MRQ Whitsundays Called Out To Rescue

MRQ Whitsundays were called into action on December 15 after an emergency EPIRB was activated east of the commercial shipping channel.

The distress signal came from a small Haines Hunter experiencing trouble offshore. Police vessel Damien Leeding was already responding when assistance was requested from the local volunteer rescue crew.

Crew members Chris, Nat and John quickly prepared the vessel and departed Coral Sea Marina at 2:14pm. Conditions were favourable, with light winds and calm seas allowing for a smooth run towards the coordinates provided by the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra.

As the crew approached the area east of Edward Island, updated information confirmed the police vessel had located the distressed boat and was towing it towards an intercept point. Upon arrival, the volunteers took over the tow and learned there were two people on board.

The pair had lost their motor and were unable to restart it despite repeated attempts. Compounding the situation, their VHF radio could receive but not transmit, and a handheld backup radio also failed, leaving them unable to call for help and prompting the EPIRB activation.

The disabled vessel was safely towed back through Hook Passage and delivered to the Port of Airlie public boat ramp just after 6.30pm. All parties returned safely, with the rescue completed without incident.

The successful operation highlighted the importance of emergency beacons and the vital role played by local volunteer crews who stand ready to assist when needed on Whitsunday waters.

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