A Perth diving company has been fined nearly $20,000 for failing to ensure the safety of two divers who were left stranded in the ocean during an expedition.
Perth Diving Academy Hillarys has been penalized with a fine of almost $20,000 after an incident during a diving expedition off the coast of Perth, where two divers were abandoned by their chartered boat. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority's investigation revealed various violations of the Maritime Safety Act, emphasizing the need for rigorous adherence to safety protocols in maritime activities.
The incident involved divers Ian Kensington and Ryan Chaudhry, who were part of a larger group on the expedition. After diving for about 45 minutes, they found themselves stranded when their boat returned to shore without them. As they awaited rescue approximately four kilometers from the coast, both men experienced significant distress, believing they might not survive the ordeal. A nearby ferry eventually came to their aid, retrieving them just 15 minutes after they were left behind.
The lack of communication and accountability from the diving company has led to public outcry, with Kensington calling out for an apology and highlighting the company's failure to learn from this incident. The case serves as a critical reminder of the paramount importance of safety in adventure tourism, particularly in settings that pose inherent risks, such as scuba diving.
