Police reported that an investigation is underway after three boats were destroyed by fire on the Northern Beaches .
“About 5.00am (Thursday, 10 August 2023), officers attached to Broken Water Police noticed a vessel on fire at Holmeport Marina and immediately called for assistance.
Water Police worked to move the vessel towards the shore where Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service commenced to extinguish the blaze however, the flames had spread to two other vessels nearby.
Continued attempts were made to extinguish the fires as the vessels were moved away from the marina.
“Initial inquiries indicate there were no persons on board at the time of the fire.”
The three motor cruisers with a value of around 3 million dollars were completely destroyed.
West Pittwater Brigade fireboat and Scotland Island boat attended the fire and assisted in setting up Hazmat booming to prevent contamination of the water.
In the early hours of the following day – Friday 11th August – one of the boats re-ignited and West Pittwater Brigade was again requested to attend. The situation is being monitored in case of further ignition due to fuel being trapped inside the boats.
Fire Fighters chainsaw boat hull to access fire that re-ignited overnight
Hull chainsawed to access fire
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
“As inquiries continue, police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone in the area at the time and may have dash cam vision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Photos courtesy: Terry Longhurst and Wayne Lazarides