Rower returns home after scalding accident
One of the seven Indian Ocean rowers who set out from Geraldton for Africa on June 11 has been evacuated after receiving extensive burns to his thigh and arm when a hot water container spilled on him in rough seas.
University of Melbourne academic Shane Usher was picked up by the cargo ship Nordic River about two thirds of the way through their record-breaking attempt to cross the Indian Ocean.
A spokesperson for the rowers said Mr Usher was in good health after being scalded, but with a journey of 30 to 40 days remaining in wet and humid conditions, the crew decided he should be rescued so he could receive proper medical care.
He is now back in Melbourne disappointed, but, in his words, “that’s the way life goes”.
Mr Usher said being part of an ocean row for the first time was a great experience, and he hoped he could get involved with another one.
“The food was great, even as ‘an old man’ I was keeping ridiculously well, no physical complaints apart from wet butts which brought their own issues,” he said.
The crew of the Avalon have thanked Mr Usher, saying without him this voyage would not have been possible.
“We would like to thank the captain and crew of the Nordic River, Global Rescue Insurance and the Australian Coast Guard for their amazing support and assistance,” their spokesperson said.
The crew was determined to reach Africa and complete the journey on behalf of their various charities.
Initially the 8500 kilometre journey was to be from Geraldton to Durban in South Africa, but major storm systems pushed the 15-metre rowing boat north, so the crew is now heading to Mombasa in Kenya.
The multi-national crew was brought together by Victorian policeman Tim Spiteri to raise funds for Multiple Sclerosis research in Australia.
People can follow the progress of the row through www.timsvoyage.com, where donations to MS research can be made.
