Whitsunday Police are investigating several property offences involving marine vessels across the Whitsunday region over the past week.
The offences have mainly involved thieves stealing smaller vessels from local marinas or unlawfully taking them from larger vessels moored close to shore.
Between 7pm and 11pm on 15 October, a boat was reported stolen from Airlie Beach.
A search and rescue operation of the Coral Sea commenced around 9.30pm on 16 October, following reports that two teenagers may be missing.
Emergency services were called around 9.30pm on 17 October after reports that two teenagers were in a boat between Long Island and South Molle Island.
Police, with assistance from CQ Rescue, began a search, but it was suspended due to weather conditions and resumed around 6am on 17 October.
The vessel was located damaged at Shute Harbour on 17 October, and a 14-year-old Cannonvale boy and 13-year-old Jubilee Pocket boy were located on the mainland safe and well.
The 14-year-old Cannonvale boy charged with two counts of unauthorised use of motor vehicle, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, stealing, and receiving tainted property.
The 13-year-old Jubilee Pocket boy was charged with two counts of unauthorised use of motor vehicle, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, possessing dangerous drugs, and possess utensils that had been used.
Both boys are both due to appear before Proserpine Childrens Court on 26 October.
Around 2pm on 16 October, police were called to a separate incident at a Whitsunday Boulevard business, following reports a 16-year-old Crystal Brook boy and a 14-year-old Cannonvale girl were allegedly trespassing.
Police located the teenagers shortly after and transported them back to the mainland.
The 16-year-old boy has been dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act.
The 14-year-old Cannonvale girl is assisting police with enquiries.
Police are appealing to anyone who has experienced thefts, suspicious activity, or property offences involving marine vessels in recent weeks to report the matter, regardless of how minor it may appear. Reports can be made directly to Whitsunday Police Station or through Policelink.
Investigators are also currently in possession of several items believed to have been unlawfully obtained during the offending. Anyone who believes they may be missing property is encouraged to contact Whitsunday Police, as some items may be identified and returned to their rightful owners.
Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station, Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan, said a significant number of emergency services were committed in response to incidents connected to the theft of marine vessels over the weekend.
“Police search and rescue personnel, Water Police, and volunteer Marine Rescue crews were all required to dedicate considerable time and resources to locating vessels and ensuring the safety of those involved,” said Senior Sergeant Moynihan.
“We are reminding the community that this type of behaviour is not only unlawful, but also extremely irresponsible.”
“The unauthorised use of vessels places those involved at serious risk of injury or death on the water.”
Whitsunday Police are urging vessel owners, marina users, and residents living near waterfront areas to take steps to protect their property by:
- Securing vessels when unattended.
- Removing keys and valuables from vessels.
- Locking storage compartments and equipment.
- Installing security measures such as lighting, alarms, or surveillance cameras where possible.
- Reporting suspicious behaviour immediately.
Police thank the community for its ongoing assistance and encourage anyone with information relating to these offences to contact Whitsunday Police Station or Policelink on 131 444.
Investigations are ongoing.
