ORRCA's 24/7 Marine Mammal Rescue Hotline

ORRCA's 24/7 Rescue hotline

the lifeline of orrca

Every marine mammal rescue begins with a single call. ORRCA’s 24/7 Rescue Hotline is the critical link between the public and rescue response teams, helping ensure whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs receive urgent care when they need it most.

Do you need to report a marine mammal emergency?

CALL US NOW ON (02) 9415 3333

Why The Hotline Matters

Every Rescue Starts With A Call

ORRCA’s Rescue Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, triaging calls about stranded, entangled, injured or distressed marine mammals.

Hotline Rescue Coordinators are often the first point of contact during an emergency. They provide calm guidance to callers, gather critical information, coordinate rescue responses and help connect animals with trained rescue teams.

In 2025, ORRCA triaged 2,437 calls and Hotline Rescue Coordinators managed 900 on the ground incidents across the east coast of Australia. Without the hotline, marine mammal emergencies would go unseen and unreported.

As demand for marine mammal rescue continues to grow, ORRCA is always looking for dedicated Hotline Rescue Coordinators to help answer the call. The role can be performed remotely from anywhere in Australia - all you need is a phone, a computer and a passion for protecting our marine wildlife.

It's also important to know that as a Hotline Rescue Coordinator, you will never be alone. Every shift on the hotline is supported by at least one other Hotline Rescue Coordinator, and a team of Senior responders who will assist and mentor you throughout.

Be The Voice Behind The Rescue

Is Hotline Volunteering Right For You?

voluntering on our hotline is a Great fit for people who are:

Calm under pressure
Strong communicators
Compassionate and patient
Comfortable using computers and phones
Passionate about marine conservation

It's Important to know:

Hotline shifts operate remotely
Full training and mentoring is provided for free
You are never alone! There is a team of people who support you on every shift
Some calls can be emotionally challenging
You'll play a critical role in rescue outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Hotline Rescue Coordinator do?

ORRCA Hotline Rescue Coordinators answer marine mammals emergency calls, collect critical information and coordinate rescue support with trained responders.

Do I need previous experience?

No. ORRCA provides extensive training to become a Hotline Rescue Coordinator. and ongoing support for hotline volunteers during each shift.

Is the role remote?

Yes. Hotline Rescue Coordinators operate remotely from their own homes, using ORRCA systems and communication tools.

What kind of time commitment is involved?

Volunteers generally commit to one scheduled full-day shift a week. This shift is supported by at least one other Hotline Rescue Coordinator, and a Senior Team who will provide support and mentorship throughout the day.

What types of calls are received?

Calls may involve reports of stranded whales or dolphins, entanglements, injured seals or dugongs, or other marine wildlife concerns. Part of the role is sometimes referring members of the public to other wildlife rescue organisations if the call does not pertain to a marine mammal (eg: Sea birds or Turtles).

Is the role emotionally challenging?

Some calls can be confronting, but volunteers are supported through training, mentoring and access to mental health services. You will never be alone managing an incident.

Is the role paid?

No. ORRCA’s Rescue Hotline is supported by dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time to help protect and rescue marine mammals. While the role is unpaid, Hotline Rescue Coordinators play a critical part in emergency response efforts and receive training, support and the opportunity to make a real impact for marine mammals across Australia.