The 2026 Australian Search and Rescue Awards (SAR Awards) were held in Perth recently, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of national search and rescue cooperation in Australia.
2026 Australian Search and Rescue Award recipients
National Search and Rescue (NATSAR) Council members from across Australia gathered to celebrate the milestone and recognise the enduring partnerships between Commonwealth, state and territory agencies, industry and volunteers that underpin Australia’s national search and rescue system.
The 2026 Australian SAR Awards, co-hosted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and Western Australia Police Force, recognise individuals, groups and organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to search and rescue in Australia.
NATSAR Council Chair and AMSA Executive Director Response and Capability Alex Barrell said the recipients and nominees demonstrated the courage, commitment and cooperation at the heart of Australia’s search and rescue system.
“Every search and rescue incident brings its own challenges, but each incident depends on people who are prepared to act, work together and make difficult decisions when lives are at risk,” Mr Barrell said.
“As we mark the 50th anniversary of national search and rescue cooperation in Australia, we recognise not only how far search and rescue has changed through advances in technology, communication and coordination, but also the unwavering commitment of those who answer the call for help.
“I congratulate all recipients and nominees and thank everyone who contributes to Australia’s national search and rescue system.”
Non-professional Award – Austin Appelbee
Long-standing Contribution Award – Senior Sergeant Michael (Mick) Morris, Marine Area Command, NSW Police Force
Non-professional Commendation – Big Cat Reality Master and Crew, Ben Cullen
Professional Award – Northern Territory Police and St John Ambulance Northern Territory
Long-standing Contribution Commendation – Geoff Shelton, Marine Rescue NSW Port Macquarie
Professional Commendation – Senior Constable Michael Eiser, Queensland Police Service
Professional Volunteer Commendation – Marine Rescue WA, Windy Harbour and Augusta
Professional Volunteer Award – Marine Rescue Cocos (Keeling) Islands
The Australian SAR Awards recognise the contributions of professional search and rescue organisations and individuals, including professional volunteers and members of the public. Recipients are determined through a voting process, following consideration of nominations submitted by the search and rescue community and the broader Australian public.
Nominations for the 2027 Australian SAR Awards are now open for incidents occurring between 1 July 2026 and 30 June 2027.
