NEWS - The Maritime Alert now online

NSW Maritime and website Coastalwatch have launched The Maritime Alert, a new online alert system for NSW coastal waters, to increase water safety and awareness.

The Maritime Alert service was officially launched to the public by NSW Ports and Waterways Minister, Joe Tripodi, at this year’s Sydney International Boat Show. The providers said the alert system aims to provide early warning to skippers and rock fishermen of any dangers on their intended day of recreation.

Coastalwatch executive chairman, Kim Sundell said: “Teaming up with NSW Maritime was a natural progression for Coastalwatch, as we are both committed to marine and coastal safety.”

Coastalwatch previously helped NSW Maritime deliver 16 live webcams at locations such as bar crossings along the NSW coast.

The Maritime Alert will be delivered free-of-charge to subscribers throughout the 12 month trial. It will provide near-shore forecasts, marine forecasts, official sunset and sunrise times, tide heights and times at Fort Denison, and a link to the time lags for tides along the coast. (Note: the system is not intended to replace any existing weather service).

To subscribe go to www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/alerts/wind.html And for more information about Coastalwatch and its services, visit www.coastalwatch.com

Coastalwatch said it is committed to bringing the coast to all Australians and overseas visitors, thereby making a significant contribution to more timely and safer coastal use, and more efficient and cost-effective coastal management.