The Murrumbidgee’s most prestigious event will set sail this weekend but the SES are anxious see competitors stay afloat.

“The thing we can’t stress enough is for people to wear a PFD or a life vest,” said SES volunteer Simon Barnes.

The Murrumbidgee has already claimed two lives this summer; first, 28-year-old Mark Timms, then 66-year-old Lenny Kschenka.

“It’s a dangerous place and you’ve just got to be sensible,” Mr Barnes said

Though people seem to be the greatest hazard to themselves, the SES volunteer warned there were always dangers under the water.

“Branches, rocks, and logs can become an obstacle so you just need to be careful,” he said.

“We’ve already marked out a number of hazards up and down the river but I’d expect most people would be staying away from the edges anyway.”

The SES will nevertheless maintain close supervision over the annual event, some for the first time ever.

“I only started two weeks ago so I’m brand new,” SES volunteer Cliff Rose said.

“I wanted to do it earlier but worked full-time – now that I’m retired I thought I’d better come down and give the team a hand.”

The Gumi Race will start at Eunony Reserve with inspections beginning at 8.30am.