MARITIME ALERT

[mrsswordfisherman]

Friday, 13 May 2011

Maritime Alert: Dangerous Conditions

NSW Maritime advises boat owners and skippers to be alert to adverse weather conditions along the entire NSW coastline this weekend.

NSW Maritime Chief Executive Steve Dunn said the Bureau of Meterology was forecasting dangerous surf conditions from Coffs Harbour to Gabo Island up to and including Sunday.

These conditions should concern anyone boating in coastal areas, or planning to fish from the rocks.

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

Every skipper is responsible for the safety of their vessel and all on board, and NSW Maritime advises:

• 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.

Offshore boating safety at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/campaigns/offshore.html

Live webcam of bar crossings at http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/webcams/web-cam.html

Official forecast at http://www.bom.gov.au/