MARITIME ALERT

[mrsswordfisherman]

Saturday, 6 August 2011

Two Boats Rolled on Ballina Bar

NSW Maritime today issued an alert to skippers to take extra care when considering crossing any coastal bar.

Regional Manager North Jim Green today issued the warning following two separate incidents at Ballina bar this morning.

Two boats rolled on the bar in what Mr Green described as 'unfavourable conditions'.

The first boat capsized just after 6am and the two males made it ashore without serious injury.

The second capsize happened at 9am with the two people who also escaped serious injury.

Both vessels were runabouts and the tide was low with 1.5m surf in the area.

Mr Green called on all skippers to be responsible and to take extra.

"It is strongly recommended that no crossing is attempted at any time on the falling tide or within 2hours following the bottom of the tide," he said.

"It is also compulsory to wear a lifejacket at all times when crossing a bar … a lifejacket will only save your life if you wear it."

A NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officer is on the scene and an investigation has begun.