Many boats have been taken off a popular waterway under new anchoring restrictions, as authorities warn of “enforcement activity” for non-compliant owners.
More than 70 vessels have been removed from the Noosa River as a result of new rules introduced in January.
Boats over 5m are not permitted to be anchored in river and adjoining waters for more than 28 days per financial year.
The changes aim to improve navigational safety, environmental protection and fair access to waterways for all users.
Maritime Safety Queensland issued a statement iterating that it currently focused on supporting voluntary compliance however, if required, compliance and enforcement activity would be introduced.
MSQ general manager Kell Dillon said while cooperation from many vessel owners was encouraging, there were still a number that had not complied.
“It’s great to see the Noosa boating community cooperating with Maritime Safety Queensland to improve the safety and amenity of the Noosa River,” he said.
“While Maritime Safety Queensland is conscious these changes can take time for some owners to achieve compliance, the new rules were introduced in January after significant stakeholder and community consultation, and with a great deal of prior notice.
“MSQ will undertake formal compliance and enforcement activity in the near future for vessel owners that have not yet complied without a valid reason.”
More information on the anchoring restrictions for the Noosa River and adjacent waterways can be found here.
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