioning radio and no idea whatsoever as to how to get back to the launching ramp. Along came a little yellow boat and after frantic waving etc. the vessel came alongside and proceeded to tow me back to the ramp. Signage said "COAST GUARD" which I though to be a novel name. Who, or what, is COAST GUARD?
Whilst being towed, the Coast Guard Skipper had the opportunity to suggest that I enrol in their "Safe Boating" course and the "Marine Radio" course. This I did, along with my son.
Getting to know the volunteers through these lectures and the unselfish attitude demonstrated during my assist, I felt that this was an organisation I would like to become involved with and I joined in 1994.
So what do I get out
of being a member? A simple question, but a complex answer.
First, the camaraderie of working alongside some very dedicated people who give their time, advice and experience freely to Marine Rescue. Second, helping out recreational boat owners who find themselves in difficulty, as I was when the "little yellow boat" came to my assistance. (Until one is stranded or in difficulty, one does not appreciate how wonderful these "little yellow boats" and their crews are).
Third, having the opportunity to develop my marine and boating skills under the tuition of Coast Guard Skippers and instructors with many years of experience. There are many other reasons including giving a little back to my community, and much more.
Frank Robards.