Volunteers from Marine Rescue Batemans Bay have safely rescued a dog after it was swept from rocks at Observation Point and carried into the water shortly after midday today.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said radio operators at Marine Rescue Batemans Bay received multiple calls from concerned members of the public reporting a dog in distress offshore.
"Following the reports, a volunteer crew was immediately assembled and rescue vessel Batemans Bay 20 was tasked to investigate, along with one of our rescue watercraft (jet skis)," Inspector Sullivan said.
"Upon arrival in the area, the crew located the dog on Snapper Island.
"One of our volunteers went ashore onto the island, and after almost an hour of coaxing the dog, safely retrieved it. With the assistance of the rescue watercraft operator, the dog was taken to the rescue vessel and put on board.
"The dog was then transported back to the Marine Rescue Batemans Bay base, where our radio operators coordinated with Eurobodalla Shire Council Rangers to ensure it received appropriate care.
"We are hopeful the rangers will be able to reunite the dog with its owner as soon as possible."
Inspector Sullivan said the outcome could have been very different had conditions been less favourable.
"The dog was fortunate to have reached Snapper Island, and equally fortunate that sea conditions were exceptionally calm at the time of the incident.
"This rescue highlights the vigilance of members of the public who quickly raised the alarm and the dedication of our volunteers, who are always ready to respond when help is needed on and around the water," Inspector Sullivan said.
The dog was handed into the care of a Eurobodalla Shire Council Ranger following the rescue.
