NSW boaters warned on dangerous surf conditions

by Roads and Maritime Service on 26 May 2014 Roads and Maritime Services has issued an alert after a Bureau of Meteorology warning about dangerous surf conditions along the NSW coast today and tomorrow.

Powerful surf conditions are being experienced along the entire coast today and will persist into tomorrow from Ulladulla to Cape Byron.

Skippers and owners of small craft should be on high alert and check the conditions before considering crossing a coastal bar or heading offshore with meteorologists warning conditions are stronger than they appear.

Strong winds can also cause dangerous conditions for vessels on moorings which have been poorly maintained.

Every skipper is responsible for the safety of their vessel and all on board. Roads and Maritime advises skippers to:
• Check the official weather forecast before and during boating
• Ensure the boat and its equipment is suitable for the conditions
• Log on-off with a Marine Rescue NSW marine radio base for every trip offshore
• Wear a lifejacket.

For more information:
Offshore boating safety: www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/campaigns/offshore.html
Lifejackets: www.lifejacketwearit.com.au
Live vision of bar crossings: www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/webcams/web-cam.html
Official forecast: www.bom.gov.au/nsw
BoM maritime-specific advice: www.bom.gov.au/marine/about/four-vital-checks.shtml
Boating safety images: www.flickr.com/photos/nswmaritime/