Boats recovery after Sydney storm

by Roads and Maritime Services on 15 Oct 2014 Boat owners are encouraged to check their moorings are intact with strong winds still blowing in the southern Sydney area.

Roads and Maritime Services Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said Roads and Maritime Services boating safety officers (BSO) had been busy since sunrise in Port Hacking helping with the recovery of more than 10 boats which broke their moorings overnight during stormy conditions.

'There are multiple boats in Port Hacking with loose flapping sails and damaged rigging and many are taking on water,' Mr Mitchell said.

'Our BSOs have been on the go all day salvaging boats, including 10 to date at Port Hacking, most of which had broken away from moorings, ending up aground.

'At least three large vessels have also sunk overnight and there are quite a number of sunken pontoons.'

There were similar issues with boats at Georges River and Botany Bay.

'We are still endeavouring to contact affected boat owners however while windy conditions continue it is advisable for anyone with a boat to check their moorings if it is safe to do so,' he said.

'It is a timely reminder boat owners must maintain moorings to ensure they hold up during severe weather.

'Moorings must be serviced at least once a year with a proof of mooring service produced to Roads and Maritime Services boating safety officers on request.

'Holders of mooring licences are responsible for damage caused by their boat or mooring to any other vessel or property.'

For more information on mooring maintenance and boating safety, go to www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime.