A man has been charged following a brazen alleged attempt to steal a commercial prawn trawler from a popular Far North Queensland marina.
Early Morning Marina Incident
Queensland Police were called to the Port Douglas Marina shortly after 5:30 AM on Tuesday, May 21, following reports of a man attempting to steal a vessel. The incident unfolded in the early hours, casting a shadow over the normally tranquil tourist hub. Officers from the Port Douglas station responded swiftly to the scene after receiving the concerning call.
Upon arrival, police located and apprehended a 33-year-old man from the Bamboo Creek area near Mossman. He was taken into custody without further incident. The vessel at the centre of the alleged crime was a commercial prawn fishing boat, a vital asset for the local seafood industry.
Charges Laid in Cairns Court
The accused man was formally charged with one count of attempted stealing. He faced the Cairns Magistrates Court on Tuesday to answer to the charge. The matter was adjourned, and the man was granted watch house bail. He is scheduled to reappear in the same court at a later date.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed the details of the arrest and charge, highlighting the effective response by local officers. The quick action by police and marina security likely prevented the significant loss of a commercial fishing vessel, which represents both a substantial financial investment and a livelihood for its owner.
Security in Focus for Port Douglas
This incident has brought marina security into focus within the Port Douglas community. The marina is a central feature of the town, home to luxury yachts, charter fishing boats, and essential commercial vessels like the targeted prawn trawler. Such brazen criminal attempts, while rare, raise concerns for business owners and residents alike.
The local fishing industry is a cornerstone of the region's economy. An attempt to steal a working prawn boat is not merely a property crime but an attack on a local operator's means of production. The community relies on the safety and security of its port facilities for both tourism and trade.
Police have not released further details about how the man allegedly gained access to the boat or what specifically thwarted the theft attempt. The investigation by the Port Douglas station is considered complete following the court appearance. The case serves as a reminder for all vessel owners in the region to remain vigilant about their maritime security measures.
