Marine Rescue Batemans Bay enhances lifesaving capability with new rescue watercraft
by Marine Rescue NSW 29 Sep 13:04 PDT
Marine Rescue Batemans Bay Unit Commander Rod Ingamells with the new rescue watercraft © Marine Rescue NSW
Marine Rescue Batemans Bay has taken delivery of two new state-of-the-art rescue watercraft (RWCs - jet skis), significantly boosting the unit's ability to respond rapidly to emergencies on local waters.
The Seadoo jet skis, known as BM 10 and BM 11, are capable of speeds up to 93 km/h and are designed to operate on enclosed and offshore waters around Batemans Bay. Each craft can carry two crew members and transport a rescued person on a sled, providing vital versatility in time-critical missions.
This is the first time the Batemans Bay unit has operated RWCs, with Marine Rescue Tuross Moruya the only other South Coast unit with the vessels currently in their fleet. Both RWCs are expected to be operational before the end of spring.
Marine Rescue Batemans Bay Unit Commander Rod Ingamells said the new watercraft would enable volunteers to reach casualties in areas inaccessible to larger vessels.
"These are rapid-response craft; they are very quick, and they can get into areas that our normal rescue craft cannot access, particularly shallow areas," he said.
"The training for rescue watercraft operators is comprehensive, and a certain level of fitness is required because of the nature of the craft and the operating environment."
The unit is now calling for new volunteers to join its 90-strong team, particularly to operate the rescue watercraft.
"We are hoping to recruit the next generation of volunteer to Marine Rescue Batemans Bay," Unit Commander Ingamells said. "People interested in volunteering with the unit can contact us directly or visit the Marine Rescue NSW website at www.marinerescuensw.com.au. No prior experience is required - we provide full training, uniforms and support."
Since the start of 2025, Marine Rescue Batemans Bay volunteers have carried out 93 search and rescue missions, including 56 emergency responses, bringing 170 people safely back to shore.
The new RWCs have been funded through community donations and the unit's own fundraising initiatives. Unit Commander Ingamells thanked local residents and businesses for their ongoing support.
"We are grateful for the generosity of the community and local businesses, who play a vital role in helping us continue our mission of saving lives on the water," he said.
Marine Rescue NSW encourages boaters and jetskiers to make safety their top priority:
- Always wear a lifejacket, carry the correct safety equipment and check the weather and conditions before heading out.
- Ensure your vessel is in good working order and carry enough fuel, including some in reserve.
- Log On with Marine Rescue NSW via the free app or on VHF Channel 16.
- By Logging On, boaters give Marine Rescue NSW volunteers the information they need to respond quickly if they fail to return as planned.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.