Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) will introduce restrictions on anchoring in downstream areas of the Noosa River for vessels over 5 metres in length, as the next stages of the Noosa River Management Plan.
The restrictions will extend those already implemented for the busy southern shore of the river to now include Woods Bay and Dog Beach areas (from 24 February) and Little Woods Bay (from 24 March).
Exemptions for vessels between 5 and 7.5 metres will apply on a trial basis.
These exemptions allow vessels between 5 metres and 7.5 metres to anchor for up to two hours per day to access shops, services or engage in recreational activities, provided they do so safely.
People are reminded that living on board vessels (temporarily, intermittently or permanently) downstream of Munna Point is prohibited.
The changes mark the next phase in MSQ’s roll-out of its Noosa River Management Plan to improve safety and environmental outcomes on the river.
Based on “lessons learnt” and community feedback to date, MSQ has extended the timeline for the roll out of the plan to be completed by September/ October 2025, to ensure appropriate engagement during the roll-out.
In accordance with MSQ’s implementation of a staged Noosa River Management Plan, further restrictions on anchoring on the Noosa River north shore and 28-day anchoring restrictions will be subject to announcements in April.
MSQ remains fully committed to implementing these improvements to the management of the Noosa River to facilitate safety, access and amenity of the river for the enjoyment of the community.
More information on the restrictions and how they will apply can be found on MSQ’s website.
