A recent incident off the Gold Coast Seaway has seen a second boat capsize within two days, following a powerful swell that left a father and son in peril. A volunteer marine rescue team swiftly responded to the distress call from the stranded swimmers, reaching them within minutes. Upon arrival, they discovered the boat was largely submerged and had sustained considerable damage, estimated to cost between $50,000 and $60,000, according to coast guard member David Tapsall.
The father suffered facial injuries when the vessel’s windscreen collapsed due to the force of the wave. Paramedics provided treatment at VMR Southport. The damaged boat was subsequently recovered and towed back to the Coastguard base, where the rescued boatie is a member. Interestingly, the crew member who responded was the father’s son, demonstrating a poignant family connection amid the crisis.
This incident marks the second significant rescue operation in the same area in as many days. The previous day, another boat capsized, resulting in three individuals being thrown overboard. This recent turmoil has been exacerbated by the aftermath of ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has rendered the seaway bar perilous, compounded by large swells. Authorities are cautioning all boaters to be vigilant over the Easter long weekend, stressing the importance of adhering to weather forecasts and safety messages. Tapsall urged, “Please listen to the forecast.”