With hazardous weather conditions forecast to impact the NSW coastline this weekend, Surf Life Saving NSW is urging the public to exercise caution when visiting the coastline this weekend. 


The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a hazardous surf alert as a low pressure system forms off the NSW coast. Stormy conditions and a short range southerly swell is expected to develop off the central NSW coast from Saturday.



Conditions will be hazardous for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, surfing and swimming. People should consider staying out of the water. Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean.



SLSNSW CEO Steve Pearce warns that conditions along the NSW coast will become hazardous and is urging the public to exercise caution if they are visiting the coast.



“Beaches are not patrolled at this time of year and we would advise giving rock fishing a miss altogether this weekend,” said Steve Pearce.



A triple boat fatality last weekend and the tragic drowning of a man at Batemans Bay on Monday has lifesaving services on high alert.



Forecast swell conditions could reach five metres offshore on the North Coast. Large swell will impact particularly on exposed southern headlands. Fresh to strong south-easterly winds will result in choppy, messy conditions. Rain will become heavy and widespread on Sunday along the coast.



Surf Life Saving NSW club call-out teams, Duty Officers and surf rescue assets are on standby to respond to critical coastal incidents, despite it being off-season.



Nine people died while rock fishing in the last 12 months in NSW.



HAZARDOUS SURF CONDITIONS SAFETY TIPS




  • Avoid rock fishing and water activities on exposed beaches/rock-shelves

  • Only swim at patrolled beaches, between the red and yellow flags. See the Beachsafe Website for patrolled locations/times

  • Check the official Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast before undertaking rock fishing and water activities

  • Boaties should seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and always wear a lifejacket

  • If witnessing an in-water emergency dial Triple Zero (000) – Police.



Saturday 10 July 2021