Rough waters for houseboat
THE Cairns owner of a houseboat that was reportedly intercepted in Queensland waters in breach of border restrictions says he has been used as a “political tool”.
Steven Ford said he was returning from NSW with his houseboat, the Maggie Mae, earlier this month in Australian waters when his crew was forced to turn for shelter in Queensland waters to avoid strong winds which would have been destructive to his boat.
“We purchased the boat in Newcastle and left before the borders were closed,” Mr Ford said.
“When the wind warning came, we had to go to shelter.
“We didn’t have time to fill in documents. We were in a craft that was not suitable for strong winds.
“We would have stayed at sea and isolated there.”
When Maritime Safety officers intercepted the vessel, the four passengers were each fined $4003.
“I have been advised they have been fined for making a false declaration and are enjoying hotel quarantine at their own expense,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said during a Brisbane press conference on August 15.
She did not mention the Maggie Mae or Mr Ford by name.
But Mr Ford’s infringement notice does not mention a false declaration, instead citing entering Queensland other than by air and “without a border declaration”.
“We didn’t lodge any documents,” Mr Ford said.
“The Premier has used us as a political tool.”
A spokesman for the Premier said if Mr Ford wanted to challenge the fine, he could take it up in court.
“Making a false declaration or entering Queensland unlawfully are both offences that can attract fines of up to $4003,” the spokesman said.
“These rules are in place to keep Queensland communities safe.”