Two fishermen have been rescued by ABF officers after their boat capsized in South Australian waters.
ABF crew on the Limestone Coast were undertaking regular patrol activity on 29 December 2022 when they spotted the capsized boat.
Shortly after 2.30pm, the ABF vessel was making its way towards North Haven Marina when the crew saw the boat, which was about 3.5 metres in length, and the two men in the ocean, who were in distress and drifting towards the breakwater.
One of the men was clinging onto the capsized vessel and had a fitted life vest on, while the other was clutching a life vest, about 15 metres away in the water.
The ABF Limestone Coast crew responded immediately and launched a rescue.
At 2.48pm, the ABF crew successfully rescued both men from the ocean, along with one fuel container and safely secured the fishing boat onto the Limestone Coast.
The Limestone Coast then towed the fishing boat back to the North Haven Boat Ramp, less than a nautical mile away.
First aid was given to the men. One of the men was assessed as having minor injuries to his right foot and the other was suffering from shock.
The fishermen said the boat capsized due to a sudden change in weather conditions, resulting in the vessel taking on water.
Both men lost their mobile devices and various personal items when the boat capsized.
Family members of the men were notified and the Limestone Coast arrived back at North Haven Boat Ramp shortly before 3.30pm.
ABF Acting Superintendent Mark Vaughan, Border Operations, praised the crew of the Limestone Coast for their actions during the rescue.
"The two fishermen were very lucky and it was incredibly fortunate our ABF vessel happened to be in the area at the time," A/g Superintendent Vaughan said.
"It was a great effort from the crew on the Limestone Coast, with all on board making a significant contribution to the rescue. We're delighted to see the fishermen back with their loved ones, safe and sound for the New Year.
"I would urge all people who are going out on the water this summer to be aware of the conditions, which can change rapidly, and to ensure they have all the necessary safety equipment with them."
