A large number of boaters are expected to hit the water over the Easter long weekend and Marine Rescue NSW is reminding boaters to be prepared and log on to the Marine Rescue NSW app.
‘Marine Rescue NSW has had a busy start to the year with over 1,500 search and rescue missions, we are expecting this Easter long weekend to be busy on the water,’ said Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell.
This includes two rollovers on the Ballina bar during February 2024, as well as 29 search and rescue missions including 21 emergency responses with 54 people safely returned to shore across all seven Northern Rivers units at Point Danger, Brunswick Heads, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba and Wooli.
‘Last Easter our crews completed 109 search and rescue missions over the four days and safely returned 247 people to shore,’ said Commissioner Barrell.
Safety and preparation
Commissioner Barrell said safety and preparation are paramount to an enjoyable day on the water and encouraged all water users to log on to the Marine Rescue NSW app.
‘We’re encouraging boaters this weekend to put all their eggs in one basket with the Marine Rescue NSW app. The app gives you live weather updates, safety checklists and importantly, you can Log On with your local Marine Rescue NSW base so that your safe return is being watched by our dedicated volunteers,’ he said.
‘It only takes a minute to protect a lifetime. It is simple to Log On. You can do it over the Marine Rescue app or via VHF marine radio channel 16. Keeping across the weather is vital to safe voyage.
‘If you’re heading out on the water this weekend, make sure that you’ve got enough safety equipment, you have fuel and fuel and reserve, you’ve Logged On with your local Marine Rescue NSW base and of course, wear a lifejacket,’ he said.
Across the Marine Rescue NSW service has 46 units, and 3,300 volunteers are ready to respond to those needing assistance on the water.
