Whitsunday police probe boat thefts after Coral Sea teen search

Whitsunday Police are investigating a series of property offences involving boats across the region over the past week, and are asking the public to report any thefts or suspicious activity.

Police say the offences have mainly involved smaller vessels being stolen from local marinas or unlawfully taken from larger vessels moored close to shore. A boat was reported stolen from Airlie Beach between 7pm and 11pm on 15 October.

A search and rescue operation in the Coral Sea began around 9.30pm on 16 October after reports that two teenagers may be missing in a boat between Long Island and South Molle Island. Police, assisted by CQ Rescue, searched until weather conditions forced the search to be suspended. It resumed around 6am on 17 October.

The vessel was found damaged at Shute Harbour on 17 October. A 14-year-old Cannonvale boy and a 13-year-old Jubilee Pocket boy were found on the mainland safe and well.

The Cannonvale boy has been charged with two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, stealing, and receiving tainted property. The Jubilee Pocket boy has been charged with two counts of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, possessing dangerous drugs, and possessing utensils that had been used. Both are due to appear before the Proserpine Childrens Court on 26 October.

In a separate incident around 2pm on 16 October, police were called to a Whitsunday Boulevard business over reports a 16-year-old Crystal Brook boy and a 14-year-old Cannonvale girl were allegedly trespassing. They were found shortly after and taken back to the mainland. The boy has been dealt with under the Youth Justice Act, and the girl is assisting police with enquiries.

Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan, Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station, said: "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 added: "The unauthorised use of vessels places those involved at serious risk of injury or death on the water."

Police are urging vessel owners, marina users and waterfront residents to secure vessels when unattended, remove keys and valuables, lock storage compartments, install lighting, alarms or cameras where possible, and report suspicious behaviour immediately.

Investigators hold several items believed to have been unlawfully obtained. Anyone missing property is encouraged to contact Whitsunday Police. Anyone who has experienced a theft or property offence involving a boat in recent weeks, however minor, can report it to Whitsunday Police Station or Policelink on 131 444. Information can also be given anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Quote reference numbers QP2602042210 and QP2602048181. Investigations are ongoing.