Ireland’s leading maritime newspaper covering the Coastal, Fishing and Maritime Communities

MARINE TIMES NEWS January 28th:
Bristow’s First all-female Search and Rescue technical crew in Ireland

Winch Operator Kim Germishuys and Winch Paramedic Sophie Thompson have made a little piece of Bristow history, by becoming the first all-female Search and Rescue (SAR) technical crew with Bristow in Ireland.

Kim and Sophie, who are both part of the Bristow Ireland transition team, started on shift together at the Sligo base, Ireland, on 16th January, before taking to the sky on a training exercise with the cargo ship, Vikingbank.

Kim, who is highly experienced Technical Crew, started her SAR career as a rescue swimmer and has been delivering operations with Bristow for several years - from The North Sea to the Dutch Caribbean.

Sophie recently completed her line training as a UKSAR Cadet, before being assigned to the Bristow Ireland transition team as Winch Paramedic.

“It was a great moment to complete a shift with Sophie,” said Kim. “Of course, during the flight the fact that we are both women was irrelevant, but once on the ground, we realised the significance of what had taken place and it was quite a moment!”

"For me, it’s important that the next generation can see two strong capable women working together in challenging environments, where we have a positive impact on other people's lives. I hope we can show that with hard work and determination that it is possible to reach your dream job."

Sophie completed her line training last year after progressing through the highly competitive UK SAR Cadetship selection. She was subsequently selected to join Bristow Ireland as a SAR winch paramedic.

“This is my dream job, and it’s a privilege to do what we do," she said.

"In Search and Rescue, my role combines aviation and rescue, with a strong focus on delivering the highest possible standard of care in often challenging environments. I have been inspired by many exceptional winch paramedics and winch operators, both male and female, and it is an honour to now work alongside them.”

Sophie added: "People are employed in SAR on their ability, not their gender, and it is really great to see the world of aviation opening up as more women follow a career in SAR."

As part of the Bristow Ireland transition team, Kim and Sophie are helping introduce a new era of Search and Rescue as the new AW189 fleet becomes a familiar sight across the country. The final Bristow Ireland SAR base in Waterford is expected to transition to Bristow soon, thanks to help from Sophie, Kim and everyone else in the Irish team.

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