River rescue: Moama rescue teams on the Murray River over the Easter long weekend.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers carried out 159 rescues over the long weekend, with fine weather and favorable seas attracting large numbers of boaters to the state’s coastal and inland waterways.
Rescues have taken place from Point Danger in the upstate to Eden in the south and inland on the Murray River at Moama.
While the majority of rescues involved boaters with engine or battery failure or running out of fuel, there were several serious incidents, including the grounding of vessels in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, and the search for missing boaters at Port Stephens and Moama.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said it was important that people on the water take proper precautions and follow advice from authorities such as Marine Rescue NSW.
“The key to a safe and enjoyable day on our state’s beautiful waterways is being well prepared and being prepared for the weather,” Ms. Cooke said.
“As we have seen in recent weeks, the weather can change quickly with very little warning. With the Anzac Day long weekend just a few days away, I would like to remind all boaters to take the time to prepare before heading out on the water.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said there were a few simple things boaters could do now to ensure they didn’t end up at the end of a tow rope after being rescued by one of the service’s salvage vessels.
“This Anzac Day long weekend, make sure you have enough fuel for your trip with plenty in reserve,” Commissioner Tannos said.
“Check that your battery is in good condition and do not set off unless your engine has been recently overhauled. Check that the weather and sea forecasts are appropriate, and above all, make sure that you, and everyone else on board, wear a life jacket.
“It’s also essential to let someone know where you’re going and when you’re coming back. You can do this on the Marine Rescue app or on your marine radio on VHF channel 16. We will ensure your safe return and start picking you up if you are late.
