Marine Rescue NSW urges caution in severe coastal weather

by Marine Rescue NSW on 21 Apr 2015 With almost the entire NSW coastline subject to severe weather warnings, Marine Rescue NSW strongly recommends boaters exercise extreme caution and avoid taking to the water for recreational boating.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for most of the NSW coast.

Tomorrow in the South, Eden coastal waters from the Victorian border to Narooma are subject to a Strong Wind Warning. This means winds averaging from 26 knots up to 33 knots (48-61 km/h).

Between Narooma and Sydney, and on the Coffs Coast between Trial Bay and Wooli, a Gale Warning has been issued. This represents winds from 34 to 47 knots (62-87 km/h). And the more extreme Storm Force Wind Warning with wind speeds between 48 and 63 knits (88-116 km/h) has been issued for the Hunter and Macquarie Coast from Gosford to Trial Bay.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said winds at these levels represented a serious hazard to anyone on the water.

“Boaters should make safety their highest priority at all times but particularly in the kinds of conditions we are currently experiencing,” he said.

“Do not put your own safety at risk – or the safety of the emergency crews who will be called to your rescue should you find yourself in peril.

“If you do not have to be on the water, wait until these conditions subside later in the week before you head out.”

When better boating weather returns, Marine Rescue NSW reminds boaters to ensure everyone on board always wears a lifejacket.

Boaters should also Log On with their nearest Marine Rescue radio base so that someone responsible knows they are on the water – and can take rescue action in the event of an emergency.

The new MarineRescue App for smartphones allows boaters to Log On directly with Marine Rescue NSW and features a multitude of other valuable boating information.