A recent spike in maritime incidents has sparked the government to issue St George and Shire residents and tourists a warning about water safety.
Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance is encouraging people to stay safe when heading out on the water.
"Authorities are particularly concerned ahead of another weekend of warm weather, dangerous surf conditions and the Australia Day public holiday," he said.
"Since the start of the COVID pandemic we've seen an increase in boating licences and people heading out to enjoy time on the water. But what is really concerning is there has also been an increase in the number of incidents, with a disturbing spike in the second half of 2020.
"We're about to head into some hot summer weather combined with hazardous swells, the end of school holidays and the Australia Day public holiday. I am urgently reminding everyone to take the necessary safety measures to ensure a fun day out doesn't end in tragedy.
"In the past six months, we've lost nine lives on our waterways, including two this year. I can't stress enough how crucial it is for boaters to know and follow the rules which exist to keep us all safe."
NSW Maritime records show an increase of several hundred additional NSW boat licence holders than last year and a further 1500 boats registered.
"That's a lot of new boaters," Mr Constance said.
"We are urging all skippers, new or more experienced, to review their knowledge of the basics before they launch from the local boat ramp or push off from their mooring or marina."
Transport for NSW Acting Chief Operations Officer Mark Hutchings said NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers would be patrolling all navigable waterways and providing assistance and advice to those on the water.
"We want everyone to stay safe over these next few days. Please ensure you wear a lifejacket, check the weather and know how to use all of your safety equipment. Also, log on and off with Marine Rescue NSW, so they know where you are going and when you will be back every time you head out on the water."
"We're expecting dangerous surf conditions to continue into the weekend, which can quickly become hazardous for rock fishing and vessels crossing coastal bars, so we need people to be extra vigilant.
"This isn't just a warning for those heading out to sea. Our rivers, lakes and estuaries can also be dangerous, and even deadly, so everyone must follow the safety requirements."
