The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has led the rescue of a 70-year-old
lone sailor 167kms off the coast of south east Queensland.
Shortly before 10am yesterday morning, the AMSA Response Centre received a
distress signal from a 10-metre single masted yacht approximately 90 nautical miles
(167kms) to the east of Double Island Point, south east Queensland.
AMSA diverted the merchant vessel Skiathos to the location of the yacht. The
Skiathos located the yacht and its crew, a 70-year-old solo sailor, and brought the
vessel alongside.
AMSA tasked Melbourne-based Challenger rescue aircraft and Queensland-based
CHC Helicopter to attend the scene.
Due to the sailor’s injuries, he was unable to be safely airlifted from his yacht before
nightfall.
A Queensland Police vessel from Mooloolaba arrived on the scene last night and
has transported the sailor back to land for medical attention this morning.
Thanks to the captain and crew of the Skiathos for their efforts to assist the injured
sailor and keep him safe until the Queensland Police could attend the scene via
boat.
ENDS.
---
Interviews with AMSA Response Centre Officers available upon request.
Please contact AMSA Media on 1300 624 633 or email media@amsa.gov.au