A volunteer crew from Marine Rescue Newcastle navigated darkness and a fast-flowing run-out tide overnight to rescue a stranded sailor four nautical miles (7.4 km) south of Nobbys Head.
Marine Rescue Newcastle Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh said the skipper of a Logged On 11-metre sailing catamaran called radio operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre at 10 pm last night (Tuesday 29 April) to ask for help after his vessel suffered engine failure.
“A volunteer crew was assembled and rescue vessel Newcastle 30 was deployed.
“The crew reached the disabled vessel at 11:15 pm and checked the welfare of the sailor, who was fine. A towline was then secured to his vessel.
“Because of the weight and width of the vessel, it was a slow trip back into the harbour.
“We used FLIR (forward-looking infrared camera) technology on board Newcastle 30 to assist with safe passage.
“The strong run-out tide on the Hunter River restricted our travelling speed, and Newcastle 30 was required to perform a number of challenging manoeuvres to safely place the disabled vessel on a mooring near Stockton Bridge. At 1:20 am, the skipper and his vessel were secured,” she said.
Unit Commander Van Homrigh is also advising boaters to avoid going out on the water while a hazardous surf warning is in place for the Hunter Coast.
“Surf and swell conditions are expected to be hazardous today and tomorrow.
“Boaters should delay their plans until conditions improve, and always Log On with Marine Rescue NSW via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16,” she said.
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