People are being urged to take all necessary safety precautions when heading out on the water, after a man died due to a boat capsizing on the Camden Haven River, North Haven on Sunday, December 3.
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A spokesperson from NSW Police said the man who died was from Revesby, Sydney and aged 59-years-old. His two friends, a 48-year-old man from Padstow and a 49-year-old man from Bonny Hills, were rescued.
Marine Rescue Camden Haven unit commander Ken Rutledge assisted in the incident with four other members from the unit.
Mr Rutledge said it is important people log on to the unit when they plan to head out on the water to let members know where they are going and when they plan on returning.
“We can also assist them with what conditions are like on the water,” he said.
Mr Rutledge said wearing a life jacket is compulsory by law.
“We wear life jackets at all times when we’re on the vessel and we would like the public to do the same,” he said.
Camden Haven Surf Life Saving Club vice president Ben Hosick was at the beach at the time of the incident training for the Bronze Medallion certificate.
Mr Hosick said members of the patrol acted ‘quickly, efficiently and professionally’ to the incident. Inflatable Rescue Boats helped rescue two men from the water and bring them to shore.
Mr Hosick said he commended members from the surf club as well as those who assisted from Wauchope-Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club. He said the fact that so many people were willing to help highlighted the caring spirit of the local community.
There were junior members on patrol at the time of the incident and Mr Hosick said they responded with maturity.
Roads and Maritime Services acting boating safety officer for the Camden Haven area Steve Cribb said the condition of the bar depends on the tide.
“If it’s outgoing tide it can be quite tricky,” he said.
“If you’re ever in doubt just don’t go out.”
Mr Cribb said people are advised to check if their safety equipment is still in date. An incident report will be prepared for the coroner.