WorkSafe WA is making initial enquiries into a Quindalup hotel after a family was washed 14km out to sea on rented kayak and inflatable paddleboards. The Appelbee family, holidaying 200km south of Perth, faced strong winds that pushed them far offshore on Friday. Joanne Appelbee sent her 13-year-old son Austin to swim four hours through rough waters to raise the alarm. Austin reached shore safely and alerted emergency services. At about 8.30pm, rescuers found Joanne, her 12-year-old son Beau, and 8-year-old daughter Grace drifting and clinging to a paddleboard offshore. WorkSafe WA stated they are aware of the incident but have not been formally notified. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (Amsa) is also investigating. Club Wyndham Resort, where the family stayed, denies any fault. The resort said guests use equipment freely and that the beach is unpatrolled and out of view. The resort is conducting a safety review to reduce future risks. Experts warn calm ocean conditions can be deceptive. Professor Rob Brander of UNSW explained that strong offshore winds flatten the sea surface and create a drift pulling people away from shore. Surf Life Saving WA’s Chris Peck highlighted that hazards exist even without waves or rips. He urged visitors to heed safety flags and choose patrolled beaches. Inflatable watercraft, often treated like pool toys, can be dangerous at sea. "It’s like putting up a sail," said Brander. Wind catches the inflatables, dragging users offshore. Peck added the ocean’s dynamic nature makes it risky despite sunny, calm appearances. Both experts recommend thinking about safety, preparing for emergencies, and understanding differences between pool and ocean use of inflatables.