Burrows v Thurlow (The Merlion) [2024] FCA 220, Federal Court of Australia (Justice Sarah C Derrington) - 13 March 2024

Admiralty - Jurisdiction - Striking out - Claims alleging that vessel handed to purchaser remained seller's property - Breach of trust - Knowing assistance - Conversion - Scope of action in rem - Whether claims related to ownership or possession of vessel

Pacific Motor Yachts (PMY) was in the business in arranging for the construction and sale of motor yachts. On 30 March 2022 MrBurrows entered into a contract for PMY to build a yacht for him. Merlion was duly constructed and delivered to Mr Burrows on 14or 15 December 2022. Merlion was registered in Western Australia.