On March 6, the destroyer HMAS Hobart’s ship’s company rescued six seamen from a 30-meter motor yacht north of Australia.
Under challenging conditions, a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) was launched from Hobart to facilitate the crew’s rescue when they became trapped in international waters north of Darwin, close to Kolepon (Dolok), Indonesia, due to engine failure.
Under the careful supervision of experienced sailors and commanders, the RHIB was safely launched in hazardous circumstances, completing the tough personnel transfer from the crippled MV Vivierae II.
Petty Officer Keillor stated, “It’s a terrific feeling to be the operator in a circumstance like this and accomplish transporting people to safety.
We are well-prepared to operate in actual conditions thanks to the training we undertake to become certified as RHIB Coxswains.
Lieutenant Dean Gilbert, the navigator for the Hobart, oversaw the rescue’s secure execution.
According to Lieutenant Gilbert, RHIB operations necessitate concentration and meticulous attention to the weather and sea state.
“To ensure a safe breakaway and recovery under challenging conditions, there are several moving pieces, including providing an influential lee to permit the launch and recovery of the RHIB.
“The team came together well for this rescue, and it was great to see us complete it safely.”
