MARINE Rescue NSW is urging boaters not to let winter conditions lull them into a false sense of security after volunteers completed 235 rescue missions across the state’s waterways during June.
The rescues saw 548 people safely returned to shore, with almost 40 per cent of the missions involving emergency responses.
The Mid North Coast experienced its busiest June on record, with volunteers completing 35 search-and-rescue missions, including 19 emergency responses, and safely returning 84 people to shore.
The record-breaking effort involved volunteers from the region’s nine units at Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Trial Bay, Lord Howe Island, Port Macquarie, Camden Haven, Crowdy Harrington and Forster Tuncurry.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the figures highlighted the importance of careful preparation before every trip.
“Winter is no time for complacency,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“Boaters must remain vigilant, as weather conditions can change rapidly and water temperatures are colder.”
He warned that falling into cold water could have serious consequences.
“Cold shock can occur within seconds, while prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia, which can quickly become life threatening.
“Even on calm, sunny days, falling into cold water can have serious consequences.
“The best rescue is the one that never has to happen, and that starts with being well-prepared.”
Volunteer radio operators also remained busy during June, managing 20,267 radio calls, including three MAYDAY and two Pan Pan calls.
More than 21,600 people on board 6,341 vessels used the free Log On service before heading onto the water.
Engine failure remained the leading cause of rescue missions, accounting for 42 per cent of all responses.
Commissioner Andrews said many of those incidents could have been avoided with routine maintenance.
“Before launching, ensure your vessel is in working condition, your engine has been serviced and all safety equipment is operational,” he said.
He also encouraged skippers to Log On before every trip and Log Off when safely back ashore, allowing volunteer radio operators to quickly begin inquiries if a vessel failed to return.
With the annual whale migration continuing along the NSW coast, Commissioner Andrews urged boaters to keep a careful lookout, follow required approach distances advice and monitor weather forecasts throughout their journey.
“If in doubt, don’t go out,” he said.
By Sis HIGGINS
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
