IMRF Announces Shortlist for the 2025 Awards

The IMRF has unveiled the shortlist for the IMRF 2025 Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements and innovation in maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations worldwide.

Now in its latest edition, the IMRF Awards continue to honour individuals, teams, and organisations who demonstrate exceptional skill, dedication, and innovation in saving lives at sea.

This year’s shortlist showcases a diverse range of contributions from across the globe, from frontline rescue professionals to cutting-edge technological innovators.

Shortlisted nominees (in alphabetical order by surname or organisation):

Ambrey, UK and the crew of the Al Bahia, Djibouti

Auckland Coastguard, New Zealand

Peter Dawes, RNLI, UK

Global SAR Hub, France

Heidi Ho Yuen-tung, HK Government Flying Service, Hong Kong SAR, China

Lance Miller, Marine Rescue NSW, Australia

Caron Parfitt, Marine Rescue NSW, Australia

Sarah Psaila, Auckland CG, New Zealand

QF7 Redland Bay Coast Guard, AVCGA, Australia

Samuel Wangila Wanyonyi, Kenya Red Cross Society, Kenya

Speaking about this year’s nominations, Caroline Jupe, CEO of the IMRF, said:

“The standard of nominations this year has been exceptionally high, reflecting the incredible work being done by the global search and rescue community. Each year we see this standard rise even further, making the competition increasingly steep. It’s truly inspiring to witness the dedication, bravery, and innovation demonstrated by all our nominees.”

The IMRF congratulates all the nominees for their remarkable contributions to the global SAR community. Winners will be announced later this year at a dedicated online ceremony celebrating their lifesaving efforts and commitment to improving maritime safety.

For more information about the IMRF Awards and previous winners, click here.

Latest

IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

From the launch of e-learning modules on Motivation, Mentoring, Culture and On-Scene Coordination, the IMRF Maritime SAR Academy continues to build momentum as a global platform for maritime SAR learning and professional development.
IMRF leads industry-wide forum on tackling battery fires in search and rescue

Alongside the University of Queensland, the IMRF led a day of discussions that explored the risks and responses to the growing issue of battery fires on board car carriers, ferries, fishing vessels, tugs and leisure craft and small work boats.
The Maritime SAR Academy: A Global e-Learning Platform

Thanks to a major three-year grant from The TK Foundation, the IMRF has launched the Maritime SAR Academy for maritime SAR personnel and commercial seafarers. It is a modern, accessible e-learning programme designed to strengthen lifesaving capability worldwide.
Our Members

IMRF Maritime SAR Academy launches first modules

From the launch of e-learning modules on Motivation, Mentoring, Culture and On-Scene Coordination, the IMRF Maritime SAR Academy continues to build momentum as a global platform for maritime SAR learning and professional development.
IMRF leads industry-wide forum on tackling battery fires in search and rescue

Alongside the University of Queensland, the IMRF led a day of discussions that explored the risks and responses to the growing issue of battery fires on board car carriers, ferries, fishing vessels, tugs and leisure craft and small work boats.
IMRF Global Maritime SAR System Review continues with regional workshop in Ghana

Representatives from nine African countries gathered in Accra, Ghana, for the third regional workshop of the Global Maritime SAR System Review, identifying key challenges and opportunities for strengthening maritime search and rescue across the continent.
New IMO MASS Code Raises Important SAR Considerations

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted the first non-mandatory Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), marking a significant milestone in the future regulation of autonomous and remotely operated shipping.
IMRF supports regional Mass Rescue Operations Workshop in Morocco

The IMRF, alongside the IMO, Morocco’s Secretariat of State in charge of Marine Fisheries and HM Coastguard UK, brought together maritime SAR professionals from multiple countries to share operational experience, strengthen cooperation and enhance Mass Rescue Operations capability.
The IMRF joins WHO global drowning prevention alliance

By joining the Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention, the IMRF will help shape international policy, improve rescue capability and support evidence-based interventions aimed at saving lives.
The International Day for Women in Maritime: Spotlight on Dr Evette Johnson Smith

On the International Day for Women in Maritime, the IMRF recognises the contribution of women across the maritime sector and continues its work to advance inclusion through the #WomenInSAR initiative. This feature spotlights Dr Evette Johnson Smith, President of the Women in Maritime Association Caribbean and a leading voice in maritime education and gender inclusion.
Making safety work at sea

A new study led by Cranfield University in collaboration with the IMRF, shows why safety practices in maritime search and rescue do not always transfer easily between organisations and countries - adapting them to local contexts can improve outcomes worldwide.
IMRF attends North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum meeting in Iceland

The IMRF attended the North Atlantic Coast Guard Forum in Iceland, contributing to discussions on SAR, maritime safety and emerging operational challenges.
IMRF builds momentum with Global Maritime SAR System Review following latest European workshop

Maritime SAR professionals from across Europe gathered in Poland for another vital IMRF workshop, contributing regional insights to its Global Maritime SAR System Review

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and SAR

Commercial MASS and remotely operated vessels could play a significant part in future maritime SAR operations to help improve capabilities and operations.
Join the IMRF

IMRF Members around the world support each other and share knowledge, experience, expertise and innovations.
Our Members
Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
SAR Matters: Defining Distress Continued ...

People known to be in distress need to be rescued, of course – and the SAR community knows that this concept must also be extended to those believed to be in distress, and to those who, while not yet in distress, will become so if help is not provided to them in the meantime.
MRO (Mass Rescue Operations Guidance)

The IMRF has developed the most comprehensive guidance available for planning and preparing for Mass Rescue Operations (MROs) in the maritime environment.
Our Work
Join Our Mailing List
Contact Us
Staff

Join our mailing list