by post TASSThe Australian Maritime Safety Authority has rescued two Russians and a French national in the Coral Sea after their catamaran began to sink due to a shark attack. The Russian Embassy in Australia has confirmed that the catamaran belonging to the Tomsk branch of the Russian Geographical Society is traveling around the world as part of an international project.
The incident occurred 835 km southeast of Cairns as the ship was leaving Vanuatu and sailing for the northeast coast of Australia. The catamaran was damaged by several sharks, which caused it to flood. The crew activated the distress signal and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority sent a Challenger rescue aircraft to coordinate the rescue operation.
The crew of the Russian Geographical Society was rescued by the cargo ship Dugong Ace, which was to take its members to Brisbane by 7 September. The Russian Embassy in Australia noted that it is in contact with the leaders of the expedition team and will provide the crew with the necessary consular assistance. They also expressed their gratitude to the Australian rescue services, the Dugong Ace crew, and the citizens in Cairns and Brisbane for their support of the Russians.
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