Queensland marine rescue boat strikes whale

AdelaideNow: Queensland marine rescue boat strikes whale
VOLUNTEER marine rescue boat has collided with a whale off the Brisbane coast, suffering extensive damage and injuring two crew members.

The incident occurred around 6pm (AEST) yesterday near Stradbroke Island.

Marine Rescue Queensland vice-president Tony Hawkins said the incident happened after the 10-metre catamaran was called out to assist a vessel.

"It has come off a wave and as it came down a whale has come up from underneath it," Mr Hawkins said.

"It's the most significant damage I've seen in 30 years and it will cost about $70,000 to $100,000 to repair.

"Luckily no one was tipped out or seriously hurt.

"The safety and integrity of the vessel cannot be questioned after surviving that."

He said one crew member sustained a dislocated shoulder and another crew member sustained a minor facial injury.

The vessel, which is one of three operated by Marine Rescue Queensland at Raby Bay, sustained extensive damage to its hull.

The catamaran travelled in reverse back to base to prevent taking on water and sinking.

"It's the prime vessel of the three as it is fitted out to transfer medical evacuations from Stradbroke Island to the mainland," Mr Hawkins said.

"It transfers on average one patient a day."

A Department of Community Services spokeswoman said paramedics were called at 8.30pm to assist the crew, with one member taken to Redlands Hospital for treatment.

There is no word on the condition of the whale that struck the boat.