A Perth diver sustained a serious head injury after being struck by a boat while surfacing near Rottnest Island on Saturday afternoon. Damien McAteer, an experienced diver, was emerging from the water when the vessel passed too close, leaving him with a deep gash that required stitches.
According to McAteer and a report from ABC News, the boat ignored standard diving safety protocols, failing to maintain a safe distance from his dive flag, which was clearly visible. Australian maritime regulations require boats to stay at least 50 meters away from dive flags to prevent such accidents.
Despite the injury, McAteer was able to return to shore and seek medical attention. He is now calling for increased awareness and enforcement of boating safety laws to better protect divers and other water users.
Authorities have not confirmed whether any action will be taken against the boat operator, but the incident highlights the ongoing need for caution in popular diving areas.
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