Outrage has erupted after a reckless jet-ski rider deliberately drenched a boat full of birthday revellers, ruining their celebration and sparking fresh calls for a ban on the high-powered watercraft.
The Shocking Incident on the Water
On January 13, a charter boat operated by Western Australian company Sundowner Boat Charters was targeted in what the owner described as a senseless act. The company shared video footage showing the jet-skier speeding perilously close to the anchored vessel, sending a giant wave crashing over the deck and its unsuspecting occupants.
The passengers, who were in the midst of a birthday celebration, were left visibly stunned and soaked. The company revealed the costly aftermath in a social media post, stating: 'Way to go, idiot. Thanks for the deck wash, but you took out a table full of food including the birthday cake.'
'I've Never Had Anything Like This Happen'
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Sundowner Boat Charters owner Mike Lietzow expressed his shock and disappointment. With 18 years in the charter business, he confirmed this was a first. 'They had just cut the birthday cake,' Lietzow explained. 'There was only about three pieces cut, so not much of it got eaten at all. It was pretty much all thrown away.'
He firmly denied any suggestion that he or his guests had provoked the rider, questioning what could possibly be done to a jet-ski while his boat was stationary. 'I was a bit disheartened when I saw those comments,' he added, referring to online speculation.
Public Outrage and the Wider Safety Debate
The incident has fuelled a heated debate online, with many furious Australians demanding stricter controls or outright bans. 'This is why jet-skis should be banned,' wrote one commentator, while others labelled the rider's behaviour 'disgusting' and typical of 'bogans with no respect.'
However, some argued the problem lies with the operator, not the machine. 'Got nothing to do with jet-skis being banned. It's the rider who's at fault absolute idiot,' one person countered.
The controversy aligns with a growing movement. Councils in Australia, including Victoria's City of Port Phillip, are considering bans or restrictions, such as prohibiting jet skis within 200 metres of beaches. Victoria Police Inspector James Dalton highlighted the dangers, noting their power and agility make serious incidents a looming risk.
Back in Western Australia, the Department of Transport and Marine Safety has contacted Lietzow regarding the January event, wishing to speak to the jet-ski driver. Lietzow, while upset, struck a conciliatory tone, stating he didn't want the craft confiscated, but for the rider to receive a formal warning.
