Police were called by crew of a 20 metre 1958 Pilot Cutter about 3.45pm Wednesday afternoon after the vessel suffered mechanical failure and began taking on water, in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, near Whale Boat Rock (South of Woodbridge) in Tasmaia’s south.
The crew of 1958 pilot cutter, MV Goondooloo, 50-year-old Deb Ludeke and her 59-year-old partner called police Wednesday after the vessel experienced a mechanical failure.
The crew used marine radio and an emergency beacon to raise the alarm that the boat was sinking.
The two crew were sailing from Port Huon to Hobart to participate in the Wooden Boat Festival, when the incident happened.
In an interview on ABC radio Ms Ledeke said, “I went and inspected the engine room, and came back up and we were on top of the world, so excited.”
“And next thing we knew the steering got bad and I went back downstairs, and I was knee-deep in water.
“The generator was pumping water in from the side of the boat. We just couldn’t contain the flow.
“We got through to the police. They actually had a dive team in the area that were doing training, so they were there very quick.”
She said her partner Greg grabbed her by the shoulders and said: “It’s time.”
“Greg said, ‘Don’t turn around’. And I did and she just went under,” she said.
“She’s in about 10 metres of water, the police said. We were trying to see if we could beach her, which would have been the best option but with no steering, she was just doing circle work.
“I think we’re both in shock still.”
The historic vessel, which had previously served as a pilot vessel on Sydney Harbour, and was only one of three of its type quickly began to sink.
The crew members used marine radio, an EPIRB and mobile phone to raise the alarm and continually provide information to emergency services.
Two police vessels were quickly on scene but unfortunately the vessel couldn’t be saved and sunk soon after.
The crew members rescued by police, were wearing life jackets and had the appropriate safety equipment. No one was physically injured in the incident.
“The regular communication with police enabled a swift and effective rescue operation. This is a timely reminder for those boating to ensure they are wearing their life jacket, take the proper safety precautions, and remember to let someone know where you are going and what time you can be expected back,” said Acting Inspector Danny Jackson of Hobart Police.
