Man faces court over ‘improper’ marine radio use

Police allege the man was heard broadcasting on VHF channel 16, the designated emergency channel used for calling, distress, urgency and safety priority calls between ships and coastal radio stations, on the afternoon and evening of January 2.

“The broadcasts contained vulgar and offensive language, insults and targeted marine rescue volunteers conducting listening watches between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast,” Queensland Police said in a statement.

“At times the male person was rambling, and his transmissions were repetitive and unintelligible.

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“The male person was politely requested to keep the emergency channel clear and desist from transmitting further broadcasts. The male person continued his reckless and belligerent conduct for hours during which time Water Police and volunteer organisations were following up on a search and rescue incident involving a genuine ‘mayday’ call.

“The actions of the male caused substantial interference and disruption of the emergency frequency by recklessly occupying the frequency without reason and potentially putting lives at risk.”

An investigation launched by Water Police Brisbane in the wake of the incident identified a 41-year-old Manly man who was later arrested. He was was issued a notice to appear in relation to unlicensed operation of a radio communication device, and recklessly causing interference with radio communications.

“Water Police would like to remind recreational boaties that all broadcasts on the emergency frequencies are recorded and there are serious penalties for misuse,” Queensland Police said.

“The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) website contains information on correct marine radio protocols and how and where to obtain a marine radio licence.”

Unlike the older, licence-free 27MHz radio systems, anyone using a VHF radio must hold a certificate of proficiency issued by ACMA before they can legally pick up a handset.

VHF channel 16 is used as a listening channel on the water. Licenced operators can use it to contact other boats, but they must immediately switch to either channel 72, 73 or 77 to continue a conversation.

Channel 73 is also used to contact coastal stations.

The Tasmania-based Australian Maritime College produces a VHF operator’s handbook that is also used for the certificate of proficiency exam. The exam costs $89, while the Marine VHF Radio Operators Handbook costs $20.50 posted.