MEDIA RELEASE

AMOU Honours Darwin Marine Officers for Life-Saving Rescue of Missing Yachtsman Darwin, NT

The Australian Maritime Officers Union (AMOU) has recognised three Northern Territory marine professionals for their extraordinary actions in rescuing a stranded yachtsman in Darwin Harbour, an intervention that medical personnel later indicated likely saved the man's life. Marine Pilot Chris Cridland, Pilot Launch Master Rawson McCrae, and crew member Joshua Witkin have been presented with the Australian Maritime Officers Distinguished Lifesaving Award in recognition of their professionalism, vigilance, and dedication to the safety of fellow mariners.

The rescue began when Marine Pilot Capt. Chris Cridland observed a yacht behaving a little unusually within Darwin Harbour. Having returned from conducting a pilotage of a gas carrier, Mr Cridland requested that Pilot Launch Master Rawson McCrae investigate the vessel and appeared to be making little headway. Upon approaching the yacht, the launch crew discovered its sole occupant, 75-year-old Digby Campbell, in a distressed condition. The yachtsman was suffering from severe sunburn, significantly swollen feet and ankles, and appeared confused and disoriented.

Further investigation revealed that Digby had run out of food and water three days ago and had lost essential navigation and communication equipment after being swamped by a large wave disabling his electronic systems 150 nautical miles from Darwin. Unable to effectively sail the vessel and lacking functioning equipment, he had reportedly spent approximately 36 hours standing to maintain control of his sails.
Recognising the seriousness of the situation, the marine officers immediately offered assistance, which Digby accepted. During the conversation, he remarked that he was relieved to have reached Darwin "in time", everyone unaware that he had in fact been missing.

The crew then coordinated a complex response involving port management, Australian Border Force, and emergency services. After supporting the yacht to be safely anchored, the crew urgently transported Digby ashore whist stabilising him with the support of emergency services. The Border Force Officers and an ambulance were waiting in the port.  In a remarkable moment, a Border Force officer reportedly greeted the sailor with the words:  

"Digby, we've been looking for you for three weeks."

The comment highlighted the extent of the sailor's disorientation and the seriousness of his ordeal at sea.  Medical personnel who attended the scene later advised the rescuers that had Digby remained at sea for another half a day or more, the outcome may have been tragically different.

Presenting the award from the AMOU was industrial Officer Renee Ker. Renee praised the actions of all three officers.   "This rescue demonstrates exactly why professional mariners are so highly respected across our industry. From the moment Chris noticed something unusual, through to the actions of Rawson and Josh in investigating, assisting, and coordinating the response, every decision reflected exceptional seamanship, professionalism, and care for a fellow seafarer."

When the rescuers later caught up with a beer with Digby it was discovered that Digby was an incredibly experienced seafarer, had conducted multiple vessel deliveries across international waters, however the rogue wave that had swamped the vessel had created a serious issue. One comment Digby shared when asked why he didn’t ask for help earlier, “I was just too proud and then became disoriented.” Digby had been a mariner for more than 50 years and had been self-reliant and tried to do things right the right way as a responsible seafarer. He had left east Timor with three weeks of food and water even though the journey should have only taken 6 days. When he experienced some issues, he started to ration his food, but things continued to spiral downhill. “ I was really lucky those boys were on the job that day” – said Digby
"Their vigilance, initiative, and willingness to act undoubtedly changed the course of this man's story. What could have ended in tragedy became a successful rescue because three marine officers trusted their instincts and took action."- Said AMOU Industrial Officer Renee Ker

AMOU President Matthew Jepson said "The AMOU is incredibly proud to recognise Chris Cridland, Rawson McCrae, and Josh Witkin with the Australian Maritime Officers Distinguished Lifesaving Award. Their actions embody the very best traditions of the maritime profession and serve as a reminder that mariners look after one another, whether they are colleagues or complete strangers."

The AMOU congratulates all three recipients and acknowledges the coordinated efforts of Darwin Port, Australian Border Force, and emergency services in ensuring the safe recovery of the sailor.

ENDS
Media Contact:
Renee Ker Industrial Officer Australian Maritime Officers Union (AMOU)
0429 215 155
r.ker@amou.com.au