News & Media

Surf Life Saving is advising rock fishermen and anglers to take extreme caution as dangerous ocean conditions are expected at beaches from Sydney to the North Coast over  Thursday 31 May – Friday 1 June 2012.

A moderate southerly swell of up to 2m is forecast, with swell periods of 18-20 seconds. This will create a situation of higher risk to rock-fishermen fishing on exposed areas of coastline.

Due to the large swell period, the larger ‘set waves’ will be very inconsistent, possibly only coming through every 10-15minutes.

Surf Life Saving NSW urges all rock fishermen to avoid exposed rock platforms and ensure they are wearing life jackets.

“People need to take extreme care if rock-fishing in the coming few days” said SLSNSW Lifesaving Manager, Dean Storey.

“A fishing spot may appear a lot safer than it actually is, and there is a higher chance that rock fisherman might be ‘caught out’ by these set waves. Always observe a rock platform for at least 15-20mins before venturing out”.

Stan Konstantaras from the Recreational Fishing Alliance is warning people not to ‘put their lives on the line’ and advises the following key safety messages for rock fisherman:

-Always wear a lifejacket & proper footwear

-Always spend time watching the conditions before fishing, and constantly scan for changing conditions

-Check tides, swell and weather conditions

-Fish with a friend – never fish alone

-Carry a mobile phone

-Never turn your back to the sea

-If in doubt, don’t go out!

“Large waves can appear and wash over a rock-shelf without warning, sweeping any persons in the way into the sea – all rock fishermen should always wear lifejackets”, Konstantaras says.

For multi-lingual rock fishing safety information go to www.safefishing.com.au & www.beachsafe.org.au

For in-water emergencies, call 000 Police immediately.