By Abbey Cannan
A regular kayaker on the Noosa River was disturbed to see the lack of action on marine dangers behind Goat Island caused by ‘derelict houseboats’ on Monday.
James Nathan said a houseboat was partially submerged and another kept afloat by poorly attached 44 gallon drums.
“These drums have over the last 10 days broken away from the houseboat. I have observed eight floating in the mangroves,” James said.
“Today two are visible, one only just. These, particularly the partially submerged drum present an extreme danger to anyone using a boat or jet ski in the river.
“I have sailed around the world and have seen at first hand the damage these things can do.”
James said he reported the issue to Queensland Marine Safety Tewantin.
“I was told their hands are tied but they have spoken to the person who owns the houseboat,” he said.
“I have also spoken to the Coast Guard and they say if the drums are in the mangroves it is Noosa Councils responsibility.
“Someone needs to take responsibility otherwise an accident awaits.”
A Noosa Council spokesman said their environmental team have discussed the issue with Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) who say they are aware of these barrels and vessels and are being actioned.
The barrels are an issue for MSQ while they are causing a hazard to navigation and the environmental side of it was referred to the Department of Environment and Science (DES) for consideration.
Submit an online customer service request to alert Noosa Council of issues in the community at noosa.qld.gov.au/about-council/contact-council
