‘Readiness, effectiveness’ shown by marine unit in Oakville emergency mission

The results of a torrential downpour around noon on Monday (July 15) in Oakville caused large sections of docks and approximately 20 boats to break loose and drift downstream on 16 Mile Creek and into the lake according to a mission report released Thursday by TOWARF Marine Rescue.

The Canadian Coast Guard and Auxiliary Unit joined the JRCC Trenton in response to the “significant” flooding that caused 30 metre sections of dock, with vessels attached (20 to 45 ft.), to break loose into the harbour and Lake Ontario.

“This mission was conducted under the leadership of the Town of Oakville, in close collaboration with TOWARF and the Halton Police Marine Unit,” said TOWARF Marine Rescue in a social media post on X (formerly Twitter).

“The Town’s swift actions were crucial in managing the situation and ensuring safety.”

Sortie’s conducted included:

Sortie 1: Sailing School Evacuation

Location: 0.5 nautical miles offshore, south of Oakville West Pier.

Action: Assisted and evacuated 26 people from small dinghies.

Outcome: All safely evacuated, albeit with wide eyes from the experience.

Sortie 2: Yamaha Jet Boat Escort

Location: Escorted to Bronte Outer Harbour Gas Dock

Action: Assisted and escorted a damaged 24-ft. Yamaha jet boat

Outcome: Successfully escorted to safety

Sortie 3: Drifting Oakville Dock & 28-ft. Cruiser

Location: 1 nautical mile east of Oakville.

Action: Stood by unattended, drifting vessel and dock until the owner and Town employees arrived.

Outcome: Ensured vessel

“This operation highlighted TOWARF’s readiness and effectiveness in emergencies, as well as the exception cooperation with the Town of Oakville and Halton Police Marine Unit,” added TOWARF Marine Rescue. “Great teamwork and coordination.”