Negotiating the St Helens Barway

For those seeking to negotiate the St Helens bar, at this time of the year, it is worthwhile repeating an earlier post relating to the barway at the entrance to Georges Bay, St Helens. Many skippers of vessels assume that it is not possible or safe to cross the St Helens bar. It is, of course, true that the barway presents a problem with a swell on it, which is no different to most other river/bay entrances on the East Coast of Australia. However, these conditions occur on average fewer than 15 to 20 days every year. If in doubt skippers should always contact St Helens Marine Rescue  for advice when considering a bar crossing. We are available 24/7 for advice or assistance (see Contact Us).

Pelican Point, inside the bay, still poses a problem for vessels with deep draft. Dredging operations are continuing however progress is slow. Caution is required as shallow water is an ongoing issue. Again contact St Helens Marine Rescue for advice or assistance.

It is important to note that if your vessel, for one reason or another, cannot cross the bar, St Helens Marine Rescue will assist outside the barway.