Marine VHF Radio Operators Handbook

[BKA]

G'day,
I'm thinking about getting a VHF radio in case of an emergency.
As I won't be using it for any transmissions except for an emergency then, under the Radiocommunications Act 1992, I don't require a Marine Radio Operator's VHF Certificate of Proficiency . (In maritime distress you can use any means at your disposal to attract attention, make known your position, and obtain help.)
However, it's good to know VHF etiquette and as the free download of the Marine VHF Radio Operators Handbook has been extended until 30th June (usually $14 or obtained via a course etc.), I've downloaded a copy and had a read. Took just over half an hour to read. Also did the 145 online test questions and scored over 90%.
Oh, bugger it, I may as well get my certificate. Can do it online and only costs around $56 or so and then you have the certificate for life. Should be able to easily answer the required 18 correct answers from 25 multiple choice questions to obtain the 70% pass mark.
Anyhow, if any one else is interested in downloading the handbook and/or having a go at the test questions, go to:
http://www.amc.edu.au/handbook
Now for the hard part - deciding which VHF radio to get. If I end up deciding not to get the certificate, I just go for a standard $50 unit like the waterproof handheld Eagle EHR-10. If I do decide to get the certificate then I'll go for one with more bells and whistles.
Cheers.

[Bozzie]

thanks for that, downloading it now.

[Kybosh]

I've got a pair of UHFs (not waterproof) and I've been thinking about getting a waterproof VHF marine band. How many yackers use radios on PPB? How useful are they? The safety factor is my main concern. And thanks for the post, BKA.
John