Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Issues Long Weekend Boating Safety Warning
Image: Rescue crews respond to a boater in distress, reinforcing the importance of preparation and logging on Credit: MRNSW
The following media release has been supplied by Marine Rescue NSW and includes an important boating safety warning ahead of the ANZAC Day long weekend, shared here for AFLOAT Magazine readers with an interest in marine safety and boating across Australia.
Boaters across New South Wales are being urged to prioritise safety on the water this ANZAC long weekend, as the boating season draws to a close.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said while the season officially ends on ANZAC Day, the risks associated with boating remain year-round.
“The risk on our waterways never goes away, don’t let your next trip be your worst,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“Always check and monitor the weather, changes in conditions can lead to life-threatening emergencies.
“We ask all boaters to make safe decisions so they return home without incident and not put themselves or others’ lives in danger.”
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers remain rescue ready 24/7, having completed 313 search and rescue missions in March, including 105 emergency responses, safely returning 618 people to shore.
“Our vessel crews and radio operators have done a huge amount of work this season.
“The current fuel situation is impacting boating activity but there are still plenty of boaters requiring assistance,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“If conditions are favorable this long weekend and boaters are out on the water, we want them to know Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are ready to respond day or night.
The boating season, which commenced on 1 October last year, concludes on ANZAC Day following a particularly busy summer period.
“Marine Rescue NSW crews had a demanding summer, performing just under 1,700 rescues between December and February, almost 450 of those were life-threatening emergencies,” the Commissioner said.
“We are on track to exceed 3,000 rescue missions this boating season.”
Marine Rescue NSW is reminding boaters that preparation and communication are key to staying safe, regardless of whether they are on enclosed or offshore waters.
Boaters are strongly encouraged to always Log On using the free Marine Rescue NSW app or via VHF Channel 16 before heading out.
During March, Marine Rescue NSW volunteer radio operators maintained watch over almost 20,000 people on board Logged On vessels and managed more than 16,000 radio calls, including six MAYDAY distress calls and one Pan Pan.
“Logging On is a must. It provides vital information such as your planned route and expected return time, details that become critical if something goes wrong,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“Incidents can occur close to shore, even in calm conditions, which is why logging on is essential for every trip.
“All boaters using the Marine Rescue NSW app are encouraged to enable location services for faster, more accurate assistance when it is needed most, it could save your life.”
Commissioner Andrews also reminded users of the state’s waterways to wear a lifejacket and ensure they carry the appropriate safety equipment.
“Always wear a lifejacket, it can only help you if you are wearing it,” he said.
“With more than 3,500 dedicated volunteers across 46 units statewide, boaters and paddlers can be assured that Marine Rescue NSW is ready to respond rapidly this long weekend.”
March 2026 Rescue Breakdown by Region
NORTHERN RIVERS: 18 missions (11 emergency), 35 people assisted
MID NORTH COAST: 24 missions (11 emergency), 52 people assisted
HUNTER CENTRAL COAST: 103 missions (31 emergency), 195 people assisted
GREATER SYDNEY: 112 missions (19 emergency), 235 people assisted
ILLAWARRA: 35 missions (19 emergency), 64 people assisted
MONARO: 21 missions (14 emergency), 37 people assisted
This information was supplied by Marine Rescue NSW. AFLOAT Magazine will continue to share important marine news Australia updates and safety information relevant to boat owners nationwide. Read more coverage at AFLOAT Magazine.
