Canoeist Drowns During Wild Weather At Lake Somerset

[John]

A timely reminder to always be safe on the water.

http://www.chinchillanews.com.au/news/man-drowns-while-canoeing-lake-somerset/3125347/

A canoeist has drowned at Lake Somerset after getting into trouble during last night's wild weather.

The 48-year-old was out fishing when strong winds hit the popular water spot at about 6pm.

It is believed at some point he has fallen from the canoe and attempted to swim to shore. A friend managed to raise the alarm but the man drowned before help could arrive.

His body was later recovered by SES crews just before 7pm. Police say he was not wearing a life jacket at the time.

 

[Drop Bear]

No good,

Stay safe this Xmas

 

 

[Binder]

Same thing happened at Wivanhoe a couple of years ago, caused the PRFMA to require kayak and canoeists to have to wear life jackets on North Pine.

Both Somerset and Wivanhoe are buggers of a place for people getting caught in storms. Don't see them coming until it is to late on a slow moving craft.

[Drop Bear]

It turns out it was a good friend of my Neighbor that died. She said he was extremely experienced canoeist having traveled extensively. So it seems it can happen to anyone if it goes pear shape.  

[Gad]

Another needless death. BoM had been predicting/warning of thunder storms in their forecasts for the 4 days prior, and the high possibility of gusty/severe thunderstorms for that afternoon and evening. Storms were all around the area.Severe storm warnings were issued over the afternoon and early evening.