A simple act of vigilance turned into a life-saving rescue off the Illawarra coast this week, after a recreational boat crew spotted a man in the water near Towradgi.
A Critical Spot in the Water
The incident unfolded just before lunchtime on Monday, December 29, 2025. A recreational vessel, transiting from Port Kembla towards southern Sydney, was passing near Towradgi when its crew noticed an unusual object floating in the water.
Acting swiftly, the skipper immediately contacted the Marine Rescue Port Kembla radio base at Hill 60 to report the discovery. The crew had, in fact, located and retrieved a man from the ocean. The rescued individual was believed to have fallen from a kayak, though it remains unclear how long he had been in the water or the exact point where he entered it.
Coordinated Response to the Emergency
The good Samaritans on the recreational boat transported the man to Wollongong Harbour, where a coordinated response was already in motion. Radio operators from Marine Rescue Port Kembla had requested NSW Ambulance to meet them at the harbour.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan confirmed the man was in a serious condition upon rescue. "The man was extremely cold and unwell, and paramedics transported him to Wollongong Hospital," Inspector Sullivan stated.
He was unequivocal in his praise for the recreational boaters. "The people on board the recreational vessel saved the man's life this morning," he said.
A Vital Safety Reminder for All Boaters
Inspector Sullivan used the near-tragedy to issue a crucial reminder to the boating community. "It is vitally important that all boaters maintain a proper lookout. Being observant can not only save your own life but also the lives of others. This man was clearly in trouble and in a life-threatening situation," he emphasised.
He also commended the work of the volunteer radio operators who managed the critical communications during the rescue.
The Towradgi incident was one of many calls for assistance handled by Marine Rescue volunteers on that busy Monday. Before lunchtime alone, crews had performed a dozen missions across the Illawarra and South Coast, with most related to preventable mechanical and fuel issues.
Inspector Sullivan reiterated essential pre-voyage checks: "Please ensure your vessel is in good working order before launching, have the correct safety equipment on board, always wear a lifejacket, log on, and carry enough fuel with some in reserve. These measures will not only help you have a safe and enjoyable day on the water - they might just save your life."
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to maritime safety and supporting local communities across the state.
