Last Updated on: 21st May 2025, 03:47 pm
Coastguard Nelson, based in the picturesque harbour city of Nelson, has recently completed a transformative upgrade to its communication systems—bolstering its ability to deliver lifesaving services across an expansive maritime region.
The volunteer-led service, consisting of 35 dedicated members, has long prioritised the safety of seafarers year-round. Confronted with a declining analogue system, they made the pivotal decision to adopt a fully digital setup via the Tait DMR Tier 3 network, with the final step being the adoption of the Omnicore Express Radio Dispatch Console.
This major communications overhaul, powered by Radio over IP, was entirely funded by grants from Pub Charity, the Lion Foundation, and Coastguard New Zealand. The new console has remarkably improved clarity and extended signal range over the organisation’s 10,400 sq km coverage zone—delivering faster, clearer, and more secure responses.
A particularly beneficial feature of the upgrade is the remote dispatch capability, which allows the console to be accessed via a Windows tablet. This has significantly reduced the time required to mobilise teams and improved operational flexibility in urgent situations.
Moreover, the new digital framework allows for private communications during sensitive operations, a stark improvement over the limitations of public radio channels. It also strategically positions Coastguard Nelson for seamless integration with the forthcoming Public Service Network (P25), designed for national emergency services.
This investment aligns Nelson Coastguard with other local marine response units—Tasman and Nelson Harbour Masters and Nelson Surf Life Saving—who are now operating on the same DMR Search and Rescue channel. The shared platform ensures exceptionally clear collaboration between services during emergency scenarios.
The communications upgrade was led by Mount Campbell Communications, whose Managing Director Lloyd Welsey shared his enthusiasm:
“I am pleased we have been able to provide Nelson Coastguard with a state-of-the-art and future-proof system that will greatly enhance their response capability both internally as well as in collaboration with other rescue agencies.”
In recognition of the project’s innovation, Jerame Ashton of Mount Campbell Communications will speak at the Comms Connect New Zealand conference this June in Christchurch, highlighting the system’s design and deployment.
This future-proofed dispatch solution marks a significant step forward for Nelson Coastguard and the thousands of vessels they help protect—ensuring safer waters for the entire region.
