Two men have been rescued following a multi-agency operation in Port Stephens last night.
About 7.30pm (Wednesday 22 April 2026), emergency services were called to Fingal Island following a Mayday call by a sailing crew.
Port Stephens Water Police and Marine Rescue NSW crews responded to the area and located a 10-meter sailing vessel stranded on submerged rocks.
Due to the challenging conditions – including darkness, strong southerly winds, and moderate seas – further assistance was sought from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and CHC's "Chopper 21" helicopter.
Two men aboard the vessel – aged 54 and 69 – were winched to safety by the Chopper 21 helicopter, before being airlifted to Williamtown Airport.
The men were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics for minor injuries and hypothermia.
Inquiries into the incident are underway by Port Stephens Water Police.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
