Marine Rescue NSW has begun deploying volunteer flood rescue and support operators, along with staff, specialised vessels, and equipment, to Northern NSW as part of the NSW Government’s response to assist communities expected to be impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Marine Rescue NSW currently has 6-metre multi-purpose vessels (MPVs) and specialised crew located at Tweed Heads (Point Danger), Coffs Harbour, and Nambucca Heads.

Two multi-purpose vessels departed Marine Rescue NSW State Headquarters at Cronulla this morning, along with the Mobile Incident Command van, while another MPV from Marine Rescue Port Kembla also began the trip north, crewed by volunteers from Marine Rescue Sussex Inlet and Shoalhaven.

Volunteers from Marine Rescue Port Macquarie are ready to be tasked, while Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) are in position at Marine Rescue Brunswick and Coffs Harbour. An IRB is also being transported north from Marine Rescue Hawkesbury.

Marine Rescue NSW Superintendent Dan Duemmer said Coffs Harbour is the initial staging point for the Service’s flood rescue and support operators and assets.

“Marine Rescue NSW began pre-deploying multi-purpose vessels from the Lemon Tree Passage and Tuggerah Lakes units yesterday.

“Our flood rescue and support operators are highly trained and committed to supporting the multi-agency response when tasked by NSW SES,” he said.

Superintendent Duemmer advised boaters to avoid going out on the water until the weather system has passed.

“Conditions will be very dangerous on our waterways. It is not worth endangering yourself or others for a day out on the water.

“The forecast winds and swells will make boating hazardous – don’t risk it.

“If safe to do so, boaters should ensure their vessels are moored securely and anchored safely,” Superintendent Duemmer said.

For assistance, contact Marine Rescue NSW on VHF Channel 16 or call Triple Zero (000).

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.