PHOTO: Sea World operators Village Roadshow Theme Parks will contest the ‘excessive’ claim. SEA WORLD, GOLD COAST – AUSTRALIA
A Gold Coast photographer is suing Sea World’s operators for nearly $1 million after a shocking workplace accident left her injured, out of work, and battling long-term pain.
The Incident at Sea World’s Dolphin Pool
Photographer Therese Anne Kerrins, 50, was capturing images of families swimming with dolphins at Sea World in February 2023 when the accident happened.
According to court documents, Kerrins was assigned to the park’s Family Dolphin Program — but in a less familiar back pool area — when she lost her footing on a rocky bank and fell.
The fall reportedly caused multiple injuries, including severe leg and shoulder trauma, and led to an ongoing struggle with major depressive disorder, the lawsuit claims.
“As she was taking photographs, she lost her footing and fell. Her leg struck rocks several times before she landed on her shoulder,” the filing stated.
The Sea World photographer claims she was injured while working in February 2023
Injuries and Ongoing Impact
The court documents describe a harrowing aftermath.
Kerrins’ left foot became trapped between rocks, forcing her to pull it free — causing abrasions, swelling, and bleeding.
Medical assessments later identified:
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Complex regional pain syndrome (left ankle)
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Musculoskeletal pain (left shoulder)
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Aggravation of a pre-existing eating disorder
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Major depressive disorder
Nearly three years later, Kerrins reportedly continues to experience pain, loss of enjoyment of life, and reduced earning capacity.
Sea World photographer Therese Anne Kerrins has launched a lawsuit against Village Roadshow Theme Parks over injuries suffered in 2023
The $959,000 Claim
Kerrins’ total damages claim amounts to $959,488.23, covering medical expenses, income loss, and emotional distress.
Her lawyers allege that Sea World and its parent company Village Roadshow Theme Parks failed to ensure a safe work environment, forcing her into a dangerous position to capture “acceptable” photographs.
However, Village Roadshow has vigorously denied liability, describing the figure as “excessive and inconsistent with evidence.”
Sea World’s Defence: ‘She Should Have Worked From Safer Ground’
In its formal response, Village Roadshow argued that Kerrins:
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Could have taken photos from flat, level ground or a sandbank
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Should have asked trainers to reposition dolphins or guests if visibility was poor
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Was not required to climb onto the rocks at all
The defence also suggested her fall might have been caused by a “syncopal event” — a temporary loss of consciousness — rather than workplace hazards.
“No other photographer has ever taken photos from the rocky bank,” the company stated. “It was unnecessary and unsafe to do so.”
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Ongoing Legal Battle
The company conceded that Kerrins experienced some pain and suffering but maintains that her claim is disproportionate.
The case has been filed in the Queensland District Court, with hearings expected later this year.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Village Roadshow Theme Parks for comment.
At a Glance
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📍 Where: Sea World, Gold Coast
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📅 When: February 2023
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👩💼 Who: Photographer Therese Anne Kerrins, 50
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💰 Claim: $959,488.23 in damages
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⚖️ Defendant: Village Roadshow Theme Parks
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🚨 Key Allegation: Unsafe work conditions
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🗣️ Defence: “Excessive claim” and “self-caused injuries”
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- SOURCE: THE DAILY MAIL