Marine Rescue NSW appoints State Training Manager

by Ken McManus on 14 Feb 2011 Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Glenn Finniss has announced the appointment of Nicole Allen to the position of State Training Manager.

'Nicole brings impressive credentials to Marine Rescue,' said Commissioner Finniss. 'She has a background in both the Maritime and Educational sector, including holding both a Master Class 4 Certificate of Competency and a Bachelor of Education. Marine Rescue NSW welcomed its 3,000th volunteer member just last week so Nicole joins a big team of highly motivated people, a significant number of whom are new to marine rescue and are keen to get started on their training programs.'

Nicole commenced her Maritime career in 1986 volunteering aboard the S.T. Wattle. The Wattle is a Steam Tug Boat built in 1933 which was then operating as a charter vessel on Port Phillip Bay. Nicole then secured employment aboard the sailing ship Eye of the Wind and spent a few years sailing aboard her travelling to many great places including all through the Pacific, Europe and around Cape Horn.

Nicole said 'My primary, initial responsibility is to obtain Registered Training Organisation (RTO) status for MRNSW. To have RTO status means that we will be able to deliver our own nationally recognised training & course qualifications and I will be very busy in the next few months as we work towards this.'

In 1993, Nicole settled in Sydney and has commanded the Tall Ship Svanen and power Catamaran Jerry Bailey. She has also had an association with the Sydney Heritage Fleet volunteer organisation, including time training volunteers aboard the James Craig.

'Since 1996 I have been employed with TAFE teaching and managing various aspects of Maritime Training with the Open Training and Education Network (OTEN),' said Nicole. 'I have a great deal of experience working with curriculum & training packages including designing learning and assessment strategies, resources and assessments to meet AQTF, USL and NSCV requirements. I have also presented at the National NMSC Safety Conference on two occasions.'

'I am extremely passionate about safety and look forward to working with an organisation that not only carries out essential work in keeping boaters safe on the water but is also actively involved in raising awareness about safety in the boating community.'

Marine Rescue NSW website