VMR Mackay performs three boat rescues before noon

WHAT A DAY: Volunteer Marine Rescue Mackay crews are busy out on the ocean as two boats take on water and a third is understood to be plagued by electrical issues

VMR Mackay crews are busy attending to three rescue operations out on the ocean. Picture: VMR Mackay

The Volunteer Marine Rescue Mackay team has had a busy start to their weekend with three groups needing rescuing before noon.

A VMR Mackay spokesman said a crew was called to a vessel near Scawfell Island on Saturday morning following an EPIRB activation.

He said the VMR crew aboard Mastermyne 5 happened to be at the time on their way back from salvaging a boat that was sinking near Parker Reef, 88km northeast of Mackay.

A VMR team on DBCT Rescue 6 also left the Mackay Marina this morning, tasked with rescuing four people and their boat near Keswick Island.

It is understood the stranded vessel may have electrical issues.

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VMR skipper Don Bowden previously gave some tips for those heading out on the water over the holidays:

— Have your boats well prepared

— Carry excess fuel for your required passage and sufficient safety gear including an EPIRB, vinegar for stings and marine radio for communication

— Take plenty of water to avoid dehydration during the summers

— Report into VMR before you head out

— Take a spare battery if you can but only use one battery at a time.

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