The Port Macquarie News and the Sydney Morning Herald
are reporting how a radio enthusiast helped save two sailors
stranded in wild seas off Newcastle in VK2.

The operation took 19 hours in five-metre high seas and strong
winds after the propeller shaft of Bob Wilson's 14-metre ketch,
sailing from Queensland to Sydney - broke off and jammed against
the rudder, leaving the vessel stranded nearly 200 kilometres
off the coast.

Harold Ralston was in his shed about 6.30am on Good Friday when
his 25-year-old radio, which he bought for $50 on eBay a year ago,
crackled with a plea from Mr Wilson.

"I heard the boat calling for Foster Tuncurry Coastal Patrol,
or anyone who could hear him, and he couldn't get a response,"
said Mr Ralston.

WIA Director Robert Broomhead has spoken with our "Radio Fan".
Never one to miss an opportunity, Robert Broomhead VK3KRB has
already forwarded a ham radio info pack to Harold with the
intend of getting Harold to sit an Amateur Radio Examination!



Larry W4CSC Charleston, SC USA
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