Another busy year for Marine Rescue

For the fourth consecutive year, more than 1,100 missions were carried out by the Hunter and Central Coast divisions of Marine Rescue in 2024.

Locations of highest demand were Lake Macquarie 652, Port Stephens 265 and the Central Coast 240, while Marine Rescue Tuggerah Lakes set a new unit calendar year record with 69 missions, surpassing 65 set in 2023.

Across the eight Central Coast and Hunter units, 1,393 search and rescue missions including 321 emergency responses saw 2,794 people safely returned to shore in 2024.

The hard-working volunteers at Lake Macquarie in the Hunter were the busiest unit in the state completing 652 search and rescue missions and safely returning 1,261 people to shore.

Marine Rescue Central Coast Unit Commander Ian Morrow said many of the callouts could have been prevented with better boat maintenance, with engine, battery and fuel issues accounting for 60 per cent of incidents attended by Marine Rescue NSW.

“Whether heading out on enclosed or open waters, it’s vitally important for boaters to carry the correct safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket, ensure the vessel is in good working order, carry enough fuel, and continually monitor the weather,” he said.

“A sudden change in conditions can lead to life-threatening incidents.”

Boaters are urged to follow these steps to stay safe on the state’s waterways:

Log On and Off with Marine Rescue via VHF Channel 16 or use the free Marine Rescue NSW app available for iOS and Android devices.

Make sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket.

Make sure your vessel’s engine and battery are working.

Make sure you have enough fuel and some in reserve.

Always check conditions and safety equipment.

“Engine and battery failure and running out of fuel are preventable issues, and boaters need to ensure their vessel is in good working order before heading out,” Morrow said.

“Marine Rescue NSW radio operators are the link between the land and the sea.

“They are often the first voice heard by a boater in distress.

“They play a crucial role in search and rescue responses, and boaters should feel assured that Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are available around the clock.”