Lake Macquarie busiest in NSW as Hunter Marine Rescue crews answer 121 February missions

newy.com.au – Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the Hunter Central Coast completed 121 search and rescue missions in February, including 36 emergency responses, as demand remained high on local waterways through the final month of summer.

The Hunter Central Coast was one of the busiest regions in the state, with volunteers safely returning 221 people to shore across units at Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes, Brisbane Water and Terrigal.

Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie was again the busiest unit in NSW, completing 61 search and rescue missions during the month. Brisbane Water handled 17 missions and Lemon Tree Passage 13.

Across NSW, Marine Rescue volunteers carried out 404 search and rescue missions in February, including 140 emergency responses, and safely returned 847 people to shore. The February result took the number of missions completed over summer, from December to February, to almost 1,700.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said many of the incidents attended by crews could have been avoided with better preparation. “February was another busy month for our volunteers, who responded to 404 incidents across NSW, including life-threatening emergencies,” Commissioner Andrews said.

“Sixty per cent of responses were for engine, battery and fuel issues. These are largely preventable problems. Boaters must ensure their vessel is properly maintained, carry sufficient clean fuel including a reserve, and check their battery before heading out.”

Commissioner Andrews said crews also responded to a dozen capsized vessels across the state in February and took part in several missing person searches, while Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed 18,864 calls, including nine MAYDAYs and five PAN PANs.

Radio operators also kept watch over 24,241 people on board 7,322 vessels that had logged on during the month. Commissioner Andrews urged boaters to use the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16 before heading out on the water.

“Logging On is quick, simple and could save your life. Boaters can Log On 24 hours a day via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF Channel 16. When you Log On, our volunteers monitor your safe return. If you become overdue, a search can be initiated without delay.”

With less than seven weeks remaining in the boating season at the time of the report, Commissioner Andrews said boaters should not become complacent. “Whether you are fishing offshore, crossing a bar, or enjoying time on enclosed waters, always wear a lifejacket, check the weather forecast and conditions, ensure you have the required safety equipment on board and make preparation part of every trip.”