Water Police came to the rescue of three men whose inflatable dinghy started sinking when they paddled out to a shipwreck at Black Rock last night, Victoria Police say.
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The trio decided it was a good idea to row their small "boat" out to the Cerberus shipwreck to watch the sunset.
Their dinghy was no match for the sharp edges of the wreck and it quickly started taking on water after a hole was punctured in the hull.
They have climbed onto the top of the historic wreck and called out for help to the fisherman on the pier who have raised the alarm about 10.40pm.
Water Police launched a boat to collect the sheepish trio - two 20-year-olds and an 18-year-old all from Brighton East – who can expect to receive a $311 fine for failing to wear life jackets.
With the warm weather expected to continue, boaties are reminded to:
- Always wear an approved life jacket, particularly at times of heightened risk such as boating alone or crossing an ocean bar
- check the weather before you go out and remember conditions can change suddenly
- let someone know where you are going, your point of departure and when you plan to return
- ensure safety equipment is maintained, easily accessible and in good order.
