Footage from the rescue: https://spaces.hightail.com/space/w6mugMJVVq
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is urging Australians heading out on the water to be well prepared, ensuring they have appropriate safety equipment and an emergency plan in place before setting off.
In the early hours of this morning (13 April), AMSA detected the activation of an emergency beacon linked to a life raft from a domestic commercial vessel (DCV) near Cape Flattery, approximately 56 kilometres north of Cooktown, Queensland.
AMSA contacted the vessel owner’s registered emergency contact, who confirmed the vessel was operating in the area with three people on board.
A Cairns‑based Challenger aircraft and a QG Air Rescue 510 Helicopter were tasked to investigate.
Following a broadcast from Reef VTS, a nearby recreational vessel Starting Over responded. The crew, sighting the distress flare, located the three people ashore and recovered them safely.
The Challenger aircraft later located the DCV, which was found to be on fire.
AMSA Executive Director Response Alex Barrell thanked everyone involved in the successful rescue and highlighted the critical role of safety equipment.
“This outcome shows just how vital it is to carry and correctly register an EPIRB, and to have visual signalling devices like flares on board,” Mr Barrell said.
“Because the beacon was registered and activated promptly, responders were able to act quickly and coordinate a search that led to all three people being brought home safely.
“Before heading out, take the time to check your safety equipment, tell someone your plans, and make sure you know what to do if things go wrong – it can save lives.”
AMSA reminds all boaters that preparation and the right safety gear can make the difference in an emergency on the water.