A tourist ferry bound for the popular Dunk Island broke free from its moorings in treacherous conditions whipped up by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, leading to a dramatic rescue mission by quick-thinking locals and emergency services.
Vessel Adrift in Storm-Whipped Seas
The incident unfolded on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 20, 2023. The MV 'Quick Cat' ferry, operated by Mission Beach Dunk Island Connections, was secured at the Clump Point boat ramp in Mission Beach when powerful winds and swell caused its mooring lines to snap.
The unmanned vessel was then driven across the bay, coming to rest precariously against the rocky shoreline near the jetty. With the ferry being battered by the conditions and at risk of sustaining serious damage or sinking, the situation was escalating rapidly.
Community and Emergency Services Spring into Action
Upon seeing the distressed vessel, several local Good Samaritans immediately launched their own boats into the dangerous seas to assist. Their brave efforts were crucial in initially stabilising the situation and preventing further drift or damage.
Queensland Water Police, along with crews from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), were promptly alerted and raced to the scene. A coordinated response was launched to secure the 20-metre catamaran, which regularly shuttles tourists and supplies to the iconic island resort.
No passengers or crew were on board at the time of the incident, a fact that authorities say prevented a potential tragedy. The wild weather was a lingering effect of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper, which had crossed the Far North Queensland coast days earlier, bringing torrential rain and destructive winds to the region.
Aftermath and Regional Impact
The successful rescue operation prevented a significant environmental and economic incident. The 'Quick Cat' is a vital transport link for Dunk Island, and its loss would have severely impacted tourism operations and island resupply.
Initial assessments indicated the ferry suffered some damage from the impact with the rocks, but the full extent was still being evaluated. The incident underscored the powerful and persistent nature of the weather system associated with Cyclone Jasper, which caused major flooding and damage across the Cairns and Far North region.
Maritime authorities have commended the actions of the local boaties who first responded. Their local knowledge and willingness to act in dangerous conditions were instrumental in the positive outcome. The event serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community resilience in regional Queensland.
