Rescue mission for yacht taking on water off NSW coast

A rescue operation was initiated on Monday to assist two individuals aboard a 19-meter yacht that was in distress approximately 150 kilometers off the coast of Nowra, New South Wales. The yacht had activated a distress beacon due to taking on water, which was suspected to be caused by a mechanical failure. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the crew members at the time of the incident. Authorities, including officers from the marine area command and the Australian Defence Force, were mobilized to reach the vessel, with expectations of arrival around midnight. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority reported that three helicopters were dispatched to the scene and successfully made contact with the crew. However, they were unable to evacuate the individuals due to fuel limitations. In response to the situation, an RAAF Hercules aircraft and two navy ships were incorporated into the rescue efforts, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated response. The involvement of multiple agencies underscores the commitment to ensuring the safety of those in distress at sea. As the rescue mission continues, the focus remains on safely retrieving the crew from the yacht and addressing the mechanical issues that led to the emergency. The situation serves as a reminder of the potential dangers faced by those at sea and the importance of prompt action in maritime emergencies.