A dramatic rescue on the Crookhaven River when a woman was pulled from the water after her yacht burst into flames has resulted in several Marine Rescue Shoalhaven volunteers being formally recognised.

The 11-metre sailing vessel caught fire while moored on the Crookhaven River at Greenwell Point on August 23, and the lone sailor was seen frantically trying to extinguish the fire by collecting water from the river.

Fortunately for thw woman, crew members from the Marine Rescue vessel SA30 were on routine patrol when they noticed smoke.

Second in command, Trevor Davies, said the crew immediately realised the gravity of the situation.

"We noticed smoke and then saw flames pouring out of the cockpit," Mr Davies said.

"It was clear the person on board was in peril."

The crew notified the

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