
The 6.1m alloy boat under tow by the Snow Stafford. Photo supplied
In the afternoon of Sunday 21st June, the Lucinda Coast Guard received a call from two local fishermen aboard a 6.1m alloy boat off the southern end of Orpheus Island. The fishermen reported that they had spun a propeller off the spline, leaving them without any driveability.
They requested a tow back to Dungeness, so a volunteer crew was organised and preparations began to launch the larger vessel, Snow Stafford.
Once again, the crew faced challenging tide conditions, with limited water over the sandbar, but they were able to safely make their way out. Around 40 minutes later, the distressed vessel was located, a tow was secured, and the journey back to shore began.
After a rough trip out against a south-westerly wind and swell, the crew enjoyed a smoother return journey with the sea behind them. The vessel and its occupants were safely delivered back to the boat ramp.
Lucinda Coast Guard reminds everyone to take care when heading out on the water and to ensure vessels are properly maintained before departing.
Stay safe on the water.
(Contributed with thanks by Steve Whipps, Commander Qf14 Lucinda Coast Guard)