14/03/2026
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers return almost 850 people to safety in February as demand remains high on the stateโs waterways
Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue NSW completed to 404 search and rescue missions across the state in February, including 140 emergency responses, safely returning 847 people to shore.
The February total brings the number of missions performed over summer (December to February) to almost 1,700, highlighting the sustained demand placed on volunteers during the peak summer period.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said while volunteers stand ready to respond around the clock, many incidents could have been avoided with better preparation.
โFebruary was another busy month for our volunteers, who responded to 404 incidents across NSW, including life-threatening emergencies,โ Commissioner Andrews said.
โSixty per cent of responses were for engine, battery and fuel issues. These are largely preventable problems. Boaters must ensure their vessel is properly maintained, carry sufficient clean fuel including a reserve, and check their battery before heading out.
โThere is a fine line between a great day on the water and a dangerous situation. Preparation and planning are critical,โ he said.
Commissioner Andrews said Marine Rescue NSW radio operators also played a vital role in keeping boaters safe.
โIn February, our radio operators managed 18,864 calls, including nine MAYDAYs and five PAN PANs, and kept watch over 24,241 people on board 7,322 vessels that had Logged On.
โLogging On is quick, simple and could save your life. Boaters can Log On 24 hours a day via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF Channel 16. When you Log On, our volunteers monitor your safe return. If you become overdue, a search can be initiated without delay.
โIt only takes a minute to Log On, but it can save precious time in an emergency.โ
Commissioner Andrews urged boaters not to become complacent with just under seven weeks still to run."
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