The 2024 IMRF Annual Meeting in Thessaloniki, Greece, marked a monumental moment in the history of maritime search and rescue (SAR). Held on 27-28 November 2024, this special event celebrated 100 years of the IMRF’s outstanding contribution to SAR. Hosted by the Hellenic Rescue Team (HRT), the meeting brought together 124 participants from 34 member organisations across 18 countries to reflect on the past, discuss current challenges, and strategise for the future of maritime rescue.

Click here to view all the photos from the Annual Meeting.

The event kicked off with an opening speech by Fotis Sarigiannis, President of the Hellenic Rescue Team, who warmly welcomed all delegates. Caroline Jupe, representing IMRF, introduced the conference, emphasising the importance of sharing stories of the past 100 years and the achievements of the IMRF members. Panagiotis Gkofas, Quaestor of the European Economic & Social Committee, spoke about the EU’s efforts in creating a unified emergency response coordination across land, sea, and air.

The historical significance of the IMRF was underscored by Clay Evans, IMRF historian, who presented on the history of international SAR cooperation through the ages. Michael Vlasto also gave a moving speech on his 50 years of involvement with the IMRF and its remarkable achievements.

Following the historical insights, the meeting focused on the present and future of SAR. Caroline Jupe, Jaakko Heikkilä, and Roly McKie shared updates on IMRF’s current initiatives, including the #SARyouOK? mental health awareness campaign, the #WomenInSAR initiative, the #SaferSAR programme, and IMO advocacy. Various member presentations covered a range of topics from new SAR technologies, such as the THEMIS SAR search planning solution and AIS technology to public-private partnerships, creation of a Psychological First Aid Manual for rescue crews, and the options for personal protective equipment at sea.

Looking forward, the meeting delved into the #FutureSAR Project. Jaakko Heikkilä, IMRF International Programme Manager provided an update on the project. The presentations on flood rescue operations in Greece and the UK provided valuable lessons for SAR responses to natural disasters, while sustainability in SAR organisations was first discussed by Katie Young of the RNLI, followed by a workshop on the topic.

Another workshop on Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and their potential impact on SAR operations, facilitated by Roly McKie from the IMRF, sparked further discussions and considerations regarding the future of SAR. A significant moment of the event was the IMRF Awards 2024, recognising individuals and organisations for their exceptional contributions to maritime SAR.

The first day of the conference concluded with a delightful dinner at a seafood restaurant, providing delegates with the perfect opportunity to network and engage in lively discussions about the day's topics and the exciting activities planned for the following day.

The second day of the conference focused on SAR in Greece, including presentations on the role of women, future technologies, and the nature of SAR operations. The conference concluded with a live rescue demonstration at the Thessaloniki seafront, showcasing various rescue techniques in a simulated emergency scenario involving a burning vessel. The exercise, which involved some 30 volunteers from the Hellenic Rescue Team and the Hellenic Coast Guard, highlighted the skills and coordination required in real-life SAR operations.

The 2024 IMRF Annual Meeting not only celebrated a century of progress but also set the stage for the future of maritime SAR. As the IMRF looks toward the next 100 years, the commitment to innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration remains at the heart of its mission. The event was a testament to the dedication of SAR professionals worldwide and their unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea.

A heartfelt thanks to all speakers, panellists, and participants who made the event a resounding success. A special thank you to the Hellenic Rescue Team for hosting the event and for their incredible support and hard work in making the event possible. Together, the SAR community is ready to continue building on the legacy of 100 years of IMRF excellence and advancing global maritime safety.

All presentations from the seminar can be accessed through the Members Area of the IMRF website.