Marine Rescue NSW volunteers say the team at Point Danger has reached a new record, having carried out nearly 150 rescue missions in 2025.
The most northerly rescue base in the state is generally the busiest in the Northern region, which has seven units including those at Brunswick, Cape Byron and Ballina.
Point Danger Marine Rescue volunteers recorded 149 missions last year, more than their previous record high of 145 in 2022.
Nearly 330 search and rescue missions across the Northern Rivers were recorded for 2025.
They included nearly 180 emergency responses and represent more than 700 people rescued, Marine Rescue NSW says.
Volunteers rescue nearly 10,000 people from NSW waters
Ballina’s team was the second busiest last year in terms of rescues at 56, followed by the Iluka Yamba base further south at 48.
More than 4,500 rescues were recorded by the volunteers service across the state last year, representing nearly 10,000 people having to be rescued.
The Lake Macquarie region was identified as the waterway where boaters were most likely to need assistance in NSW, with volunteers carrying out nearly 600 search and rescue missions.
Boating safety reminders
Marine Rescue NSW urged boaters to follow the following steps to stay safe on the state’s waterways:
- Log on and off with Marine Rescue NSW via VHF Channel 16 or use the free Marine Rescue NSW app available for iOS and Android devices;
- ensure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket;
- check the vessel’s engine and battery are working;
- carry enough fuel, including a reserve;
- always check conditions and ensure required safety equipment is carried.
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