Four lucky to survive Macleay River Bar

Four anglers were plucked from the water at the Macleay River bar at South West Rocks recently. Their boat was capsized and destroyed by waves after the boat struck the shallow bottom as they made the run into the river across the bar.

None of the survivors were wearing life jackets and the skipper was inexperienced.

Waterways Authority Regional Manager, Jim Green praised the effort of local Waterways boating officer, Rod McDonagh who rescued the four men.

"Crossing a coastal bar is one of the more challenging activities undertaken when boating," Mr Green said.

"These men are lucky to escape, as the conditions on the river bar were rough, the skipper of the vessel inexperienced and none of the occupants were wearing a lifejacket.

"It was also an ebb tide which meant it was running out and that is generally the most dangerous time to attempt a crossing.

Bars are dangerous - don't become a statistic take care. If you are not experienced, at least get a copy of the Waterways 'Boat n Bars' brochure which is free at www.waterways.nsw.gov.au