Noosa River anchoring restrictions
Anchoring restrictions were introduced on 15 July 2024 as part of the Noosa River waterway management plan.
Vessels over 5m in length cannot anchor within 60m of the busy southern shore or be grounded on the shoreline between Lake Doonella and the Garth Prowd Bridge.
The focus of MSQ enforcement officers is on those clearly intending to leave their vessels anchored or beached in the area for long periods.
Vessels under 5m in length are allowed to anchor in the area if they anchor safely, comply with pollution regulations and are seaworthy.
Anchoring restrictions clear Noosa River shoreline
Frequently asked questions
What is the role of MSQ regarding the Noosa River vessel management plan reforms?
MSQ, as the state regulator, is responsible for protecting Queensland waterways and the people who use them by improving and responding to maritime safety and marine pollution and providing essential services such as aids to navigation.
Following extensive stakeholder and community consultation, MSQ is delivering the Noosa River Vessel Waterway Management Plan to address river congestion and marine pollution, ensure fair access, and improve waterway safety for all users.
Why has MSQ implemented anchoring restrictions in Noosa River?
To address safety, amenity and environmental issues resulting from vessel congestion in the Noosa River.
What vessels are affected by the Noosa River anchoring restrictions?
Vessels over 5m in length can no longer anchor within a distance of 60m from the shore, or be grounded on the shoreline, from Lake Doonella to the Garth Prowd Bridge.
On a trial basis, vessels 5m or less, including tenders, can anchor within the restricted area to access shops, services or engage in recreational activities, but must comply with all other safety and marine pollution requirements.
Can vessels over 5m access the shore?
Vessels over 5m may access the shoreline to set down and pick up passengers, but are not permitted to anchor or ground. The intent of this is to ensure larger vessels do not negatively impact the shoreline for other river users – particularly for smaller vessels, paddle craft and swimmers. As well as potential pollution issues.
Vessels can still access public and private jetties in these areas.
Will I be fined if I access the shore in a vessel over 5m for a period of time?
MSQ will take a common sense approach to enforcing the new anchoring restrictions, acknowledging that there may be circumstances where discretion may be applied on a case-by-case assessment.
In such cases, MSQ marine officers will assess:
- the location and size of vessel
- how safely the vessel is secured (not causing a danger or unsafe obstruction to other river users)
- how long it has already been there
- the ability and readiness of owners to return.
Can I beach my boat near the boat ramp while I park my car? Will I get a fine?
No. MSQ recognises trailer parking can sometimes be limited. In these circumstances, short-term beaching or anchoring near the boat ramp is acceptable as long as it is done safely and only for the time necessary to undertake the task required.
Can I beach, anchor or ground my boat while I have a swim or picnic? What about attending a shop to get a coffee or takeaway?
Yes, for a short period of time, generally no more than 90 minutes. Inspectors will apply common sense and assess the location and size of your vessel, impact on other river users, activity in the area and time spent.
Can I fish at anchor within the area?
Yes, as long as you are genuinely actively fishing and not causing a safety issue for other waterway users.
Can I to go to a restaurant for an extended period of time?
Enforcement officers will apply common sense, but it will not be acceptable to ground a vessel on the beach or anchor close to shore for an extended period of time. Up to 90 minutes is acceptable.
Enforcement officers will assess the location and size of your vessel, activity in the area and time spent.
Can I rig up my 5m or longer sailing boat or have my larger passive craft, such as a kayak, temporarily on the beach?
Yes, for a short period of time, generally no more than 90 minutes. Inspectors will apply common sense and assess the location and size of your vessel, impact on other river users, activity in the area and time spent.