Silver Heels and Gunna were both left high and dry on the beach on Tuesday morning after breaking their moorings in the strong winds and rough surf.

Ulladulla man David Boonaerts made the trip north to ensure the family’s Top Hat yacht, Pavo, was safe and secure.

“We’ve owned the boat for around a year and a half and I saw the news about the dangerous surf and rough conditions and decided I’d better come check and make sure everything was ok,” he said.

“I don’t know who owns the washed up yachts but it’s going to take a bit of work to get them refloated.”

The one saving grace for boat owners, the carnage was not as bad as the 2012 storm which wreaked havoc and washed a number up on shore.

More than 50 boats are moored off the beach at Callala Bay.

Meanwhile, Shoalhaven City Council opened Lake Conjola on Tuesday afternoon, coinciding with the scheduled high tide.

The lake was opened and heavy rain saw it reach the required trigger level of 1.2m AHD early this morning.

Environmental Services manager Kelie Lowe said undertaking the work at peak high tide would provide the best opportunity to create a successful opening.

“Council aimed to create a longer lasting opening by combining the energy of a mechanical opening with the falling tide and easing swell,” Ms Lowe said.

Council staff will monitor the entrance and its behaviour over the coming weeks.