A search for an overdue boater on Jervis Bay today has highlighted the value of Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW and the need to make sure all your communications equipment on board is in good working order.
The skipper had Logged On via the MarineRescue App when she headed out this morning but when the 6m runabout had not returned as scheduled, the unit launched its search procedures.
The skipper did not respond to several calls on VHF Channel 16, leading the unit to check the boat ramp from where the vessel departed. The boater’s car and trailer were still in the car park.
The crew of rescue vessel Jervis Bay 40 was deployed, heading to the boat’s last known position. Finding no sign of the boat, the crew proceeded to search between Steamers Beach and Point Perpendicular.
The unit’s radio base broadcast an alert asking all boaters in the vicinity to keep a lookout.
As a second rescue vessel, Jervis Bay 20, was preparing to join the search, the unit again checked the boat ramp and found the boater had returned.
She reported her phone had run out of battery power and the marine radio on board was not working.
Illawarra Regional Operations Manager Bruce Mitchell said MRNSW was appealing to boaters to stay home during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect their own and its volunteers’ health.
“Everyone is safer when everyone stays home right now but if it is essential for boaters to head out on the water, we urge them to Log On and Log Off with MRNSW,” he said.
“This boater did the right thing by Logging On so that trained search and rescue experts could keep track of her on her fishing trip.
“Logging On gives us a starting point for a search and that saves valuable time when every minute counts in an emergency on the water.
“Our Jervis Bay members were diligent in their efforts to find this boater when she was overdue. Although this search could have had a very different outcome, thankfully she was safe and well – and very, very apologetic.
“It does, however, again demonstrate the need for anyone heading out on the water to be sure that their radio is in good working order and their phone is fully charged so they can call for help in an emergency.”
Mr Mitchell thanked the crew of Jervis Bay 40, Greg Atkinson, Tony Dagger and Brian McParlane and radio base operators, Steve Hutchison, Kristy Jones and Kevin McMahon, for their prompt and professional response.
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