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Surf lifesavers may have left the beaches for the season, but spare a thought for the local marine rescue service that remains on call all year round, regardless of how bad the weather gets.
Coastguard Hibiscus might not get as many calls to launch in winter as during the peak summer boating months, but chances are that when they do, the weather will be much colder, the seas rougher and conditions generally more testing. One advantage, though, is that winter provides Coastguard volunteers with the added opportunity to train more in nighttime conditions.
Volunteer crews are still on the water every weekend day over the winter, and often during the week, despite the drop-off in boating activity. Crews are also on call 24/7, throughout the year.
President Dan McGowan says the volunteers really enjoy the opportunity to increase their knowledge and skills over the winter, with more of their on-water time available for training than during the busy summer months. “The more severe weather and longer nights give our teams the chance to practise important skills like heavy-weather helming and night navigation, which can be harder to create opportunities for over summer. Basically, the only time we won’t put a boat out is if it’s dry-docked for repairs, or if the wind/sea is so rough that the skipper makes a judgment call on grounds of safety.”
The risks for anyone putting to sea can also be higher in winter, which is why everyone should be properly equipped and ready when they go out in the cooler months.
“Be prepared: take two forms of communication (including, ideally, a VHF radio), flares, warm clothing, lifejackets, check the marine weather and tell someone where you’re going.”
