A houseboat that became something of a landmark on a popular river has been removed from the water after more than two decades.
The 12m boat was recognisable thanks to its timber cladding, green tin roof and rooftop deck.
It had sat afloat the Noosa River on a registered mooring since at least the early 2000s, however, its deterioration over recent months sparked safety concerns that it might sink.
A Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) spokesperson told Sunshine Coast News it had been actively monitoring the state of the houseboat since late 2024.
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“Due to the observed deteriorating condition of the vessel, in January 2025 MSQ issued a formal direction requiring the owner to undertake repairs to the vessel or remove it from the water as there was an increasing risk of it sinking in the river,” the spokesperson said.
“After this direction was issued, despite the owner’s attempts to remedy, the houseboat deteriorated further during January 2025, including failure of the vessel’s flotation chambers, resulting in the vessel developing a dangerous list.”
The vessel began sinking and MSQ issued a direction for the vessel to be removed as soon as possible.
“The owner was unable to comply, so to ensure immediate public safety and to protect the Noosa River environment, MSQ intervened and engaged a salvage contractor.
“It is standard practice for MSQ to seek compensation from the owner or their insurers when intervention is required.”
Clayton’s Towing was contracted to remove and demolish the boat on January 31.
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