Police probe boat fire

Police are investigating a fire which destroyed a boat in Geraldton last night.

The 3.7 metre aluminium boat and 15 horsepower outboard motor were on a trailer, parked in a driveway in McAleer Drive, Mahomets Flats, when they were engulfed in flames.

The boat’s owner and his housemate, Andrew Trant, tried to put the fire out using a garden hose.

“We had to wait about 30 minutes for police and fire crews to arrive,” Mr Trant said.

“By that point it was really on fire.”

Fire crews arrived at the scene about 6.40pm and put out the blaze soon after.

Mr Trant estimated the boat to be worth about $5000 and said about $1000 worth of camping gear was also destroyed.

The fire caused minor damage to a brick and tile house on the property.

Mr Trant said the men were involved in a dispute with another man earlier, before the fire broke out.

It is not known if the two incidents are linked.

Police are investigating.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Geraldton Police on 9923 4555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00.