Overview

• Australian Border Force discovered 140kg of cocaine hidden in marine engines shipped from California to Brisbane in October 2024.
• Authorities replaced the cocaine with an inert substance and tracked the shipment to properties in Mount Nathan and Wongawallan in November 2024.
• Rhys Alwyn Ferszt allegedly attempted to retrieve the concealed blocks at the Wongawallan property but left without them.
• Search warrants led to the seizure of marine engines, a hired forklift, and other items from multiple properties connected to Ferszt.
• Ferszt appeared in Southport Magistrates Court on April 29, 2025, charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of cocaine, with further investigations ongoing.