Changes for boating on Noosa River
We have introduced a Noosa River waterway management plan, a 6 stage approach, to make the river safer for all.
Developed following community feedback, the Noosa River plan will:
- ease river congestion and improve safety
- ensure fair access to the waterways
- improve environmental impacts from vessel activity.
The Noosa River waterway plan 6 stage approach
Stage 1: September 2023
- A 6 knots speed limits area was introduced:
- within 60m of the southern shore of Noosa River from the entrance to Lake Doonella to Noosa Sound
- across Noosa Sound and up to Woods Bay
- the “dog beach” area, south of the river entrance.
Stage 2: from April 2024
- Maritime Safety Queensland issuing "notices to comply" to vessels that are not seaworthy or not following marine safety and pollution standards.
Stage 3: from May 2024
- Vessels assessed as derelict or abandoned required to be removed from the Noosa River.
Stage 4: from July 2024
- No anchoring zone for Noosa River. This will apply to:
- within 60m of the southern shore of Noosa River from the entrance to Lake Doonella to Noosa Sound
- across Noosa Sound and up to Woods Bay
- the “dog beach” area, south of the river entrance.
Stage 5: after October 2024
- Unoccupied vessels over 5 metres long will not be able to anchor in all waters from the southern entrance of Lake Cooroibah downstream to the river entrance.
Stage 6: after March 2025
- 28-day anchoring restrictions will apply to all vessels in Noosa waterways (excluding vessels on approved moorings).