Rottnest Fast Ferries crew praised after rescue operation of overboard boaties

Four men were rescued after their boat capsized in heavy seas off Perth’s northern coastline on Monday evening.

Police were called about 6pm after reports a vessel was in distress off Pinnaroo Point.

The 5.7m aluminium half-cabin cruiser, which had been returning from Rottnest Island, overturned in heavy swell, resulting in all four occupants being thrown into the water.

A multi-agency rescue operation was coordinated by the Water Police Coordination Centre.

Water Police vessels and Australian Border Force boats were deployed and a Rottnest Fast Ferries catamaran, which was carrying passengers at the time, was quickly diverted to assist.

Crew members aboard the ferry reached the scene and deployed safety ladders to rescue the four men, aged between 19 and 50, who were clinging to the partially submerged hull of the capsized boat.

The men on the upturned boat had been waiting for about 45 minutes until the ferry arrived.

Rottnest Fast Ferries captain Ryan Poolman said his crew did an amazing job to rescue all four men and provide first-aid while travelling back to Hillarys.

“My crew did an absolutely wonderful job, the equipment was fantastic, and the rescue played out perfectly,” he said.

They were transported to Hillarys Boat Harbour, where St John WA paramedics assessed them and treated minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

Pinnacle Travel Group managing director James Mullholland praised Mr Poolman and crew members Elsie Godderidge, Mia Thomas, Justin Ferguson and Jed Cummuskey for their professionalism during the rescue.

“I’m extremely proud of our crew’s quick actions. I’d also like to extend my thanks to our wonderful passengers — we had 365 people on board, many of whom offered their towels to help keep the affected individuals warm,” he said.

“This incident is a reminder of how quickly conditions can change on the water. We wish everyone a safe boating season this Christmas and summer.”

The incident was one of several water-related emergencies coordinated by Water Police in recent days amid busy summer conditions.

Police have reminded boaties that conditions can change quickly and many incidents are preventable with proper preparation.

As summer boating activity increases, Water Police are urging skippers and passengers to check weather forecasts, understand predicted conditions and be aware of potential hazards before heading out.

Vessel operators are also reminded to ensure boats are mechanically sound and equipped with working safety gear, including EPIRBs, marine radios, flares and lifejackets.

Police say lifejackets should be worn at all times, particularly in challenging ocean conditions.

More information and boating safety checklists are available through Adventure Smart.