Marine Rescue NSW volunteers on the Far South Coast are rescue-ready for an expected influx of boaters when the border between NSW and Victoria opens on Monday, November 23.
MRNSW Deputy Commissioner Alex Barrell said the service was expecting this summer to be one of its busiest yet, with more boaters likely to be heading to the coastline for local holidays and pushing the boat out more often.
“With the border opening from Monday, we’re looking forward to welcoming many Victorian boaters taking the opportunity to head north and enjoy our many beautiful waterways, particularly on the South Coast and our southern inland rivers and lakes,” he said.
“We urge all boaters, whether they’re locals or visitors, to always Log On with Marine Rescue when they’re heading out on the water via VHF Channel 16 or the free MarineRescue App.
“It’s quick and simple. Tell us where you’re going, how many people are on board and what time you plan to return. You can then get on with enjoying your day on the water knowing a professionally trained emergency service is watching over you.
“If you don’t Log Off as expected, our volunteers will start to search for you. If the worst has happened, they’ll be rapidly under way to your rescue.”
Mr Barrell said Marine Rescue volunteers had been training hard in recent months and were at peak readiness for a busier than usual summer boating season.
“Our members will be on duty at our 45 units throughout the summer to rescue boaters who find themselves in trouble on the water,” he said.
“With people unable to travel overseas and even interstate trips difficult, we’re expecting to see many more vessels on the water, including a lot of first-time boaters.
“They can help us help them by ensuring everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket, switching to VHF radio for greater coverage and better reception, making sure their vessel and safety gear is in good working order and checking the weather conditions before and during their trip.”
