CPSU member, Ric - Customs Marine Unit

‘I'm with the Customs Marine Unit, where I spend my time out at sea on patrol. We look out for incursions such as illegal fishing, people smuggling and drug importations. My vessel is 35 metres long with a crew of between 10 to 12 people.

‘The Marine Unit has lots of hats - different powers under different legislation. We work closely with regional Customs offices, Quarantine and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority among other Commonwealth agencies.

‘We work on/off rosters - so 22 days on the vessel patrolling, then 20 days off. The Marine Unit comprises of people from many different backgrounds, from the marine industry to Customs to law enforcement, so I enjoy the excellent company and comradery in the Marine Unit.

‘In addition to our law enforcement role, we also conduct on board duties such as maintenance, navigation, ships husbandry and cooking for the crew. My homemade pizza is to die for!

‘Currently, we're monitoring the northern waters of Australia, anywhere between Exmouth and Cairns - although after 9 years in the Marine Unit and 15 years at Customs, I can safely say I have worked along every part of the Australian coastline. Getting to see these parts of the coastline is one of the enjoyable aspects of working on the vessels.

The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service has over 5,500 staff, working across Australia and overseas.

Did you know?

The offshore maritime area which Customs vessels patrol ranges over more than 15 million square kilometres and is 20 per cent larger than the Australian mainland. Customs operates a fleet of 8 seagoing patrol vessels.