Safe passage for Marine Rescue base at Lake Macquarie

12 May 2023

Rapid responses to boating emergencies will be assisted with a $670,000 NSW Government-funded upgrade of the access road to the Marine Rescue NSW base at Lake Macquarie now finished.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said work has included grading and asphalt sealing of 750-metres of road that connected the Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie base to the corner of Wallsend and Waratah Streets at Swansea Heads.

“The Marine Rescue Search and Rescue Coordination Centre at Swansea Heads, which operates 365 days a year, supports the Lake Macquarie unit which is the busiest in NSW recording 465 rescues over the summer boating season,” Mr Kamper said.

“This investment in better road infrastructure ensures Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie volunteers can get immediate 24/7 access to their operations base in all weather conditions to help save lives.”

Aerial view of the upgraded road to the Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie at Swansea Heads — Road to rescue - the upgraded road to the Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie base at Swansea Heads

The road upgrade was funded by Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment and was managed by Lake Macquarie City Council.

Previously, the condition of the gravel and clay road was impacted during heavy rain hampering safe and efficient access for Marine Rescue volunteers.

Lake Macquarie Deputy Mayor Adam Shultz said Council would be the Crown land manager for the site, as well as being responsible for recreational infrastructure at the surrounding Reid’s Reserve.

“The Marine Rescue Search and Rescue Coordination Centre at Swansea Heads plays a vital role for thousands of people enjoying our lake and coast,” Mr Schultz said.

“It’s wonderful we now have a fit-for-purpose road its volunteers can use to access the site, and visitors can use to enjoy the incredible view.”

Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie Unit Commander Jim Wright said the upgrade was ‘great’.

Marine Rescue Unit Commander Jim Wrighton gives the thumbs up to the improved access road

“It will provide a safer road for our members to attend the Marine Rescue base and carry out their mission of saving lives on the water,” Mr Wright said.

“It will also make the radio base more accessible to the public which we hope will increase our opportunity to promote safe boating to the community.”