Marine Rescue NSW is pleased with a significant decrease in boat rescues this January, crediting increased safety measures among boaters. Commissioner Alex Barrell noted that rescue operations were the calmest since 2020.
The Monaro region experienced decreased demand, with 42 missions and 21 emergencies, safely returning 87 people.
PHOTO: Marine Rescue assist capsized catamaran CREDIT: Marine Rescue NSW
Commissioner Barrell attributes this to boaters taking proactive steps such as ensuring vessel maintenance, monitoring weather, and utilising the Marine Rescue NSW’s logging system before launching.
“Boaters are getting the message to prep now and boat later,” Commissioner Barrel said.
“Almost 9,000 vessels Logged On with Marine Rescue NSW last month. Every boater should make Logging On part of their pre-launch routine.”
The Logging On service ensures volunteers from Marine Rescue are alerted if a vessel doesn’t return as scheduled, securing faster response times in emergencies.
The Monaro covers communities from Batemans Bay to Eden, Batemans Bay recording the highest local demand with 16 missions. Meanwhile, the Mid North Coast set a region-specific record with 61 missions.
Commissioner Barrell praised boaters for adopting these life-saving habits, stating, “Preparation prevents problems, and the fewer rescues, the better, we aim for boaters to have a safe, enjoyable experience.”
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators across the state managed 25,973 radio calls last month and kept watch over 35,083 people on board Logged On vessels.
PHOTO: The Monaro region stretches from the waters of Bateman’s Bay to Eden and inland to the lakes of the Snowy Mountains.
“Logging On ensures our dedicated volunteers keep watch for a boater’s safe return, and in the event they go overdue, a search will be initiated, Mr Barrel said.
“It only takes a minute to Log On and protect a lifetime using the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16. Logging On saves vital time in the event of a life-threatening emergency.”