A Navy Week open day at Brisbane for HMA Ships Choules and Moreton turned quickly to a search-and-rescue operation for a solo rowboat sailor when Tropical Cyclone Alfred approached on March 1.
Acting on a request to Defence from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Choules slipped last lines after the open day and went against all mariner instincts to head 740km east of Mackay, Queensland.
The ship sailed into Alfred's severe seas and began a search for Lithuanian solo adventurer Aurimas Mockus.
Thirty-six arduous hours and several sea states later, boatswain's mate Leading Seaman Elijah Dau declared, "Officer of the watch Sir, Quartermaster, contact at red 05", and the stricken vessel was spotted.
Shortly after, the rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) was launched with four personnel on board, including RHIB coxswain Able Seaman Eamon Flynn.
"It was an honour to be chosen and entrusted as part of the rescue team by my divisional staff and command of HMAS Choules," Able Seaman Flynn said.
With him was Able Seaman Harry Wilson, the RHIB bowman, who was relieved when Mr Mockus was safely in the boat.
"I felt an immense sense of pride to assist in the rescue," Able Seaman Wilson said.
Once Mr Mockus and his belongings were on board Choules, he was greeted by the Commanding Officer, Commander Arron Convery, and taken into the ship's hospital for an assessment.
Medic Chief Petty Officer Peter Gough and his medical team quickly rendered first aid.
"My team's responsibility was to ensure the patient's transition from point-of-injury care to nursing care while underway at sea," Chief Petty Officer Gough said.
"Mr Mockus' initial condition was stable, and he appeared in good spirits and relieved with the result of the rescue."
After the success of the operation, there was a colossal sense of pride throughout Choules.
Mr Mockus expressed his gratitude during his first dinner among the crew.
