City of Perth SLSC operates an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Drone Program, to assist with beach operations. The UAV services are used in:
– The surveillance of marine creatures and objects
– The identification of rip currents and other hazards; and
– Support of search operations

When used as part of a Surf Life Saving beach patrol, UAVs provide valuable intel which enables patrol teams to efficiently deploy people and other assets to carry out preventative actions and rescues. City is looking at developing new UAV Drone Operators to be part of the Beach Operations.  To be considered as a UAV Drone Operator, you must:

  • Be a member of the City of Perth SLSC,
  • Be 16 years or older,
  • Have a Surf Life Saving recognised certificate such as Bronze Medallion, Surf Rescue Certificate, Radio Operations, First Aid or ARTC,
  • Be prepared to obtain a CASA Aviation Reference Number (ARN),
  • Be prepared to complete the SLSWA RPAS Online Theory Course,
  • Be prepared to attend a drone flying training session at City where the basics of Drone operations will be covered,
  • Be prepared to do at least 2 Patrols as a Drone Operator, and at least 2 Patrols as a Drone Spotter (assisting Drone Operator) during the coming season.

City will be organising training for Drone Operators in September in preparation for the new season, so if you are interested in being part of the City Drone Patrol, contact the club to learn more. To find out more email here.