Marine Rescue NSW has recorded its busiest August on record, with volunteers completing 273 search and rescue missions during the month, including 97 emergency responses that safely returned 538 people to shore. The new high surpasses the previous record of 267 missions, set in August 2022.
The record capped what Marine Rescue NSW describes as its second busiest winter on record. Crews completed 762 missions this winter, safely returning 1,593 people to shore, behind only the 806 missions logged in the winter of 2023. Demand was also at record levels in the Hunter Central Coast and Monaro regions.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the figures were a reminder that boating incidents can happen to anyone.
"Our volunteers have experienced an exceptionally busy winter, culminating in a record August, and we are now preparing for another increase in activity as the weather warms up and families head out on the water during the spring school holidays," Commissioner Andrews said. "More than 3,500 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers at 46 units are on standby to assist boaters across the state, but the best rescue is the one that never has to happen."
During August, Marine Rescue NSW volunteer radio operators managed 19,731 radio calls, including four MAYDAYs and five PAN PANs, while keeping watch over 23,377 people aboard vessels that had logged on for the trip. More than half of the month's responses, 55 per cent, were linked to engine, battery and fuel problems.
With the spring school holidays approaching and the boating season due to start in October, Marine Rescue NSW is bracing for another jump in activity. During the equivalent two-week break last year, Commissioner Andrews said, crews performed 348 search and rescue missions and safely returned 825 people to shore.
"Old fuel, tired batteries and poorly maintained engines are common reasons boaters end up stranded or in trouble on the water," Commissioner Andrews said. "A few simple checks before you leave can make the difference between a great day on the water and a call for help. If the weather or conditions aren't favourable, don't put yourself, your family or other people on the water at risk."
Marine Rescue NSW is urging boaters to download its free app and Log On before every trip, either through the app or via VHF Channel 16. "If the unexpected happens, Logging On gives rescuers a vital head start and, when it comes to emergencies, every second matters," Commissioner Andrews said.
