Cause of diver's death yet to be determined
Police News
Details of the death of a 23-year-old spear fisherman at popular Batt Reef, in waters off Port Douglas, on Saturday remain unclear, as local operators and participants in the sport share their condolences.
A Coroner’s report will determine if the cause was shallow water blackout, considered most likely but with police who retrieved the man’s body from the water around 2.20pm on Saturday unable to confirm.
Queensland Police and emergency responders were notified of the man’s disappearance at 11.30am on Saturday, February 28. Boats and helicopters were deployed to search the area for the man.
It was first reported only that he had gone overboard from a vessel.
The Cairns Spearfishing Club issued a statement to say it was “saddened” by the passing of a spearfisher off the Far North coast.
“Our thoughts are with the diver’s family, friends, and the wider diving community during this difficult time,” the club said.
“Incidents like this are a sobering reminder of the risks involved in our sport and the importance of preparation, safe diving practices, and looking after one another on the water.
“The club is committed to providing education and training to ensure anyone interested in the sport can participate in a safe and sustainable manner.
“If any of our club or community members are affected and would like support or would like to learn about safe diving practice, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the club committee.”
Batt Reef, located about 11km north east of Port Douglas, is one of the largest reefs in the Great Barrier Reef system spanning 18km long and 5km wide.
