Your Specialists in Radio and Navigation Equipment for use on Land, Sea and Air

EPIRB's (Emergency Position Indication Rescue Beacon)

Q. Why switch to a digital frequcncy EPIRB?
A. As of the 1st February 2009, COSPAS-SARSAT (international governing
council controlling the satellite system) will cease monitoring the 121.5Mhz analogue system in order to reduce the number of false alarms of analogue beacons. 406Mhz beacons are more reliable and are detected more quickly and accurately compared to analogue units.

Q. Why must I register my beacon?
A. Registering your beacon assists search and rescue authorities so they have immediate access to important information such as your name, emergency contacts and type of vessel to assist in confirmation of the emergency and the search.

Q. Is my personal information used in any other ways?
A. No. The information provided on your registration form is only used for search and rescue purposes.

Q. What if my details change?
A. If any details on your registration such as phone number, address or type of vessel change, you must update your registration details with your local authority.

Q. What if I sell my beacon?
A. You must advise your local authority and make sure the purchaser knows to re-register the beacon or you may be contacted by search and rescue should the beacon be activated.

Q. Where do I send my registration form?
A. AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority) may be contacted on the following details:

Beacon Beacon Registration Section, AusSAR
Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)
GPO Box 2181
Canberra City ACT 2601

Phone: 1800 641 792
Fax: 1800 622 153
Email: aus_beacon_query@amsa.gov.au

Q. What if I buy a 406Mhz beacon second-hand?
A. Please complete a new registration form to re-register the beacon with your details.

Q. Where can I obtain a registration form?
A. Registration forms are supplied in the packaging with your beacon. Additional forms are available online at http://www.amsa.gov.au/Forms/amsa6.pdf