Marine Rescue NSW is warning that coastal bars can be beautiful but deadly, particularly for boaters unfamiliar with the area. Photo: Marine Rescue NSW.
Boaters are being warned not to misjudge the danger of three coastal bars across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, with the crossings having the potential to turn a day on the water into a life-threatening emergency.
Authorities are urging both locals and visitors looking to enjoy Illawarra-Shoalhaven waterways these holidays to think twice about crossing coastal bars.
The Lake Illawarra Bar, Crookhaven River Bar and Sussex Inlet Bar are some of the region’s most beautiful gateways to adventure, but Marine Rescue NSW Illawarra Inspector Stuart Massey is calling on boaters to take extra care at the crossings after seeing first-hand how quickly conditions can turn dangerous.
“Boaters looking to cross coastal bars should stand off, check the conditions and then decide whether it is safe to proceed,” Inspector Massey said.
“It is best to cross on a run-in tide because there are fewer compression waves.”
The risk can increase for those unfamiliar with the area, even if they are experienced, with each coastal bar unique and bringing different challenges.
“Marine Rescue NSW encourages boaters to always seek advice from their local unit on the best options for going in or out in that particular area and what navigation aids are available,” Inspector Massey said.
“The decision and responsibility to proceed always remain with the skipper of the vessel intending to cross the bar.
“If you’re holidaying at another coastal location and plan to cross a bar, please do your homework and never put your life or your passengers’ lives in danger.”
Misjudging a crossing can lead to severe, life-threatening situations such as capsizing, but safety equipment and preparation can make an important difference in an incident and prevent further issues on the water.
“Boaters should always wear a lifejacket, stay with the vessel and grab hold of anything floating,” Inspector Massey said.
“Engine and battery issues, and running out of fuel, account for more than half of the incidents Marine Rescue NSW responds to across the Illawarra Shoalhaven, from Port Kembla to Kioloa. These are preventable issues.
“Boaters can easily reduce these types of incidents with better planning. Every safe trip starts before you hit the water.”
More than 400 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers will serve and monitor the Illawarra Shoalhaven this season from rescue vessels and radio rooms at units in Port Kembla, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Jervis Bay, Sussex Inlet, Ulladulla and Kioloa.
Last summer, volunteers across the region performed 196 search-and-rescue missions, including 78 emergency responses, safely returning 446 people to shore and keeping watch over almost 4000 Logged On vessels.
And a simple step can be crucial to help stay on their radar.
“When a boater Logs On, they share details of their trip and expected return time,” Marine Rescue NSW Acting Commissioner Todd Andrews said.
“If they don’t return as planned, a search will be initiated. Logging On saves vital time in an emergency and can be done via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF channel 16. It only takes a minute to Log On to protect a lifetime.
“We want people to have an enjoyable time on the water and get home safely. A skipper who chooses to cancel or adjust a trip in poor conditions shows good leadership. If you’re unsure, don’t go out.”
For more information and to plan a trip, visit the Marine Rescue NSW website.
