Marine radio upgraded for NSW-Vic border

The Sydney to Hobart yacht race will benefit from a new marine radio safety net, which has been upgraded by Marine Rescue NSW.

The communications site in Mount Imlay National Park will assist in minimising radio blackspots along the southern NSW coastline.

“It’s a significant improvement in boating safety for the NSW south coast and the northern coast of Victoria,” said Dean Storey, MRNSW Deputy Commissioner.

Recreational boaters, kayakers, local fishing fleets, commercial shipping and yacht race crews will all have better radio coverage. The upgrade will also assist emergency services such as the NSW Police Marine Area Command.

If a boater needs to talk to Marine Rescue, whether it be for emergency communications, a weather update or to update a trip log, they can call on VHF Channel 16.

Making the initial call on VHF 16 ensures that not only will the caller be heard by Marine Rescue, but also by others in the area can hear as well. Marine Rescue may then advise the boater to switch to another channel.

Equipment for the upgrade, including solar panels and batteries, was flown to the Mount Imlay site by helicopter.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service was consulted throughout the project as Mount Imlay National Park contains threatened plant species and is an important wildlife refuge. In addition, local Aboriginal people were consulted due to the cultural and spiritual significance of Mount Imlay.

A large supporter of improved marine radio coverage is the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Safety of Life at Sea Trusts.

Image courtesy of Marine Rescue NSW.