More than 300 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers will be ready to respond to boaters and paddlers in need across the Eurobodalla and Bega Valley Shires this long weekend.

Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the Batemans Bay, Tuross Moruya, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula and Eden units are expecting a large number of people to hit the region’s waterways.

“The Australia Day long weekend for Marine Rescue NSW is always very busy.

“We get a lot of vessels that are going offshore from Batemans Bay all the way down to Eden,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers at the region’s six coastal units responded to a variety of incidents on 26 January last year, safely returning almost a dozen people to shore.

Inspector Sullivan is urging those planning to hit the water this long weekend to make sure their engine and battery is in good working order before heading out.

“Ensure you have the correct safety equipment, carry enough fuel and don’t forget to Log On and Log Off with Marine Rescue NSW.

“When boating on our local waters please remember to wear a lifejacket.

“It can’t save you if you’re not wearing it,” he said.

Logging On via the free Marine Rescue app or VHF channel 16 ensures that the Service’s volunteers keep watch for a boater’s safe return.

Logging On can save vital time in the event of an emergency.

Inspector Sullivan is also urging boaters and paddlers to resist hitting the water if conditions deteriorate.

“Keep an eye on conditions and always check them prior to going out on any waterways across the Eurobodalla and Bega Valley Shires.

“Remember, if there is any doubt, don’t go out,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.