Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Jane Shirriff said volunteer radio operators at Marine Rescue Norah Head took the call for assistance just before 4 pm.
“A crew was quickly assembled at Marine Rescue Terrigal and rescue vessel Terrigal 30 deployed," Inspector Shirriff said.
“The skipper of the 3-metre disabled vessel was the only person on board.
“He was becoming quite anxious as his vessel drifted one nautical mile north of Terrigal Haven after the anchor line broke in choppy two-metre swell.
“Terrigal 30 reached the disabled vessel within minutes, assessed the situation, transferred the skipper on board the rescue vessel and swiftly secured the runabout before towing it safely back to Terrigal Haven.
“The young skipper was thankfully wearing a life jacket and his father, who was waiting on shore, was extremely grateful for the assistance.
“He was fortunate not to have drifted onto the rocks or beach as conditions were deteriorating.
“Engine failure can catch even the most prepared boaters out and can quickly develop into a life-threatening situation, like the one the skipper experienced this afternoon.
“Marine Rescue NSW encourages all boaters to ensure their vessel is in good working order before every trip and to Log On either via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or VHF Channel 16. Logging
"On can save vital time in the event of an emergency and ensures our dedicated radio operators keep watch for a boater’s safe return,” Inspector Shirriff said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer‑based, not‑for‑profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe across the state.
Their 3,500 trained volunteers support communities through search and rescue operations, marine radio monitoring and boating safety education.
