Water Rescue Ocean Beach Cape Palliser

Police Communications received three calls from the public regarding a small
dinghy being blown out to see at Ocean Beach, Palliser Bay.

Ocean Beach is located about 40km south of Featherston.

The boat contained two Featherston men aged 46 year and 72 years. They had
gone fishing and suffered problems with the motor which was cutting out.
The boat was equipped with oars and both men were wearing life vests.

They did not have a marine radio. An offshore wind was the main cause for
concern. Sea conditions inshore were mild. but less favourable further
out. The men were blown about 2km out to sea. They were able to start the
motor and return to shore, this happened as the Westpac Rescue Helicopeter
arrived. The police launch Lady Elizabeth also repsonded. No other boats
were in the immediate vicinity. Maritime radio transmitted a broadcast for
vessels in the Palliser Bay area to respond but received no response to the
request. The area is isolated and people launch boats from the beach

ends

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