The first service call for the 'Sir William Hillary' was on 2nd March 1930, when she put to sea at 1845hrs after reports of a collision in the Channel. The two vessels involved were the SS 'Macville' from Dundee and the SS 'Moko Maru' registered in Dairen. The lifeboat first went to the 'Macville' where she was found to be in no immediate danger so the 'Sir William Hillary' then moved to the 'Moko Maru', before escorting her into Dover Harbour.

The lifeboat then returned to the 'Macville' where the Station's Honorary Secretary, Dr J. Richardson, gave first aid to several of her crew members that had been injured in the collision.

A Letter of Appreciation was later sent by the RNLI to Dr Richardson recognising his help during the service.