Hunter Region Volunteers Launch 85 Rescues in Second Busiest June for Marine Rescue NSW

newy.com.au – Marine Rescue NSW volunteers in the Hunter and Central Coast region responded to 85 search and rescue missions during June, making it one of the busiest areas in the state as boaters took advantage of improved winter weather conditions.

Of these 85 missions, 27 were emergency responses, with 177 people safely brought back to shore. Lake Macquarie was the most active location in the region, with 38 operations, followed by Port Stephens with 15 and Brisbane Water with 13. Across the state, the Service completed 268 missions during the month, the second highest number ever recorded for June, although down from 316 in the same month last year.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell commended the work of volunteers who responded around the clock, often in difficult conditions. “Our crews responded day and night, often in very challenging conditions. Several successful rescues were conducted after dark last month, which is something our volunteers train for,” he said.

Throughout June, radio operators across NSW monitored 22,100 people on board vessels that had Logged On via the Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF channel 16. The Service handled 19,521 calls, including five MAYDAYs and five Pan Pans.

Commissioner Barrell urged caution during the current whale migration season, warning that large marine animals pose navigational risks to boaters. “When whales are present, boaters must stay at least 100 metres away, or 300 metres in the case of a whale with a calf,” he said.

With school holidays underway, boaters in the Newcastle and Hunter area are reminded to plan carefully before setting out. “It is really important for those boating in unfamiliar locations to plan their trip, check and monitor the weather, have ample fuel on board with plenty in reserve, carry the correct safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket and Log On with Marine Rescue NSW,” Commissioner Barrell said.

He also urged caution when crossing coastal bars, advising skippers to observe conditions carefully before proceeding and to seek local advice where possible.