Three people have died, including two volunteer sea rescue employees who were called to the scene, after a yacht got stuck in choppy waters and capsized off the coast of Latest South Wales (NSW), Australia.
An emergency response team was deployed after a bystander reported a vessel in distress near the South Ballina break wall in northern Latest South Wales at about 6:15 p.m local time on Monday, state police told Global News in a press release.
It was unknown how many individuals were on the yacht, which has since sunk, authorities said.
The boat was caught in treacherous conditions when it flipped, and the rescue vessel capsized in a 2.5-metre easterly swell while attempting to cross the Ballina Bar, a notoriously dangerous entrance to the Richmond River, police said.
Commissioner Todd Andrews of Marine Rescue NSW confirmed in a press release on Tuesday the deaths of two of its team members, identified by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as Frank Petsch and Bill Ewen.
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“Tragically, two of our volunteers lost their lives throughout the response,” he said.
Andrews called the deaths of 62-year-old Petsch and 78-year-old Ewen “a devastating loss” and said their passing was a “solemn reminder of the risks faced by volunteers who serve their communities.”
“These two men were serving their area people and have made the last word sacrifice to assist others,” he added.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and family members of the deceased, their fellow crew members, the brave radio operators who handled the difficult communications throughout the incident, your complete Marine Rescue NSW family and the broader Ballina community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Supt. Joe McNulty of the NSW Police Marine Area told ABC it was a “very difficult rescue” and described the conditions as “treacherous.” He said some marine rescue staff became trapped within the hull, while others were thrown from the vessel, before commending those involved for his or her heroic efforts.
Huge waves crash against the North Wall brought on by Cyclone Alfred on March 4, 2025, in Ballina, Australia.
James D. Morgan/Getty Image
4 other crew members – aged 55, 75 and two aged 61 – made it to shore and were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for various injuries before being taken to hospital for further treatment, Latest South Wales police said.
The body of the 78-year-old rescue volunteer was removed by Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter, and the 62-year-old volunteer was found dead on the shore, police said. Each were Ballina locals, the ABC reported.
The body of a 3rd victim, a person in his 50s who has not been formally identified, was also found washed ashore with out a life-jacket, in line with the Australian news agency.
“That Marine Rescue boat had six crew members on it last night, and thankfully those other members are well with minor injuries in hospital and being kept there for precautionary reasons,” McNulty said, in line with ABC.
“These men are heroes,” he concluded.
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