Sunshine Coast Water Police have issued a stern warning to the boating community to expect police anywhere, anytime on the waterways during the King’s Birthday long weekend.
Increased boating traffic is expected in the Mooloolah, Maroochy and Noosa River systems from Friday 2 October to Monday 5 October, and officers will be conducting high visibility enforcement actions to ensure everyone celebrates the long weekend safely.
Police will be targeting drink and drug driving, safety equipment compliance, licensing and boat registrations, as well as other criminal offending.
Officer in Charge of Sunshine Coast Water Police Sergeant Murray Lyons said officers will be monitoring recreational and commercial vessels operating across the district.
“The weather forecast is promising favourable boating conditions over the long weekend, and we are expecting higher volumes of vessel and recreational watercraft activity across Sunshine Coast waterways,” he said.
“We want residents and visitors to be able to enjoy themselves in a safe manner. Do not operate any vessel if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drive to the current conditions, and ensure your boat meets marine safety requirements.”
5 to 11 October is also National Safe Boating Week, with this year’s focus on the importance of lifejackets.
“It’s crucial to ensure everyone on board a vessel has the right life jacket, knows where it is and wears it when they need to,” Sergeant Lyons said.
“Conditions out on the water can change quickly and if you end up in the water, a lifejacket will help keep you afloat until help arrives.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
