A Lithuanian rower, Aurimas Mockus, described his harrowing experience as “hell on earth” after being stranded for four days in waters off Queensland’s coast leading up to Cyclone Alfred. The 44-year-old had been undertaking a remarkable 12,000km solo rowing journey from San Diego to Brisbane, partly in tribute to the Ukrainian lives lost in the Russian invasion.
Having set off five months ago, Mockus faced his biggest challenge last Friday when he found himself 740 kilometres offshore from Mackay, struggling against the storm’s fury. He recounted the terrifying experience to the Lithuanian ambassador with a translator, describing his boat rolling uncontrollably, saying, “The boat was turning around, rolling maybe 30 times—like a cat in a washing machine.”
Fortunately, Mockus managed to send out a distress signal, and while he was spotted by aircraft the following day, the extreme weather hampered the rescue efforts. The HMAS Choules, a rescue ship, battled through 16-metre swells to reach him. After enduring four days of intense conditions, help finally arrived.
Mockus’s ordeal concluded with an emotional reunion with his wife in Sydney. Though he had originally aimed to reach Sydney after completing his journey, he indicated it might be some time before he attempts such a monumental feat again, remaining committed to his mission in support of Ukraine.