Kiwi wins bond case over damaged boat

A New Zealand man suing the Gold Coast's Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) does not have to pay a $45,000 bond, a judge has ruled.

Brisbane's Courier-Mail reported Bill Goodhue, of Napier, was suing the VMR for allegedly causing nearly $90,000 to his ocean-going ketch, Warlock, after it keeled over and filled with water when the VMR allegedly moved it from its Gold Coast mooring in November 2003.

The VMR had sought $45,000 to cover legal costs, should Mr Goodhue lose, and wanted it in advance as the Napier man had no formal ties to Australia.

But Mr Goodhue argued in Southport District Court that he lived on his boat part-time in Australia.

"New Zealand's not China, it's just down the road," he told the court.

Judge Clive Wall, QC, agreed, saying he knew many New Zealanders who would describe themselves as "residents of both countries". he said.

"(They) come and go on a regular basis."

Mr Goodhue believes the VMR is trying to intimidate him, and Judge Wall appeared to agree, ruling that to impose a costs order would be "oppressive" and could stifle his legal action.

- NZPA