IMRF Awards 2026

The prestigious IMRF Awards are returning in 2026, with nominations opening in late June for the eleventh year of recognising volunteer and professional SAR personnel, organisations, and technologies from around the world. These awards, renowned for recognising dedication, hard work, exceptional leadership, and advancements in technology and innovation, serve as a beacon of excellence in the maritime SAR community.  

The IMRF Awards not only highlight the dedication and exceptional effort of maritime SAR professionals and volunteers but also underscore the significant impact of their work. By recognising technological advancements, the awards encourage ongoing improvement and adaptation in SAR operations, demonstrating the importance of innovation in saving lives in the world’s waters and acknowledging the global reach and influence of the SAR community.  

The winners and runners-up of the 2025 IMRF Awards:  

IMRF Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution - sponsored by Powermaster Marine

This award recognises an individual's exceptional effort and dedication to maritime SAR. The recipient may have demonstrated exceptional actions, leadership, or innovation in rescue operations. 

  • Winner: Heidi Ho Yuen-tung, Hong Kong Government Flying Service, Hong Kong SAR, China
  • Runner-up: Samuel Wangila Wanyonyi, Kenya Red Cross Society, Kenya

IMRF Award for Outstanding Team Contribution - sponsored by Irwin Mitchell 

This award is given to a team that has had remarkable collaboration and effectiveness in maritime SAR missions. The focus is on teamwork, coordination, and the collective achievement involved in rescue operations. 

  • Winner: Ambrey, UK, and the crew of the Al Bahia, Djibouti  
  • Runner-up: QF7 Redland Bay Coast Guard, AVCGA, Australia 

IMRF Innovation and Technology Award – sponsored by Kpler 

This category honours advancements in maritime SAR technology and methodology. It can include new tools, systems, or techniques significantly enhancing SAR capabilities and efficiency. 

  • Winner: Global SAR Hub, France
  • Runner-up: Auckland Coastguard, New Zealand  

IMRF #WomenInSAR Award – sponsored by HamiltonJet 

This award honours an individual who has made a significant contribution to improving equality of opportunity for women and girls in maritime SAR. 

  • Winner: Caron Parfitt, Marine Rescue NSW, Australia  
  • Runner-up: Sarah Psaila, Auckland Coastguard, New Zealand  

IMRF Vladimir Maksimov Award for Lifetime Achievement - sponsored by Inmarsat 

Named after Vladimir Maksimov, this award celebrates an individual’s lifelong dedication to maritime SAR. It acknowledges sustained contributions to the SAR community over many years. 

  • Winner: Peter Dawes, RNLI, UK  
  • Runner-up: Lance Miller, Marine Rescue NSW, Australia  

IMRF People's Choice Award - sponsored by Navigate PR

This award allows the public to vote for their choice after the finalists have been announced. You cannot make a nomination for this category. 

  • Winner: Heidi Ho Yuen-tung, Hong Kong Government Flying Service, Hong Kong SAR, China

IMRF Patron’s Award 

Selected by the IMRF’s Patron, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, this award honours an individual or team that has shown outstanding efforts in maritime SAR. 

  • Winner: Sarah Psaila, Auckland Coastguard, New Zealand  

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