Two Teenagers Face Charges After Allegedly Capsizing Boat Carrying Two Boys on Gold Coast

Two teenagers are facing potential charges after allegedly circling and spraying a small fishing boat carrying two younger boys on the Gold Coast, causing it to capsize. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon on the Nerang River near Surfers Paradise.

Footage captured by a witness reportedly showed the 15 and 16-year-old jet ski riders repeatedly circling a tinnie occupied by two boys, aged 10 and 14. The tinnie was struck by waves allegedly generated by the jet skis, leading to it capsizing and throwing the two younger boys into the water. The boys were reportedly not injured but were left shaken.

"The jet-skis were very aggressive towards the tinnie and didn't bother to see if the two young victims were ok after rolling the boat," the witness told the Gold Coast Bulletin. "The propeller was still spinning and the kids could have easily been trapped or knocked out and drowned."

Police confirmed that the younger boys had been fishing when they were allegedly targeted by the jet skiers. "Our young victims were out in their boat for a day of fishing when they were randomly targeted by jetski riders," Acting Senior Sergeant Shannon Gray told Today. "They were circled and they were sprayed which ultimately led to their boat capsizing and the young fellas going into the water."

Authorities stated that the boat sustained damage and its engine would not start after the incident. The children involved were not known to each other.

Acting Senior Sergeant Gray described the teenagers' actions as "incredibly dangerous," outlining potential charges which could include causing a marine incident, assault of the two juveniles, property damage, and freestyling in a prohibited area. He added that depending on their history, the consequences could range from a juvenile caution to a fine or court appearance. Police have identified the teenage riders and plan to speak with them.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate condemned the alleged actions as "unfathomable" and indicated a review of security measures in the area. "I'll be talking to Queensland Police, specifically the water police, to see if they have enough resources," Tate said. "We might look at putting more cameras so we can get prosecutions, which would be a deterrent."