There has been a dramatic lift in the number of search and rescue missions conducted by Marine Rescue Central Coast in the past 12 months.
A near 50 per cent increase has been revealed through figures released by Marine Rescue NSW on January 17.
The Central Coast unit’s previous calendar year search and rescue mission record was 191 set in 2022.
This jumped to 283 in 2023.
Unit Commander Ian Morrow attributed the increase to more people using Central Coast waterways for recreational purposes.
“Brisbane Water is a beautiful portion of the coast with many opportunities for family fun,” he said.
“We’re also that much closer to Sydney, so many people travel the 50-or-so kilometres to cool off on the Central Coast in Summer.”
Statewide, there were 4,786 search and rescue missions in 2023, with 10,645 people safely returned to land.
Across the Hunter/Central Coast district, 1,511 search and rescue missions – including 341 emergency responses – were answered during the 12-month period, with 3,079 people safely returned to shore.
With 283 missions including 39 emergencies with 595 people safely returned to shore, the Central Coast was the third highest area of demand in the district behind Lake Macquarie with 679 missions and Port Stephens with 307 missions.
Marine Rescue NSW radio operators had a busy 2023, managing 258,742 radio calls – or a call every two minutes.
More than half the incidents in 2023 could potentially have been avoided with better boat maintenance, with 57 per cent of calls for mechanical, battery or fuel issues.
Boat users are urged to follow these steps to stay safe this boating season: 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; and always check conditions and safety equipment.