Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is seeking public feedback on a proposal to reduce speed limits on the Noosa River’s busy downstream reaches.
Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon said a permanent, six-knot zone limit was proposed from Thomas Street to the mouth of the river.
“The river is extremely popular with families, non-motorised craft, speed boats, jet skis and moored craft, and this plan is to make the Noosa River safer for all who use it,” Mr Dillon said.
“We are acting on community concerns current speed limits are not safe for all users and are difficult to enforce.
“There have been complaints over near-misses and fears for the safety of swimmers and children close to speeding craft.
“In past years, a temporary, six-knot speed limit has been set during peak holiday times from Weyba Creek to the river mouth which improved safety.
“The new proposal will make this permanent and extend the six-knot zone upstream to the Thomas Street boat ramp.
“However no final decisions will be made until the broader community has had its say and I encourage those who have a view to get involved.”
Speeding is one of the boating’s fatal five which includes failing to keeping a proper lookout, not carrying proper safety equipment, drink and drugs and poor trip planning.
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart welcomed MSQ’s focus on improving safety for Noosa River users.
“The work MSQ is doing will ensure the river is safe for everyone to enjoy, and that our community is consulted on the improvements put in place,” Cr Stewart said.
“It’s also great to see the Noosa River Stakeholder Advisory Committee’s input is continuing to inform MSQ’s management of the river.”
Noosa River Stakeholder Advisory Committee (NRSAC) chairman Nick Hluszko said there was a clear need for reducing speed in the location.
“Increased compliance checking by MSQ and Queensland Water Police over the 2021-22 seasonal holiday peak confirms that the majority of offences are speed related,” Cr Hluszko said.
“The NRSAC believes that if adopted, these speed reductions will markedly reduce the risk of serious injury to river users as well as make a direct contribution to a positive river experience by all.”
Mr Dillon said consultation would run for 30 days until 16 March 2022.
Maritime Safety Queensland has written to key stakeholders seeking feedback on the proposal, while interested people
can email MSQNoosa@tmr.qld.gov.au
MSQ has also completed consultation on speed limits on Pumicestone Passage’s northern reaches.
The proposal to establish a 20-knot zone extending from Military Jetty to Minchinton Street, Caloundra and a six-knot zone in the lower reach of Bells Creek is now under review.
