The IMRF took part in the 10th Pacific Regional Search and Rescue (PacSAR) Workshop in Suva, Fiji, from 11–15 November 2025. Held every two years, the event brings together the Pacific’s SAR community to share experiences, strengthen coordination, and plan for the future.

Hosted by the Government of Fiji with support from Pacific Community, the Republic of Fiji Navy, the PacSAR Steering Committee, and the International Maritime Organization, the workshop gathered representatives from 14 Pacific Island States and Territories, alongside partners including the International Civil Aviation Organization, Iridium, Maritime New Zealand, and the IMRF.

Participants reviewed the current PacSAR Strategic Plan and reviewed its implementation. Discussions focused on improving national SAR capability, enhancing regional cooperation, preparing for mass rescue incidents, supporting remote communities with better distress alerting, and using data more effectively.

The IMRF was represented by Phil Bostock, Head of International Liaison at HM Coastguard (UK) which is an IMRF member organisation.

“Pacific SAR agencies operate across some of the most remote environments on earth,” Phil said. “The collaboration shown throughout PacSAR 10 highlights the region’s determination to keep people safe, no matter the distance or difficulty.”

The IMRF contributions included a presentation by Phil on the IMRF’s work and projects, highlighting available resources which may assist in improving SAR capabilities across the region. Phil also briefed representatives on the IMRF’s Global Maritime SAR System Review and called all SAR stakeholders to participate in the online survey to share their experience and expertise.

One of the week’s highlights was a Fiji-led Mass Rescue Exercise simulating an airliner ditching at sea. The exercise tested the readiness of the new Maritime Essential Services Centre and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Fiji, involving multiple agencies in a complex scenario.

PacSAR 10 closed with a renewed commitment to strengthening governance, expanding training, supporting accession to international conventions, and improving community-level safety awareness. The next workshop will be hosted by French Polynesia in 2027.

“The IMRF is proud to stand alongside Pacific SAR partners,” Phil added. “Their dedication and spirit of cooperation are inspiring, and we look forward to helping turn these plans into action.”