Rescued Podcast // Ep 006 – Linda from AMSA

An expert in satellite communication devices

We venture into wild places to get away from it all.

But when it comes to calling for help, letting someone know that we’re delayed or even just giving our loved ones peace of mind, we have to rely on satellite communication methods – because mobile phone coverage often doesn’t reach to where we want to go.

In this episode, I speak with Linda Berryman from AMSA (that’s the Australian Maritime Safety Authority) in Canberra. 

We do a deep dive into Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), along with 2-way communication aka ‘SEND’ devices (such as ZOLEO, InReach or SPOT trackers). And yep, we also talk about the satellite capability with the iPhone 14 and some other very exciting technology that is just around the corner.

Listen here

View on Zencastr

AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority) website

If you accidentally activate your beacon call: 1800 641 792

Other AMSA Contacts

Download AMSA’s handy PLB tips and tricks here

Linda’s story takeaways

  • What is AMSA and their role?
  • What is a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) and how do they work?
  • How is a PLB different from an EPIRB?
  • When should I use one? Press the button?
  • What is a SEND device?
  • How is a PLB different from a 2-way satellite communication device like InReach, Zoleo, Spot?
  • How to use and get the best result form a PLB?
  • How to look after your PLB?
  • What about the iPhone 14 satellite capability? How does that compare to a PLB and a 2-way satellite communication device?

Episode transcript

Download the transcript here

Thanks to

Sponsor // Paddy Pallin

Rescued Podcast main photo // Ben Cirulis and fotografija.com.au

Writer, producer and content creator by trade, search and rescue volunteer by passion, Caro Ryan started LotsaFreshAir.com to inspire, teach and encourage people to get into hiking and the outdoors safely.

It’s all about connecting people to wild places in meaningful ways, so they can look after themselves, their mates and these precious places we visit.

She teaches wilderness navigation, authored the book, ‘How to Navigate’ and hosts, ‘Rescued - an Outdoor Podcast for Hikers and Adventurers.

In the bottom of her pack you'll find coffee grounds, instant noodles past their used by date and an insatiable curiosity.

Bushwalking & Hiking Tips from an Unexpected Outdoors Chick

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