The Bundaberg-based RACQ LifeFlight Rescue helicopter has assisted in the search for a stranded boat, approximately 60 kilometres off the coast of Bundaberg, this morning.
The rescue helicopter was tasked by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) shortly before 9am, after an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) had been activated.
It’s believed the boat’s engine had dislodged and fallen from the vessel, into the ocean.
The three men didn’t have a radio on board, so were unable to communicate directly with the helicopter crew, or nearby boats.
The EPIRB led the aeromedical team to the boat, where they were able to lower a radio, to the men on board.
The RACQ LifeFlight Rescue helicopter then hovered above, until a nearby fishing trawler reached the vessel.
The aeromedical crew then returned to base, while the fishing trawler waited with the stranded boat until the Bundaberg Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) arrived.
Please contact Bundaberg VMR or the Australia Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for additional information.