Man dies after boat capsizes at Nambucca Heads, NSW

A man has died after a boat capsized on a sandbar in Nambucca Heads today.

About 6.40am (Friday 20 September 2019), a Quintrex 3 metre aluminium runabout capsized after it hit a wave while attempting to cross the Nambucca sandbar. The skipper was thrown into the water.

Officers from Mid North Coast Police District attended and were assisted by officers from Marine Area Command, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, Surf Live Saving NSW, and NSW Ambulance paramedics.

About 7.30am (Friday 20 September 2019), Surf Live Saving NSW personnel located the body of a 51-year-old Nambucca man, and the vessel on South Beach, approximately 500 metres from where the boat capsized.

The vessel will be forensically examined.

A crime scene was established, and a report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.

Key tips water users should consider include:

– Make sure you have life jackets for all on board.

– Stay alert to weather conditions and constantly monitor the Bureau of Meteorology.

– Check your craft thoroughly in all respects before heading out on the water.

– Notify others – check that a responsible person knows the description of your boat, the number of passengers, where you are going, and your expected time of return or arrival.

– Be alert to possible riskier situations while boating, including at night, boating alone, crossing bars, and high risk of capsize or swamping

– Avoid drinking and don’t take drugs when on-board.

For more boat safety tips, visit https://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/boating-safety/boating-safety-tips.html.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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