Fishos put themselves on the line to rescue four in trouble

TWO Booral men who had planned an afternoon fishing became local legends when they stepped up to rescue four people and their vessels at Point Vernon yesterday.

Owner of the sailing boat Blame, Azee Swaleheen (right) praised Reece Westle and Tom Dietz for their help in a rescue in Gatakers Bay after his boat capsized. . Picture: Robyne Cuerel

TWO Booral men who had planned an afternoon fishing became local legends when they stepped up to rescue four people and their vessels at Point Vernon yesterday.

Tom Dietz and Reece Westle came to the aid of a jet ski rider and his two child passengers when the jet ski rope caught on the engine.

They then returned to retrieve a 16-foot single hull that had capsized about 250m from the Gatakers boat ramp.

Boat owner Azee Swaleheen thanked his rescuers who spent about half an hour righting the boat and bringing it to shore.

"I didn't think we were going to get it in," Mr Westle said.

"We were out fishing, next minute old mate's asking for a hand."

Hervey Bay police and ambulance attended the scene.

Local fisherman Bob Andriske said it was common for boaties to be caught off-guard by currents at Pt Vernon.