A rock fisherman has been plucked from the water at North Bombo on the state’s South Coast after slipping off a rock platform on Monday morning.


At around 8:45am, the Surf Life Saving NSW State Operations Centre was alerted to reports of a fisherman who had entered the water after tripping at the popular fishing spot near Kiama.



Lifesaving assets including Council Lifeguards, the South Coast Branch callout team, and a Local Duty Officer all responded to the incident.



Fortunately the man was fishing near a group of others taking advantage of the relatively flat conditions with another angler quickly throwing an angel ring to the stranded fisherman.



He was in the water for around 10 minutes before being picked up by lifeguards.



The angel ring deployed in the rescue effort is one of two installed at the rock platform, which is easily accessible and known locally as a popular fishing spot.  



It is understood that the man is in his 20s and was not wearing a lifejacket at the time of the incident.



SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce said that the accident was a reminder of the importance of wearing an approved lifejacket when fishing.



“Fortunately the young man had everything in his favour today starting with the member of the public who had the foresight to throw in the angel ring and the relatively calm conditions, along with the prompt response from lifeguards and lifesavers.



“While this was a successful outcome, it does serve as an important warning of the need for all rockfishers to wear a lifejacket,” Mr Pearce said.



 



General Rock Fishing Safety Tips:




  • Check the weather, surf conditions and tides before going fishing

  • Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back

  • Always wear a lifejacket

  • Wear appropriate non-slip footwear and light clothing

  • Always fish with a friend

  • Check the warnings signs for information about the area

  • Never turn your back to the water

  • Do not try and retrieve anything that has fallen into the water

  • Do not jump in if someone falls into the water - wait for assistance or throw an ‘Angel Ring’ or Lifebuoy if there is one nearby

  • Additionally boaters are urged to always check conditions prior and to log on with their local Marine Rescue Base via radio or using the MarineRescue App. Visit www.mrnsw.com.au or more information

  • Call Triple Zero – Police to report an in-water emergency



 



Monday 12 February 2018