A Burdekin man has been charged after being caught operating a boat while intoxicated twice in just three days by Queensland Water Police. David Alexander Kimber, 47, was first intercepted on Sunday afternoon near the Burdekin River mouth. Police conducted a breath test, which returned a reading of 0.157 per cent, more than three times the legal limit of 0.05 per cent for boat operators. He was issued a notice to appear in court and his vessel was seized.
Just two days later, on Tuesday, police spotted Kimber again operating the same boat on the Burdekin River. A subsequent breath test recorded 0.127 per cent. He was again charged with operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol. Senior Sergeant Paul Faulks of the Water Police Unit expressed frustration at the repeated offending, stating that such behaviour endangers not only the offender but also other water users.
Repeat Offender Faces Serious Charges
Kimber has been charged with two counts of operating a vessel while under the influence of liquor. He is scheduled to appear in the Townsville Magistrates Court on March 22. Police have warned that repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including larger fines and longer licence disqualifications.
Water Police Urge Compliance
Senior Sergeant Faulks emphasised that marine safety is a shared responsibility. He urged all boaters to plan ahead and avoid alcohol if they intend to operate a vessel. The legal blood alcohol limit for boat operators in Queensland is 0.05 per cent, the same as for drivers of motor vehicles. Penalties for drink boating include fines up to $2,300 and licence disqualification for up to six months.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drinking and boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents on the water. The Burdekin community has been urged to report any suspicious boating behaviour to authorities.
