Man, dog, rescued from tinnie at Portarlington

A MAN and his dog have been rescued after they became stranded in their tinnie around Portarlington on Monday afternoon. The Victoria Police Rescue Co-ordination Centre launched an air and sea search about 5pm after reports the man had not returned to shore. It is believed his 12-foot fibreglass vessel was a number of hours overdue before police were notified. The 43-year-old man and his three-legged companion were located in the water near Point Cook about 6.20pm by the Victoria Police Air Wing. The pair was then rescued by a Water Police vessel about 6.30pm. The Portarlington man, who was not wearing a life jacket, and his dog did not suffer any injuries. Water Police Leading Senior Constable Mark Hurwood said police were relieved to have located the man and his dog safe and well. “We were concerned because of the weather conditions out on the bay this afternoon. The outcome of this rescue could have been very different,” he said. “Victoria Police urges all boat users to always wear an approved life jacket. This is required by law for vessels 4.8 metres and under, when people are alone or at night. “We also want people to check the weather before you go out, let someone know before you go and where you are going and make sure you always stay with your boat or craft.”