In a dramatic turn of events, well-known radio host Ben Fordham became an unexpected hero when he came to the rescue of a windsurfer in distress on Sydney Harbour. The incident happened on a Friday afternoon, just as Fordham was preparing to attend the wedding reception of his producer, Liam McGuire, near Woolwich Dock.
The 2GB breakfast host was alerted to the unfolding situation when he heard frantic whistling coming from the water. Upon investigation, he spotted a group struggling and immediately sprang into action, joined by several other wedding guests who were keen to assist.
The windsurfer, identified as Aiello, recounted the harrowing experience on Fordham’s radio show, 2GB, the following morning. “The decision to go out was where it all went wrong,” Aiello admitted candidly. “We were aware of the forecast and knew the conditions, but we were chasing a bit of fun.”
Aiello explained that the group became overwhelmed by the powerful winds, having underestimated the conditions. “We all just got super overpowered, hadn’t been out in a while, and everything broke loose,” he added, reflecting on the ordeal.
“We knew the forecast, we knew what we were getting into but we thought we’d chase a bit of fun.
“We all just got super overpowered, hadn’t been out in a while and everything broke loose.
“Luckily we had a support boat out there as well.”
Aiello was uninjured but was left with a few scratches on his nose.
“I had someone say ’I was disappointed’, they were hoping I was going to dive right in,” Fordham said.
“It was a great segway to pull you out of the water and start a wedding reception, it really made the afternoon.”
After the rescue, the windsurfer was invited into the event but he politely declined.
“I was in my wetsuit and had all of my windsurfing gear on,” Aiello said.
But Aiello extended his own offer to Fordham and his team.
“To any of the people who helped out, I know you got a bit of saltwater on your suits, so if you want to invoice me for some laundry fees, let me know,” Aiello said.
