The solo yachtsman left Portsea on Sunday 14 April 2013 en route to New Zealand as part of his around the world journey and activated his beacon at approximately 1:30am this morning (Friday 19 April).
AMSA has been unable to make direct contact with the yachtsman, but understands he had spoken with his family a short time before activating the beacon and had reported to be experiencing rough conditions.
The weather in the area is hampering search and rescue efforts. AMSA has tasked HMAS Melbourne to divert to the location of the yacht as the strong winds and rough seas are limiting the availability of smaller vessels and aircraft.
HMAS Melbourne will be on scene later this evening. A commercial jet is in the area and has been unable to locate the yacht.
AMSA’s Essendon-based Dornier will aim to head to the area later this morning to attempt to locate the yacht and raise communications with the sailor.
urther updates will be provided as more information is available.