Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant thanked the members for their efforts in saving 54-year-old Martin Field, who became stranded at sea for several hours after his boat overturned off Burrill Lake. 

Mr Grant said Mr Martin owes his life to three things: wearing a lifejacket, letting Marine Rescue know where he was going and when he was due to return, and the efficient work of our volunteers who instigated the search.

“By letting the Marine Rescue know his plans, when things didn’t go to script, our amazing volunteers knew something was wrong and knew where to start looking,” Mr Grant said.

“It doesn’t take long to log on and log off when you head out on our waterways and as we can see today it really can make the difference between life and death.”

Mr Grant thanked Ulladulla Marine Rescue volunteers at a meeting with Mr Martin at NSW Parliament House on Wednesday, May 23, to coincide with National Volunteer Week. 

“This week we highlight the enormous efforts of our volunteers. We have nearly 100,000 volunteers in our emergency services, and I thank each and every one for their vital contributions and service to their communities across the state,” he said. 

“I’m especially proud of the MRNSW Ulladulla Unit for their actions. Thank you all for your service, as we know, it really does save lives.” 

“Our volunteers forgo time with their family and friends to help others, it’s an incredible act of service made more remarkable when someone’s life is in the balance and the final outcome is a positive one.”

South Coast MP Shelley Hancock congratulated the Ulladulla volunteers and thanked them for not only their role in saving the life of Mr Field, but for the service they provide all year round keeping people on the South Coast’s waters safe.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos praised Mr Martin for taking smart steps before he set out in Ulladulla just after 6am on April 6.

“He wore a lifejacket, which we always urge boaters to do, and he used our free log on,” Mr Tannos said.

“Without a doubt those simple decisions saved his life. Two search and rescue vessels from Marine Rescue Ulladulla were sent to Burrill Rocks where Mr Field said he was heading.”

“Searchers found a life jacket, fishing gear and a V sheet and after a continued search Mr Field was spotted in distress on the shore.”

Mr Field had hypothermia and significant abrasions on his back, arms and legs.

“Mr Field would often fish off Ulladulla and always logged on with us when he did. When he’s up to it, I hope to see him back on the water,” Mr Tannos said.

Boaters can log on with MRNSW by phone, marine radio or the free MarineRescue App.

In 2016-2017 MRNSW Logged On 74,299 vessels, 11,714 via the app.

Boaters using the app initially provide a description of their vessel, the vessel registration number and their contact details.