Aussie sailor Deirdre Sibly feared dead in pirate infested water off the African coast
An Aussie sailor is feared dead after she went missing in pirate infested waters off the African coast.
An experienced South Australian sailor is feared dead after going missing in mysterious circumstances in pirate infested waters off the African coast.
Port Lincoln sailor Deirdre Sibly, 67, had been on a six-month sailing adventure with a friend when they sent a distress signal from their yacht off Madagascar.
A friend Fran Solly told 7News Ms Sibly was sailing to Durban with Frenchman Pascal Mahe when a distress signal was sent from the yacht last Thursday.
It is believed the French coastguard found two bodies on-board the yacht.
Ms Sibly’s sister Sue Good told 7News Ms Sibly knew it was not a very safe place to be sailing.
“She had been on a fabulous adventure with her companion Pascal for the last six months,” she said.
“We are devastated, she was such a brave, adventurous, wonderful sister.”
Friends have paid tribute to Ms Sibly on social media saying she was the “ultimate adventurer.”
“(She) never let the grass grow under her feet. She took all life had to offer and ran toward every opportunity with unbridled energy, joy and enthusiasm to explore, to learn and most importantly, to have fun,” Sarah Mack said.
“The most excellent bonus mum, passionate teacher, ocean advocate and seasoned sailor. I loved every second I spent with her.”
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said they were providing consular assistance to Ms Sibly’s family after she went missing in the Mozambique channel.
“Our thoughts are with the family at this distressing time,” a spokesman said.
“Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”
Originally published as Aussie sailor Deirdre Sibly feared dead in pirate infested water off the African coast
