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Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie volunteers assist capsized vessel off Hams Beach near Swansea

today27 October 2024

Background
Lake Macquarie 31

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie sprang into action this morning to assist a boater after his vessel capsized off Hams Beach along the Hunter Coast.

According to Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Courtney Greenslade, the boater’s distress call reached Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie just before 7 am. Responding immediately, the crew of Lake Macquarie 31, a Marine Rescue NSW vessel, set out to assist with the recovery at the request of NSW Police Marine Area Command.

“Initially, Surf Life Saving NSW members provided support offshore, helping stabilise the boater until he could be transferred onto Lake Macquarie 31,” said Inspector Greenslade. “The crew then proceeded to right the overturned 4-5 metre vessel, which had capsized roughly 300 metres off Hams Beach.”

Reports indicate that a larger swell struck the vessel, flipping it and throwing the boater overboard. Fortunately, the man was wearing a lifejacket, which helped keep him afloat. Inspector Greenslade reminded the boating community, “A lifejacket can only protect you if you’re wearing it.”

The Marine Rescue team successfully secured the vessel, which posed a navigational risk, and towed it to the Swansea boat ramp, where the boater was brought back to shore safely.

Marine Rescue NSW, a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organisation, continues its dedicated mission to ensure boating safety along New South Wales waterways, providing invaluable support to local communities.

Written by: Newy Staff


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