Local Fishermen Rescued After Boat Breakdown

Three local fishermen found themselves stranded at Rib Reef after their boat's batteries failed, leaving them unable to start their engine. Despite Rib Reef being a notorious black spot for phone and marine radio reception, they managed to send a text message to a friend onshore, who rang Lucinda Coast Guard.

Upon receiving the distress call, a crew was quickly assembled, and the large rescue vessel "Snow Stafford" was launched. By 10:45 am, the crew was on the water, making use of just enough tidal coverage over the sandbar at Dungeness to reach the open ocean.

The rescue team travelled 60 kilometres out to the reef, where they located the stranded vessel. An initial attempt to restart the boat using a portable jump starter pack was unsuccessful. As a result, a tow line was attached, and the return journey commenced.

Fortunately, the weather was favourable, with relatively calm seas making for a smooth journey back. The fishermen and their boat were safely returned to the boat ramp at Dungeness without further incident.

This year to date the Lucinda Coast Guard has been called out six times, successfully rescuing 11 people in total.

Stay safe on the water.

Contributed with thanks to Steve Whipps Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard

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