WA Police Urge Public to Stop Reporting 'Sinking' Boat in Peel Estuary
Authorities in Western Australia have made a public plea regarding a vessel in the Peel Estuary that has been repeatedly mistaken for a sinking boat. The WA Police Force has specifically asked residents and passersby to stop reporting the boat, named Blue Water, which is located south of Mandurah.
Repeated Reports Divert Police Resources
Mandurah District WA Police Force took to social media to address the issue, explaining that multiple calls about the same vessel require officers to respond under priority conditions until they can confirm the situation on arrival. This process significantly impacts their ability to attend to other, potentially life-threatening incidents.
The police statement emphasized: "We kindly ask the public not to report this specific boat, as repeated calls require officers to respond under priority conditions until the vessel can be confirmed on arrival. This affects our ability to respond to other incidents."
However, authorities clarified that the public should continue to report any new marine emergencies or situations involving immediate danger by contacting police on 131 444 or dialing 000 in life-threatening circumstances.
Vessel Not in Danger, Removal Underway
The Blue Water was first reported weeks ago, and the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure has been notified. A spokesperson confirmed that there is no current emergency related to the vessel and that it is not in any peril.
"The Blue Water isn't in peril," the spokesperson stated. "It's listing because it is sitting at the bottom; it's not sinking. There may well be some water in the hull but it's sitting on the seabed in a very shallow part of the estuary."
The department is currently working on removing the boat, though the process could take a few more weeks. The vessel's position in a shallow area of the estuary means it poses no immediate danger, despite its appearance.
Community Response and Safety Reminders
This incident highlights the importance of accurate reporting to emergency services. While public vigilance is encouraged, repeated reports of the same non-emergency situation can strain police resources and delay responses to genuine crises.
Authorities remind the community that marine safety remains a priority, and any new or unfamiliar vessels in distress should still be reported promptly. The ongoing situation with the Blue Water serves as a reminder to verify the urgency of a situation before contacting emergency services, ensuring that help is available where it is most needed.
