Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water. Photo: Marine Rescue NSW.
A man has been plucked from waters off Towradgi, north of Wollongong, by boaters on board a recreational vessel.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Port Kembla’s Hill 60 base took a call from a logged-on vessel just before lunchtime on Monday, 29 December.
“The recreational vessel was transiting from Port Kembla to southern Sydney when, off Towradgi, they observed an object floating in the water,” Inspector Sullivan said.
“The skipper of the recreational vessel immediately contacted the Marine Rescue Port Kembla radio base to advise they had located and retrieved a man from the water.
“Marine Rescue Port Kembla radio operators requested NSW Ambulance meet the recreational vessel at Wollongong Harbour and managed communications for the response.
“The man was extremely cold and unwell, and paramedics transported him to Wollongong Hospital.”
It is believed the man fell out of his kayak.
“It is unknown how long the man was in the water or where he became separated from his craft.
“The people on board the recreational vessel saved the man’s life.
“It is vitally important that all boaters maintain a proper lookout. Being observant can not only save your own life but also the lives of others. This man was clearly in trouble and in a life-threatening situation.
“Our dedicated radio operators also did a wonderful job managing communications.”
Inspector Sullivan said there had been an influx of calls for assistance on the Illawarra and South Coast, with volunteer crews performing a dozen missions before lunch.
“The majority of responses have been for mechanical and fuel issues, which are preventable. Please ensure your vessel is in good working order before launching, have the correct safety equipment on board, always wear a lifejacket, log on, and carry enough fuel with some in reserve.
“These measures will not only help you have a safe and enjoyable day on the water — they might just save your life,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
