Marine Rescue NSW’s Illawarra units had their busiest year on record in 2024. Photo: Marine Rescue NSW.
The Illawarra’s seven Marine Rescue units, stretching from Port Kembla to Kiola, finished 2024 with their busiest year on record.
The organisation is disappointed that many of the region’s 495 search and rescue missions could have been prevented with better boat maintenance.
The number of missions – which included 230 emergency responses – was marginally higher than the 481 recorded in 2023.
Port Kembla had the most missions with 162, followed by Marine Rescue Jervis Bay with a record 131.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said Marine Rescue NSW radio operators were the link between the land and the sea and were often the first voices 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,” he said.
“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.
“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 their vessel is in good working order, carry enough fuel, and continually monitor the weather.
“A sudden change in conditions can lead to life-threatening incidents.”
Already this year, Marine Rescue volunteers have saved two anglers stranded 30 km off Ulladulla after their seven-metre boat suffered gearbox issues, rescued another boater from a sinking vessel at Sussex Inlet and were involved in a multi-day search for 60-year-old fisherman Tony Andeliero, who went missing off Warilla on 3 January.
Across NSW, crews performed 4735 search and rescue missions, including 1364 emergency responses, safely returning 10,539 people to shore.
Demand on the service in 2024 was just below the record 4786 search and rescue missions conducted in 2023.
The volunteers at Lake Macquarie in the Hunter were the busiest unit in the state, completing 652 search and rescue missions.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the demand on Marine Rescue NSW volunteers was constant all year round.
“These volunteers play a vital role in the safety of everyone using the state’s waterways 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said.
“Communities across NSW are fortunate to have such a highly skilled and dedicated team of volunteers who are rescue-ready day or night.”
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.
Visit Marine Rescue NSW for more information.
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