Lithuanian Rower Rescued After Cyclone Derails Pacific Crossing

Aurimas Mockus was attempting a solo journey from San Diego to Brisbane when Tropical Cyclone Alfred forced him to activate an emergency beacon.

Aurimas Mockus, a 44-year-old Lithuanian adventurer, was rescued 460 miles off the coast of Mackay, Queensland, after encountering Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Mockus had been rowing solo across the Pacific since October 2024, aiming to complete a 7,500-mile journey from San Diego to Brisbane to raise awareness for Ukraine.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority coordinated the rescue after receiving Mockus's distress signal on Friday, February 28, as he battled 80 km/h winds and rough seas.
The Royal Australian Navy's HMAS Choules successfully rescued Mockus on Monday, March 3, though his boat could not be salvaged due to severe weather conditions.
Mockus, reportedly fatigued but uninjured, is undergoing a medical assessment onboard the navy ship, which is transporting him to Sydney.