25 people aged between 10-18 years of age have been rescued this afternoon after a large wind gust caused a number of sailing boats to capsize while participating in a race on the River Derwent off Long Beach, Sandy Bay.
Police and emergency services were called about 1.22pm following a report that a large number of young people were in the water.
Marine Search and Rescue crews, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter commenced the rescue with the assistance of several bystander boats that were in the area at the time.
Acting Commander, Andrew Keane said that police worked closely with the race organisers throughout the incident to ensure all participants were accounted for.
“About 2.36pm it was determined that all 54 participants had been accounted for and safely brought to shore.
“Ambulance Tasmania paramedics were at the scene and assessed all participants rescued, and thankfully, no injuries were reported,” he said.
“As a precautionary measure, aerial and marine resources continued to search the River Derwent following the conclusion of the rescue.
“This searching has now concluded.
“Thankfully, all participants of the race today were wearing approved life jackets at the time of the incident, which played a significant role in the successful outcome of the rescue.
“The lifejackets helped keep people visible and afloat in challenging wind and water conditions, allowing rescuers to locate and recover them quickly and safely.
“Their use greatly reduced the risk of injury or exhaustion and contributed to all participants being brought to shore without harm.
“We’d like to thank the race organiser, Ambulance Tasmania and the members of the public who assisted police with the rescue.
“Their quick actions and willingness to help contributed significantly to the safe outcome,” said A/Commander Keane.
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