Two volunteer marine rescuers and a man from a sinking yacht have died after a rescue mission went tragically wrong off the coast of Ballina, New South Wales. The incident occurred on Monday night when a six-person Marine Rescue NSW team responded to a distress call from a yacht near the breakwater at south Ballina.
Heroic Volunteers Remembered
The deceased rescuers, both locals from Ballina, were aged 78 and 62. They have been remembered for their courage and heroism. NSW Police Marine Area Command Superintendent Joe McNulty described them as heroes who volunteered their lives to save others. The body of the 78-year-old was recovered by helicopter, while the 62-year-old was found dead on the sand. Four other volunteers survived with minor injuries and are expected to recover fully.
Treacherous Conditions
The rescue vessel capsized while battling a 2.5-metre swell and strong winds. Conditions were described as extremely difficult and treacherous, making navigation and manoeuvring challenging. The rescue boat rolled over, ejecting some volunteers while trapping others inside the hull. Meanwhile, the yacht hit the breakwall, causing it to break apart and sink.
Search and Investigation
The body of a man in his 50s, believed to be from the yacht, was found washed ashore without a lifejacket. He has not yet been formally identified. Search operations have been suspended as police believe no one else was onboard the yacht. A NSW police dive team may later enter the waters to recover evidence as part of an ongoing investigation.
Tributes from Premier
NSW Premier Chris Minns paid tribute to the volunteers, praising their heroism, courage, and public-mindedness. He acknowledged the challenging circumstances and thanked them for their service. The rescue boat used, a Ballina 30, was deemed appropriate for the mission, being well-built and designed for NSW conditions.
Police were assisted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Challenger jet and a Westpac rescue helicopter from Lismore. A Marine Rescue NSW spokesperson expressed sorrow, stating the focus is now on supporting the families and volunteers affected.
