MARITIME ALERT

[mrsswordfisherman]

Wednesday, 4 May 2011

Maritime Alert: Large Swells

NSW Maritime today issued an urgent alert to boat skippers and rock fishermen with treacherous swells expected to impact much of the coast for the next few days.

NSW Maritime Chief Executive Steve Dunn said the Bureau of Meteorology was forecasting adverse conditions for small craft.

Large southerly swells of up to 3m and strong winds up to 30 knots are expected.

These conditions should concern anyone boating in coastal areas, particularly where skippers are planning to head out to sea.

Following last weekend’s tragic rock fishing drownings in Sydney, rock fishermen are advised to stay away from exposed headlands.

Coastal bar crossings can be treacherous, especially in such conditions, and boat fishing around offshore reefs and near exposed rock platforms should be avoided.

These large ocean swells are likely to cause extremely dangerous bar and offshore conditions.

Every skipper is responsible for the safety of their vessel and all on board, and should routinely check boating forecasts before heading out.

NSW Maritime advises skippers should always:

• Check the official weather before and during boating;
• Ensure the boat and its equipment is suitable for the conditions;
• Log on/ off with a Marine Rescue marine radio base for every trip offshore; and
• Wear a lifejacket

If in doubt, don’t go out.