Teen Boys Charged After Alleged Boat Joyride

Two teenage boys allegedly took a stolen boat for a joyride through the Whitsundays, prompting an overnight search before the vessel was found damaged at Shute Harbour.

The boys, aged 14 and 13, were later located safe on the mainland after poor weather hampered efforts by police and rescue crews to find them.

‍

The boat had been reported stolen from Airlie Beach between 7pm and 11pm on 15 October. A search of the Coral Sea began the following evening amid concerns for the teenagers, who were reportedly in a boat between Long Island and South Molle Island.

‍

Police, assisted by CQ Rescue, searched for the pair until poor weather forced the operation to be suspended. The search resumed around 6am on 17th October.

The vessel was found damaged at Shute Harbour that day, and both boys were located safe and well on the mainland.

‍

The 14-year-old Cannonvale boy has been charged with two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle and one count each of entering premises and committing an indictable offence, stealing and receiving tainted property.

The 13-year-old Jubilee Pocket boy faces two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle and one count of entering premises and committing an indictable offence. He has also been charged with possessingdangerous drugs and possessing utensils that had been used.

‍

Both boys are due to appear before Proserpine Childrens Court on 26th October.

Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station, Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan, said the reckless incidents drew heavily on emergency services.  

‍

“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,” he said.

“The unauthorised use of vessels places those involved at serious risk of injury or death on the water.”

‍

The incident comes as police investigate other marine property offences and hold several items suspected of being stolen. Authorities are urging boat owners to secure vessels and remove keys. Anyone missing property or with information about suspicious activity should contact Whitsunday Police Station or Policelink on 131 444.

‍