Community: Civil Maintenance quick thinking rescues six people after boat fire

What started as a normal workday for two LPC staff took a sudden turn, when a speedboat engine caught fire in the inner harbour.

Six people, including four children, made it safely back to shore thanks to so quick thinking and teamwork.

Civil Maintenance members Rod Bunn and Graeme Norris stepped in to help the family after Graeme spotted flames and splashing water.

“I thought, holy crap, it was getting bigger and bigger,” said Graeme.

They quickly launched an LPC  punt with an outboard motor.

As the punt approached, the passengers saw that help was on the way.

By the time they arrived, the fire had been extinguished with a powder extinguisher.

The speedboat was safely towed back to its trailer at the Naval Point slipway.

Graeme and Rod’s quick action prevented a strong southerly wind from pushing the power boat toward a bulk carrier berthed in the Inner Harbour.

LPC Head of Maintenance and Security, Tristan Williams, is incredibly proud of the team. and said Graeme and Rod’s readiness made a big difference

“Rod and Graeme’s quick thinking and calm response under pressure is nothing short of outstanding and ensured everyone made it home safely,” said Tristan Williams.

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