Update On Two Crew Members Killed in Tragic Accidents During Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia © Andrea Francolini

The names of two sailors killed in accidents overnight on two yachts competing in the 2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race have been confirmed.

Roy Quaden 55, from Western Australia, was a crew member on Flying Fish Arctos (NSW). It is understood he was struck by the yacht’s boom during an incident which occurred overnight approximately 30 nautical miles east/south-east of Ulladulla NSW. Fellow crew members performed CPR, but they could not revive him.

Nick Smith 65, from South Australia, was a crew member on Bowline (SA). It is understood he was also struck by that yacht’s boom as Bowline was sailing approximately 30nm east/north-east of Batemans Bay. Crew members also administered CPR which was unsuccessful.

Flying Fish Arctos has reached port at Jervis Bay and Bowline is at Batemans Bay.

The safety of all competitors in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is extremely important and is always the number one priority of the Race Committee.

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia is in contact with both yachts and has arranged counselling support services to the two crews.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the two crew members. Our thoughts are also with the crews and our sailing community affected by these tragic incidents.

Flying Fish Arctos and Bowline are among 21 yachts retired for the race as at 1630.