Townsville water police issue warning ahead of busy long weekend

With Townsville’s waterways set to come alive this long weekend, police are urging locals to make safety their top priority to avoid any tragedies on the water. Here are the top tips you need to remember.

Officer in Charge of Townsville Water Police, Sergeant Matthew Pegg on the Brett Irwin MV. Picture: Evan Morgan

With Townsville’s waterways set to come alive this long weekend, police are urging locals to make safety their top priority to avoid any tragedies on the water.

Townsville Water Police Officer in Charge, Sergeant Matthew Pegg, has called on boaties and beachgoers alike to take extra precautions to ensure the weekend is both enjoyable and, most importantly, fatality-free.

“We’re urging everyone to ultimately enjoy the weekend, but do it safely,” Sgt Pegg said.

“We want people going out on the water to come back home safe to their families.”

Sgt Pegg emphasised the importance of preparation, especially with the unpredictable nature of tropical weather.

“A change in weather can happen in the blink of an eye, and that can make the difference between a fun day on the water and a life-threatening emergency,” he warned.

Water police are urging skippers to check the weather forecast before heading out, ensure their vessels are properly equipped with safety gear, and log on and off with local volunteer Marine Rescue groups.

Another essential is an emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), but Sgt Pegg said many boaties neglect to ensure the devices are working properly.

“We’re finding a lot of EPIRBs that people are testing, and they’re actually failing. So check your EPIRB is functioning by using the test button before you head offshore,” he said.

Alcohol and drugs remain a significant concern for water police, with Sgt Pegg issuing a stark reminder of their dangers.

“Alcohol consumption is just an absolute no-no when you’re on a vessel,” he said.

“Also, drug use — it really impairs your judgment and decision-making to operate the boat safely, and that is a big issue that will ultimately cost lives and kill people on the water.”

In 2024 alone, nine skippers in the Northern Region were caught operating vessels over the legal alcohol limit.

It’s not just boaties at risk — swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders are being reminded to stay within their capabilities.

“Don’t go outside your limitations,” Sgt Pegg said. “Don’t think you can paddle your kayak or ski extended distances if you’re not trained or using a suitable craft.”

Originally published as Townsville water police issue warning ahead of busy long weekend