A family's holiday turned into a terrifying ordeal when they were swept out to sea, prompting an investigation into the rental of a kayak and paddleboards! It's a stark reminder that even seemingly calm waters can harbor hidden dangers.
WorkSafe WA, the state's work safety authority, has launched 'initial enquiries' into the hotel that provided a kayak and inflatable paddleboards to the Appelbee family. This comes after the family found themselves in a perilous situation, being pushed out into the ocean by strong winds while enjoying their holiday in Quindalup, located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Perth.
The incident unfolded on a Friday afternoon in Geographe Bay. As the winds picked up, the family's vessels were carried offshore. In a moment of incredible bravery and quick thinking, Joanne Appelbee, the mother, made the agonizing decision to send her 13-year-old son, Austin, to swim for approximately four hours through challenging waters to seek help. Imagine the courage it took for that young boy to undertake such a journey!
Thankfully, Austin reached the shore safely and alerted emergency services. Shortly after, his mother, his 12-year-old brother Beau, and his eight-year-old sister Grace were located around 8:30 PM. They were found drifting approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) offshore, clinging to a paddleboard. It's a relief to know they were all rescued.
A spokesperson for WorkSafe WA confirmed on Thursday that they were aware of the incident. While they hadn't been 'formally notified,' they were actively conducting preliminary investigations. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (Amsa) also stated they had been alerted and were making their own inquiries.
Club Wyndham Resort, where the Appelbee family was staying, issued a statement on Wednesday evening, asserting they had done nothing wrong. They explained that resort equipment is available to guests free of charge until late in the day, and therefore, their staff had no reason to suspect any issues. The resort also pointed out that guests are aware the beach is outside their grounds, unpatrolled, and not directly visible from the resort. However, as a precautionary measure, the resort is undertaking a safety review to prevent similar incidents in the future. They have not provided further comment to the media.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that a resort offering equipment without direct supervision or clear safety warnings bears a significant responsibility. What do you think? Should there be stricter protocols for renting out watercraft, even on a complimentary basis?
Professor Rob Brander from UNSW's beach safety research group shed some light on a common misconception: people often assume it's safe to enter the ocean when it's calm and there are no breaking waves. He explained that this is a dangerous assumption because calm water near the coast can often be a sign of strong offshore winds. These winds can flatten the water's surface and create a subtle but powerful drift that can carry people far from shore. It's like the ocean is gently pushing you away without you even realizing it!
Chris Peck, the general manager of Surf Life Saving (SLS) WA, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized that hazardous situations don't always involve visible waves, swells, or rips. He expressed his relief that the family was found alive and together, but stressed the paramount importance of beach safety. He advised beachgoers to locate the nearest patrolled beach and stay within the red and yellow flags, acknowledging that this isn't always easy. His key message? 'If you're in doubt, don't go out.'
And this is the part most people miss... Professor Brander also highlighted the inherent dangers of using inflatable watercraft in the ocean. He likened them to 'putting up a sail.' Because inflatables sit above the water's surface, the wind can easily catch them, especially if you're standing or kneeling, turning you into a human sail. He strongly recommends taking a few minutes before entering the water to consider beach safety, think about potential 'what-if' scenarios, and plan who you would contact if something went wrong.
Peck agreed, pointing out the crucial difference between using inflatables in a pool versus the ocean. He described the ocean as the 'most dynamic environment you can enter, because it changes every second.' Just because the water looks flat and the sun is shining, doesn't mean offshore winds aren't present and ready to push you out to sea. It's a powerful reminder that the ocean demands respect and constant vigilance.
What are your thoughts on the safety of inflatable water toys in the ocean? Do you believe they pose an unreasonable risk, or is it solely up to the user's discretion? Share your opinions in the comments below!
