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.
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