A renowned artist who lives and paints aboard his sailboats on the Noosa River says new Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) rules will have a devastating impact on his livelihood.
Under the new regulations, vessels longer than five metres are limited to anchoring in the Noosa River and its connected waterways for no more than 28 days per financial year.
The Noosa River Management Plan is intended to keep the river safer, cleaner and more sustainable, ensuring it remains “a defining part of Noosa’s appeal for years to come”, a Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) spokesperson said.
Abstract artist Kurt Black moved to Noosa in 2000, where he has lived and worked on boats on the river for the past five years.
Mr Black owns three vessels – one he lives on, one he uses as an art studio and another for storing completed works.
“It’s been a base – a beautiful base – and an inspiring base as well,” he said.
“The beauty of nature here is inspiring. There’s something about it that’s good energy for me. It’s nice to be by the water.”
Mr Black has exhibited at the Noosa Art Gallery, and his work is now represented by Wentworth Galleries in Brisbane and Sydney, with collectors purchasing his abstract pieces across Australia and overseas.
“I just do what I love to do. That’s all I care about,” he said.
The MSQ crackdown has left him uncertain about his future.
“Things were looking up, but this has turned that around a bit,” he said.
“I’m in a dilemma about it because I don’t have anywhere else to go. I just don’t know where to go from here. I think I’ll have to sell two boats and try to sail one somewhere else.”
Related story: Houseboat owner sells vessel for $1 under new river rules
Financial loss is a major concern, with Mr Black saying the rules have devalued boats used as homes and studios.
“The loss of value is definitely a huge concern, because it limits your next step – your next move,” he said.
“They’ve devalued yachts and boats and houseboats. It’s been a devaluing process.”
Mr Black said the situation had taken a significant emotional toll.
“I’m very stressed. I’m just in shock,” he said.
“It’s a waterway – it should be open. It should be free. It’s part of the ocean. It’s more and more control by the authorities.”
He believes the changes will have broader consequences for the river community.
“They’re creating more homelessness and more pain for people,” he said.
“The rent is crazy on land. Not everyone’s pockets are silver-lined. It’s a very sad situation.”
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The Noosa River Management Plan was introduced in 2023 following extensive community consultation since 2021.
“Maritime Safety Queensland has been rolling out the plan in stages since September 2023, with each stage announced to the community and boat owners ahead of time,” a TMR spokesperson said.
“New 28-day anchoring limits came into effect on January 1, 2026 to ensure the river remains safe and open for everyone, rather than being used for long-term vessel storage.
“Anyone experiencing genuine hardship is encouraged to contact Maritime Safety Queensland to discuss options for meeting the new requirements.”
