Successful search and rescue North Coast Queensland

1st Jun, 2026

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) coordinated a successful search and rescue operation on the evening of Tuesday 26 May following the detection of an unregistered emergency beacon approximately 139km northeast of Airlie Beach, Queensland.

A 9-metre fishing vessel was identified via tracking systems operating in the same vicinity. At 7.30pm (AEST) AMSA tasked the Essendon-based Challenger rescue aircraft to investigate and requested the bulk carrier, Flourish Power, to divert and provide assistance.

The Challenger aircraft arrived on scene and located a life raft carrying two people and a dog at 12:20am. The crew of Flourish Power successfully recovered all three approximately one hour later, from the life raft. The individuals and the dog have now been transferred ashore by pilot transfer helicopter with the Reef Pilot that was on board Flourish Power.

This incident highlights the value of emergency beacons in supporting timely search and rescue efforts. While this beacon was not registered, the alert helped AMSA quickly identify a potential distress situation and coordinate a response. Keeping beacon registration details up to date can further assist responders with important information in an emergency.

AMSA acknowledges the swift response and cooperation of the crew of Flourish Power and the Reef Pilot in ensuring a safe outcome.