Marine Rescue NSW volunteers complete demanding boating season

by Marine Rescue NSW 30 Apr 00:03 PDT

Marine Rescue Port Stephens volunteers assist a stricken motor cruiser in November © Marine Rescue NSW

More than 7,000 people were safely returned to shore by Marine Rescue NSW volunteers during the 2025/26 boating season, as crews across the state responded to thousands of incidents on the water.

Between 1 October 2025 and ANZAC Day 2026, volunteers completed 3,147 search and rescue missions, assisting 7,059 people from the Tweed to Eden, as well as inland waterways including the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said volunteers continued to meet strong demand across the state, answering calls for help around the clock.

"The demand on our volunteers across all regions remains high, but they continue to answer the call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reuniting thousands of people with their families," Commissioner Andrews said.

Marine Rescue Hawkesbury deploys to assist a disabled vessel - photo © Marine Rescue NSW

He praised the commitment of volunteers across the Service's 46 units, highlighting their vital role in keeping NSW boaters safe.

"Volunteers are the backbone of Marine Rescue NSW, giving their time, skills and experience to help ensure people return home safely," Commissioner Andrews said.

"This boating season was exceptionally busy, yet our crews once again rose to the challenge with professionalism, dedication and care, safely returning more than 7,000 people to shore.

"Our rapid response capability, combined with ongoing boating safety education, plays a critical role in reducing risk on the water.

"What stands out most is the teamwork across radio operators, vessel crews and unit support volunteers, all working together seamlessly to assist thousands of boaters," he said.

Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed more than 132000 calls during the 25-26 boating season - photo © Marine Rescue NSW

Greater Sydney recorded the highest operational demand, with volunteers completing a regional record 1,277 search and rescue missions and returning 3,171 people safely to shore. Volunteers at Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie were the busiest individual unit, carrying out 420 missions during the season.

Across NSW, volunteers responded to 86 medical emergencies, 220 groundings and 120 capsized vessels.

Commissioner Andrews said many incidents remained preventable.

"Engine, fuel and battery failures accounted for 62 per cent of responses, which is far too high.

"Many of these incidents could be avoided through regular maintenance and pre-departure checks. Every boater should ensure their vessel is in sound working order before heading out.

"The cooler months provide an ideal opportunity to service vessels and check that all safety equipment, including lifejackets, remains fit for purpose.

"If you are boating during winter, preparation becomes even more important. Always wear a life jacket, carry extra warm clothing, monitor conditions closely and avoid complacency on the water," he said.

Marine Rescue Eden assist a yacht on Twofold Bay - photo © Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Rescue NSW radio operators handled 132,031 radio calls during the season, with many managed through the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre at Belrose.

Among those were 75 MAYDAY distress calls involving immediate danger to life, alongside 42 PAN PAN calls from boaters facing urgent but non-life-threatening situations.

Logging On with Marine Rescue NSW remained a critical safety tool, with volunteers monitoring 170,608 people on board 46,824 Logged On vessels.

Commissioner Andrews urged all boaters to make Logging On part of every trip.

"I strongly encourage all boaters to Log On before heading out, either through the free app or via VHF Channel 16.

"It is a simple safety step that allows our radio operators to monitor your journey and act quickly if something goes wrong.

"During an emergency, every minute matters. Logging On gives rescuers a vital head start," he said.

On board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Middle Harbour 30 - photo © Marine Rescue NSW

Marine Rescue NSW will launch its major MAYDAY fundraising campaign this Friday, calling on the community to help keep volunteers rescue-ready.

Commissioner Andrews said that while Marine Rescue NSW receives funding from the NSW Government, the service also relies on the generous support of communities, partners and grant programmes.

"Our units cover a significant share of operational costs, and public donations play a vital role in supporting frontline boating safety.

"During May, we're asking the community to answer the call and support Marine Rescue NSW in our mission to save lives on the water."

Donations can be made at www.marinerescuensw.com.au/support-us/donate

Breakdown of 2025/26 boating season search & rescue missions across Marine Rescue NSW regions:

NORTHERN RIVERS: 204 search & rescue missions including 117 emergency responses with 451 people safely returned to shore across all 7 Northern Rivers units - Point Danger, Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba & Wooli.