Flares responsible for quick rescue - Tasmania
by Sail-World Cruising on 13 Jun 2010
Waterhouse Island - flares to the rescue SW
Flares were responsible for the quick rescue of three people on a yacht which foundered in Tasmania, say police.
Three people were rescued from Waterhouse Island near Bridport in north-east Tasmania yesterday evening, after their boat ran aground in rough seas.
The 65 foot Merlot was having difficulty in rough seas near Waterhouse Island and was having difficulty with its engine -which could have taken the yacht to safety.
It was then pushed ashore against rocks and had started to break up. At this point the three crew activated a distress flare.
People on board a nearby yacht saw the flare and sailed to the island to assist the crew, who had by then abandoned their badly damaged boat.
Another volunteer rescue boat was also dispatched and took the crew back to Bridport. They were then taken to the Scottsdale hospital in a stable condition.
Police say the rescue was undoubtedly easier because the crew carried flares, and are reminding people of the importance of taking EPIRBs and flares on any journey.
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