Excitement is building on the far South Coast as Marine Rescue NSW in conjunction with Yamba Welding and Engineering produce the first-of-its-kind ‘Secure Class’ vessel which will be known as Eden 30.
The 11.3 metre boat is expected to be delivered in late winter and will be the first vessel assigned to the Eden unit after loaning XRAY boats from Marine Rescue NSW state headquarters.
Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin said the ‘Secure Class’ name came from an epiphany.
“I was thinking about different names that we could use for the class of vessel when I was doing a presentation to Marine Rescue staff at our annual forum.
“I ran it through Yamba Welding, we discussed it to make sure that they were happy with the name so the ‘Secure Class’ vessel was born,” he said.
Mr Parkin said ‘Secure’ is an anagram of rescue.
“Being Marine Rescue we wanted to have some sort of affiliation with the vessel name as we’ve had a large input into the design.
“That’s where ‘Secure Class’ came from.
“It’s a deepwater port so we had to make sure we had a vessel that was going to meet the demands of that environment,” he said.
Eden 30 will be powered by twin 300 OXE outboard diesel engines, have a full Raymarine suite and four shock mitigating seated positions.
Mr Parkin said the line drawings of ED 30 are coming together and the cut files are being made.
“This new rescue boat will play a vital role in Marine Rescue’s mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Parkin said.
Eden 30 is one of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Marine Rescue NSW has recorded a record number of rescues over the 2022/23 boating season.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the state from the Tweed to Eden and on the inland waterways of the Alpine Lakes and at Moama were involved in a record 3,263 rescue missions from October 1, 2022 to ANZAC Day this year.
This season’s figure was an increase of 1.3% on the previous record set during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/21 while emergency missions increased by 7% to 897.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said volunteer crews returned 7,472 boaters to shore during the season.
“It’s been a really busy summer for our members and we have seen a consistent theme across a lot of our rescues.
“We continue to see a lot of boaters running out of petrol, experiencing mechanical and engine failure and our message to boaters is to continue to check your equipment, make sure your boat is in good working order before you head out and importantly always check the weather conditions,” Commissioner Barrell said.
57% of rescue missions were for engine problems, flat batteries or fuel issues.
Marine Rescue NSW also saw a large increase in the number of boaters Logging On with the service.
Commissioner Barrell said 48,379 Log Ons were recorded over the boating season.
“On the back of our Marine Rescue crews being really busy this summer it’s been great to see more boaters Log On with Marine Rescue.
“We’ve seen an increase of around 20% of boaters Logging On over VHF marine radio or through the Marine Rescue app.
“It’s really important that any boater that goes out and about particularly in the offshore environment takes the opportunity to Log On with Marine Rescue and that’s whether it’s over the VHF marine radio or through our free Marine Rescue app.
“The fact that you Log On and that Marine Rescue is tracking your voyage means that if you don’t return as planned rescue services will start looking for you,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed 156,244 radio calls over the season with a large portion answered by the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre.
53 of those calls were Maydays where lives were in imminent danger while 44 Pan Pans were received from boaters in an urgent but non-life threatening situation.
Commissioner Barrell praised the work of volunteers across Marine Rescue’s 46 units who played an important role of keeping boaters in NSW safe.
“I want to commend all Marine Rescue NSW volunteers for their thousands of hours of dedicated service to keeping our coastline and waterways as safe as possible this summer,” he said.
Of all activities being undertaken during the season’s 3,263 rescue missions, 46 per cent involved boaters either fishing or cruising.
“We’re so lucky have great waterways in NSW, we love seeing boaters out there and enjoying them,” Commissioner Barrell said.
“We just ask that they continue to do it safely, focus on safety, focus on the weather conditions and enjoy our great waterways,” he said.
Boating Season Breakdown – Three busiest units in each zone – October 1, 2022 to April 25, 2023
Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes will welcome a new 6.8 metre Gray’s Marine and Welding CNC plate vessel later this year which will help keep people safe on Lake Jindabyne and Eucumbene Dam.
The new rescue boat will have a full Raymarine suite, be powered by twin Suzuki 140hp engines and replace the existing AL 20 Sailfish Cat vessel.
Virtual testing has commenced on the new Alpine Lakes 20 boat and Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin recently visited Gray’s Marine and Welding on the NSW North Coast for a build update.
“Everything is progressing well, there’s no major hurdles or delays and we are very much looking forward to adding this vessel to our fleet.
“This is specifically built for the harsh environment they’ve got to deal with so even though it’s a smaller vessel it has a cabin which keeps the crew out of the elements.
“That means they can stay out on the water for longer when they need to conduct a search,” he said.
Above: The current AL 20 Sailfish Cat rescue boat
Mr Parkin said the bow has been strengthened on the vessel because of the large amount of shore work done by Marine Rescue NSW crews in the region.
“We’ve added a ladder to the front of that boat which folds out so if they need to access the shore they can beach the boat, walk off the front and get people on board through the front of the vessel without having to climb around the side or having to enter the cold waters up there on the lakes,” he said.
Alpine Lakes 20 will also have a wider deck for maximum capability.
“If we have to have a patient on board we want to have as much space to be able to help that person whether it be blankets, basic first aid or to full cardiac arrest and support on that person on the back deck.
“That’s one of the reasons why we’ve really tried to increase the space or open up the boat as much as possible on the back deck.
“This new rescue boat will play a vital role in Marine Rescue’s mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Parkin said.
AL 20 is due for completion before the end of the financial year and is one of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment in 2019 to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Marine Rescue volunteers across NSW are rescue ready from the Tweed to Eden and inland on the Alpine Lakes and Murray River at Moama ahead of ANZAC Day with the boating season wrapping up April 25.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said with ANZAC Day falling on Tuesday the agency is expecting boaters to take the opportunity to make a long weekend this weekend.
“We have seen large numbers of boats out and about all summer and we expect this weekend to be no different,” Commissioner Barrell said.
The boating season commenced on October 1 last year and finishes on ANZAC Day.
“Marine Rescue crews have been busy right throughout the boating season and undertaken nearly 3,000 rescues this summer alone.
“800 of those have been life-threatening emergencies,” he said.
The Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner is asking all boaters to be vigilant when out and about on the state’s waters in the lead up to and including ANZAC Day.
“In the maritime environment a simple breakdown can all of a sudden turn into a life-threatening emergency, that’s why it’s so important that you make sure that your boat is in good working order before you head out and you’re always checking the conditions.
“Make sure that they have all the right safety equipment on board and importantly Log On with your local Marine Rescue base via VHF marine radio channel 16 or over the free Marine Rescue app,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Just over 10 months after being named on the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours list, Marine Rescue Bermagui Unit Commander Caron Parfitt ESM will be at Government House in Canberra tomorrow morning to receive the Emergency Services Medal from Governor-General David Hurley AC DSC (Retd).
Ms Parfitt was recognised last June for her decade of service to Marine Rescue NSW and the local community but was unable to attend the September ceremony because of a long standing travel commitment.
As one of Marine Rescue’s first female Coxswains, Ms Parfitt has recorded hundreds of hours of sea time and is a skilled and respected rescue vessel master who makes herself available around the clock to respond to emergencies on the water.
She has conducted numerous rescue missions, often in dark and dangerous conditions, returning those in trouble safely to their family and friends.
During the 2019-20 bushfire emergency on the South Coast, Ms Parfitt was tasked to be in operational readiness to assist on water evacuations and liaised with the local Surf Club during the evacuation process, before finally being evacuated herself.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell will attend Ms Parfitt’s Investiture Ceremony.
“Caron’s been an outstanding member of Marine Rescue for just on a decade now and to have a female leader of her calibre amongst our ranks is a real asset for Marine Rescue,” Mr Barrell said.
Ms Parfitt said Marine Rescue was a great fit for her when she moved to Bermagui in 2013.
“I’m a keen sailor and wanted to volunteer for an organisation where I could make a difference with like-minded people.
“I feel so humbled and honoured to receive this award and very privileged to be part of the Marine Rescue Bermagui team.
“I’m just one of a team of volunteers who all do amazing work to help save lives on the water,” she said.
With the ANZAC Day weekend upon us, the Bermagui Unit Commander is urging boaters to remember safety first.
“My message to boaters is simple.
“Safety first and always Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue.
“I encourage all boaters to check their boat and weather before heading out and when in doubt, stay home,” Ms Parfitt said.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell is urging boaters to check conditions before heading out on the water with a strong wind warning forecast for the Eden Coast tomorrow.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting winds along the Eden Coast to shift south southwesterly 15 to 25 knots late Wednesday morning.
Winds are predicted to be even stronger during the afternoon and evening.
Commissioner Barrell said boaters should be wary on the Eden Coast.
“With this strong wind warning that’s forecast, winds up to around 30 knots, it’s advisable that all boaters really take care.
“Be well across the weather conditions and most importantly make sure that they Log On with their local Marine Rescue base.
“Quite often when you leave the boat ramp the conditions are much more benign than they are later in the day.
“It’s very important when you’re out particularly on the open waters that you’re constantly checking the weather conditions, you’re checking the weather app and you’re checking in with your Marine Rescue base to make sure you’re right across the changing conditions,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Volunteers at Marine Rescue Port Stephens are counting down the weeks until the arrival of the unit’s new vessel Port Stephens 30.
The new 10 metre Naiad boat is being built at Yamba Welding and Engineering on the NSW North Coast.
Powered by twin 300hp outboard engines, the new vessel is on target for completion in late May and will replace the current 8.5 metre rescue boat pictured below.
Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin recently visited Yamba Welding and Engineering for a construction update.
“Everything is progressing well, there’s no major hurdles or delays and we are very much looking forward to adding this vessel to our fleet.
“This vessel will give them a greater range when they’re out searching,” he said.
Mr Parkin said the new rescue boat also has improved ergonomic features.
“That makes it much more comfortable for the crew to use, reduces fatigue, gives them more chance to look after the vessel, to look after themselves and really be out there for the public for as long as needed to operate a successful search.
“This new rescue boat will play a vital role in Marine Rescue’s mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Parkin said.
PS 30 is one of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment in 2019 to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the state’s 46 units completed 425 rescue missions in March, returning 920 boaters to shore.
The number of rescue missions in March was down slightly from 478 in February.
Disabled vessels accounted for 300 of the rescue missions with 37 per cent caused by engine failure.
Marine Rescue NSW acting Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott said many of these incidents were preventable.
“It’s vitally important that boaters keep their vessel properly serviced and always carry enough fuel for their journey,” he said.
There was a 16 per cent increase in the number of boaters Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW.
“It’s wonderful to see that boaters are using Marine Rescue’s Log On and Log Off service with 7,677 Logging On last month compared to 6,635 in February,” Mr Schott said.
Boaters can Log On and Log Off via VHF Channel 16 or by using the free Marine Rescue NSW app.
The acting Deputy Commissioner said Marine Rescue NSW answered 23,873 radio calls in March.
“Radio calls were up by just over 2,300 in March compared to February.
“Volunteers at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre managed the majority of those calls and do an excellent job in helping keep boaters safe on NSW waterways,” Mr Schott said.
The radio calls included seven Mayday calls where lives were in imminent danger, and 12 Pan Pans, when boaters were in an urgent but not life-threatening situation.
Lake Macquarie was for the third consecutive month this year the busiest unit in the state with 65 rescue missions while Botany Port Hacking conducted 31 and Port Stephens 30.
“With the Easter long weekend almost here and the boating season running until Anzac Day we are urging boaters to make sure they prepare for their voyage and monitor conditions to avoid getting into trouble on the water.
“Our volunteers are ready to assist 24/7 and I commend them for their skill, bravery and dedication in saving lives on the water and helping to keep our waterways safer,” Mr Schott said.
ZONE RESCUE BREAKDOWN
NORTHERN RIVERS
Point Danger: 20
Brunswick: 7
Ballina: 6
MID NORTH COAST
Coffs Harbour: 11
Forster/Tuncurry: 8
Port Macquarie: 7
HUNTER/CENTRAL COAST
Lake Macquarie: 65
Port Stephens: 30
Central Coast: 19
GREATER SYDNEY
Botany Port Hacking: 31
Middle Harbour: 22
Port Jackson: 16
ILLAWARRA
Port Kembla: 9
Jervis Bay: 9
Sussex Inlet: 6
MONARO
Batemans Bay: 7
Eden: 6
Merimbula: 4
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to supporting local communities and keeping boaters safe.
Two fishermen aged in their 20s have been taken to hospital after being plucked from the water off Moon Island by volunteers from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie.
Their vessel experienced engine trouble just before 9am this morning and as they were trying to get it started were hit by waves which capsized the boat leaving both men in the water.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Jim Wright said the fisherman “luckily” made a call to triple zero before the boat overturned.
Marine Area Command tasked Marine Rescue NSW to assist the fisherman.
“Lake Macquarie 30 was activated with Skipper Warren Collins, Ian Guy, Rob Mackenzie and Ian Paver on board,” the Unit Commander said.
“Thankfully one of our members, Matt Dorhauer who is a rated RWC (rescue water craft) operator had come in to assist with a member assessment this morning.
“When the call went out he had all his RWC gear in his car so we were able to active our RWC, LM 13,” Mr Wright said.
The Lake Macquarie Unit Commander was in the radio room alongside operators Richard Jennings, Gary Archer and Trevor Swann at the time of the call for assistance and was proud of the way the unit responded.
“We didn’t know the exact location of the distressed vessel.
“Matt checked out Coon Island on LM 13 and then proceeded to follow LM 30 to Moon Island.
“LM 30 went out around Moon Island but didn’t see any people in the water or a boat.
“LM 30 was preparing to begin a search pattern when Matt saw two people in the water,” Mr Wright said.
Both fishermen were wearing life jackets.
“One of them ended up being smashed on the rocks, he had trouble inflating his life jacket but eventually got away from the rocks and into deeper water,” Mr Wright said.
RWC operator Matt Dorhauer put the injured man on the sled and transferred him to LM 30 were the crew immediately began first aid.
The man was suffering from and abdominal injury and hyperthermia and had lacerations to his arms and legs.
Mr Dorhauer then retrieved the other man on LM 13 before taking him safely to LM 30.
“He had swallowed a bit of water,” Mr Wright said.
The crew on board LM 30 continued to administer first aid and transported both men to the Swansea RSL wharf where they were met by NSW Ambulance Paramedics and taken to hospital.
Mr Wright said the rescue was well executed.
“I’m very proud of our members, everything came together well, there were no hiccups, it was great team work by the radio room, crew and RWC.
“The outcome was an awesome result,” he said.
Mr Wright said conditions this morning weren’t horrendous.
“There was a bit of swell up, a metre and a half, there was a bit of wind but it was choppy,” he said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie will attempt to locate the stricken vessel this afternoon and retrieve it if possible.
Marine Rescue NSW is urging all boaters be extra careful when they’re out on the state’s waterways this Easter long weekend.
Marine Rescue volunteers across NSW have conducted 1,675 rescue missions in the first three months this year and MRNSW Commissioner Alex Barrell is hoping boaters play their role to avoid incidents.
“We’ve seen far too much trauma on our coastline this summer, my hope is that we get through this Easter weekend with no fatalities or serious injuries,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Mr Barrell said good preparation is the key to safely enjoying time on the state’s waterways.
“Make sure you’ve planned your voyage.
“Simple checks of making sure that your boat is in good working order before you leave the boat ramp, checking that you have the right safety equipment, checking that you have the right amount of fuel for your voyage can prevent a good day on the water turning to a bad day on the water,” he said.
Mr Barrell said it is very important that boaters Log On with their local Marine Rescue base or use the Marine Rescue NSW app.
“One simple step that any boater can take is to Log On with Marine Rescue either over VHF marine channel 16 or via the free Marine Rescue app.
“It’s a simple step and what it means is if you don’t return as planned Marine Rescue will start looking for you,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers conducted 159 rescues over the Easter long weekend last year with incidents occurring along the coastline from Point Danger to Eden and inland on the Murray River at Moama.
Marine Rescue volunteers on board Botany Port Hacking rescue vessels BH 30 and BH 32 have taken part in an important training exercise with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service at Port Hacking.
Almost 40 people were involved in the Whale Disentanglement training including six Marine Rescue NSW crew members and two radio operators.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Coxswain Graham Clarke said BH 30 and BH 32 were mothering vessels for the exercise.
“We carry all the gear and stand off the NPWS boats doing the whale rescue.
“They get the call that a whale has been entangled, they assess the situation and then come to the Marine Rescue NSW vessel to get the gear they need to complete the rescue,” Mr Clarke said.
A specially constructed whale tail section with various items tangled around it is towed behind a vessel for the training.
Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia (ORRCA) president Ashley Ryan observed the exercise while NPWS coordinated the situation from the Marine Rescue NSW vessels.
Mr Clarke said the exercise was conducted between Bundeena and Jibbon Head and finished with a full debrief.
“The NPWS crew were amazing.
“It is very serious training and they make it as live as they possibly can.
“I was very impressed by the way they operated, they are so good at what they do,” Mr Clarke said.
During his time with the Botany Port Hacking unit, Mr Clarke said he has been involved in a number of searches for whales but never a disentanglement operation.
Marine Rescue Newcastle’s new $3 million home is taking shape at Stockton as construction continues on the purpose-built facility.
10 months after the first sod was turned at the western end of King Street, adjacent to the South Stockton boat ramp, all structural steel, trusses and frames have been installed on the first floor level.
Marine Rescue Newcastle Deputy Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh said members are looking forward to calling the new facility home.
“The construction of the new base has generated a lot of interest and support for Marine Rescue NSW with a number of potential new volunteers making enquiries from Stockton and surrounding communities.
“We’ve already had several new members join and others have expressed an interest in Marine Rescue NSW as a direct result of the development,” Ms Van Homrigh said.
The Newcastle base at Stockton will feature a new radio room along with crew facilities providing Marine Rescue NSW volunteers with an all-weather space to train and from which to coordinate life-saving emergency responses.
The blockwork and lift shaft on the ground level has been completed while specialised roofing materials have been sourced with the roof to be installed shortly.
Cowyn Building Group Project Manager, Tim Hill said weather permitting, construction is on target with the building expected to be completed towards the end of June as planned.
The new base will ensure Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have the facilities they need to undertake their mission of saving lives on the water and keeping the Hunter’s active local boating community and visiting boaters safe.
“The facility at Stockton will also allow the expansion of the Newcastle Unit’s search and rescue capabilities,” Ms Van Homrigh said.
The new facility has been funded by a $2 million grant from the Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands with the remainder coming from the NSW State Government’s commitment of $37.6 million to Marine Rescue NSW in 2019.
Woolgoolga’s new Marine Rescue vessel is taking shape after construction commenced in February.
The new 9.6 metre Naiad Hamilton Jet boat is being built at Yamba Welding and Engineering on the NSW North Coast.
Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin said that Woolgoolga 30 has been specifically designed.
“That vessel and that region has specific requirements because there are no accessible boat ramps,” he said.
Mr Parkin said Marine Rescue volunteers at Woolgoolga launch and retrieve the current vessel directly from the beach using a specialised trailer.
“We’re designing the vessel around those same categories but with more capability.
“It’s going to be a faster response, it’s going to be a little bit lighter but also stronger through the bow so when you’re launching and retrieving the vessel from the beach it will take up some of that impact for the crew.
“It will also mean that we will get longer life out of the vessel.
“This new rescue boat will play a vital role in Marine Rescue’s mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Parkin said.
Woolgoolga 30 will have a full Raymarine suite, four shock mitigating seating positions and pack plenty of punch with a Cummins QSB 6.7 inboard diesel engine.
Mr Parkin recently visited Yamba Welding and Engineering for a construction update.
“Everything is progressing well, there’s no major hurdles or delays and we are very much looking forward to adding this vessel to our fleet,” he said.
WO 30 is due for completion in June and is one of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment in 2019 to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes and Batemans Bay will welcome new vessels later next month as construction continues on Tuggerah Lakes 21 and Batemans Bay 21.
The new 6.3 metre walk-through console Naiad boats are being built at Yamba Welding and Engineering on the NSW North Coast.
The vessels will be powered by twin 115hp outboard engines capable of reaching speeds of 38 knots.
The new rescue boats also feature a full Raymarine suite and are almost identical apart for one slight difference.
TL 21 will have a fixed roof while BM 21 features a foldable Bimini cover.
Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin recently visited Yamba Welding and Engineering for a construction update.
“Everything is progressing well, there’s no major hurdles or delays and we are very much looking forward to adding these vessels to our fleet,” he said.
Mr Parkin said the walk-through design has proven successful for Marine Rescue.
“It allows the crew safe and easy access to the front of the boat.
“It creates a really safe environment for the crew to work in so they’re not standing on the edge of a vessel and it reduces the risk of falling overboard when you are working lines or dropping anchors or even when you are talking to other members of the public when you need to get a communication across.
“These new rescue boats will play a vital role in Marine Rescue’s mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Parkin said.
TL 21 and BM 21 are two of 38 new rescue boats funded by the NSW Government’s $37.6 million investment in 2019 to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
More than a dozen Moama Marine Rescue NSW volunteers will be assisting NSW Maritime and NSW Police this weekend to keep the Murray River safe for the biggest water ski race in the world, the Southern 80.
Hundreds of competitors have converged on Moama and Echuca for the event.
Marine Rescue NSW Monaro Zone Duty Operations Manager Glenn Sullivan said volunteers will be on board Moama 20, Moama 10 and Xray 20 which has been deployed from Marine Rescue state headquarters.
“Marine Rescue members are very experienced with this type of operation and their local knowledge on the water is invaluable.
“It’s great to be part of the event and working with our partners to keep the Murray River safe whilst promoting water safety,” Mr Sullivan said.
Moama Unit Commander Luke Sharrock was joined by Marine Rescue members Laura Stahl, Darren Woods and Mr Sullivan at this morning’s Breakfast with the Stars at the Kerrabee Sound Shell.
“Our volunteers spent the morning engaging with the public discussing water safety,” Mr Sullivan said.
“Rescue vessel Moama 20 was also a very popular attraction for the crowd before she hits the Murray for the weekend,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW Southern Zone Commander Mike Hammond will arrive in Moama this afternoon to assist with the agency’s operation over the weekend.
Marine Rescue Wooli Unit Commander Matthew McLennan has been recognised for 10 years of service with Marine Rescue NSW.
Mr McLennan’s commitment to the agency and community he serves was celebrated at the Marine Rescue NSW Northern Rivers Regional Operations meeting in Ballina.
Marine Rescue Northern Zone Commander Mal Jeffs said Mr McLennan is a valued member of the agency.
“Matthew is an excellent communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills.
“The Wooli unit under Matthew’s leadership contributes significantly to keeping boaters safe in the area,” Mr Jeffs said.
Mr McLennan joined the Wooli unit in 2013 as a Crew member and has since earned ratings as a Radio Operator, Leading Crew and Coxswain.
“I feel proud to have been given the opportunity to train up to the skipper rating of Coxswain through Marine Rescue NSW,” Mr McLennan said.
The Northern Zone Commander said Mr McLennan has devoted a significant amount of time to Marine Rescue NSW in serving the community whist working as an Optometrist.
Mr McLennan spent two-years as Deputy Unit Commander at Wooli before being appointed Unit Commander in August 2022.
“I feel at a small unit like Wooli we have a sense of camaraderie amongst our crew that helps us work as an efficient team, given we generally train together regularly.
“A lot of the members in the unit have fuIl-time jobs, so the commitment provided by our volunteers is admirable,” Mr McLennan said.
The Wooli Unit Commander was presented with his 10-year service medal and epaulet by Mr Jeffs at the meeting.
“I have been fortunate enough to be on numerous assists and searches over the 10 years but the one assist that stands above all others is the rescue of the SV Mystic, for which a number of our unit were awarded Commissioner’s citations,” Mr McLennan said.
“It was a particularly difficult job in poor sea conditions at night.
“Our training, thanks to Richard Taffs stood us in good stead when things were quite dangerous,” he said.
Wooli volunteer Marten Hutchings who was also part of the SV Mystic rescue operation in January 2021 recently celebrated a milestone as well.
Mr Hutchings was awarded the 15-year medal for his service to Marine Rescue NSW.
The Wooli Unit Commander said Hutchings is one of the longest serving members in the unit and is highly respected for his seamanship.
“He grew up in Wooli, is the son of a professional fisherman and has spent countless hours at sea.
“He is well respected in the community.
“Marty is our go to man for any vessel engineering advice and qualified as a Coxswain in 2022.
“He is the first to admit he joined MRNSW, not for accolades but to assist the boating public when things go a bit pear shaped,” Mr McLennan said.
Hutchings was involved in two Mayday assists over consecutive days on March 4 and 5 spending a total of 15 hours at sea that weekend.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have returned four fishermen safely to shore following a seven-and-a-half-hour mission off Shellharbour overnight.
Marine Rescue NSW received a call for help just after 6pm Sunday after the engine failed on a six to seven metre centre console boat.
Marine Rescue vessel Shellharbour 30 was tasked to rescue the four men who were around 40 kilometres offshore at the time of the call.
Marine Rescue Illawarra Zone Duty Operations Manager Stuart Massey said conditions were tough.
SH 30 requested the skipper onboard the distressed vessel put up some flares to assist with narrowing down their location just before 10pm.
“Conditions were challenging on the way out and the way back,” Mr Massey said.
“With the sea mist and smoke haze it was difficult to locate the distressed vessel hence the request for flares to pin-point their location,” he said.
The volunteer crew onboard Shellharbour 30 reached the fishermen at 10.44pm who were around 33 kilometres offshore after the disabled vessel had drifted.
The distressed vessel was towed back to the Shellharbour Marina at Shell Cove with the fisherman returned to land around 2am Monday morning.
16 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from the Hawkesbury and Cottage Point units have taken part in a joint Search and Rescue training exercise with multiple NSW Rural Fire Service brigades around Milson Island on the Hawkesbury River.
Saturday’s exercise saw MRNSW crews conduct search pattern training and rescue methods for a simulated person missing in the water.
The MRNSW crews onboard HW 30, HW 22, CP 30 and CP 31 also took part in a simulated ferry fire involving multiple casualties requiring first aid and transporting.
Marine Rescue NSW Hawkesbury Unit Commander Peter Moore said joint operations are held regularly so agencies are familiar with processes during emergency responses.
“The exercise was a great success.
“Marine Rescue showed the RFS ways to conduct search patterns while our crews got a better understanding of their vessels and how to transfer patients if required during an emergency situation,” Mr Moore said.
The Hawkesbury Unit Commander said cross-agency training exercises are invaluable.
“Because there are several hundred homes in the area that don’t have road access we share a numbering system among multiple agencies which enables us to act quickly in the event of an emergency.
“We look forward more joint training exercises and value our relationship with the RFS,” Mr Moore said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from the Port Kembla unit will join members of Surf Life Saving Illawarra and Wollongong City Council Lifeguards for a Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) off Wollongong’s northern beaches this weekend.
The SAREX will be held around Bellambi and Woonona from 7am Saturday.
Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Duty Operations Manager Stuart Massey said Marine Rescue looks forward to working alongside other emergency services.
“It’s essential these exercises take place to practice for the worst possible scenario of people missing in the water,” he said.
Massey said that Marine Rescue vessel Port Kembla 31 will take part in the exercise.
“These exercises allow us to work out best practice in a controlled environment.
“Things like communication between agencies and on scene control are vital when emergencies happen for real.
“If you see a lot of activity on Saturday morning, don’t worry it’s just an exercise but be assured that in the event of a real emergency our rescue craft and crews are ready to respond in the manner that the people of the Illawarra not only expect but also deserve,” Mr Massey said.
The newest addition to Marine Rescue’s fleet in NSW, Merimbula 31 has arrived at its new home on the South Coast as it prepares for operational service.
The 11.3 metre Naiad (NY-ADD) is one of 38 new rescue vessels funded by a four-year $37.6 million NSW Government investment to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the rescue vessel is a valuable investment in the safety of Merimbula’s active local boating community and visitors.
“With the latest in marine navigation and safety equipment, this new rescue boat has the speed and technology to quickly and safely get rescue crews where they need to be when vital seconds count,” Ms Cooke said.
Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet Kelvin Parkin completed the induction in Batemans Bay this week after MB 31 was transported from the Northern Rivers following its construction at Yamba Welding and Engineering.
“Induction with the Merimbula senior crew and trainers went smoothly,” Mr Parkin said.
“This vessel is a step up from their previous boat and the crew embraced learning about it.
“They are being upskilled to be able to operate this new vessel to its full capability,” he said.
Parkin said MB 31 is the latest in the evolution of Marine Rescue’s vessel program which includes the agency’s standardised equipment and improvements on earlier fleet.
“There a number of new inclusions such as augmented reality for water tracking and field of view display on the navigation system.
“If you’ve got a person in the water, the FLIR (infrared heat detection) camera can lock on their position, so if there’s a lot of swell or poor visibility the crew will still know where to navigate to retrieve the person,” he said.
MB 31 has an under chine anchor which Parkin said improves crew safety and ergonomic seats to reduce fatigue.
Marine Rescue Merimbula Unit Commander Bill Blakeman said all crew members will undergo comprehensive training over the coming the weeks after the vessel arrived in Merimbula on Thursday.
“We are getting all of the crew members up to speed and are being very thorough with their training on the new vessel prior to going into active service.
“Our crew will spend multiple sessions learning the new vessel because their safety is paramount.
“All our crew have to be 100 per cent up to speed on all of our assets before they head out on the water.
“This boat will be able to handle any situation well offshore.” the Unit Commander said. “I’m very pleased to have this incredible new vessel as it will enhance our mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Blakeman said.
A fisherman has been rescued after his tinny capsized off Callala Bay at Jervis Bay this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW was called at 8.30am and rescue vessel Jervis Bay 20 was tasked and assisted by MV Sycamore which was out in the bay on a training exercise.
Todd Alleyn’s boat started taking on water after a crack appeared in the hull.
“I got out, launched at Callalla here.
“Took my tinny out near the tubes, got out there and then realized I was taking on a bit of water,” Mr Alleyn said.
The man said he knew he had to head straight back to the boat ramp at Callala Bay which was five-and-a-half kilometers from his position in Jervis Bay.
“Bailed out my boat three times and each time more and more water was coming on and then on the fourth time it was just too, way too much was coming onboard and I just had to make the phone call then to Marine Rescue,” Mr Alleyn said.
The fisherman said before he knew it his boat capsized.
“Like one minute, pretty much hung up the phone, started to get my things together and then just felt the boat roll, like it was no time whatsoever,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW Zone Duty Operations Manager Glenn Sullivan said the man had the presence of mind to hold his phone above the water and was able to use it to talk to the crew on JB 20.
“He gave our crew his location in reference to MV Sycamore which enabled our volunteers to perform a swift recovery,” Mr Sullivan said.
HMAS Creswell also tasked a Rigid Inflatable to the rescue area but JB 20 reached the fisherman after noticing the sun’s reflection coming from the overturned vessel’s hull.
He was picked up by Jervis Bay Unit Commander Kevin Hill and volunteer Adam Breau at 9.18am.
“He did everything right, he stayed with the vessel, he had his life jacket on, he remained calm, it was a good outcome,” Mr Hill said.
Mr Alleyn and his damaged vessel were taken back to the Callala Bay boat ramp.
“Much appreciation to Marine Rescue, I’d be still out there,” Mr Alleyn said.
Volunteers at Marine Rescue’s 46 units across NSW were involved in 478 rescues in February, assisting 1,150 boaters back to shore.
Hunter/Central Coast’s Lake Macquarie unit had the highest demand, undertaking 80 rescues including numerous missions for grounded and disabled vessels. Botany Port Hacking and Port Jackson followed with 44 and 31 rescues respectively.
Marine Rescue NSW has seen an increase in demand for its service across the state with volunteers completing 52% more rescues in February 2023 than they did during the same month last year.
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Operations, Alex Barrell is asking boaters to ensure they are well prepared and to take it easy on the state’s waterways with 39% of rescues during February caused by engine failure.
“Sadly many boaters are finishing their day on the water early and at the end of a tow line behind one of our rescue vessels,” Deputy Commissioner Barrell said.
“Many of these rescues could have been avoided with some careful planning and better boat maintenance and preparation.”
6,635 boaters Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW prior to heading out on the water in February.
“It only takes a moment to protect your life,” Deputy Commissioner Barrell said.
“Boaters can Log On and Log Off via VHF Channel 16 or by using the Marine Rescue NSW app,” he said.
21,570 radio calls were answered in February with a large portion of those managed by the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre.
Mr Barrell said that boaters thinking of heading out should ensure that their vessel’s engine and battery had been recently serviced, and they are carrying enough of fuel for the journey with plenty in reserve.
Marine Rescue NSW vessel Port Stephens 31 was tasked to search an area off Fishermans Bay on the Hunter Coast this morning after a flare sighting was reported at 4.23am.
The PS 31 crew conducted a search pattern around the sighting zone which saw the MRNSW vessel reach 26kms off the coast while Marine Area Command deployed a fixed wing aircraft.
No distressed vessel or persons were found and the search was called off at 8.40am.
Marine Rescue NSW is encouraging women to volunteer at their local base with Sydney’s Port Jackson unit now having the agency’s first regular all-female crew while a group of incredible women has been assembled at Jervis Bay to operate the unit’s lead vessel off Huskisson for the very first time.
Since being appointed Port Jackson Unit Commander in 2017, Greg Urand dreamed of assembling Marine Rescue’s first ever all-female crew and with the enthusiasm of volunteers Julie Barkworth, Sophie Baker and Nicole Bowden, the dream became a reality in January this year.
“It’s been my goal to have an all-female crew, we’ve finally achieved it, it’s something I am very proud of,” Urand said.
“Julie put her hand up when we were looking for a female Master and she was determined to achieve it.”
Barkworth joined the Port Jackson unit in October 2020 and became qualified as leading crew at the beginning of the year, paving the way to head up an all-female crew.
“Julie, Sophie and Nicole are amazing,” Urand said.
“They’re very strong women in their professions and joined the unit with minimal boating experience.
“Sophie was our youngest member ever, joining the unit at just 18, she drove a boat and said you’ve got me for life,” Urand said.
“They have worked incredibly hard to go through all the training and achieve their goals,” the Unit Commander said.
The Port Jackson all-female crew also has two trainees and is rostered for duty once a month.
Just over 25% of Marine Rescue’s 3,296 volunteers across NSW are female with the agency encouraging more women to get involved in its mission of saving lives on the water.
Marine Rescue NSW offers a variety of volunteer positions and training from coxswain, crew, radio operating and fundraising.
On the state’s South Coast, the Jervis Bay unit recently assembled its first ever all-female crew for a patrol and marine drill exercise to mark International Women’s Day.
Experienced sailor Jean Cane was Master onboard JB 41 with crew members Kristy Jones, Janet Boardman, Fran Koster and Cheryl Fogarty.
Cane said it was a great experience to showcase the unit’s strength and hopes it inspires more women to join Marine Rescue NSW.
“It just shows other women out there that they can join and they’ll get full support from every member.
“The males in the base, everybody in the base have helped train me as a female on the crew.
“People give a lot of time, they get out there at weekends and do extra time at night.
“Both male and female, very supportive bunch of people, you’ll always get help when you’re going through your training, it’s great,” Cane said.
Illawarra Zone Duty Operations Manager Stuart Massey was in awe of the women who crewed Jervis Bay 41.
“It’s a complex boat, the women handled that without any problems whatsoever and it’s always impressive to see a group of women on the water like that volunteering to save lives,” he said.
Massey said Marine Rescue NSW offers the same opportunities for all volunteers.
“Whether that be on the boats, whether that be in the radio room or whether that be helping us with fundraising, the more people we have in there the safer the mariners of NSW will be,” he said.
“I would encourage women to get involved with Marine Rescue NSW, give them the opportunity to get out on the water, help other people out there if the need arises and even look at an opportunity to progress a maritime career,” Massey said.
Marine Rescue NSW boat Ulladulla 20 will undergo a $22,000 upgrade to its multi-function displays and radar after receiving a grant from the NSW Government.
Retiring Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock presented Ulladulla Unit Commander John Samulski with the funding at the unit’s base this afternoon.
“We are very thankful to the NSW Government, the Member for South Coast and her office for this generous grant which will enhance our safety and operational capacity,” Mr Samulski said.
The Ulladulla Unit Commander said the upgrade will be a huge benefit to the hard-working volunteers who crew the unit’s vessels.
“The new multi-function displays will operate on the same software load as our larger boat Ulladulla 30 and allow our crew members to seamlessly transition and hop from one boat to the other and be able to use the systems the same way on either vessel.
“Having the same systems on both of our main rescue vessels will enhance our mission of saving lives on the water,” he said.
Mr Samulski also paid tribute to Ms Hancock as she prepares to enter retirement.
“Shelley has been a longtime supporter of the Marine Rescue Ulladulla unit and we thank her for her public service.
“It’s sad to see her leaving politics but we wish her all the best for the future.
“Without the support of the State Government and Shelley’s work for the community, our volunteers wouldn’t be able to achieve our mission of saving lives on the water,” he said.
Marine Rescue Ulladulla will order the new technology immediately and have it installed on UL 20 by the end of April.
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Operations and Capability Alex Barrell today formally opened a new $119,000 training centre for Marine Rescue Eden.
Deputy Commissioner Barrell was joined by Chair of the Pambula and District Community Development Limited Tim Shepherd, Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland, Marine Rescue NSW Board Director Glenn Felkin, Zone Commander South Mike Hammond, and Eden unit members to officially open the new centre.
Deputy Commissioner Barrell said the new unit facility, located on the jetty at Snug Cove on the South Coast’s Twofold Bay, had been completed thanks to a $45,000 grant from Bendigo Bank.
“I’m delighted to be here today to open this important project for the Marine Rescue Eden unit and the Far South Coast boating community,” Deputy Commissioner Barrell said.
“This wonderful new facility means the 44 members of the Marine Rescue Eden unit now have a facility specifically designed to support them in their vital work in keeping watch over the Far South Coast boating community.”
“This new centre provides the members of the Marine Rescue Eden unit with a dedicated all-weather location for training, crew readiness area, office space, and for boater community education and engagement.”
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Barrell thanked Bendigo Bank for its support in making the new facility a reality.
“The funding from Bendigo Bank has helped ensure our Marine Rescue Eden volunteers have the equipment they need to achieve their mission of saving lives on the water.
“Marine Rescue NSW thrives on great community support,” Deputy Commissioner Barrell said.
“Having local businesses and local industry backing our mission and vision for the boating community is integral and it’s something that we couldn’t do without.
“To have the support of Bendigo Bank is outstanding,” Deputy Commissioner Barrell said.
Chair of the Pambula and District Community Development Limited Tim Shepherd said the organisation jumped at the opportunity to contribute to the training centre.
“When we became aware of the Eden unit’s desire to set up a training centre we wanted to get involved to assist with Marine Rescue’s life-saving work.
“The Pambula & District Community Development Limited through our Bendigo Bank Community Branches in Pambula and Bega are very proud to have been able to support the Marine Rescue NSW Eden unit to establish their new training facility at Snug Cove.
“We look forward to continuing our relationship with Marine Rescue NSW in the future,” Mr Shepherd said.
Marine Rescue Eden Unit Commander Nancy Weatherman said the new centre would provide a major boost for the unit’s volunteers.
“It provides a space for vital debriefing sessions and post-training discussions, as well as a location for our Training Officer, Training Systems Officer and Fleet Officer to work and have access to the computers, phones, and storage they need to carry out their essential duties.”
“Bendigo Bank’s support has allowed us to fit out the new centre which includes a new training and volunteer area,” Ms Weatherman said.
“It’s wonderful for our unit to benefit from Bendigo Bank’s investment in the community.
“Bendigo’s a community bank that is committed to supporting its local community,” Weatherman said.
The Eden Unit Commander said the new training centre will facilitate training for radio courses, navigation and systems for Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
“As well as pre-boat work where we train new volunteer crew before they start on a vessel,” Weatherman said.
Weatherman said the Eden unit’s goal is to expand training and education opportunities for the public in the future.
“We plan to introduce general boating safety education, radio and boat licence courses,” the Unit Commander said.
“I’m grateful for the support of both Bendigo Bank and Marine Rescue NSW, and am confident this first-rate facility will also help encourage new members to join us in our mission of saving lives on the water.”
Marine Rescue NSW volunteer, Lynne Hocking has been appointed the Shoalhaven unit’s first female Deputy Unit Commander.
Hocking was appointed to the position by recently retired Unit Commander Bruce Mitchell and newly promoted Unit Commander Martin Kaye.
“It was a privilege to be asked to take on the role and great acknowledgement of my love of the Shoalhaven unit,” Hocking said.
“I’m proud to take on the role, it’s an honour to be the unit’s first female Deputy Unit Commander.
Kaye said he was delighted to have Hocking as his deputy.
“We have worked together in the unit for three years.
“I am proud to have a female Deputy Unit Commander and seeing the increase of women joining the Shoalhaven unit,” Kaye said.
Hocking is looking forward to supporting Kaye in her new role.
“We’re a good balanced team, I can handle the admin and fundraising while Marty is very operationally strong, he knows the vessels and I know radio communications.
“I respect him very much and enjoy working with him,” she said.
Hocking joined Marine Rescue Shoalhaven in early 2020 following a 35-year marketing career.
“I think if there’s two things that got me through Covid and transitioning into retirement, it’s my love of fishing and Marine Rescue NSW,” she said.
Hocking began as a radio operator with Marine Rescue before earning qualifications as crew and watch officer.
The 60-year-old is currently training for senior crew rating and has been mentored by the Illawarra region’s only female Unit Commander, Sussex Inlet’s Karen Lowry.
“Karen is an exceptional role model and a great go to person whenever I need clarification,” Hocking said.
“I helped Karen run the inaugural Southern Zone Empowering Women Forum last September which assists females volunteering with Marine Rescue,” she said.
Hocking said that Illawarra Zone Commander Mike Hammond is also a champion for Marine Rescue’s female volunteers.
This year’s Empowering Women’s Forum will be held in Batemans Bay in August.
A trip to Sydney for a group of paddlers from Townsville has ended up with six women being rescued near Cronulla.
The women were competing in Sunday’s Port Hacking Outrigger Regatta when their outrigger failed early in the event.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteer, Bob Wilson said BH 32 was patrolling the area and went to their aid when they noticed a jet ski shadowing the vessel.
“We were out near the whale watching platform, north of Cape Solander when we the saw the people on the vessel with their paddles raised in the air which is a sign of distress,” Wilson said.
The BH 32 volunteer crew of skipper Steve Bigeni, John Zouganelis, Tomasz Zamencki, Bruce Gilpin, and Bob Wilson responded just after 2pm Sunday.
“It was a bit difficult because they were on the seaward side and when we reached them the women onboard were concerned,” Wilson said.
“We explained to them that we would lash their vessel to ours to stabilise them.
“That way they could safely get from their vessel onto BH 32,” he said.
Wilson said the Marine Rescue crew was concerned that the vessel was going to break up while one of the competitors was worried about the outrigger rolling in the water.
“We were able to calm her down along with her teammates.
“They all gave us a big hug and were very thankful for our assistance,” Wilson said.
BH 32 transported the six women and the broken outrigger back to Bonna Point at Kurnell where the event began.
None of the women suffered injuries in the incident and they are now continuing their tour on the NSW South Coast.
The crew of Marine Rescue NSW boat Shoalhaven 20 have pulled a boat with six people onboard including four children to safety after the vessel hit rocks in the Shoalhaven River near Nowra on Saturday night (February 25, 2023).
The vessel ran aground on a narrow stretch of the river near Pig Island.
Marine Rescue NSW received a call for assistance from the distressed vessel just after 8pm Saturday.
The 6-7 metre bow rider’s engine was disabled after hitting rocks, forcing the vessel’s skipper to drop anchor until Shoalhaven 20 arrived.
The SA 20 crew of skipper Paul Poulsen, Senior crew Reece White and Watch Officer Sue Cook ensured the safe retrieval of the vessel and the six people onboard.
The boat was towed to a jetty on Broughton Creek.
Marine Rescue NSW asks all boaters to Log On and Log Off using the FREE Marine Rescue NSW app or by calling their Marine Rescue NSW base on VHF Channel 16.
Marine Rescue NSW boat, Merimbula 30 has completed a three-and-a-half-hour mission after a marlin slammed into the engine of a private fishing vessel more 32 kilometres off Tura Head.
The skipper of the 6.7 metre fishing boat said they were trawling and hooked up a black marlin just before 1pm Sunday.
“We were fighting it and it did a U-turn and slammed into the engine.”
“It happened so quick,” the skipper said.
The marlin hit the engine, punching a hole in its canvas cover and cowling, disabling the vessel’s power.
“It was a freaky thing,” the skipper said.
“We had to cut the line.
“The marlin would have been around 70 kilograms,” he said.
The skipper called Marine Rescue Merimbula to request a tow to Tathra.
Marine Rescue Merimbula Unit Commander Bill Blakeman and fellow volunteers Stewart Dietrich and Bob Ainsworth were tasked to crew MB 30 and took one hour to reach the stranded vessel.
“It was an unusual rescue,” Blakeman said.
In Blakeman’s 15 years of volunteer service on the water, he’s never responded to an incident involving a marlin damaging a vessel.
“I’ve had a couple of shark related incidents over the years where they attacked propellers, but never a marlin disabling a vessel,” Blakeman said.
Because of the distance involved, MB 30 took two hours to tow the damaged vessel back to Kianinny (Kye-ninee) boat ramp at 10 knots, using just over 50 litres of fuel an hour.
Blakeman praised the Marine Rescue NSW crew and Anita Ormandy, Bernie Ryan and Sonia Teston in radio operations.
“It was a good experience for our new trainee at the radio base.
“She’s about to take her assessment as a Radio Operator this weekend, this rescue will put her in good stead,” Blakeman said.
The skipper of the damaged vessel said he will be making a donation to Marine Rescue NSW today.
“I am very thankful for the assistance Marine Rescue provided,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW boat Tuggerah Lakes 20 has saved a female paddler who was left stranded in the water for half an hour after capsizing her kayak last night.
The Westpac Rescue chopper located the woman just before TL 20 arrived on scene.
TL 20 skipper Ian Hodge said the woman was pulled from the water just after 8pm.
“She was conscious and responsive when we got her out of the water.
“We got her onboard and wrapped her up in a space blanket to try and bring up her body temperature,” Hodge said.
“She’d been in the water for a while.
“Her kayak had taken on a lot of water, we retrieved that and took her to the Peel Street jetty near our Toukley base,” Hodge said.
It took less than 10 minutes from retrieving the woman for the Marine Rescue NSW crew to hand her over to waiting NSW Ambulance paramedics who assessed her on scene.
NSW Ambulance said the woman didn’t require treatment in hospital.
Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Unit Commander Bob Sutton said TL 20 was on route to assist a grounded vessel on Lake Munmorah when the call came to help the kayaker.
“The crew of Ian Hodge, Peter Fischer, Steve Noakes and our Radio Operator Don Hobbs did a great job,” Sutton said.
“They had to triage the whole thing by which job was more important.
“A person in the water is always more important but once they had rescued the kayaker and got her to paramedics they immediately went to assist the grounded vessel,” he said.
Sutton said kayakers can get caught out on inland waters.
“When it’s calm it’s beautiful but the wind changed last night and people can get into trouble.
“Because of the shallow nature of the lakes, they blow up,” Sutton said.
Last night’s rescue was the second involving a kayaker since last Sunday afternoon when a fisherman was collected by Marine Rescue NSW after getting into trouble on Tuggerah Lake.
The newest addition to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet is just weeks away from arriving on the South Coast after undergoing a sea trial at Yamba.
Merimbula 31 is one of 38 new rescue vessels funded by a $37.6 million four-year State Government investment to support the vital, life-saving work of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.
The 11.3m NAIAD (ny-ad) vessel was taken through its paces by Marine Rescue NSW Senior Manager Fleet, Kelvin Parkin and crew.
“It was a great sea trial.
“The boat went extremely well; she is beautiful on the water.
“It really bites nicely when you’re bringing her up.
“I’m really happy with the results of this vessel so far,” Parkin said.
MB 31 will undergo further testing before being delivered to Batemans Bay by truck on March 7 where the crew will undergo training and induction.
The vessel will then be taken to its new permanent home at Merimbula.
