Central Coast News

Six people, including three children, were aboard a 5.5 metre runabout that ran aground at Patonga last Wednesday morning.

Marine Rescue successfully pulled the boat off the sand and – after making sure there were no injuries - the six holiday makers continued on their way.

Late afternoon, a 4.5 metre cabin runabout with two people on board broke down in the Woy Woy Channel and was towed by Marine Rescue to the nearest boat ramp at Lions Park.

A number of engine issues caused problems with boat owners throughout the day, with one boat – a 6.5 metre centre console with three people aboard – needing to be towed from Broken Bay to Bayview at Pittwater, while another needed towing from North Dangar to the Brooklyn Boat Ramp.

These two assists alone have cost Marine Rescue – a volunteer operation based at Point Clare – approximately $250 in petrol for the rescue craft.

The radio room and boat crew earned praise for their efforts during the busy day, with many man hours being spent to keep boat owners and their passengers safe on the water.

These motor issues emphasise the message put out by Marine Rescue Central Coast Unit Commander, Ian Morrow, just prior to Christmas.

 “Simple checks of making sure that your boat is in good working order before you leave the boat ramp, checking that you have the right safety equipment, checking that you have the right amount of fuel for your voyage can prevent a good day on the water turning to a bad day on the water,” he said.

“The December-January holidays are always busy on Central Coast water, from the Hawkesbury to Lake Macquarie, and we want to see people enjoy the holidays safely,” said Mr Morrow, adding that good preparation is the key to safely enjoying time on the water.

The Unit Commander said it is very important that boaters Log On with their local Marine Rescue base or use the Marine Rescue NSW app.

•             NFP: For further information, Ian Morrow is available on 0435 477 852