Photo: Marine Rescue NSW
Demand for Marine Rescue NSW services last year fell from 2023 but better boat maintenance could have reduced it further, the agency says.
In its summary of 2024, the agency says volunteers in greater Sydney and the Illawarra returned 10,500 people safely to shore last year.
Demand was just below the record 4786 search and rescue missions in 2023, it says.
Lake Macquarie volunteers were the busiest unit in the state with 652 search and rescue missions and 1261 ‘returns’ to shore.
Marine Rescue NSW says many of the callouts their received could have been prevented with better maintenance; engine, battery, and fuel issues accounted for 60 per cent of incidents attended by Marine Rescue NSW.
Across NSW, crews performed 4735 rescue missions, including 1364 emergency responses and 10,539 safe returns.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators had a busy 2024 managing 242, 586 radio calls – with a large number managed by the 24/7 Marine Rescue NSW State Communications Centre at Belrose.
REMINDER FOR BOATIES
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib says the demand on volunteers is all year-round.
“These volunteers play a vital role in the safety of everyone using the state’s waterways 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he says.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell says boaters need to heed some basic safety tips.
“Whether heading out on enclosed or open waters, it’s vitally important for boaters to carry the correct safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket, ensure their vessel is in good working order, carry enough fuel, and continually monitor the weather,” he says.
“A sudden change in conditions can lead to life-threatening incidents.”
He says engine and battery failure, and fuel supplies, are “preventable issues”.
“Boaters need to ensure their vessel is in good working order before heading out,” he says.
BASIC TIPS
- Log On and Off with Marine Rescue via VHF Channel 16 or use the free Marine Rescue NSW app available for iOS and Android devices.
- Make sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket.
- Make sure your vessel’s engine and battery are working.
- Make sure you have enough fuel and some in reserve.
- Always check conditions and safety equipment.
