A GME MT600G Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) was used in the rescue of seven people after their 7m boat overturned after a surfing trip off Lady Elliott Island in Queensland.
On the 13th of January at around 4:30pm, whilst the group was venturing back and still approximately 50km offshore and entering unfavourable conditions they encountered a rogue wave that caused their boat to broach and roll. With the boat overturned the passengers climbed up on the hull and utilised their surfboards to stay afloat whilst a member of the group dived under into an air pocket to retrieve their EPIRB and signal for help. This activation was quickly received by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Australia who tasked a rescue helicopter to attend the scene.
Upon arrival within the hour, the helicopter rescue team recovered all seven passengers, with no serious injuries, and returned them to shore.
This rescue serves to remind us how important it is to carry an EPIRB and ensure that your registration details are up to date before heading out on the water, as accidents can happen at any time.
For more information on our range of emergency beacons click here.