Deputy State Coroner Elaine Truscott indicated in Newcastle Coroners Court yesterday the changes could be a key suggestion from the coroner’s office.

Ms Truscott will preside later this year over the inquest into the deaths of four people and disappearance of a fifth off the beach in May this year.

Several of NSW’s rock-fishing deaths in the past 12 months have occurred at Catherine Hill Bay.

The Newcastle Herald learnt that the notorious coastal strip stretching between the Central Coast’s Munmorah State Conservation Area and Catherine Hill Bay could be audited to prevent further fatalities.

Within 10 days in May this year, six people were swept to their deaths off rocks there; five at Catherine Hill Bay and one at Frazer Park.

Ms Truscott said she liaised with the Victorian and NSW coroners on possible broad recommendations, such as angel life rings and signs, because there were inquests into at least 12 rock fishing deaths this year in Victoria, Illawarra and the Hunter.

‘‘When or how or whether that’s sufficient has yet to be ascertained through the inquest process,’’ she said.

The Victorian Coroner received advice from the National Fishing Association and was waiting on a research report, Ms Truscott said.

Five Sydneysiders, including a couple and their son, were swept off rocks at Catherine Hill Bay on a Mother’s Day fishing trip.

Lake Macquarie City Council beach lifeguard team leader Paul Stone confirmed the council had held meetings with National Parks and Wildlife Service, recreational fishing groups and water safety organisations in a push for an audit of the deadly area.

Mr Stone said all rock platforms were dangerous and those south of Catherine Hill Bay were among the worst.

Australian National Sportfishing Association secretary and safety officer Yanko Serifi said rings were earmarked for Dudley, Flat Rock and near Catherine Hill Bay.