Sydney: Five people were killed and nine injured when two boats collided in Sydney Harbour, it was reported today.

The victims were part of a crew of 14 on a small half cabin cruiser work boat, while the other ship was believed to be a fishing boat, Australian Associated Press (AAP) reported Nine Network as saying.

The accident, which took place at about 2:45 am local time, caused a massive hole in the back of one of the vessels, AAP reported local Radio 2GB as saying.

Acting Inspector Tony Bear, who was one of the first on the scene, was quoted by AAP as saying: "It would appear all the victims have come from the one vessel."

The injured, men and women aged between 18 and 25, included a man who is critical and four who are serious, while four are stable, according to AAP. A number have broken limbs, it said.

John Wilson, from Ambulance Services NSW, said five of the injured were able to walk, according to AAP.

"We got a call about an accident between two boats just off Goat Island and the situation at the moment is that we have five deceased persons," he was quoted as telling reporters at the scene.

"We've transported nine to Royal North Shore Hospital.

Bear was also quoted as saying that a number of passers-by helped in a rescue before emergency service arrived.

Sydney Water Police have launched an investigation, AAP said.

Source : PTI