Volunteers from Marine Rescue Bermagui battled steep seas during a 4.5-hour rescue mission last night to safely return a stranded fisherman and his 10-metre vessel to Bermagui Harbour.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the skipper of the motor cruiser contacted Marine Rescue Bermagui after his vessel became disabled eight nautical miles (15km) north-east of Montague Island around 5pm on Sunday, 13 April.
“A rope had wrapped around one of the propellers on his vessel and disabled an engine. His vessel also suffered steering damage, leaving him stranded offshore.
“Because of the size of the disabled vessel, the skipper’s need to return to Bermagui, and the conditions, a volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Bermagui was immediately assembled and deployed on board rescue vessel Bermagui 30,” he said.
“BG 30 reached the stranded fisherman at around 7:30pm, checked his welfare, and secured a towline for the trip back to Bermagui Harbour,” Inspector Massey said.
“Conditions were very choppy and uncomfortable offshore, with the crew returning the disabled vessel and its skipper to Bermagui Harbour just after 10pm.
“The volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Bermagui did a wonderful job in challenging conditions, but they were grateful for the full moon, which assisted with visibility.
“Our radio operators also provided excellent communication support during the mission.
“All boaters are encouraged to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF Channel 16. Logging On saves precious time in the event of an emergency and ensures our dedicated volunteers keep watch for their safe return,” Inspector Massey said.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie was activated late last night (Sunday, 23 March) to assist two boaters stranded 13 nautical miles (24km) off Swansea Heads.
Radio operators at Marine Rescue Sydney received a Pan Pan call from the skipper of an 11-metre power catamaran after both engines failed at around 10pm.
A Pan Pan call is made to indicate an urgent situation that is serious but not immediately life-threatening.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Jim Wright was part of the three-person crew deployed for the mission on board Lake Macquarie 30.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and headed for the location of the disabled vessel, while radio operators at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie managed communications after they were transferred from Marine Rescue Sydney,” Wright said.
“Lake Macquarie 30 reached the disabled vessel at midnight and immediately checked on the welfare of the two crew members on board, who were both fine.
“A towline was secured to the disabled vessel before the long and slow trip back to Swansea.
“We safely crossed the bar and returned the two boaters and their vessel to a mooring on the eastern side of Swansea Bridge just before 2:30am today (Monday, 24 March).
“Thankfully, conditions offshore were reasonable, and our night training served us well.
“It was a seamless response, with excellent communication between the rescue boat, the disabled vessel, and our radio operators, who did a wonderful job,” Unit Commander Wright said.
A volunteer crew on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Port Kembla 31 responded to a call for assistance from a distressed vessel with one person on board just after 11am this morning, Sunday 23 March.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said a motor cruiser reported it was taking on water and sinking approximately one nautical miles (2km) east of Five Islands.
“Volunteer Radio Operators at Marine Rescue Port Kembla’s Hill 60 base received a call from the skipper of vessel a few minutes after 11am this morning.
“The skipper advised the vessel was taking on water and sinking.
“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Port Kembla were deployed on board Port Kembla 31
“PK 31 quickly arrived at the scene, and located the skipper standing on the flybridge of his vessel.
“The vessel was almost completely under water.
“The skipper entered the water and swam towards PK 31.
‘”Volunteers on board PK 31 assisted the boater from the water and returned him to the base for an assessment by NSW Ambulance,” Inspector Massey said.
As the semi-submerged vessel is now a navigational hazard, Radio Operators at Marine Rescue Port Kembla have issued several securites advising boaters in the region of the location of the vessel.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Wooli have assisted two adults and a young child sailing from Cairns to Victoria after their yacht ran out of fuel, and their tender became submerged and disabled off Wooli this afternoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said Marine Rescue Wooli received a call for assistance just before 12pm today and rescue vessel Wooli 30 deployed.
“The skipper of the sailing vessel, a woman and child were attempting to reach land in a 2.5 metre tender to purchase diesel after the yacht ran out of fuel.
“Unfortunately they got caught by the shore break and took on a substantial amount of water which disabled their engine.
“All three people on board the tender safely made it to shore,” he said.
“Volunteers from Marine Rescue Wooli assisted the sailors, transferring them to their yacht which was anchored between Wooli and Wilsons Headland,” Inspector Murray said.
“The crew on board WI 30 monitored the sailors until the vessel’s engine began working.”
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour managed radio communications for the mission.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Newcastle have safely returned two people to shore after their 13.5 metre yacht lost steering 18 nautical miles (33km) off Newcastle.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre answered a call for assistance just before 7pm last night, Thursday 20 February.
“The skipper of the distressed vessel advised Marine Rescue Sydney that they had lost steering and needed assistance to return to Newcastle Harbour.
“At the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command, Marine Rescue Newcastle assembled a crew of volunteer members and deployed rescue vessel Newcastle 30 around 8pm.
“Conditions were challenging throughout the entire mission with the Newcastle 30 crew battling one and a half to two metre swells” he said.
Newcastle 30 reached the distressed vessel just after 10pm and secured a towline before making the trip back to Newcastle Harbour.
“The return trip was a slow three hour operation because of the conditions, with Newcastle 30 travelling at three to four knots.
“Newcastle 30 safely manoeuvred the distressed vessel and its crew to a mooring.
“Our radio operators at Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre also did an exceptional job managing communications for the rescue mission,” Inspector Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers sprang into action whilst taking part in yesterday’s Port Hacking Putters Regatta.
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Brad Whittaker was on board a classic vessel leading the flotilla when he noticed two kayakers struggling in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve.
“The kayakers had capsized their craft and were finding it very difficult to get back into the tandem kayak due to the outgoing tide and gusty winds, so a rescue was initiated,” Mr Whittaker said.
A new inflatable Marine Rescue NSW state flood rescue and support asset, which was taking part in the regatta, was tasked with assisting the kayakers.
“Rescue vessel MR 13 immediately broke away from the flotilla to go to the aid of the two paddlers in the water off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve,” said Rod Harris, skipper of MR 13.
Image: Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking skipper Rod Harris gives the thumbs up following the successful rescue off Lilli Pilli Point Reserve
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking quickly reached the paddlers and took them safely on board MR 13.
“They were uninjured, and their kayak was secured before being towed back to shore,” Mr Harris said.
MR 13 is one of 16 new flood rescue and support vessels recently added to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet. Following recommendations from the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry, Marine Rescue NSW received $3.748 million in State Government funding to build capacity and capability to support NSW SES and other agencies during major weather emergencies.
When Marine Rescue NSW flood rescue and support vessels are not tasked with weather emergencies, they are used to assist boaters and paddlers on local waterways across the state.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Newcastle were deployed on board rescue vessel Newcastle 30 in challenging conditions last night to assist a sailing vessel with three people on board, which had become disabled off Stockton Beach.
Marine Rescue Newcastle Deputy Unit Commander Rick Nevile said the 12-metre sailing catamaran became disabled off Newcastle while transiting from Sydney to Port Stephens.
“The skipper of the logged on vessel called for assistance just after 9:30 pm.
“The foresail on the vessel had blown out and could not be furled, and one engine had failed.
“The crew on board the sailing catamaran were also battling issues with their anchors,” Deputy Unit Commander Nevile said.
Newcastle 30 reached the disabled vessel, which was almost four kilometres north-northeast of the harbour entrance and approximately 500 metres off Stockton Beach, just before 9:50 pm.
Deputy Unit Commander Nevile said the Newcastle 30 crew secured a line to the disabled vessel to stop it drifting closer to the beach and to assist in the recovery of its anchors before towing the vessel back to Newcastle Harbour.
“Conditions were challenging. There was heavy rain at times and a very strong south southwesterly wind that made it difficult to manoeuvre around the disabled vessel.
“The swell was also between two and three metres.
“All persons on board the disabled vessel were wearing lifejackets, and the fact the skipper was logged on with Marine Rescue NSW reduced our response time.
“We encourage all boaters to log on with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging on ensures our dedicated volunteers keep watch for a vessel’s safe return and saves vital time in the event of an emergency.
“The disabled sailing catamaran and its three crew were safely placed on a mooring in Newcastle Harbour just after 11:30 pm,” Mr Nevile said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage assisted five people on the Karuah River after their 5 to 6 metre vessel grounded in shallow waters.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said the request for assistance came in around 11.20am yesterday, Saturday 25 January.
“A volunteer crew on board Lemon Tree 30 was deployed under the direction of NSW Police Marine Area Command to assist.
“The crew searched the shallow river for the grounded vessel, which was located just after 11.45am.
“The five people on board had safely made it to a nearby beach.
“After inspecting the vessel in consultation with Water Police, it was unable to be uprighted safely.
“The five people were transferred by Marine Rescue NSW crew to a safe location at Karuah,” Inspector Raymond said.
NSW Maritime were advised of the location of the grounded vessel.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
A volunteer crew on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Sussex Inlet 20 rescued a boater today after an EPIRB was activated in Sussex Inlet.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said, “Marine Area Command advised that there was an EPIRB distressed signal received at Sussex Inlet.
“Sussex Inlet 20 and RWCs (jet skis) were deployed just after 11:30am.
“The SI 20 crew headed to the distressed vessel taking on water and were able to successfully tow the vessel back to shore.
“This incident highlights the importance of having an EPIRB on board and depending on the distance a boater is travelling it is a legal requirement to carry one.
“Activating an EPIRB emits a radio distress signal for up to 48 hours which helps Emergency Services to coordinate a rescue response.
“An EPIRB is an important lifesaving tool and should only ever be used when a person is in an emergency please make sure it is registered as this one was not registered,” Inspector Massey said.
A volunteer crew aboard Marine Rescue NSW vessel KL20 responded to a call for assistance from a distressed vessel carrying two people off Meroo Head this morning, Thursday, 26 December.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan highlighted the importance of preparing your boat before heading out on the water, stating, “Boaters should always ensure that their engine and vessel are in good working order.”
“The team at Kioloa responded swiftly and successfully towed the vessel back to safety at the Kioloa boat ramp,” he added.
Inspector Sullivan also emphasised the importance of Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW: “The vessel was not Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW, so we encourage all boaters to take advantage of this vital safety measure. You can Log On using the Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16.”
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry assisted a solo sailor after he suffered a head injury on board his yacht this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the sailor was eight nautical miles (15kms) northeast of Forster Boat Harbour when he called for assistance around 7 am.
“The man’s yacht suffered mechanical issues and a torn sail before he sustained a head injury after slipping on board.
“A volunteer crew was assembled and deployed to assist on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Forster 30.
“The Forster 30 crew assessed the man’s condition before a crew member was transferred on board the disabled vessel to monitor the injured sailor and secure a tow line to the yacht.
“All Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are proficient in first aid.
“The injured sailor and his vessel were taken to Forster Boat Harbour where the man was to be assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics,” Inspector Page said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Terrigal have safely returned two boaters to shore after their open runabout suffered engine failure, leaving them stranded three nautical miles off the Entrance near Tuggerah Reef today.
The men on board the disabled vessel contacted radio operators at Marine Rescue Central Coast just before 10:30am.
Volunteers at Marine Rescue Terrigal were tasked for the mission and deployed on board Terrigal 30 for the eight nautical mile (15km) trip up the coast.
Marine Rescue Terrigal Deputy Unit Commander Paul Barrie said conditions were favourable offshore.
“The disabled vessel was located anchored approximately 200 metres off Tuggerah Reef which was breaking when Terrigal 30 arrived.
“It was wonderful that both men were wearing lifejackets.
“A tow line was secured to the disabled before the eight nautical mile tow back to Terrigal Haven where the men were safely returned to land.
“We encourage boaters to always wear a lifejacket and to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16 so our dedicated volunteers can keep watch for their safe return,” Deputy Unit Commander Barrie said.
The actions of an observant Marine Rescue Port Kembla Watch Officer has led to a male kayaker being saved off Port Kembla this evening (Thursday 21 November).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said volunteer Watch Officer, Phillip Turner was on duty at Marine Rescue Port Kembla’s Hill 60 radio tower when he noticed an upturned kayak on waters off Big Island, which is part of Wollongong’s Five Islands.
“Phillip made the sighting at 5.15pm before NSW Police Marine Area Command was informed.
“A second person was also spotted paddling in the area.
“A multi-agency response was initiated with a Marine Rescue Port Kembla crew mustered and set to be deployed on recuse vessel Port Kembla 31 when Wollongong City Council lifeguards from Port Kembla Beach, who were on duty at the time, used a jet ski and rescued the paddler from Martin Islet and returned him to shore.
“The other man who was kayaking in the area was also assisted back to Port Kembla beach,” he said.
Inspector Massey said conditions off Wollongong were windy this evening and not suitable for non-powered watercraft offshore.
“Without the keen observation of Marine Rescue Port Kembla Watch Officer Phillip Turner (pictured above) and the response from council lifeguards, the outcome could been different,” Inspector Massey said.
Marine Rescue NSW encourages all paddlers and boaters to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging On ensures Marine Rescue NSW volunteers keep watch for their safe return and in the event they go overdue a search is initiated. Logging On saves precious time during an emergency. The paddler this afternoon was not Logged On,” Inspector Massey said.
A volunteer crew on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Ballina 30 responded to a call for assistance from a distressed vessel with two people on board off Lennox Head early this morning, Sunday 10 November.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said a fishing trawler reported it was taking on water and sinking approximately eight nautical miles (15kms) east of Lennox Head.
“In the early hours of this morning Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, the region’s 24 hour communications hub, received a call from the skipper of a fishing trawler.
“The skipper advised the vessel was taking on water and experiencing engine failure.
“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Ballina were deployed on board Ballina 30 just after 3.00am
“BA 30 headed in darkness to the location to provide assistance,” Inspector Page said.
Just before 3.15am, another call was received from the sinking vessel.
“Water had reached the deck forcing the two people on board to abandon ship.
“Wearing lifejackets they made their way safely into a life raft.
“BA 30 spotted lights and closed in to assist.
“By 4.20am, the two people were safely on board BA 30,” Inspector Page said.
As the sunken vessel is a navigational hazard, Radio Operators at Marine Rescue Ballina have issued several Securites advising boaters in the region of the location of the vessel.
This incident underscores the importance of Marine Rescue NSW’s rigorous training, often put to the test in the early morning hour and showcases the dedication of the organisation’s volunteers.
Two volunteer crews from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie have assisted a skipper whose 20-metre vessel ran aground on the Hastings River this morning (Thursday 31 October).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the skipper of the disabled vessel contacted Marine Rescue Port Macquarie radio operators at 6.50am requesting assistance.
“The skipper had a navigational issue and unfortunately ran aground at the Kooloonbung Creek turn on the Hastings River.
“Volunteer crews were immediately deployed on Marine Rescue NSW vessels Port Macquarie 30 and Port Macquarie 21 to assist the grounded vessel,” he said.
“Our volunteers assessed the vessel which was a navigational hazard and with the incoming tide in motion they secured a tow line and pulled the vessel safely into deeper water,” Inspector Page said.
“It was fortunate that the vessel ran up on coffee rock which crumbles and hopefully reduced the damage to the hull.
“It is important that boaters follow navigational markers to avoid incident,” he said.
A volunteer crew on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Sussex Inlet 20 responded to a distressed vessel with three people on board near Bream Beach on Saturday 5 October.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said reports were received a 4-5 metre runabout was getting swamped by large waves after attempting to get off a sand bar.
“Sussex Inlet 20 was deployed just after 4.30pm yesterday following a request for assistance from NSW Police Marine Area Command.
“The SI 20 crew headed to the location and found the vessel.
“The three people on board the boat had managed to make their way to the nearby beach,” Inspector Sullivan said.
With the distressed vessel located in very shallow waters, it was difficult for SI 20 to get close to the vessel.
“As the water was too shallow for SI 20 to get to the vessel, a volunteer crew member waded to shore with the tow rope.
“He assisted to get the vessel seaworthy and safely secured to the tow rope.
“This enabled the distressed vessel to be pulled alongside SI 20.
“Two of the boaters remained on the vessel for the journey to Erowal Bay, with the third person taken on board SI 20.” Inspector Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Merimbula have safely returned five people including four children to shore after the five-metre boat they were on board suffered battery failure this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said a whale-watching operator initially assisted the disabled vessel, which was drifting on waters off Haycock Point before calling Marine Rescue Merimbula for further assistance just after 11:30am.
“A volunteer crew was immediately assembled and rescue vessel Merimbula 31 deployed to assist.
“It was pleasing to see that all on board the disabled vessel were wearing lifejackets.
“Attempts were made to restart the engine but they were unsuccessful.
“The four children on board the disabled vessel were transferred safely onto Merimbula 31 and the boat towed back to the public wharf adjacent to the Marine Rescue Merimbula base,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said it is important that boaters check their battery and engine before hitting the water.
“Mechanical failure in the wrong location can lead to a life-threatening incident, thankfully this morning that wasn’t the case with calm conditions.
“We encourage local and visiting boaters to always Log On with Marine Rescue NSW via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging On provides peace of mind and ensures our highly skilled radio operators keep watch for their safe return. Logging On saves vital time in the event of an emergency.
“Today has been the best weather since the commencement of the school holidays and there has been considerable boating traffic on South Coast waterways.
“The six Marine Rescue NSW units in the Eurobodalla and Bega Valley Shires are rescue ready these school holidays and prepared to respond any time of day or night,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Volunteers at Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet assisted two men after their Hobie catamaran capsized on St Georges Basin this afternoon (Saturday, 28 September).
Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet radio operators received a call from a member of the public alerting them to the incident just after 2pm.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said Sussex Inlet 20 was tasked for the mission.
“A volunteer crew was training on board Sussex Inlet 20 at the time and immediately deployed to assist the sailors at Erowal Bay while NSW Ambulance was called.
“They were assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics before boarding Sussex Inlet 20,” he said.
“NSW Police Marine Area Command requested that the Sussex Inlet 20 crew right the capsized catamaran, as it was a navigation hazard,” Inspector Sullivan said.
“The crew on board Sussex Inlet 20, with assistance from the two rescue watercraft operators, successfully righted the vessel and returned it, along with the two men, safely to shore at Erowal Bay.
“We encourage boaters and sailors to always check conditions and to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF Channel 16. Logging on ensures our volunteers monitor their safe return, which saves vital time in the event of an emergency,” he said.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Trial Bay successfully extracted an ill man from a fishing trawler in challenging conditions at Trial Bay on the New South Wales Mid North Coast overnight.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said a PAN PAN call was received by radio operators at the Marine Rescue NSW State Communications Centre just before 6pm last night (Thursday 26 September).
“The skipper of the trawler radioed for immediate assistance after a 25-year-old crew member on board the trawler fell ill,” he said.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Trial Bay 30 was deployed and within 20 minutes reached the trawler,” said Inspector Page.
“The transfer took place in the bay near Laggers Point with the trawler moving into the bay for protection from strong winds which were gusting up to 55km/h.
“The winds and bumpy sea along with darkness made the extraction challenging with Trial Bay 30 pulling up alongside the trawler’s stern before tying off to transfer the patient on to the rescue vessel.
“The man was monitored by the volunteer crew on the journey to the Marine Rescue Trial Bay air berth on the Macleay River.
“Our volunteers then assisted the man onto land where he was assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics,” Inspector Page said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick completed a rapid medical evacuation from a fishing trawler off Byron Bay this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said Marine Rescue Brunswick was tasked for the mission by NSW Police Marine Area Command.
“A call was received just before 10am that a 17-year-old male was suffering a medical episode on board a fishing trawler.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and Marine Rescue NSW vessel Brunswick 30 deployed.
“Brunswick 30 met the trawler one nautical mile (1.8km) off Cape Byron and transferred the young male onto the Marine Rescue NSW vessel.
“The BR 30 crew assisted the patient and took him to Brunswick Boat Harbour where NSW Ambulance paramedics were waiting to provide further treatment,” Inspector Murray said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Trial Bay assisted a fisherman after his vessel was struck by a whale off Grassy Head.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the call for assistance came in just after 7.30am this morning, Sunday 22 September.
“Marine Rescue Trial Bay volunteer radio operators received a call from a fisherman located off Grassy Head.
“The man’s stationary fishing vessel had been hit by a whale, causing damage to the bow of the boat and disabling the fuel supply.
“A volunteer crew on board Trial Bay 30 were deployed to assist and safely towed the vessel back to a boat ramp at South West Rocks,” Inspector Page said.
Marine Rescue NSW reminds boaters to take extra caution during whale migration season.
When whales are present, boaters are not to come within 100 metres of a whale, or 300 metres of a whale and calf.
“If a whale does surface near your vessel it is important that you cut your motors and slow down to a safe speed,” said Inspector Page.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Trial Bay have saved two jet ski riders from a life-threatening situation off Laggers Point at Arakoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said the riders made a MAYDAY call after their jet ski became disabled close to rocks on the ocean side of Laggers Point just after 1:30pm today.
“One of the men on board issued a MAYDAY call on their radio via VHF channel 16.
“There was understandably some panic in his voice because they thought they were going to be washed onto the rocks.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assemble and deployed on rescue vessel Trial Bay 30.
“A Marine Rescue Trial Bay Rescue Watercraft operator was also put on standby to assist if required.
“Trial Bay 30 reached the men and the disabled jet ski which was just metres away from rocks and successfully secured a towline.
“The two men were safely returned to the Laggers Point boat ramp along with their disabled vessel.
“It was a rapid response and successful mission with no injuries reported,” he said.
Inspector Murray praised the men for having a VHF radio on board the jet ski.
“The fact they had a marine radio to contact Marine Rescue NSW radio operators saved valuable time allowing us to initiate an immediate rescue mission.
“We encourage all boaters and jet ski riders to always Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either via VHF channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app,” Inspector Murray said.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie has safely returned a man and his two sons to shore after their jet ski suffered engine failure off Miners Beach earlier today (24 August 2024)
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said Marine Rescue Port Macquarie received a call for assistance just before 12 pm.
“A volunteer crew on board rescue vessel Port Macquarie 21 was deployed.
“PM 21 reached the disabled watercraft and its passengers around 12.15pm.
“The jet ski was safely secured and towed away from the shore.
“The three riders were then taken on board PM 21 for the journey to the Boatshed,” he said.
Inspector Murray said whilst the rescue was a standard mission for the Service the response provided some challenges for the volunteer crew on board PM 21.
“The rescue was completed near the shoreline with many rocks making the area difficult to navigate,” Inspector Murray said.
Two anglers whose vessel suffered engine failure off the Moruya River mouth today have been safely returned to shore after a rapid response by Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Batemans Bay and Tuross Moruya.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the skipper of a disabled 4.75 metre cabin runabout called Marine Rescue Batemans Bay for assistance just before 12:30pm.
“With the stranded anglers located two nautical miles (3.7km) off the mouth of the Moruya River a volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Tuross Moruya was assembled.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Tuross Moruya 21 was deployed and within 15 minutes of our crew hitting the water, they located and secured the disabled vessel.
“The boat was towed to Preddys Wharf where the men were safely returned to shore,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said the synergy between radio operators at Marine Rescue Batemans Bay and vessel crew from the Tuross Moruya unit facilitated an efficient response.
“Our volunteers are highly skilled both on and off the water with Marine Rescue Batemans Bay radio operators again showing they play a vital role as the link between the land and those on the sea.
“The TU 21 crew did an excellent job on water, completing a successful mission.
“We remind all boaters to check their engine and battery regularly ensure they have correct safety equipment on board, monitor the weather and to always Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Shellharbour and Port Kembla have combined to rescue two fishermen who were stranded almost 19km off Shellharbour on Saturday morning (10 August 2024).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said radio operators at Port Kembla’s Hill 60 base received a call for assistance from the skipper of the Logged On vessel just before 8:30am yesterday.
“The skipper of a 6 metre open runabout was quite distressed after his vessel suffered engine failure offshore.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Shellharbour 30 was immediately deployed to assist the two men on board the disabled boat.
“Volunteers on board Shellharbour 30 swiftly reached the disabled vessel and checked the welfare of its crew before commencing a tow back to Shellharbour Marina where the two fishermen were safely returned to shore.
“Our crew was able to perform a rapid response because the skipper of the disabled vessel had Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW.
“Logging On saves vital time in the event of an emergency and can be done in a minute either by the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16,” Inspector Massey said.
A lone sailor was safely returned to Ulladulla Harbour last night after his 12 metre yacht suffered damaged boom controls while transiting south to Ulladulla.
Marine Rescue Ulladulla Unit Commander John Samulski said the vessel was struggling to make way in light winds and a northerly current because of the damage.
“Our radio operators were keeping watch over the vessel which was Logged On and proactively checked in with the skipper to ensure his welfare because of the slow speed he was travelling and his expected late arrival into harbour.
“At 5pm the skipper confirmed he was 9 kilometres north of Ulladulla and 3 kilometres offshore and requested assistance to get to harbour,” Unit Commander Samulski said.
A volunteer crew was immediately assembled and rescue vessel Ulladulla 30 deployed.
“UL 30 reached the yacht at 6pm and took it under tow.
“The vessel was towed to the entrance of Ulladulla Harbour before the skipper guided his yacht to the courtesy mooring under the direction of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers at 6:40pm.
“The fatigued skipper was thankful to be in harbour and extremely grateful for the assistance provided by our volunteer radio operators and crew.
“This incident highlights the benefit of Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW and checking in with our radio operators regularly during a voyage.
“Because the skipper had Logged On it provided a safety net for him and allowed our radio operators to initiate a rapid response.
“Boaters are encouraged to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW by using the free app or VHF Channel 16, it only takes a minute to Log On and protect a lifetime,” Unit Commander Samulski said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Middle Harbour have aided in the rescue of two people after their fibreglass boat capsized near Beauty Point on Sydney Harbour.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said the Middle Harbour unit was tasked to respond after receiving a call from NSW Police Marine Area Command at approx. 5.30pm last night, Saturday 6 July 2024.
“We were told that a vessel had overturned with two people in the water.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Middle Harbour 30 (MH 30) was deployed with a volunteer crew on board.
“The crew on MH 30 were undertaking night training at the time of the incident, and were first on scene, arriving within five minutes of receiving the call.
“In dark conditions, MH 30 crews utilised vessel spotlights to locate the two people, enabling NSW Police Marine Area Command vessel crews to safely retrieve the two boaters,” Inspector Greenslade said.
MH 30 secured the partially sunken vessel to ensure it didn’t became a navigational hazard.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Kioloa has safely returned two fishermen to shore after their runabout suffered battery failure off Pebbly Beach on the South Coast late this afternoon (Tuesday 28 May).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said Marine Rescue Kioloa received a call for assistance just after 4pm.
“A volunteer crew was immediately assembled and rescue vessel Kioloa 20 was deployed.
“KL 20 reached the disabled vessel and its crew around 4:45pm and secured the boat under tow for the 4.5 nautical mile (8km) trip back to Kioloa.
“The two anglers and their vessel were safely returned to the boat ramp at Kioloa Beach at 6pm,” he said.
Inspector Massey said whilst the rescue was a standard mission for the Service the response provided some challenges for the volunteer crew on board KL 20.
“The rescue was completed in the dark and with the large number of whales migrating there are hazards in the water that are incredibly hard to see.
“Marine Rescue NSW is reminding all boaters to be on the alert for whales when on the water during the day or night and maintain the proper distances from whales,” Inspector Massey said.
Volunteer radio operators from Marine Rescue Ulladulla played a vital role in this evening’s mission by providing radio communications for the response.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Jervis Bay has pulled three children from the water off Barfleur Beach after they were blown offshore on their watercraft this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said radio operators at Marine Rescue Jervis Bay received a call for assistance just after 11am.
“Two boys on a kayak and another on a standup paddleboard were stranded around 900 metres from shore after they lost their paddles in strong winds.
“In consultation with NSW Police Marine Area Command a volunteer crew was immediately deployed on board rescue vessel Jervis Bay 20.
“A Navy chopper also provided aerial support.
“Jervis Bay 20 pulled the three boys out of the water and assessed them before returning them to family at Barfleur Beach.
“The area the boys were paddling in initially was well protected from the wind but unfortunately they ventured a little too far and got caught by the wind which carried them further away from shore.
“They were all uninjured and grateful for the assistance by the volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Jervis Bay,” Inspector Massey said.
The children aged between 10 and 13 were visiting the Shoalhaven with family from New Zealand.
“We got sucked out to sea and then lost our oars and we were stranded,” said 13-year-old Rocco.
Rocco said they waited for someone to come and stayed warm by cuddling together.
Mum Maraea was relieved when her sons were returned to shore safe and well by Jervis Bay 20.
“I’m just so grateful that they’re back on land and that they all stayed together.
“I’m really grateful for your crew as well for getting in there, rescuing them and bringing them back to us safely,” she said.
Inspector Massey said the boys did the right thing.
“They were all wearing lifejackets, they stayed with their craft and close together which is exactly what people should do if they find themselves needing assistance offshore,” he said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Stephens have safely returned two people to shore after their 9-10 metre sail catamaran lost engine power six nautical miles southeast of Seal Rocks early this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Stephens answered a call for assistance around 3:20am.
“The skipper of the distressed vessel advised Marine Rescue Port Stephens that they had lost engine power and couldn’t put up their sails because of rough conditions offshore.
“At the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command a volunteer crew was assembled with rescue vessel Port Stephens 31 deployed just after 5am.
“Conditions were extremely challenging throughout the entire mission with the PS 31 crew battling two to three metre swell and wind gusts in excess of 50km/h,” she said.
Port Stephens 31 reached the distressed vessel at 7:20am and secured a towline before making the slow trip back to Nelson Bay.
“The return trip was a delicate six hour operation because of the conditions and the weight of the sail cat.
“Port Stephens 31 safely guided the distressed vessel and its crew to shore at Nelson Bay.
“Both people on board the sail cat were ok while our crew of skipper Iain Blackadder, Laurie Nolan, Robert Johnson, Robert Stewart and Mark Page were fatigued after eight hours on water.
“Our radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Stephens also did an exceptional job managing communications for the rescue mission,” Inspector Greenslade said.
A strong marine wind warning is currently in place for the Hunter Coast and boaters should always check conditions before heading out on the water.
A rapid response by Marine Rescue Brunswick volunteers has saved a man’s life after his 4.9 metre boat rolled on Brunswick Bar this morning.
Marine Rescue Brunswick Unit Commander Jonathan Wilcock said radio operators at Marine Rescue Cape Byron took a call from a member of the public at 7:30am (Wednesday 17 April) that a vessel had capsized on the bar with a person in the water.
“Volunteer operators were immediately deployed on board Marine Rescue Brunswick rescue watercraft (jet skis) Brunswick 11 and Brunswick 12.
“The Marine Rescue NSW operator on board Brunswick 12 retrieved the man from the water and took him to South Beach where he was assessed by the operator.
“The man was uninjured but shaken and incredibly grateful for our assistance,” Unit Commander Wilcock said.
Because the man’s capsized vessel was a navigational hazard on the bar, the Marine Rescue watercraft operators manoeuvred the overturned boat to the beach.
Unit Commander Wilcock said conditions at Brunswick Heads were not favourable for boating this morning.
“There was a strong swell on the bar.
“The waves were breaking around 100 metres off the bar on a run out tide making it quite dangerous.
“We ask all boaters to check the conditions before heading out and to not risk their life.
“There is absolutely no shame in getting to the boat ramp and deciding not to go out because of unfavourable conditions, it is not worth endangering your life or others for a day on the water,” he said.
A volunteer radio operator from Marine Rescue Trial Bay initiated a rapid response this morning after receiving a call from a member of the public at 9:35am that two people had been washed overboard from their five metre runabout on the Macleay River Bar.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said rescue vessel Trial Bay 30 and rescue watercrafts Trial Bay 11 and Trial Bay 12 were deployed to assist.
“Thankfully the two people were wearing lifejackets and a passing vessel pulled them out of the water with Marine Rescue NSW vessels Trial Bay 30, TB 11 and TB 12 arriving on scene not long after.
“It is vital all boaters wear lifejackets because if you don’t have one on it can’t save your life,” he said.
Marine Rescue Trial Bay Unit Commander Ian Turner was on board TB 30 and said the two anglers were shaken after the incident.
“They were returned to Matty’s Flat by the private vessel while Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Trial Bay 30 and the rescue watercrafts secured the stricken vessel.
“It was a navigational hazard at the mouth of the bar.
“Because of that, we pumped some water out of the disabled vessel before towing it back to Matty’s Flat,” he said.
Unit Commander Turner praised the member of the public who raised the alarm and the actions of the crew on board the passing private vessel.
“These things happen so quickly and this incident could have had a very different outcome if it wasn’t for those people reacting the way they did and the anglers wearing lifejackets,” he said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Newcastle have assisted three people on board a 12 metre yacht after the skipper noticed the fuel tank was empty while heading up the Hunter Coast late yesterday (Sunday 7 April).
Marine Rescue Newcastle Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh said the vessel was 18 nautical miles (33kms) southeast of Newcastle when the skipper of the Logged On yacht radioed for assistance.
“The vessel was sailing to Port Stephens when they became aware their fuel tank was empty.
“Yachts require fuel for when they are heading in and out of harbour, for close quarters maneuvering around marinas and in the event the sails or mast have been damaged.
“While sails are a yachts primary source of propulsion it is important sailors carry sufficient fuel for their intended passage,” she said.
Unit Commander Van Homrigh said a volunteer crew was assembled with rescue vessel Newcastle 30 deployed just after 5:20pm to assist the yacht that continued sailing towards Newcastle Harbour until the Marine Rescue NSW vessel met them.
“Newcastle 30 reached the yacht swiftly with all three crew on board safe and well.
“NC 30 shadowed the vessel into Newcastle Harbour before our crew rafted the yacht and took it safely to the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club fuel wharf.
“Conditions were favorable allowing our crew to provide a safe and swift response,” she said.
“The three crew on board the yacht were grateful for our assistance and the fact the skipper was Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW enabled a more efficient response,” Unit Commander Van Homrigh said.
“Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16 ensures our volunteers keep watch for the safe return of boaters and allows us to quickly locate vessels requiring assistance.
“The crew on board the yacht refueled, anchored safely in Newcastle Harbour overnight and are now continuing their journey north,” she said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Newcastle have guided two sailors and their disabled vessel safely into harbour during a late night mission on the Hunter Coast.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators received a call for assistance from the skipper of a 12 metre sloop just after 8:30pm last night (Saturday 30 March) after one of the sails on the vessel failed and they could not make headway one nautical mile off Redhead Point.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said a volunteer crew was deployed on board rescue vessel Newcastle 30.
“The crew onboard the sloop were exhausted because they had been unable to amend their sails as required for the weather conditions.
“They had tried for three-hours to continue their journey before requesting assistance from Marine Rescue NSW.
“The vessel was transiting north and was Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW allowing our volunteers to easily track and locate it.
“Newcastle 30 reached the distressed vessel at 9:50pm and escorted it safely into Newcastle Harbour during a four hour operation which included waiting for a couple of bulk carriers at the mouth of the harbour,” she said.
“Our Marine Rescue NSW vessel crew and radio operators delivered a seamless night response which was completed just before 1:00am on Easter Sunday,” Inspector Greenslade said.
“The fact that the distressed vessel was Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW ensured a prompt response.
“We ask all boaters to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging On ensures our volunteers keep watch for a vessel’s safe return and saves vital time when assistance is required,” Inspector Greenslade said.
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay volunteer Norm Stanley put others above self this afternoon, going to the aid with a member of the public to save a woman struggling in the water at Huskisson.
Mr Stanley was on radio operations duty with a fellow volunteer at the Marine Rescue Jervis Bay base when at 4pm (Tuesday 12 March) he noticed a woman being swept into the bay by the strong outgoing tide just south of the Huskisson pool.
Mr Stanley ran downstairs at the base and grabbed the first floatable object he could find, which was an inflatable paddleboard from the unit’s lost property store.
He ran around to the beach and headed into the water along with a member of the public who also noticed the woman being swept away.
Mr Stanley along with the member of the public reached the woman, a British tourist and returned her to shore on the inflatable paddleboard.
Pictured Norm, the British tourist and Nathan Parnell.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said Mr Stanley assessed the woman’s condition before returning to his post in the Marine Rescue Jervis Bay radio room.
“The rescued woman was very thankful, she was uninjured but a little shaken and we must commend the member of the public who also assisted.
“Norm and the member of the public’s actions are nothing short of heroic and the community is fortunate to have people like them living among them, the woman was very lucky.
“On an outgoing tide the water flows incredibly fast out of Currambene Creek, in certain conditions these waters can be quite dangerous,” he said.
Inspector Massey said Mr Stanley’s presence of mind to grab the inflatable paddleboard was exceptional.
“To respond so quickly and rescue the woman along with assistance from the other man shows how selfless and caring he is, we are very proud to have him part of the Marine Rescue Jervis Bay family.
“Whilst most of our rescues involve our vessel crew assisting boaters on the water, this was a unique situation that required an immediate response with a life at risk.
“If Norm had not reacted as quickly as he did, this situation may have had a different outcome,” he said.
Inspector Massey said Mr Stanley is extremely capable in the water and on it in a rescue craft.
“Norm is a very experienced Marine Rescue NSW volunteer, he not only volunteers in radio communications, he skipper’s one of our rescue vessels at the unit and is also a Rescue Watercraft (Jet Ski) operator with advanced resuscitation skills,” he said.
*Editor’s note: The member of the public listed in the article was Nathan Parnell, a local business owner and the first person on the scene. Nathan selflessly risked his own life as the first person who entered the water to help the tourist.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage completed a delicate six-hour response yesterday to assist a boater whose vessel suffered engine failure on Two Mile Lake in the Myall Lakes National Park.
Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage Unit Commander David Aselford said just before 11am (Sunday 3 March) volunteers received a call for assistance from a skipper with two teenagers on board his seven-metre ski boat.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Lemon Tree Passage 30 was dispatched to assist with the rescue.
“After a long and slow trip up the very shallow and windy Myall River, the Marine Rescue NSW crew arrived and towed the vessel all the way through to the southern end of Myall Lake which is quite torturous through an S-bend turn and very shallow waters.
“Today’s mission was about a 60 nautical mile (approx 120km) round trip, which took about six hours to complete.
“The male skipper of the disabled vessel and the teenagers were very grateful for the assistance provided by our volunteer crew” he said.
Unit Commander Aselford said rescue vessel Lemon Tree Passage 30 is a versatile boat capable of both shallow operations in enclosed waters and offshore up to 30 kilometres.
“LT 30 can navigate the very windy and shallow areas of the Myall River and Karuah River to Allworth and up to the northern end of Myall Lake,” he said.
Yesterday’s marathon rescue was the Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage unit’s second in as many weeks.
“Only two weeks ago, we actually went further north into Myall Lake to rescue a vessel and tow it all the way back to Lemon Tree Passage,” Unit Commander Aselford said.
“This trip was in excess of eight hours because of the very slow return path trying to tow a large vessel around the bends in the Myall River,” he said.
Unit Commander Aselford said the Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage unit covers an area over 1,000 square kilometres and is reminding boaters of the importance of Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW.
“Logging On via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16 ensures our volunteers keep watch over a boater’s safe return.
“When a boater doesn’t return from their trip as planned we begin trying to locate them immediately.
“Logging On can save vital time in the event of emergency,” he said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes saved a man struggling in Budgewoi Lake for more than 40 minutes on Saturday afternoon (March 2) after his kayak overturned in rough conditions throwing him into the water.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said a call for assistance was received at 3pm.
“The initial report was that multiple kayakers were struggling with one person in the water and in a life-threatening situation.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Tuggerah Lakes 21 was tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command to respond along with Tuggerah Lakes 20.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board TL 21 retrieved a man in his 30s from the water.
“Our volunteers received aerial support from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter which was overhead.
“It’s understood the man had been in the water for more than 40 minutes.
“Thankfully he was wearing a personal flotation device which saved his life.
“He was transported by TL 21 back to the Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes Toukley base while volunteers on board TL 20 escorted two other kayakers safely to shore,” Inspector Greenslade said.
NSW Ambulance paramedics also responded to provide assistance.
Inspector Greenslade said conditions were rough on Budgewoi Lake.
“The winds have been swirling around in excess of 25 knots creating a metre chop in areas.
“Radio operators at Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes have managed multiple incidents today and we ask all boaters and paddlers to check conditions before heading out,” Inspector Greenslade said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Eden completed a successful five-and-a-half hour rescue mission on Friday night.
A volunteer crew was deployed on board XRAY 30 from Snug Cove at 3:30pm Friday after a fisherman became stranded 22kms off Green Cape.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the man’s vessel suffered mechanical failure.
“NSW Police Marine Area Command tasked the Eden crew for the mission after a call for assistance was received just before 3pm Friday.
“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Eden was assembled and rescue vessel XRAY 30 was on route to the stranded boater within 30 minutes.
“The seas were bumpy but the Marine Rescue Eden crew reached the disabled vessel in just over an hour,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said the boater was ok and his six metre vessel taken in tow by XRAY 30.
“The challenging sea conditions resulted in a slow and steady return to Eden.
“The man and his vessel were safely returned to Sung Cove at 9pm.
“It was a long, challenging afternoon and evening for our Marine Rescue Eden crew but they did an exceptional job along with our radio operators who provided vital communications during the rescue.
“We encourage all boaters to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging On ensures our volunteers keep watch for a boaters safe return,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Eden have been tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command to rescue a boater whose vessel suffered mechanical failure southeast of Eden this afternoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the call for assistance came through just before 3pm.
“The disabled vessel is approximately 12 nautical miles (22kms) off Green Cape.
“The lone person on board is safe and well.
“A volunteer crew was assembled and Marine Rescue NSW vessel XRAY 30 has been deployed.
“Conditions are deteriorating with a northeasterly developing.
“It is anticipated that our Marine Rescue Eden crew will reach the disabled vessel in just over an hour.
“Because of the distance and the current conditions it is expected that once our crew secures the disabled vessel, it will take approximately three hours to return the man and his boat to Eden,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW units along the Batemans and Eden Coasts have completed a dozen rescue missions for boaters stranded offshore with mechanical issues since last Saturday.
Volunteers at Marine Rescue Bermagui were tasked for their fifth mission in four days yesterday (Tuesday 20 February) after a vessel with three fishermen on board suffered engine failure almost 15kms from Bermagui.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said a volunteer crew was quickly assembled and Bermagui 30 was deployed to rescue the anglers.
“The men on board the disabled vessel called radio operators at Marine Rescue Bermagui stating they were unable to start their engine approximately 6.8 nautical mile east of Three Brothers Rocks.
“The volunteer crew on board BG 30 reached them and commenced a tow back to Bermagui Harbour which took just over an hour.
“The three men were safely returned to shore,” he said.
Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue Bermagui have travelled a total of 106 nautical miles (196kms) in open waters since last Saturday, safely returning 14 people to shore.
Inspector Sullivan said Marine Rescue NSW volunteers at Batemans Bay, Narooma and Eden have also completed offshore rescues in recent days as anglers chase marlin along the coast.
“In terms of rescues at the start of the marlin season, there’s been quite a considerable increase of those rescues.
“With the distances being so far offshore, rescues are taking up to nine or 10 hours when a vessel 39 miles offshore needs recovery,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said boaters who become stranded offshore can quickly find themselves in a life-threatening situation because conditions can change dramatically at sea.
“The dangers that are associated with that (being stranded offshore) is that they’re a disabled vessel and at the whim of the elements.
“So when conditions change, the storms roll in and the wind picks up, that can actually produce seasickness and then turn into a medical emergency as well.
“That’s why making the call (to Marine Rescue NSW) early and being able to get assistance as soon as possible is the best thing boaters can do,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan is asking all boaters heading offshore to ensure they have the correct working safety equipment including lifejackets, flares and an EPIRB.
“It is also vitally important that boaters make sure their vessel is maintained, their marine radio is working, they have enough fuel for their journey with some in reserve and that they Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have safely returned two anglers to shore following a challenging rescue overnight.
Radio operators at Marine Rescue Narooma took a call for assistance just after 5pm yesterday (Sunday 18 February) from a skipper whose seven-metre fiberglass vessel lost engine power and steerage 22 nautical miles (40kms) offshore.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the fishers were chasing marlin off Tuross Canyons when their vessel became disabled.
“A volunteer crew was assembled and deployed on rescue vessel Narooma 30.
“Thankfully a nearby private vessel provided initial assistance to the stranded anglers and commenced a tow.
“Narooma 30 arrived on scene took over the tow and planned to return the anglers and their disabled vessel to Narooma but conditions deteriorated during the rescue mission.
“Conditions were fair when the mission commenced but the seas became choppy because of increasing winds and a storm also affected visibility meaning crossing Narooma Bar would be dangerous with a vessel in tow,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said the bar conditions were again assessed and it was decided a bar crossing was not safe.
“The disabled vessel was quite heavy and with it having no steerage it was not safe for Narooma 30 to cross the bar with a boat in tow.
“Narooma Bar is the most dangerous and challenging in NSW.
“Safely is paramount for our volunteers and those we assist,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said a decision was made to task volunteers from Marine Rescue Bermagui to complete the rescue mission.
“Bermagui 30 was deployed and met Narooma 30 and the disabled vessel off the coast.
“The tow was transferred to BG 30 with the crew tasked to return to the disabled vessel to Bermagui Harbour.
“Considering the conditions, Bermagui Harbour was a safer harbour entrance and the disabled vessel and its crew were returned to harbour at 10:45pm.
“We took the safest option last night and everyone involved was able to return home safely which is the most important thing.
“NA 30 safely crossed the Narooma Bar and returned to base at 10pm.
“Both Marine Rescue NSW crews performed extremely well in challenging conditions and our radio operators provided exceptional communications for the rescue mission,” he said.
Inspector Sullivan said boaters looking to cross Narooma Bar should always standoff, check the conditions, seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and then decide whether it is safe to proceed.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Jervis Bay and Sussex Inlet have both responded to boaters stranded offshore after their vessels suffered mechanical failure today.
Radio Operators at Marine Rescue Jervis Bay took a call for assistance from a fisherman on VHF channel 16 just after 11am after his 6.5 metre boat lost power 13 kilometres off Jervis Bay.
Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Inspector Stuart Massey said the disabled vessel had two males and two children on board.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Jervis Bay 41 was deployed for the rescue mission.
“Conditions were average with bumpy seas.
“JB 41 reached the disabled vessel and towed it back to Murrays Beach boat ramp along with the four persons on board.
“Because of the conditions and distance involved, it took over an hour to return the vessel and people to shore.
“Our volunteers treated some of the people from the disabled vessel for seasickness when they arrived at the boat ramp.
“The fact that the vessel had a working marine radio saved them from being stranded at sea for lengthy period of time.
“You can’t see land that far off the coast, it is vitally important that boaters ensure their radio is working, they Log On with Marine Rescue NSW and they have all the correct safety equipment on board before heading out,” Inspector Massey said.
As JB 41 was returning with the disabled vessel in tow, volunteers at Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet received a call for assistance from a boater whose vessel also succumb to mechanical failure seven kilometres offshore.
“A volunteer crew was assembled quickly with Sussex Inlet 20 tasked for the mission,” Inspector Massey said.
“The sole boater and his vessel are currently being returned to Sanctuary Point.
“Marine Rescue NSW units often have multiple responses happening at the same time and today’s incidents off the Illawarra Coast highlight the operational readiness and efficiency of our volunteers to respond swiftly to boaters in need,” Inspector Massey said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Ballina responded to reports of a capsized vessel with two people in the water early yesterday morning (Sunday 11 February).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said radio operators at the Ballina base took a call for assistance just after 7am and rescue vessel Ballina 30 was deployed.
“Conditions were challenging with a 2.5 metre sea and a 20km/h southerly wind.
“Thankfully both men on board the capsized 4.2 metre open runabout were wearing lifejackets and there was a flood tide running in.
“A private fishing vessel retrieved one of the men while volunteers on board BA 30 rescued the other man from beside the overturned boat.
“The man collected by the private vessel was transferred to BA 30.
“Our crew then secured the upturned vessel and towed it to the Sailing Club boat ramp while both men were returned safely to shore.
“NSW Ambulance paramedics assed the men with one of them suffering a minor cut to his leg,” he said.
Inspector Page said a large wave washed over the boat moments before it capsized.
“The impact of that wave resulted in the skipper being thrown into the water while the next wave caught the side of the boat resulting in it being overturned and the second man also going into the water.
“The men were lucky that another vessel was nearby and that our rescue crew responded quickly.
“The Ballina Bar is challenging and can be dangerous at times.
“We ask all boaters to treat coastal bars with caution.
“A high tide is about the safest time to cross but if you’re not sure, don’t go out, the price is really high if you get it wrong crossing a bar.
“Good advice is to sit off the bar in your boat, have a look at the way the waves are coming in, you will see a section where the waves are not breaking, that is the deepest water to travel out, use the navigational leads and if you’re not sure, don’t go out,” Inspector Page said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick, Point Danger and the Port Macquarie radio hub combined overnight to complete a successful rescue of a disabled 18 metre motor cruiser with three people on board off Cape Byron.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators at Port Macquarie took a call for assistance from the vessel after it experienced mechanical issues and lost all power, three kilometres off Cape Byron around 7:15 last night (Tuesday 6 February, 2024).
Marine Rescue Brunswick was tasked for the mission and a volunteer crew deployed on board Brunswick 30.
BR 30 reached the distressed vessel that was transiting from Sydney to Queensland when it became disabled.
The crew on board Brunswick 30 secured the disabled vessel and initiated a tow but Marine Rescue Point Danger Unit Commander Keith Smith said PD 31 was tasked to complete the mission because of the size of the motor cruiser.
“The boat was so large, it couldn’t be taken into the Brunswick River, so we towed it into the Tweed River,” he said.
Unit Commander Smith said Point Danger 31 travelled around 55 kilometres with the disabled vessel in tow.
“Our crew of six were activated about eight o’clock last night and didn’t finish the tow job till about 5:30 this morning, so while all the people on the Tweed and Gold Coast were asleep our crew was out there saving lives on the water.
“A watch officer from the Point Danger unit oversaw our rescue vessel while radio operators at the Port Macquarie hub did a wonderful job providing communications along with the Brunswick crew who were first to assist on-water, this was real team effort,” he said.
Marine Rescue Point Danger Unit Commander Smith said PD 31 had a crew of six volunteers on board.
“We had four qualified crew members and we also used it as a training exercise where we took two trainees down as well, they gained some real life experience in saving lives on the water,” he said.
The three people on board the disabled vessel were safely returned to shore and were relieved to be on land.
Volunteers on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Lemon Tree 30 responded to a PAN PAN off Nelson Head on the Hunter Coast this morning after a catamaran with three people on board capsized.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade said radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Stephens took the initial call at 11.20am today.
“With the Marine Rescue Port Stephens vessels committed to the search for a missing rock fisherman and other calls for assistance by boaters in the area, the Lemon Tree Passage unit was tasked for the rescue mission and LT 30 was deployed at the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command who also attended the incident.
“Thankfully other boats were monitoring the sailors when the Marine Rescue NSW vessel arrived.
“The three people were all sitting on the hull.
“They were all uninjured and safely returned to shore.
“It is believed one of the hulls on one side of the catamaran filled with water forcing it to overturn.
“The disabled vessel was secured and towed to Little Beach by Lemon Tree 30,” she said.
“The crew on board Lemon Tree 30 and our radio operators from both the Lemon Tree Passage and Port Stephens units worked seamlessly to complete a successful rescue mission,” Inspector Greenslade said.
“The other vessels that monitored the people on the capsized catamaran should also be commended for keeping watch over the incident,” she said.
Four fishers stranded 15 kilometres off Malua Bay after their boat suffered mechanical failure this morning have been rescued by a volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said a call for assistance was received from the stricken vessel just after 8:30am.
“A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay was tasked and rescue vessel Batemans Bay 30 was on-water at 9am.
“Initially we were told the vessel was around 28 kilometres off shore but once our crew was on route the distance was actually 15 kilometres.
“Thankfully the forecast conditions weren’t as challenging as expected and our crew reached the distressed vessel in just over 30 minutes.
“All on board the distressed vessel were safe and the disabled six to seven metre cabin runabout was towed back to Hanging Rock boat ramp.
“Our crew responded swiftly and with the assistance of radio operators from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay completed the mission just after 11am,” he said.
“As the crew on board Batemans 30 were returning to base conditions were starting to deteriorate and the northeasterly has picked up,” Inspector Sullivan said.
“A hazardous surf warning is in place for the Batemans Coast so we ask all boaters to assess the conditions before heading out.
“For those further south, a gale warning is currently in place for the Eden Coast and it is not advisable to head out on the water,” he said.
An adult male and young child have been saved by a Marine Rescue Nambucca rescue watercraft (RWC) operator after being spotted struggling against the tide and heading towards the ‘hole in the wall’ on the Nambucca River just before 12pm today.
Marine Rescue Nambucca Unit Commander Gary Nichols said rescue watercraft operators on board NH 12 and NH 10 were conducting their daily patrol of the inner and outer beaches around the Nambucca Bar when the swimmers were spotted.
“Our volunteer operator on NH 12 noticed a male adult and young child battling against the tide and proceeded to check on them.
“As NH 12 approached the pair were being washed through the ‘hole in the wall’.
“Our rescue watercraft operator immediately went to their aid and assisted them onto the sled which is attached the rear of the RWC.
“He then took them to the nearest beach, assessed their condition and remained with them until they indicated they were ok.
“Our base provided clear communications for the mission with all involved working seamlessly to effect a successful rescue,” Unit Commander Nichols said.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the proactive approach to search and rescue at Nambucca Heads shows the dedication of Marine Rescue NSW volunteers in saving lives at sea.
“The Marine Rescue Nambucca unit monitor the waters during the outgoing tide when the highest risk exists for swimmers to be taken out to sea.
“We encourage all locals and visitors to Nambucca Heads to be very mindful of the outgoing tide when swimming as people can very quickly find themselves in trouble.
“An outgoing tide in that area can run up to six knots which is quite powerful and would challenge even the strongest of swimmers,” he said.
Inspector Page is also urging boaters planning to hit the water this long weekend to make sure their engine and battery is in good working order before heading out.
“Ensure you have the correct safety equipment, carry enough fuel and don’t forget to Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW.
“When boating on our local waters please remember to wear a lifejacket.
“It can’t save you if you’re not wearing it,” he said.
Logging On via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16 ensures that the Service’s volunteers keep watch for a boater’s safe return.
Logging On can save vital time in the event of an emergency.
Inspector Page is also urging boaters and paddlers to resist hitting the water if conditions deteriorate.
“Keep an eye on conditions and always check them prior to going out and if there is any doubt, don’t go out,” he said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie saved three teenage boys this morning after their tinny capsized on the southern side of Wangi Wangi on Lake Macquarie.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said the Lake Macquarie unit was tasked to respond after receiving a call from NSW Police Marine Area Command at 10:37am.
“We were told that a vessel had overturned with three people in the water.
“Marine Rescue NSW vessel Lake Macquarie 30 was deployed with a volunteer crew on board and within 12 minutes all three teenage boys had been saved.
“The boys were retrieved from the water by our crew and safely taken on board LM 30,” Inspector Raymond said.
Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Jim Wright said the three boys were wearing lifejackets.
“The boys had been in the water for around 30 minutes so the fact they were wearing lifejackets was crucial.
“They were holding onto the side of their hull when our crew arrived.
“The LM 30 crew provided basic first aid, checked them over for hypothermia, dried them off and wrapped them in space blankets before taking them and their vessel back to the Dobell Park boat ramp.
“They were uninjured and met by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the boat ramp,” Mr Wright said.
The Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander praised the volunteers involved in the rescue.
“Our radio operators did a wonderful job managing the communications for the rescue mission while the crew on board Lake Macquarie 30 responded swiftly and efficiently.
“Our volunteers train for quick deployment and for our crew to reach the distressed vessel and retrieve the three boys from the water within 12 minutes is exceptional.
“Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie can respond quickly to incidents because we have volunteers at the Pelican base from 6am to 6pm seven days a week,” he said.
Unit Commander Wright said the teens and their boat was located overturned between Pulbah Island and the Dobell Park boat ramp.
“It is a notorious spot when the wind picks up and a southerly has been blowing today.
“For boaters who have not been in that area of the lake, we ask them to take care especially when it is windy.
“We also ask all boaters to Log On with Marine Rescue NSW either by the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16.
“Logging On ensures our volunteers keep watch for the safe return of boaters.
“Logging On also saves vital time in the event of an emergency,” Unit Commander Wright said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay successfully completed a medical evacuation from a yacht after radio operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre received a call for assistance last night (13 January 2024).
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the call was received just after 6pm Saturday while the vessel was almost six nautical miles southeast of the Tollgate Islands.
“A person on board the yacht became unwell and they required urgent medical assistance.
“A volunteer crew was assembled and Batemans Bay 30 was deployed for the mission.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers reached the yacht swiftly.
“The crew transferred the patient from the yacht onto BM 30 and took them to waiting paramedics at Hanging Rock boat ramp.
“Our radio operators and vessel crew provided a prompt response to ensure the patient could receive vital medical treatment,” Inspector Sullivan said.
The remaining crew on board the yacht continued its journey while the patient was transported by NSW Ambulance to hospital.
A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Point Danger and other emergency services responded to a houseboat that needed assistance on the Tweed River at Murwillumbah just after 9am this morning.
There were concerns the vessel may strike the Condong Bridge on the swollen river.
Water Police safely secured the vessel.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said boaters should assess conditions before heading out on the Tweed River.
“Following a substantial amount of rain in the region, the river is swollen with a strong current running.
“Water levels have increased affecting vessel clearance heights.
“Boaters should be aware of increased debris creating hazards on our waterways, they should also ensure that their vessel is moored and anchored securely,” Inspector Murray said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay have this afternoon assisted the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) whale disentanglement team off Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast.
Crews on board Marine Rescue NSW vessels Batemans Bay 20 and Batemans Bay 30 were deployed just after midday today.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the Marine Rescue NSW vessels provided on-water assistance to the NPWS crews.
“The crew on board Batemans Bay 20 tracked the humpback from near the Tollgate Islands north until specialists could begin the disentanglement operation while Batemans Bay 30 transported two of the NPWS tactical team to the entangled whale.
“It’s believed the whale might have been entangled for some time.
“Our crews were stood down at 3:45pm with NPWS vessels and personnel still on scene.
“Marine Rescue Batemans Bay is on standby to provide further assistance if required,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Marine Rescue Ballina 30 and Brunswick 30 have assisted a solo sailor on board a 14 metre yacht after smoke appeared from the engine room around 2pm this afternoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector John Murray said volunteer Radio Operators at Marine Rescue Ballina received a MAYDAY call from the skipper of the distressed vessel.
“This afternoon Marine Rescue Ballina received a MAYDAY call via VHF marine radio from a solo sailor after smoke was seen coming from the engine room of the vessel.
“Rescue vessels Ballina 30 and Brunswick 30 were deployed to assist the vessel, located approximately 1 nautical mile off Broken Head in the state’s north.
“Fortunately when our crews arrived the vessel and solo sailor were safe.
“BA 30 and BR 30 shadowed the vessel back to Ballina to ensure its safe arrival back to shore.
“Firefighters will meet the vessel on shore and investigate the cause of the smoke.” he said.
Boaters are encouraged to always Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW every time they go out on the water either via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Kioloa 20 rescued a kayaker from Belowla Island early last night.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said Marine Rescue Kioloa received a call for assistance just before 5:30pm (Monday 13 November) after the paddler was separated from their kayak.
“A volunteer crew was assembled immediately and rescue vessel Kioloa 20 was deployed.
“KL 20 located the uninjured paddler on Belowla Island and safely returned them to shore while Marine Rescue Ulladulla Radio Operators assisted throughout the incident providing clear and effective communications.
“Paddlers using NSW waterways are encouraged to Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW by using the free Marine Rescue app or calling their local unit,” Inspector Massey said.
Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie have returned two boaters to safety after their 12-metre yacht broke its boom in extreme conditions around five nautical miles northeast of Port Macquarie overnight.
Marine Rescue Port Macquarie received a radio call for assistance from the skipper of the disabled vessel just after 8pm on Monday.
Marine Rescue Port Macquarie Unit Commander Greg Davies said rescue vessel Port Macquarie 30 was deployed for the mission.
“The disabled vessel initially lost its boom and steering capability and later its motor, radio and mobile communications.
“The conditions were harrowing on the water.
“The wind was gusting at 57 knots (105 km/h) and there was a four to five metre swell,” Unit Commander Davies said.
Despite the extreme conditions, Port Macquarie 30 skipper Len Smart, Leading Crew Rob Britten and crew members David Withers, Bruce Lee, Michael Ranson-Smith and Warren Gowing successfully reached the disabled vessel and secured a towline.
“Waves were breaking over both vessels and there were visibility issues but the Marine Rescue crew worked really hard and did a brilliant job in very challenging conditions,” Mr Davies said.
Unit Commander Davies said Marine Rescue Port Macquarie Radio Operator Brooke Mason played an integral role in the rescue mission.
“With the disabled vessel losing both its radio and mobile communications, Brooke stayed calm and in control to provide important support to the rescue crew,” he said.
Port Macquarie 21 was deployed with skipper Ray Angel and Mr Davies on board to monitor the bar as PM 30 returned with the disabled yacht in tow.
“Because the bar conditions were challenging and the towline was under stress we wanted to make sure that assistance was on hand in case the bar crossing didn’t go to plan.
“Thankfully it did,” he said.
Unit Commander Davies said the two boaters and their disabled vessel were safely returned to the public mooring on the Hastings River just after 1.30am this morning.
“It was slow going coming back to Port Macquarie.
“I am extremely proud of the crew, they handled the conditions very well,” Mr Davies said.
Volunteers from Port Macquarie Marine Rescue followed up on the welfare of the boaters this morning.
Two men and a child have been rescued from a life-threatening situation during a fishing trip on board a 4.8 metre Swift Craft at Jervis Bay.
Marine Rescue Jervis Bay received a call from the skipper of the disabled vessel around 11.30 Sunday morning after his boat suffered mechanical failure and was drifting near Bowen Island.
Marine Rescue vessels Jervis Bay 20 and Jervis Bay 41 were on-water undertaking a training exercise when Marine Rescue NSW Radio Operators took the call for help.
Jervis Bay 20 was deployed with Unit Commander Kevin Hill and Senior Crew member John Dawson on board to assist but the precise location of the distressed vessel was unknown because it was drifting and unable to drop anchor after losing it earlier on the voyage.
“The coordinates were relayed together with the mobile phone number for the skipper of the disabled vessel and we immediately headed towards the western side of Bowen Island,” Unit Commander Hill said.
“John plotted their last known position on the multi-function display which was the seaward side of Bowen Island at Jervis Bay.
“I immediately contacted the skipper by phone to confirm their current position and he confirmed they were on the seaward side of Bowen Island,” Unit Commander Hill said.
With no anchor and drifting towards rocks, the skipper of the disabled vessel estimated, they would be aground within ten minutes.
“It was a race against time and we proceeded as fast as we safely could,” Mr Hill said.
“The swell was substantial and as we arrived on the eastern side of Bowen Island we couldn’t locate the vessel and feared the worst.
“As John and I scanned the coastline for a possible wrecked boat we spotted the disabled vessel off Governor Head, metres from the breaking surf.
“We had seconds to respond,” Mr Hill said.
The crew on board Jervis Bay 20 reached the disabled vessel and performed a fly-by towline throw, which was attached by the crew on the disabled vessel.
“We only moved the vessel a few metres away from the rocks before the tow rope detached from it,” Mr Hill said.
With large uneven swell, Unit Commander Hill turned JB 20 back towards the disabled vessel to prepare for a second pass to throw the towline.
“They were extremely close to the crashing seas with the real possibility of being smashed against the rocks.
“I looked out of the rescue vessel and we had submerged rocks right beside us, the conditions were extremely challenging.
“John threw the tope rope which was successfully received by the crew on board the disabled vessel.
“We had to wait briefly after a three metre wave hit the rescue vessel, then we powered on and began pulling the disabled vessel seaward into deeper water and away from danger,” Mr Hill said.
JB 20 was towing the disabled vessel back to Murrays Beach Boat Ramp when on approach its engine started.
Image: (L-R) Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Senior Crew John Dawson and Jervis Bay Unit Commander Kevin Hill
Unit Commander Hill was relieved to see the two men and child on board the disabled vessel return to land.
“This was without doubt the most challenging rescue mission I have ever been involved in during my decade with the unit.
“It literally came down to seconds and this incident could have ended with serious injuries or even fatalities.
“I cannot commend Senior Crew John Dawson highly enough for his actions, he was so calm during what was an incredibly tense and dangerous situation for the persons on board the disabled vessel.
“Marine Rescue Jervis Bay Radio Operators Martin Mikosch and Julie Carter also played a vital role during the rescue, they were brilliant with their communications,” Mr Hill said.
Senior Crew John Dawson said it was it was “touch and go” at times during the rescue.
“After the second towline was hooked up, a big wave came through and caught the disabled vessel.
“It ended up being held by our towline, with the front half of the boat totally out of the water and the vessel at a very steep angle.
“This could have been catastrophic for the disabled vessel without the towline in place.
“A few second’s difference in our response time could have led to a total disaster,” Mr Dawson said.
Unit Commander Hill said the incident was one of those unpredictable situations that can happen on the water.
“The skipper of the disabled vessel did absolutely nothing wrong.
“He had the correct safety equipment, regularly maintains his vessel and knew how to connect with Marine Rescue NSW for assistance.
“The seas and machines are unpredictable and no matter how prepared you are for your voyage sometimes things don’t go to plan.
“We are relieved that this rescue mission had a positive outcome and that the persons on board could return to their families,” Mr Hill said.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey praised all volunteers involved in the rescue mission.
“It’s moments like these when the hard work and training comes to the forefront and results in a positive outcome.
“The dedication and commitment shown by our volunteers in this rescue is true to our mission of saving lives on the water and they must be applauded for their efforts,” Inspector Massey said.
Volunteers on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Trial Bay 30 have returned to base after assisting NSW National Parks and Wildlife with a successful whale disentanglement operation on the Mid North Coast this afternoon.
The entangled whale was heading south and located just north of Scotts Head.
Marine Rescue Trial Bay Unit Commander Ian Turner who was part of the crew on board TB 30 alongside Joe McLachlan and Master Jon Cragg said it was an impressive multi-agency operation.
“The whale was entangled in nylon ropes, maker buoys and plastic drums,” Mr Turner said.
“Conditions were ideal and everyone involved did a wonderful job to free the whale.
“The National Parks and Wildlife crew are a highly skilled group of people.
“Our Marine Rescue NSW radio operators Phil Hartley and Rick Turvey were also vital in providing radio communications during the operation.
Less than two weeks after Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Crowdy Harrington assisted the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service with a successful whale disentanglement near Camden Head, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Trial Bay are this afternoon assisting the NPWS whale disentanglement team.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said an operation is underway to free an entangled whale off Nambucca Heads.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have been deployed on board Trial Bay 30 to assist.
“The crew on board Trial Bay 30 is providing support for the operation with the vessel acting as the mothership.
“The Marine Rescue NSW vessel has NPWS personnel and equipment on board,” he said.
Inspector Page said ORRCA is also assisting with the operation.
A volunteer crew on board Martine Rescue NSW vessel Botany Port Hacking 30 has been stood down from the multi-agency search for a man feared missing while rock fishing in the Royal National Park.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said BH 30 began to return to base just after 12pm.
“Conditions were deteriorating with the wind and swell increasing.
“The rain also made visibility poor.
“The crew on board BH 30 conducted multiple legs of a parallel coastal search pattern from the northern end of Wattamolla Beach to the northern end of Garie Beach,” Inspector Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW vessel Crowdy Harrington 30 played the role of mothership during an operation to free an entangled whale off Perpendicular Point near Camden Head on the Mid North Coast yesterday (Sunday 13 August).
Marine Rescue NSW Acting Northern Zone Commander John Murray said a volunteer crew on board CB 30 was deployed to assist the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Whale Disentanglement team just after 8am Sunday.
“CB 30 carried NPWS personnel, gear and provided on-water assistance for the operation.
“The humpback whale was successfully freed just before 11am.
“Marine Rescue NSW crews train with NPWS across the state for these situations and this result is a wonderful outcome,” Acting Northern Zone Commander Murray said.
A volunteer crew on board Marine Rescue vessel Crowdy Harrington 30 has retrieved a boat believed to be the one missing since two men were thrown overboard and injured after the vessel ran over them and then took off unmanned in the surf zone at Queens Head, north of Port Macquarie on Tuesday August 1, 2023.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said Crowdy Harrington 30 retrieved the vessel after it was located by a fisherman four nautical miles east of Manning Point on the Mid North Coast around 8.15 this morning.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Port Macquarie, Forster/Tuncurry and Crowdy Harrington have been keeping an eye out for the missing vessel after numerous sightings by boaters off the coast.
“Forster Tuncurry 30 has done extensive searching for the boat and this morning a fisherman came across the overturned runabout offshore and called Marine Rescue NSW,” he said.
“The fisherman tied a line to the distressed vessel and stayed with it until the crew on board Crowdy Harrington 30 arrived,” Inspector Page said.
“CB 30 then towed the vessel back to Crowdy Bay Harbour.
“The vessel had sustained extensive damage.
“Retrieving this vessel is a great outcome, it not only removes a navigational hazard but the owner will have it returned.
“Vessels usually left to drift are never seen again,” Inspector Page said.
NSW Police are expected to return the vessel to its owner.
Two children fishing with two adults have been rescued from a vessel which was taking on water approximately six nautical miles (11kms) off Scarborough on Saturday morning.
The adult skipper of the distressed vessel called Marine Rescue NSW around 8am (August 5, 2023) after the 6 metre open runabout began taking on a large amount of water on return from a fishing trip off Stanwell Park.
The skipper who had Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW at the beginning of the voyage told the radio operator at Marine Rescue Port Kembla that they were unable to keep up with bailing water out of the vessel.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey tasked a crew on board Port Kembla 31 to attend the at risk vessel in case the situation deteriorated.
“Port Kembla 31 reached the distressed vessel quickly and they relocated the two children to the rescue vessel while two adults remained on board the at risk boat.
“Port Kembla 31 shadowed the distressed vessel back to the harbour in case the water ingress situation escalated,” Inspector Massey said.
“The children were safely taken on board PK 31 and reunited with the adults from the distressed vessel at Bellambi Harbour.
“We advise boaters to contact Marine Rescue NSW immediately via VHF channel 16 or mobile phone if their vessel starts taking on water,” he said.
Inspector Massey said the skipper of the vessel involved did everything correctly but things can happen unexpectedly in the offshore environment.
“This morning’s incident off the Illawarra Coast had a great outcome but situations like these can turn quickly into life-threatening emergencies,” Inspector Massey said.
The skipper of the distressed vessel, Lloyd was very happy to be back on land.
“All safe and secured by Marine Rescue Port Kembla, they all got us back on land so a big thumbs up to you guys,” he said.
Three Marine Rescue NSW vessels from Greater Sydney have joined a multi-agency search for a missing boater off The Gap at Watsons Bay after a vessel collided with rocks yesterday.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Raymond said volunteers on board Middle Harbour 30 and Port Jackson 31 were tasked by Marine Area Command to assist with the search at 8am this morning.
“MH 30 and PJ 31 are working alongside Water Police vessel Vigilant.
“They are conducting a parallel line search from The Gap south to Wedding Cake Island off Coogee.
“Sea conditions around search area are fair, there is a bit of a swell but visibility is fairly good for the Marine Rescue NSW search crews,” Inspector Raymond said.
A volunteer crew from Botany Port Hacking has also joined the search.
“BH 32 hit the water at 9am and is searching from Cape Solander to the northern end of Maroubra Beach,” Inspector Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Trial Bay responded to a medical evacuation overnight after receiving a call from a trawler northeast of Arakoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Rodney Page said the skipper of the vessel called for assistance just after 10pm with a young male on board suffering a medical episode.
“A crew from Trial Bay was assembled quickly and rescue vessel Trial Bay 30 was deployed.
“Marine Area Command and NSW Ambulance were notified immediately,” he said.
Inspector Page spoke with the skipper on board about basic first aid and CPR techniques in the event the patient’s condition worsened before the rescue vessel arrived.
“Trial Bay 30 reached the vessel and extracted the patient before transporting him to shore for assessment by paramedics at the Marine Rescue AirBerth on the Macleay River at South West Rocks.
“The Marine Rescue NSW crew of Unit Commander Ian Turner, Jon Cragg and Ron Young did an exceptional job at night to ensure a swift medical evacuation while the entire multi-agency response was seamless in getting the patient to land for treatment,” he said.
Trial Bay Unit Commander Ian Turner said it was very dark on the water with the waxing crescent moon phase.
“We used our FLIR (forward looking infrared) camera and radar for collision avoidance to ensure we met the vessel safely.
“Thankfully sea conditions were fair.
“We used a stern line to attach TB 30 to the trawler and extracted the patient within 15 seconds before assessing him in the cabin,” Mr Turner said.
Inspector Page said medical evacuations are rare but Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are fully trained in first aid and advanced resuscitation.
“I’ve only been involved in a few over the past five years but our volunteers are prepared for these instances and last night their hard work and training paid off,” Inspector Page said.
Volunteers from the Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking unit have rescued two sailors on board a disabled sailing boat which was drifting out to sea off Little Bay on Saturday.
Botany Port Hacking 30 skipper Brad Whittaker said a MAYDAY call was initially received from the distressed vessel.
“As further information was received from the persons on the vessel the incident was downgraded to a Pan-Pan which means the persons on board require assistance but were not in imminent danger.
“The sailing boat had lost steering capability and with the wind and current was moving further east,” Mr Whittaker said.
BH 30 was first on scene to rescue the two people who were drifting three nautical miles (5.5 km) offshore.
“Marine Rescue vessel BH 30 reached the disabled vessel and checked the welfare of the persons on board and initiated a tow,” Mr Whittaker said.
“Our volunteer crew secured a tow line to the sailing boat and towed it back into Botany Bay where we were met by Marine Rescue vessel Botany Port Hacking 32 who had just completed 12 nautical mile tow of a vessel which needed assistance offshore from Botany Bay.
“The disabled sailing boat and persons were transferred to BH 32 who completed the tow to a Water Police emergency mooring and returned the people safely to shore,” Mr Whittaker said.
“Both Botany Port Hacking crews and Marine Rescue NSW radio operators from the Solander and State Communications Centre at Belrose worked seamlessly together to ensure a swift and safe rescue.
“We encourage all boaters to Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW either via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue app,” he said.
Volunteers on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Port Kembla 31 have worked closely with NSW Police Marine Area Command to return two fishermen and their disabled boat safely to shore overnight.
The fishermen radioed Marine Rescue Port Kembla just after 3pm yesterday after the steering broke on their 6.5 metre boat while fishing 35 nautical miles (65 kilometres) off Wollongong.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the disabled vessel was a long way off the coast.
“After assessing the location of the disabled vessel we contacted Marine Area Command who advised they had a vessel in the vicinity of the fishermen.
“Water Police Nemesis collected the fishermen and towed the disabled vessel back to approximately 1.5 nautical miles off Wollongong where they were met by Port Kembla 31 who completed the tow by taking the vessel to Wollongong Harbour,” he said.
Inspector Massey said the disabled vessel was safely returned to harbour at 11.30pm.
“Rescue crews were fortunate that conditions were benign allowing the response to run smoothly and safely.
“The distance involved and disappearing light made the initial part of the rescue challenging.
“This operation highlights the valuable working relationship that Marine Rescue NSW has with Marine Area Command and the ability for both agencies to work together to ensure a safe and positive outcome for boaters in distress,” Inspector Massey said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from the Shoalhaven unit have rescued a 70-year-old man after his vessel began taking on water as he attempted to help a friend whose Motor Cruiser broke a mooring on the Shoalhaven River and ran aground on Pig Island last night.
The man’s tinny became disabled in atrocious conditions.
A volunteer crew on board Shoalhaven 20 responded to a call for assistance and rescued the man.
He was taken by SA 20 to Nowra Public Wharf where he was met by NSW Ambulance paramedics for assessment.
The Shoalhaven 20 crew then recovered the yacht before returning to base just after 9pm.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the Shoalhaven crew did an exceptional job in challenging conditions.
“It was extremely windy and cold but our volunteers used their skill and night training to rescue the man and deliver him to shore while the Shoalhaven unit’s Radio Operator coordinated the rescue operation with precision.
“The teamwork shown by the Marine Rescue Shoalhaven members involved in this challenging mission was excellent,” Inspector Massey said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Newcastle 30 and Lake Macquarie 30 continue to assist NSW Water Police in the search for a boater who was reported missing from Bolton Point on Wednesday.
Marine Rescue NSW Hunter/Central Coast Zone Commander Steve Raymond said Newcastle 30 resumed the multi-agency search at 8am this morning before being joined offshore by a crew on board Lake Macquarie 30 at 9am.
“Both Marine Rescue NSW vessels have been tracking up and down the coast from Redhead in the north pushing south to The Entrance.
“Each time they do a track they move further east travelling between 10 to 15 knots.
“Crew changes took place around 1pm with both Marine Rescue NSW boats back out searching,” Zone Commander Raymond said.
Video from on board LM 30 this morning
Meantime, volunteers on board Port Stephens 30 are currently returning to base following a separate rescue mission after retrieving a disabled vessel with three persons on board, 30 nautical miles (55kms) off Port Stephens.
The six metre cabin runabout suffered engine problems around 10am today and requested assistance from Marine Rescue NSW.
All Marine Rescue NSW crews have been stood down for the day after the multi-agency search for a missing boater off Newcastle was suspended for the day.
Marine Rescue NSW vessels Lake Macquarie 30 and Newcastle 30 were stood down around 5.15pm while volunteers on board Terrigal 30 headed back to base around 4.40pm.
Lemon Tree Passage 30 and Port Stephens 30 were stood down earlier in the afternoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Hunter/Central Coast Zone Commander Steve Raymond said there was no sign of any persons in the water during today’s extensive search which began just before 8am this morning.
“All of the volunteers from our various units put in a mammoth effort committing to a full day of searching.
“They conducted themselves professionally and searched a large area very thoroughly,” Zone Commander Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Lake Macquarie 30 and Newcastle 30 will resume the search with Water Police from Newcastle and Port Stephens at 8am tomorrow.
Volunteers on board Marine Rescue NSW vessels Port Stephens 30, Lemon Tree Passage 30, Newcastle 30, Lake Macquarie 20 and Terrigal 30 have resumed the multi-agency search for a male boater who failed to return as planned from a voyage at Lake Macquarie late yesterday.
Marine Rescue NSW Hunter/Central Coast Zone Commander Steve Raymond said a crew on board rescue vessel Lake Macquarie 30 searched with Water Police 49 for just over four hours last night.
“LM 30 began searching around 7.45pm until they were stood down at midnight,” he said.
Multiple Marine Rescue boats were deployed to resume the search for the man from 7.30am this morning.
“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Lake Macquarie 30 conducted a search of Lake Macquarie this morning,” Zone Commander Raymond said.
“Lemon Tree Passage 30 and Port Stephens 30 are working with Water Police 26 conducting a line search from Anna Bay to Newcastle.
“Newcastle 30 is off Redhead providing assistance to the aerial search in that area.
“Marine Rescue volunteers on board Lake Macquarie 20 and Terrigal 30 are meeting with Water Police 22 south of Swansea Heads and will focus north to Newcastle,” Zone Commander Raymond said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers from Port Kembla have been tasked to assist NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service following reports of an entangled whale off Five Islands this morning.
Port Kembla 31 will act as the mother ship for the NPWS crew.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said a private vessel is currently monitoring the whale.
“We’ve got a good window of opportunity to assist with the disentanglement operation because the weather conditions are favourable.
“Marine Rescue vessel PK 31 will escort the NPWS Zodiac to the entangled whale shortly,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Port Kembla 31 have assisted in a search and rescue mission after two stand-up paddleboarders were swept offshore by strong winds this afternoon.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said PK 31 was dispatched to assist Marine Area Command in the search for the two males.
The Marine Area Command vessel collected the first person approximately 2kms off Hill 60.
Port Kembla 31 was on approach to the second male who was approximately 3kms offshore when the Lifesaver 21 chopper arrived and winched him to safety.
“All agencies responded very quickly and worked well together to effect the successful rescues,” Mr Massey said.
It is believed the males were paddle boarding at Windang before being caught in strong winds and blown out to sea.
“A strong wind warning is currently in place for the Illawarra Coast and it is quite powerful on the water.
“It is really important that anyone heading out on the water always checks the weather and conditions,” Inspector Massey said.
Volunteers on board Marine Rescue Batemans Bay 20 and Tuross Moruya 21 have assisted two people on board a 40-foot yacht following an electrical fire on the vessel around 7.30am this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said the distressed vessel was located 17 nautical miles (31kms) southeast of Batemans Bay by TU 21 and BM 20.
“This afternoon Marine Rescue Batemans Bay escorted a vessel back into Batemans Bay Marina.
“The vessel had earlier reported that there had been a fire on board caused by an electrical fault.
“Fortunately when our crews arrived the vessel was still safe and the crew on board the distressed vessel was safe as well,” he said.
Inspector Massey said the electrical fire disabled vital communication equipment on board the yacht.
“Fortunately they had other safety equipment on board like mobile phones and an EPIRB that was activated.
“We were able to locate them quickly and assist them back to shore,” Inspector Massey said.
Boaters are encouraged to always Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW every time they go out on the water either via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board Iluka Yamba 30 have responded to a vessel which capsized on the Clarence River Bar at Yamba on the state’s north coast this afternoon.
The sailing catamaran overturned in rough conditions around 1.15pm.
The crew on board IY 30 assessed the vessel while a man was picked up by Surf Life Saving NSW on a jet ski and taken to shore for assessment by NSW Ambulance paramedics.
Iluka Yamba 30 skipper Mick Madden said the crew was exceptional in challenging conditions.
“The bar was very difficult and confused with a substantial cross swell running.
“We assessed the wreckage, it was in bits and pieces and continuing to break up,” he said.
Mr Madden said the vessel was unsalvageable demonstrating the power of the bar.
“It was just outside the breaker line when we headed back to base.
“The wreckage was heading towards the beach about half-a-nautical mile south of Iluka Bluff,” he said.
A securite has been issued to warn boaters of the navigational hazard.
Marine Rescue NSW urges boaters to check and monitor conditions and to Log On with Marine Rescue via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app.
Marine Rescue NSW vessels Port Kembla 31 and Shellharbour 30 have completed a second full day searching for a rock fisherman swept off rocks near Blowhole Point at Kiama on Tuesday night.
Marine Area Command stood down PK 31 and SH 30 at 3pm today after seven hours searching along with Water Police 23.
Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Zone Duty Operations Manager Stuart Massey said PK 31 and SH 30 conducted parallel line tracking from Bombo to the Beecroft Peninsular near Currarong pushing 21 nautical miles (40kms) east.
“Our crews covered approximately 160 square nautical miles during today’s search.
“The wind chop and swell made searching the area difficult but manageable,” he said.
Mr Massey said the Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on board were extremely focused despite the conditions.
“Their commitment is incredible.
“It was lumpy and uncomfortable out there, it was a confused sea with swells coming in from different directions,” Mr Massey said.
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 on board Port Kembla 31 and Shellharbour 30 have resumed the multi-agency search for a missing fisherman who is believed to have been swept off rocks near Blowhole Point at Kiama around 6:45 last night.
Both Marine Rescue vessels mustered with Water Police off Bombo Headland at 8:30 this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Zone Duty Operations Manager Stuart Massey said SH 30 and PK 31 are conducting a parallel line search.
“They’re going from Bombo Headland to Black Rock in the south.
“Once they do a run a they will move half-a-mile east and run the same pattern.
“Our crews will gradually move further east with each leg until they’ve covered off a 40 square nautical mile area,” Mr Massey said.
The Illawarra Zone Duty Operations Manager said that the missing fisherman wasn’t wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.
“A simple piece of safety equipment could have potentially avoided this search and rescue mission.
“We ask that all people heading out on the water wear a lifejacket,” Mr Massey said.
Marine Rescue vessel Shellharbour 30 spent two hours searching for the fisherman last night after reports the man believed to be aged in his 70s failed to resurface after going into the water.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
At approximately 12.05pm on Saturday 4 April, Marine Rescue Jervis Bay received a call from a 5m vessel that had overturned near Point Perpendicular Jervis Bay.
Rescue vessel Jervis Bay 20 was deployed to assist. At the time of the call, JB 20 was assisting in a separate incident only a few kilometres away. Marine Rescue Jervis Bay radio operators issued a distress call via VHF Channel 16 requesting assistance from any vessels in the area. Private vessel Dreamcatcher successfully retrieved two boaters and liaised with Marine Rescue Jervis Bay who arranged for NSW Ambulance to meet them at Bindajine Beach, near Greenpatch.
Soon after, it was reported that there were six people on the vessel, with the remaining four people thought to be diving at the time the vessel overturned. Marine Rescue vessels Jervis Bay 20 and Jervis Bay 41 were joined by an Australian Federal Police (AFP) vessel in a search for the four unaccounted divers.
The four divers were soon located on Target Beach Jervis Bay, where a Park Ranger met them and arranged transport.
Marine Rescue vessels JB 20 and JB 41 completed an extensive search of the area, the overturned vessel has not been located and is believed to have sunk.
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 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.
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.
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.
Marine Rescue NSW rescue vessel Middle Harbour 30 has towed a capsized vessel to a mooring in Vaucluse after a dive boat overturned near Hornby Lighthouse yesterday afternoon.
Emergency Services responded to a MAYDAY call around 2.20pm Sunday.
Marine Area Command rescued nine divers and the master from the water.
NSW Police said the group was taken to Rose Bay Wharf and assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics with no injuries recorded.
“The master, a 59-year-old man, returned a negative breath test,” Police said.
MH 30 delivered the overturned vessel to a mooring in Vaucluse just after 4.40pm.
A second Marine Rescue NSW boat, Port Jackson 20, assisted with the collection of items from the water where the vessel capsized and delivered the salvaged property to the Marine Area Command headquarters in Balmain.
A man has been rescued eight kilometres offshore by Marine Rescue NSW volunteers after his jet ski lost power off Shellharbour on Saturday morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Zone Duty Operations Manager, Glenn Sullivan said the jet skier called Marine Rescue NSW with a battery issue around 8.30am after Logging On with the service before heading out on the water.
“The vessel was Logged On at the time.”
“When he reported the mechanical failure he was safe,” Sullivan said.
Port Kembla 31 was in the area on a training exercise and tasked to rescue the man who was drifting on his vessel.
“Because of his early call to Marine Rescue NSW, when he realised he needed assistance, the rescue was effected in a timely manner,” Sullivan said.
“This serves as a reminder to Log On and Off with Marine Rescue NSW every time you hit the water and to carry all the required safety equipment ensuring it’s all in good working order to give you the best chance of a successful outcome when things do go wrong,” he said.
The man was located on his stricken jet ski by Port Kembla 31 around 9am and towed back to Port Kembla harbour safe and well.
Sullivan said the man was wearing a lifejacket.
“He had taken all the precautions to ensure his safety when he was on the water.
“Remember to wear your lifejacket as it can’t save you if you are not wearing it,” Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW crews responded to multiple jet ski breakdowns yesterday including around Port Hacking and in Eden.
Comments Off on Marine Rescue volunteer attends to man in distress on land
Marine Rescue Eden member Kent Farrell used his years of first aid experience to help an elderly man who suffered a medical episode this afternoon.
Farrell was driving to his Marine Rescue NSW shift at the Snug Cove facility when he noticed a man in trouble along Imlay Street just after 1pm Wednesday.
“I saw an elderly guy just suddenly drop to the ground, so I pulled up.
“Some workers nearby saw it as well, they rushed over and helped him.
“We got him into a vehicle and took him to the Marine Rescue training centre where I did some basic first aid.
“He looked in very poor condition, he was very pale, his pulse was weak but rapid and his eyes were quite glazed, he was quite disoriented,” Farrell said.
NSW Ambulance was called for assistance with paramedics assessing the man before transporting him to Bega Hospital.
“I hope the guy is ok but he didn’t look very well,” Farrell said.
“He was in good spirits.
“We’re just lucky we were there to be able to help him when he fell,” he said.
All Marine Rescue NSW boat crews are trained in first aid and advanced resuscitation techniques.
Two fishermen have been rescued from the hull of their tinny after a wave overturned their vessel just before sunrise at Yamba this morning.
Marine Rescue NSW Northern Rivers Zone Duty Operations Manager John Murray said Marine Rescue NSW was radioed around 5:30am by another vessel who saw the men in trouble at Yamba bar.
“IY30 (Iluka Yamba) was activated to retrieve the two men from the passing vessel who managed to get them safely onboard,” Murray said.
The two men were taken back to Yamba Marina on IY30 to a waiting NSW Ambulance before being transported to hospital.
“It was dark and they probably didn’t see the wave coming,” Murray said.
The Iluka Yamba 30 crew returned to monitor the capsized vessel as it floated 100 metres off the south wall of Yamba bar.
NSW Maritime was called to retrieve the stricken vessel with the assistance of IY30.
Boaters around the Hawkesbury will be kept safer thanks to the delivery of a new $441,000 rescue boat to Marine Rescue NSW.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke joined Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch, Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Todd Andrews to commission the new vessel Hawkesbury 30 in a ceremony at Mooney Mooney today.
“This new state-of-the-art rescue boat will allow our Marine Rescue volunteers to keep people safer on the water,” Ms Cooke said.
“Hawkesbury 30 is one of 38 new vessels being rolled out across the State under a $37.6 million investment by the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government to support Marine Rescue in protecting communities,” Ms Cooke said.
Mr Crouch said as well as operating on the river, the rescue boat can quickly deploy up to 30 nautical miles out to sea.
“This outstanding vessel is a valuable investment in the safety of the Hawkesbury’s active local boating community and its many visiting boaters. With its 250 horse power engines and a specialist Raymarine Suite of maritime navigation equipment, Hawkesbury 30 has the speed and technology to quickly get rescue crews where they are needed,” Mr Crouch said.
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Todd Andrews said the new rescue boat has been custom-designed and built to meet demanding local operating conditions, and would prove a reassuring presence for locals and visitors alike.
“Hawkesbury’s boaters can rest a little easier knowing that this state-of-the-art vessel is at the ready should they run into trouble,” Deputy Commissioner Andrews said.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke has officially welcomed Marine Rescue Evans Head’s $556,000 rescue vessel Evans Head 31 in a ceremony conducted at Evans Head on 23 January 2023.
Ms Cooke was joined by Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Alex Barrell and Chris Gulaptis MP, Member for Clarence officially commission Evans Head 31 to the Marine Rescue NSW fleet.
“Evans Head 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,” Ms Cooke said.
“With powerful Suzuki engines and specialist Raymarine Suite of maritime navigation equipment, the 10m mono-hulled Naiad rescue boat has already proven to have the speed and technology to quickly and safely get rescue crews where they need to when vital seconds count.”
“This outstanding rescue vessel is a valuable investment in the safety of Evans Head’s active local boating community and its many visiting boaters.”
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Alex Barrell said the new rescue boat had been custom-designed and built to meet demanding local operating conditions, and would prove a reassuring presence for locals and visitors alike.
“Evans Head’s boaters can rest a little easier knowing that this state of the art vessel is at the ready should they run into trouble,” he said.
“As well as operating on the river, the boat can quickly deploy up to 30 nautical miles out to sea to rescue boaters who find themselves in trouble offshore.”
Marine Rescue Evans Head Unit Commander Greg Blackburn thanked the local community for its generous support of the unit’s fundraising efforts to contribute 20 per cent of the cost of the new vessel.
He said the new vessel was a significant improvement over the unit’s former boat.
“The upgraded search and rescue technology on board including radar, sonar and FLIR night vision has improved our search capability, which is vital to our mission of saving lives on the water,” he said.
“With improved handling and manoeuvrability and greater volunteer comfort, our crews are able to operate more safely for longer periods and in a wider range of weather and sea conditions.”
“The vessel’s name, the Heather Stacey, is a fitting tribute to much respected member Heather Stacey. Heather has been a volunteer with the Evans Head unit for more than 27 years and remains a popular administrator and respected member of the Evans Head community.”
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Operations Alex Barrell has asked boaters to ensure they are well prepared and to take it easy on the State’s waterways after a surge in boating rescues during December.
During October and November there were 707 rescues performed across the State, just over 11 per day. In December the number of rescues surged to 602 with nearly 20 rescues performed each day, over half of which were for boats with flat batteries, engine failure or who had run out of fuel.
“Summer is a great time to be out on our beautiful waterways, but 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.”
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.
“Our crews are also seeing many boaters not wearing, and in some cases, not carrying, lifejackets,” Mr Barrell added.
“Every boat is required to have a lifejacket on board for each passenger, and the skipper should be ensuring that they and everyone on board, even the pet dog, are wearing one.”
“It’s also a good idea to check the weather conditions before heading out, and if you’re holidaying in an unfamiliar location, to find out about local bar and channel conditions, and to Log On with the local Marine Rescue NSW base on VHF Channel 16 or via the Marine Rescue NSW app.”
The week of Christmas to New Year’s Day is normally the busiest of the year for our dedicated volunteers, and the past week has proved to be no exception.
From Christmas Day to New Year’s Day, 260 rescues were undertaken, with 32 of those on New Year’s Day alone, getting 2023 off to a busy start for our members.
With plenty of great boating weather coming up this week, Marine Rescue NSW is asking boaters to stay safer by wearing your lifejacket at all times, carrying the right safety gear and Logging On with your local Marine Rescue NSW base on VHF Channel 16 or the Marine Rescue NSW app.
Yesterday a joint training exercise was conducted at the Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking base on Port Hacking with members of the NSW Ambulance Special Operations Team.
The interagency in-water training was designed to better equip both NSW Ambulance and Marine Rescue NSW members for joint rescue incidents, ensuring both organisations can work seamlessly together when time is of the essence and lives are on the line.
The exercise also helped the members of NSW Ambulance better understand Marine Rescue tasking and processes for future joint responses.
At approximately 1.30pm on Sunday 9 October, Marine Rescue Sydney was notified of multiple persons in the water, possibly unconscious, near Nielsen Park, Sydney Harbour.
Undertaking training nearby, Marine Rescue NSW members on board rescue vessel Port Jackson 31 were quickly en route, arriving on scene at 1.40pm.
Two people were in the water, with a third person on the marlin board of a yacht. One of the persons in the water appeared to be unconscious.
Marine Rescue NSW rescue vessel Port Jackson 31 safely manoeuvred and secured to the yacht and the unconscious person was brought onto the rescue vessel by Marine Rescue NSW members. The second person in the water was also taken on board Port Jackson 31 and was cared for by the Marine Rescue NSW crew.
NSW Police Marine Area Command arrived on scene and a police officer commenced CPR on the unconscious male with the assistance of the Marine Rescue NSW crew.
Marine Rescue NSW rescue vessel Port Jackson 31 took the unconscious male to Rose Bay where paramedics boarded Port Jackson 31 and continued to deliver care.
Despite all life saving efforts the man could not be saved.
NSW Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances around the man’s death and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
A straight forward rescue for the volunteers of Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet quickly turned into a medical emergency yesterday, when a solo yachtsman became seriously ill with hypothermia.
Just after 9am a call was received saying that a yachtsman aboard a small 4 metre sail mono-hull had capsized 400 metres off Macleans Point in the St Georges Basin, with the skipper unable to right the vessel.
A rescue team aboard Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet 20 was quickly on the scene, taking the yachtsman on board.
Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet Deputy Unit Commander Tony Pollard said once on board, the man’s condition quickly deteriorated.
“When we first got him on board he seemed ok, just a bit cold, but he very quickly became delirious and weak,” Mr Pollard said.
“An ambulance was called and met us at the Nielsons Boat Ramp, where he was treated by the paramedics before being taken home to recover.”
“The whole experience was a real eye opener, seeing how quickly hypothermia can take hold and the serious effects it can have.”
Marine Rescue Deputy Commissioner Operations Alex Barrell said that the incident was a timely reminder that across the state water temperatures are now at their coldest point for the year, and without a wetsuit or proper clothing, boaters and paddlers can quickly succumb to hypothermia if they become wet, particularly if it is windy.
“Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, drowsiness, slurred speech and disorientation,” Mr Barrell said.
“It is essential that anyone exhibiting these symptoms are treated quickly bymoving the person to a warm, dry place or sheltering them from the elements, taking off any wet clothing and covering them with a blanket or dry clothes, and having them drink a warm beverage until professional medical treatment can be obtained.”
‘It is also essential that boaters and paddlers dress appropriately before heading out on the water.”
Six young sailors aboard a 14 foot Hobie Cat owe their lives to a chance sighting and the efforts of the emergency services after their vessel was blown out to sea in strong winds off Narooma on Monday.
The Hobie Cat and its six crew were observed by Marine Rescue Narooma Radio Operator David White as they nearly hit the breakwall heading across the bar and out into the Tasman Sea.
Earlier, a member of the public had contacted the radio base, concerned that the vessel appeared to be heading out with no apparent safety equipment.
Although no request for assistance had been received, given the crew’s apparent skill level and the concern of the member of the public, and as the sailing boat was being rapidly pushed out to sea by strong westerly winds, it was decided to send Marine Rescue Narooma rescue vessel Narooma 30 to do a welfare check.
While there was no legal requirement to act and no formal request for assistance, the vigilance of Marine Rescue Narooma’s radio operator and a member of the public, the support of Marine Area Command at Eden, and the actions of the crew, prevented what could have been a significant tragedy.
With the support of the local NSW Police Marine Area Command in Eden, Narooma 30 reached the vessel, now far out to sea near Montague Island, to check on their welfare.
The vessel was observed to not have the required EPIRB, radio, flares or any means of communications in an emergency. One female crew member transferred onto the Marine Rescue vessel, but the others declined stating they were going to sail back to Narooma.
Marine Rescue Narooma 30 decided to shadow them back to port, but the strong head winds made it impossible for the young sailors to make progress, with the remaining five crew eventually agreeing to transfer onto Narooma 30 and for their Hobie Cat to be towed back to the ramp.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos thanked the Marine Rescue Narooma crew for their efforts and put out a call for boaters to always carry the necessary safety equipment before heading out on the water.
“As the skipper of a vessel the safety of all on board is your responsibility,” said Commissioner Tannos.
“It is essential to have on board all necessary safety equipment, the skills to operate your vessel safely, an understanding of the weather conditions, and to have Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW so someone knows where you are going, when you’ll return and can start searching for you if you are overdue.”
Marine Rescue specialists from Sydney and the Central Coast took to the waters around Broken Bay to search for “victims” missing at sea as part of a major marine capability exercise over the weekend.
The search was the focus of a two-day regional Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) designed to test agencies’ marine search and rescue practices and coordination.
Marked by the Rescue Westpac helicopter, a Marine Rescue vessel approaches a target.A mannequin is retrieved.
Minister for Emergency Services, Resilience and Flood Recovery, Steph Cooke, said that the exercise was the largest of five held across the state this winter to test the readiness of marine rescue agencies ahead of the busy summer boating season.
“Over the past 12 months, Marine Rescue volunteers responded to 3,896 calls for emergency assistance, the second highest on record despite the wettest start to a year on record,” Minister Cooke said.
“These exercises hone vital marine search and rescue skills and cooperation between agencies to ensure during such emergencies, everyone is able to respond as quickly and safely as possible,” Minister Cooke said.
“Tragically over the past year 14 boaters and paddlers have lost their lives, and I urge everyone heading out on the water to do their bit by always wearing a lifejacket, and Logging On with their local Marine Rescue base.”
A participant in the desktop component of the exercise.A radio operator monitors transmissions.
Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Alex Barrell said volunteers from eight Marine Rescue NSW units would be among more than 115 specialists taking part in the second of the 2022 SAREX series.
“Over the weekend, members of the Central Coast, Hawkesbury, Cottage Point, Broken Bay, Sydney, Port Jackson, Middle Harbour and Botany Port Hacking Marine Rescue NSW units will be joined by personnel from the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command, Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter and Surf Life Saving NSW.”
“This weekend’s event is a major component of our ongoing professional training program for our highly skilled boat crew and radio operators, in the state’s busiest boating region.”
“Our volunteers are trained to the highest standards for their roles and the on-water experience they gain from this exercise helps keep them rescue-ready around the clock.”
The search exercise is based on a scenario involving a search for multiple victims after a recreational fishing boat is reported missing off the coast at Broken Bay, with volunteers from all eight units also undertaking incident management exercises onshore as well as presentations by the attending emergency services.
Minister Cooke said the SAREX would provide members of the attending Marine Rescue units invaluable practical experience in a realistic scenario to take back and share within their units.
“This is essential to ensure that we have the best possible chance of quickly finding and rescuing someone in the water in an emergency, when time is of the essence,” she added.
