Fishermen Rescued Off Tasmania After Intentionally Setting Boat Alight for Smoke Signal

Two fishermen were rescued off Tasmania's east coast after intentionally setting their stranded vessel on fire a second time to create a smoke signal. The men, a 53-year-old from northeast Tasmania and a 62-year-old former Tasmanian, were found approximately nine kilometers east of The Gardens on Sunday afternoon.

The Incident Unfolds

The initial incident involved a fire in their 4.6m aluminum runabout, believed to be caused by an electrical fault in the bow.

After the initial fire, the men, lacking proper communication equipment, decided to sustain the fire by burning items such as plastic buoys, ropes, their boots, and the engine cowling, hoping the smoke would be visible from shore.

The Rescue Operation

Tasmania Police received multiple reports of a boat on fire at sea between Binalong Bay and The Gardens around 2 PM. A rescue helicopter and St Helens Marine Rescue team were immediately dispatched. After about two hours, the helicopter crew successfully located the men waving, and the marine rescue team proceeded to their location.

Aftermath and Official Advice

Upon rescue, one man reportedly had eyes that appeared milky white due to smoke inhalation. The 62-year-old was transported to St Helens District Hospital for treatment related to smoke inhalation. The severely damaged boat was subsequently left at sea.

Sergeant Josh Hayes from Northern Search and Rescue stated that while setting a boat on fire at sea is not recommended, it proved effective in this instance for attracting attention.

Sergeant Josh Hayes from Northern Search and Rescue emphasized the critical importance of carrying communication equipment, such as a VHF radio or EPIRB, and informing others of travel plans when venturing onto the water.