newy.com.au – A 77-year-old fisherman has been rescued from waters near Fingal Lighthouse after his overturned boat was found smashed against rocks during a multi-agency search in Port Stephens overnight.
Emergency services were alerted about 6pm on Wednesday after the fisherman failed to return home. A marine search and rescue operation was launched involving Marine Rescue NSW, NSW Police Marine Area Command, Port Stephens-Hunter Police and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
About 8.30pm, Westpac Rescue Helicopter operators located the overturned vessel against rocks about 400m southwest of Fingal Lighthouse. A man wearing a lifejacket was found in the water nearby a short time later.
Port Stephens Water Police were directed to the area and pulled the man from the water before officers rendered first aid. Responders were working in difficult conditions, including 15-knot southerly winds and a 2.5-metre southerly swell.
Police took the man to Nelson Bay Public Wharf, with a Marine Rescue NSW vessel leading the way to provide a break from the large swells. At the wharf, he was treated by a Westpac Rescue Helicopter doctor and NSW Ambulance paramedics.
He was then taken by road to Tomaree Hospital before being transferred to John Hunter Hospital for treatment of hypothermia and abrasions.
Marine Area Command Crime Manager Detective Inspector Jane Prior said the man’s preparation before heading out likely saved his life.
“This outcome highlights how simple safety precautions can make a lifesaving difference,” Det Insp Prior said.
“The man was wearing a life jacket and had also told someone what time he expected to return – those actions were critical and very likely saved his life.”
“Because someone knew when he was due back, they were able to raise the alarm early, which allowed emergency services to respond and locate him in challenging conditions.”
Detective Inspector Prior urged anyone heading out on the water to take precautions.
“We urge all boaters to wear a life jacket and to log on and off with Marine Rescue NSW every time you head out on the water – it could make all the difference in an emergency.”
Inquiries into the incident are continuing by officers attached to Marine Area Command.
