Finding into death of Brad Anthony Godressi

Contributing factors

• End-stage dilated cardiomyopathy with myocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis
• Recent discharge against medical advice from ICU
• Amphetamine use with known cardiac disease
• Stimulant-induced cardiac arrhythmia potential in context of underlying cardiac pathology
• Disqualification from motor vehicle driving for drug-related activity but continued marine licence validity
• Legislative gap linking motor vehicle and marine licence suspensions/cancellations
• Operation of unregistered vessel with minimal safety equipment
• Recreational activity (boating) undertaken despite severe cardiac impairment

Coroner's recommendations

1. That the Secretary for the Department of Transport and Planning consider amending the current legislative framework so that if a person has been disqualified from driving a motor vehicle for offences relating to drug and alcohol use or on medical grounds, the disqualification should also extend to their Marine Licence. Further, consideration should be given as to whether disqualification of a person's marine licence for drug alcohol offences or medical grounds should be extend to their vehicle licence.