AMSA would like to congratulate three Victorian Police Airwing officers, Constable Peter Dillan and Leading Senior Constables Mark Weekley and Brad Pascoe who have received commendations for their daring mid-air rescue in Bass-strait last year. On April 19, 2013 a 47 year old Russian sailor en route to New Zealand on his around the world trip encountered stormy seas and waves up to 10 metres high. He set off his Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon around 2am; AMSA diverted three nearby merchant vessels to assist but they were unable to get to the position due to bad weather. AMSA’s Rescue Coordination Centre then tasked the Victorian police helicopter to the area. The Airwing officers fought dangerous weather to locate and hoist the man to safety. He suffered from mild hypothermia and made a full recovery. The sailor avoided more severe consequences from the officers’ swift and immediate rescue. On the 20th of June the trio received Victoria Police Medals for Courage during a special awards ceremony at the Airwing in honour of their life-saving efforts. The trio also received a commendation as part of the Australian Search and Rescue awards in October. Footage of the rescue can be seen here. abc.net.au/news/2014-06-20/crew-involved-in-kevin-costner-style-sailor-rescue-honoured/5538304
Posted on: Mon, 23 Jun 2014 03:51:13 +0000