Marine Rescue NSW volunteers returned over 7,000 people safely to shore in the 2025/26 boating season, completing 3,147 search and rescue missions across New South Wales. From 1 October 2025 to ANZAC Day 2026, these dedicated volunteers responded to thousands of incidents, assisting 7,059 individuals from Tweed to Eden, as well as in inland waterways like the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama.
Commissioner Todd Andrews highlighted the high operational demand faced by the service, stating that volunteers answered emergency calls around the clock. He praised their commitment and vital role in ensuring the safety of boaters across the state.
This year’s boating season was exceptionally busy, with crews demonstrating professionalism and dedication throughout. The ongoing combination of rapid response capabilities and boating safety education plays a critical part in managing risks on the water. Commissioner Andrews noted that teamwork among radio operators, vessel crews, and unit support volunteers was key to assisting thousands of boaters successfully.
In Greater Sydney, the demand was particularly high, culminating in a record of 1,277 search and rescue missions, ensuring the safe return of 3,171 people. The Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie unit led individually, executing 420 missions during the season.
Among the incidents logged across the state, 86 were medical emergencies, and the remaining figures included 220 groundings and 120 capsized vessels. Commissioner Andrews indicated that many of these incidents could have been prevented, with engine, fuel, and battery problems accounting for 62% of responses.
To enhance safety, the Commissioner urged boaters to maintain their vessels regularly and perform pre-departure checks. He encouraged everyone to utilise the cooler months for servicing and checking safety equipment, such as life jackets. With winter approaching, proper preparation is especially important—boaters should wear life jackets, carry extra warm clothing, and stay vigilant regarding conditions.
During this season, Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed 132,031 radio calls, including 75 MAYDAY distress calls and 42 PAN PAN calls from individuals in urgent, yet non-life-threatening situations. The ‘Logging On’ service monitored 170,608 people on board 46,824 logged vessels, which continues to be critical for safety.
Commissioner Andrews emphasised the significance of logging on as a standard practice before any boating activity, as it allows for immediate assistance should something go wrong. The service launched its MAYDAY fundraising campaign to keep volunteers rescue-ready and to support the mission of saving lives on the water.
Funding from the NSW Government is supplemented by community support and donations, which are essential for maintaining operational capabilities. During May, the community is encouraged to contribute to Marine Rescue NSW efforts to enhance boating safety.
For those seeking to support the organisation, donations can be made at the dedicated link: [Marine Rescue NSW Donations].
**Breakdown of 2025/26 Boating Season Search & Rescue Missions by Region:**
**NORTHERN RIVERS**: 204 missions, with 117 emergency responses and 451 people returned to shore.
**MID NORTH COAST**: 229 missions, 109 emergency responses, returning 448 individuals.
**HUNTER CENTRAL COAST**: 950 missions, including 220 emergency responses, assisting 1,880 people.
**GREATER SYDNEY**: Record 1,277 missions, 185 emergency responses, 3,171 safely returned.
**ILLAWARRA**: 303 missions, comprising 141 emergency responses, 660 people rescued.
**MONARO**: 184 missions, 104 emergency responses, returning 449 individuals.
For media inquiries, contact Travis Winks, Media & Publications Manager, at 0419 126 891.
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