Ep 12. Saving Ryan

Sea Patrol is an Australian television drama that depicts the world of Navy Patrol Boat crew as they patrol the waters of the South Pacific. In season 5 episode 12, titled 'Saving Ryan,' the crew of HMAS Hammersley is called out to help a man accidentally stranded on a remote island.

The episode begins with the Hammersley crew receiving a distress call from a stranded man named Ryan, who is trapped on a deserted island after his yacht was swept off course during a storm. He's running low on rations and water, and his efforts to escape have so far been unsuccessful.

Commander Mike Flynn (Ian Stenlake) and his crew receive the call and immediately set out to locate Ryan's yacht. Despite the harsh weather conditions, they manage to find it and lead it to safety. After the yacht is safely docked, they set out to locate Ryan, but their search efforts are hampered by the storm.

Meanwhile, Ryan tries to survive on the island by fishing, collecting fresh water, and building a shelter from the elements. However, he begins to lose hope of being rescued after several days of being alone.

Back on Hammersley, the crew works tirelessly to locate Ryan. They use a helicopter and a small boat to scour the waters around the island, but their efforts are met with no luck. They start to feel discouraged and stressed as they know time is running out for Ryan.

Just as they begin to think all hope is lost, they receive a break in the case. A fisherman claims to have seen someone stranded on the island, which leads to a more structured search, and they finally spot Ryan's signal flare.

The crew sees Ryan, but they're unable to land on the island due to the rugged terrain and aggressive weather conditions. Mike decides that the only way to rescue Ryan is by parachuting from the helicopter, and he volunteers to perform the daring rescue.

Mike lands safely on the island and meets Ryan, who is surprised to see him. They quickly gather his things and set out to leave the island, but they are met with several challenges, including battling the storm and managing Ryan's broken leg.

Back on the Hammersley, the crew is thrilled to see Mike and Ryan arrive safely. They organize medical attention for Ryan, who is severely dehydrated and malnourished. Mike cuts a heroic figure, having made a very difficult decision to jump from the chopper at great personal risk to make the rescue.

The episode ends with the Hammersley crew reflecting on the successful rescue mission, grateful to have rescued an individual in dire circumstances. The episode is a testament to the heroism and courage demonstrated by the Australian Navy Patrol Boat crews, highlighting the risks they take to ensure the safety of individuals amidst high sea adventures.