Marine Rescue NSW is praising the actions of two fishermen who’s boat capsized way out to sea off the Far South Coast on Monday afternoon.
The pair were picked up in the water by the Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter after setting off their personal locator beacon 46 kilometres off from Bermagui.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Steve Allan said they had done everything right from setting off a personal locator beacon and provided their trip details before heading out.
“Just before 3.45pm, Marine Rescue Bermagui was tasked by NSW Police Marine Area Command to respond to a PLB signal received by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority off Barragga Bay,” Inspector Allan said.
“A volunteer crew was quickly assembled and deployed on board Marine Rescue NSW vessel Bermagui 30,” he said.
“While Bermagui 30 was en route to the beacon’s location, the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter located the two anglers, winched them from the ocean and returned them safely to shore.
“Conditions offshore had deteriorated, with a 1–2 metre swell and south-westerly winds reaching 25 knots.
“It’s believed both anglers had hooked fish and, while lifting one on board, their boat overturned, leaving them in the water.
“When something like this happens, you are relying on your safety equipment. Thankfully, these anglers were carrying the right gear and activated their PLB to raise the alarm.
“Without that beacon, they could have been left treading water and clinging to an overturned vessel 46 kilometres offshore for more than two hours before their planned return time triggered overdue procedures.
“That is a serious, potentially life-threatening situation.”
