The unit covers a large area including Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest as well as the western end of Port Stephens.

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“While it’s been a busy start to the boating season, our volunteers are well prepared for the influx of boaters over what are traditionally the busiest weeks of the year on our waterways,” Mr Aselford told News Of The Area.

“We want everyone to have a great time on the water, and most importantly, to return home safely.

“Over the Christmas and New Year period it’s more important than ever to make sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket and that you Log On with Marine Rescue NSW on VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app.

“This free service gives you the peace of mind of knowing our volunteers are watching out for your safe return and that if you don’t Log Off as planned, they will start searching for you.”

Mr Aselford also emphasised that obtaining a boat licence and keeping up to date with the meanings of the various markers can save a lot of problems.

Details of how to obtain a boat licence, links to the Service NSW online manuals and waterways maps can be found at https://licence.mrltp.au.

Maps 7A and 7B cover the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park area.

Mr Aselford said many of the rescue missions launched could have been avoided if boaters had taken simple precautions and were more familiar with the navigation markers.

“For example with the rescue operations carried out across NSW over the past year, nearly half have been due to engine failure such as a flat battery, bad fuel or just out of fuel.

“These can easily be prevented by checking your engine, fuel and battery are in good condition and that your fuel tank is full before heading out.”

He said large numbers of boaters on the water over the Christmas – New Year period made collisions more likely and urged boaters to slow down, stay vigilant, watch out for swimmers and take it easy on the water.

With summer often coming with strong sea breezes, afternoon storms and notorious southerly busters, Mr Aselford added that Marine Rescue Lemon Tree Passage crews were often called to help boaters who had misjudged weather and sea conditions.

“Check weather and sea conditions before heading out and regularly throughout the day as conditions can change quickly.

“You can get up-to-date forecasts from your local Marine Rescue base by calling on VHF Channel 16 at any time or on the Marine Rescue NSW app. Also look behind you from time to time in case a storm is sneaking up on you.”

For those planning to fish it is important to hold a valid fishing licence or have an eligible exemption and know the boundaries of the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park.

Using the FishSmart app makes it easy to know that you are fishing in the right places.

By Marian SAMPSON