Police urge skippers to take care on water during busy summer

Police and maritime safety officers will patrol Moreton Bay waters on the lookout for drunk, speeding and careless skippers during the busy new year holiday period.

Redland Bay Water Police Sergeant Mitchell Gray and Senior Constable Justin Dunn patrol Moreton Bay. Picture: Renae Droop.

Authorities have issued a stern warning for boaties to stay safe during new year celebrations as 2019 closes out with a spike in fatalities on the water.

There have been 18 maritime deaths in Queensland during the year – triple the number recorded in 2018.

Maritime Safety Queensland will be out of the water this summer, enforcing the rules and educating people about boating safety.

A newly formed Marine Enforcement Team will spearhead the safety push, supported by Queensland Water Police and Boating and Fisheries officers.

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Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the summer boating season promised to be busier than ever.

“With a long, hot summer approaching, Queensland’s world-class waterways will be irresistible,” he said.

“We will see boaties flocking to the coast to celebrate the season and use the huge amount of new boating infrastructure.

“Take your time when boating, it is about the journey as much as the destination.

“Check you’re carrying required safety equipment and that it’s up-to-date and properly serviced.

“Ensure there’s a lifejacket on board for everyone, and they all know where they are and how to use them.”

Police will be monitoring the waterways during the busy summer period.

Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Angus Mitchell said skippers needed to keep focused on their responsibility to their crews and to others on the water.

“Put simply they should remember the three Ps – plan and prepare, then proceed,” Mr Mitchell said.

“Keep a proper lookout and observe speed limits.

“If you are going any distance off shore, check whether you are required to carry an EPIRB and make sure it’s properly registered with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

“And always let someone such as your local volunteer rescue group know when you’re leaving, your destination and when you’re due back.

“Check the weather before you leave and keep checking while you’re on the water.”

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Mr Mitchell said boaties should also be mindful that children were likely to be on board at this time of the year.

“They are more adventurous and less aware of risks than adults and this adds to boaties’ responsibilities,” he said.

Water Police Sergeant Matthew Pegg urges boaties to ensure they have the correct safety equipment and know how to use it. Picture: Evan Morgan

Mr Bailey said Maritime Safety Queensland marine inspectors, Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrols and Queensland Water Police would be on patrol.

“They’ll be on the lookout for boaties and jet ski riders who exceed the .05 alcohol limit, speed in six-knot zones or fail to keep their distance from swimmers and paddlers,” he said.

“So always keep in mind, you’re the skipper – you’re responsible.”