Finding into death of Leonie Maree Hanson

40y · Female·Drowning

Leonie Hanson, an experienced diving instructor, drowned at Mornington Pier while attempting to rescue a student, Logan Saminathan, who surfaced unconscious during an open water training dive. The student likely panicked underwater in severe conditions (40 km/h winds, 2-metre waves, 12°C water), possibly after removing his mask. Hanson became exhausted attempting rescue and failed to activate standard emergency procedures (ditching weights, inflating her buoyancy device, using her regulator). Key clinical lessons: risk assessment for diving operations must account for worst-case scenarios and inexperienced divers' vulnerability to panic in cold water and adverse conditions. Emergency response plans should include specific procedures for extracting unconscious divers. Hanson's failure to implement safety procedures despite training suggests acute stress-induced inaction. The absence of a comprehensive emergency plan for the site and inadequate assessment of prevailing hazards contributed to this tragedy.