Lockies lend a hand in River Murray retiree rescue

While working on the River Murray can often be unpredictable, it was the teamwork and collaboration of SA Water’s River Murray Operations crew that helped resolve an unusual call-out from two river-loving retirees needing an emergency delivery of medication.  

Crews stationed at the River’s Lock 7 recently received an assistance call from a couple after their new houseboat on its maiden journey had become lodged on shallow sand while travelling downstream into South Australia.

SA Water’s River Murray Locks Coordinator Robbie Bonner said the boat had safely navigated the lock before coming stuck near the Warrakoo Groynes, which are timber structures that help water flow down the river.

“While the couple had information on how to navigate the area, banks and areas of shallow sand can occasionally cause houseboat drivers of all levels of experience to get stuck,” Robbie said.

Despite remaining in good spirits throughout the incident, the pair’s situation became time sensitive with one of the passengers requiring specific medication and running low on supply.

“When our crews noticed the couple was needing a top-up of medication, myself and the team based at Lock 6 near Customs House volunteered to collect an interim supply and ferry it upstream to the houseboat while they remained stuck,” Robbie said.

“Using our new Lock 6 work boat, we then managed to tow the boaties back off the sandbank and send them back on their way down the Murray as quickly and safely as possible.”

“It really was a terrific team effort to collaborate in rather unusual circumstances, and shows the passion of lockies right across the Murray to work together for the benefit of our customers.

“It probably wasn’t quite the maiden voyage the couple was anticipating, but we’re certainly happy it turned out to be a great outcome for all involved!”

SA Water plays an active role in management of the River Murray system, including the operation and maintenance of locks 1 to 9 throughout South Australia and Victoria and the Goolwa Barrages near the Murray mouth.

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