An extraordinary rescue unfolded off the South Australian coast, where a 73-year-old kayaker was discovered alive after a night adrift. Goran Radic had embarked on a crab-fishing excursion from Middle Beach, just north of Adelaide, but did not return as expected.

His family, growing increasingly worried, alerted authorities shortly before 11 p.m. when he failed to come back. This set off an extensive search operation by emergency services, which persisted through the night.

In the morning, Radic was located among the mangroves, much to the relief of his loved ones and rescuers. He was safely airlifted out of the area and subsequently assessed by paramedics.

Reflecting on his ordeal to 9News, Radic credited his survival to the supplies he had wisely packed for his trip, underscoring the importance of preparation in the face of unexpected challenges.

Radic was winched to safety and checked by paramedics.

Speaking to 9News, he said he survived the night on supplies he had packed.

“I didn’t panic, I was alright. I’ve seen rescue helicopters sometime in the night and they missed me, so I decided to go to St Kilda to try there, I saw light there,” he said.

“But didn’t find it, so I kayaked back and they found me this morning.”

Radic said his overnight dilemma has not deterred him from kayaking in the future.

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