Boaters warned to check moorings and take care on the water

Boaters warned to check moorings and take care on the water

The State boating regulator, NSW Maritime, is alerting boaters to take extra care this weekend with gale-force conditions forecast for some waters.

NSW Maritime General Manager Recreational Boating Brett Moore said forecasts indicated that most of the coastal areas of NSW – with the exception of the North Coast – could expect to be buffeted by strong to gale force winds, resulting from a large low pressure system expected to intensify just to the south of the State.

“There is also a general forecast for rising seas over the weekend, with potential for large swell in some areas,” Mr Moore said.

“In the south, conditions are likely to be quite cold, with strong winds affecting not only coastal areas, but inland lakes and reservoirs.

“Boaters in the north of the State should take care when navigating on waterways swollen – and possibly strewn with unidentified hazards – from recent flooding.

“Safety is paramount when boating, so we would urge anyone who is thinking of heading out on the water in the next couple of days to check the weather first and if in doubt, don’t go out,” Mr Moore said.

Boat owners with vessels moored in areas impacted by high winds, should check their mooring is safe and secure.

“NSW Maritime requires all moorings to be properly maintained and serviced to minimise the chance of boats breaking free,” Mr Moore said.

“A vessel that breaks free from its mooring can be wrecked on a shore or cause damage to other vessels or property, which can be the responsibility and cost to the breakaway vessel owner,” he said.