Arunta Rescue Possible For Tonight
The Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Arunta is ahead of its forecast rescue schedule and is expected to make contact with
the yacht Generali and its badly injured skipper, Frenchman Yann Elies, later tonight (20 December 2008).
Based on current weather conditions, the Anzac-Class frigate is likely to be within reach of the Generali at
approximately 9:00pm AEST.
At this time, the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Stephen Bowater will make an assessment on the rescue options for
the French sailor.
The sailor is believed to have suffered a broken femur. A doctor has deployed with HMAS Arunta to provide emergency
medical assistance to the injured sailor.
The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, AM, CSM, RAN, said that Navy responds quickly to emergency requests, because
a number of ships and their crews across Australia are on standby for contingencies such as this.
“The Australian public can be confident that the Navy stands ready to provide help and assistance where and when it is
required,” Vice Admiral Crane said.
ENDS