Lessons learnt from boat stranding

A boat became stranded in the main entry channel to Brisbane Water off Lobster Beach after running out of fuel on August 9.

Central Coast Coastal Patrol publicity officer Mr Richard Manning said the incident could be used as a lesson for other boat users enjoying the warmer weather.

"As the good weather entices more of us onto the water, there are a few lessons from this incident," Mr Manning said.

"Having a GPS on board is a great advantage, if properly calibrated it can make pinpointing your position, even in unfamiliar places, very simple.

"If dependent on a mobile phone, it would be good to have your local and nearby marine rescue bases listed in its directory.

"It is best to attend to obvious problems like a defective radio system before it is needed in an emergency.

"It is also recommended to always have a small reserve of fuel stored on board in a safe manner - do not depend on others as fuel transfers can be hazardous."

Mr Manning said skippers could be well informed on local place names by picking up a copy of Guide to Brisbane Water.

The guide is published in the form of a chart by the Coastal Patrol and stocked by many local outlets and also available at the patrol's Point Clare Base.

Press release, 9 Aug 2009 Richard Manning, Coastal Patrol