With some great weather forecast and more people looking to get out on the water, now is the perfect time to remember that conditions can change quickly, even on an otherwise beautiful day.
Before heading out, take a few minutes to:
- Check the weather forecast and be aware of any changes expected throughout the day.
Understand local tides, currents and swell conditions, particularly if crossing river mouths, bars, or operating along exposed coastlines.
- This situation occurred yesterday afternoon when six people had to be rescued from a 6-metre vessel that became stuck in the mud due to dropping tides.
About 5.50pm on Saturday 17 October, emergency services received a report that a boat appeared to be having difficulty within the Jordan River at Herdsmans Cove.
Police attended and made contact with people on-board the boat who advised that the boat was stuck in mud on a sandbar in the shallow water, but they were otherwise safe.
Police maintained contact with those aboard the stranded vessel while rescue options were assessed, however low water levels and unsafe conditions ruled out immediate retrieval utilising the helicopter, or marine vessels.
Considering the safety of the persons on-board and for attending emergency services, the safest option for rescue was determined to be waiting for the tide to rise.
About 2am, when the tide rose and water levels were assessed as high enough to reach the boat, a police vessel was cleared to enter the area and the people on-board were safely transported to shore, and the vessel was towed from the sandbar.
Police urge boat users to remember the best boating trips start with good preparation. A few minutes of planning before you leave the ramp can make all the difference if conditions deteriorate or an unexpected situation arises.
Enjoy the good weather, stay alert, and return home safely.
