Rec Boating Fishing Guide 2016 17

2016-2017 Edition
Queensland
Recreational
Boating & Fishing
Guide
www.gbrmpa.gov.au
2016-002
Contents Water sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Water skiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Key contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Water skiing safety tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Fisheries Queensland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Sail boats and sail boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Maritime Safety Queensland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Rowing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Queensland Water Police. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Canoes, kayaks and surf skis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
National parks, marine parks, fish habitat areas Kitesurfing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
and wildlife. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Boating offshore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Bar crossings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Boating in Queensland Bar crossing rules (under 4.8m). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Changes to the marine safety laws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Bar crossings can be dangerous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
General safety obligation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Boating on freshwater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Australian Builders Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Carbon monoxide hazard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Registering a boat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Pollution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Marine driver licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Fuels, oils and chemicals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
BoatSafe How to obtain a licence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Sewage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Alcohol and drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Marine Parks in Queensland
Marine incidents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Marine Parks Zoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Speed limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Zoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Safety equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Know your zones in Moreton Bay Marine Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Life jackets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Great Sandy Marine Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Life jacket checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Fishing in Queensland
Distress flares. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Recreational fishing rules for Queensland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
EPIRBs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Recreational fishing in Queensland waters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Fire fighting equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Size and possession limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Navigation equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Measuring fish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Other equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Catch and release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Marine radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Licences and certificates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Miscellaneous prohibitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Mobile phones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Fishing ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Coastal distress marine radio network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Fresh waters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Safety equipment for recreational boats and No take species. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
personal watercraft. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Freshwater fishing gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Water limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Bait. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Safe operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Freshwater closed seasons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Navigating checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Freshwater closed waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
How to avoid marine incidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS). . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Collision rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Noxious fish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Channels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Non-indigenous fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Giving way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Tidal waters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Overtaking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 No take species. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Sailing boats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Tidal fishing gear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Sound signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Spearfishing, spear guns and underwater breathing
Navigation lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 apparatus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Minimum required lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Skin and fillet removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
IALA buoyage system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Tidal waters closed seasons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Ship navigation area tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Tidal waters closed waters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Navigating with a Global Positioning System (GPS) . . . . . 45 Crabbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Boating weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Marine plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Extreme weather events and cyclones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Size and possession limits - Tidal waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Personal watercraft. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Size and possession limits - Fresh waters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Personal watercraft registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Pre-trip item checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
This handbook should only be used as a guide, and the legislation is determinant. You should review
the law if you have any doubts. The information in this edition is current at the time of printing.
1
Key contacts
Published by: Fisheries Queensland
Customer Service Centre.............................13 25 23
Email: callweb@daf.qld.gov.au
Website: www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Formerly Inflight Publishing Pty. Ltd.

Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol
Publisher: Patrick McElligott Report suspected illegal fishing to the
Fishwatch Hotline: 1800 017 116
PO Box 670, Stones Corner, QLD 4120 Shark Safety Hotline: 1800 806 891
Telephone: (07) 3891 7793 Whale Hotline: 1800 806 891
Facsimile: (07) 3891 7702
Warwick
Email: patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au
604 Yangan Road, Warwick
www.ttmediagroup.com.au (07) 4660 3666 or 13 25 23
Gold Coast
40-44 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
(07) 5635 6900 or 13 25 23
Redland Bay
26-40 Delancey Street, Cleveland
(07) 3825 0445 or 13 25 23
Brisbane (Pinkenba)
Marine Operations Base, McArthur Avenue East,
Pinkenba
(07) 3330 4210 or 13 25 23
Mooloolaba
18-20 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
Editorial Coordination: (07) 5444 4599 or 13 25 23
Fisheries Queensland Noosa
GPO Box 46, Brisbane 4001 2 Russell Street, Noosaville
Customer Service Centre phone: 13 25 23 (07) 5449 7555 or 13 25 23
Email: callweb@daf.qld.gov.au Kingaroy
Website: www.fisheries.qld.gov.au 214 Goodger Road, Kingaroy
(07) 4160 0700 or 13 25 23
Hervey Bay (services Gladstone)
Buccaneer Avenue, Urangan
(07) 4125 3989 or 13 25 23
The State of Queensland (Department of Bundaberg
Agriculture and Fisheries) 2016 Enterprise Street, Bundaberg
(07) 4131 2365 or 13 25 23
http://creativecommons.org/licences/by/2.5/au
You are free to copy, communicate and adapt the Yeppoon
work, as long as you attribute the authors. John Howes Drive, Rosslyn Bay
(07) 4933 6404 or 13 25 23
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) advises
Mackay
that the summarised information in this guide should not be relied 30 Tennyson Street, Mackay
on as a complete or accurate representation of the legislative (07) 4967 0724 or 13 25 23
requirements. Users may access copies of the Fisheries Act 1994
Airlie Beach
and other fisheries legislation via the internet at www.legislation.qld.
Combined Marine Operations Base,
gov.au and should seek their own legal advice. DAF disclaims all
Shingley Drive, Airlie Beach
liability for all claims, loss, damages, cost or expense of whatever
nature, howsoever occurring as a result of reliance upon the
(07) 4946 7003 or 13 25 23
information contained in this guide. Townsville
9-15 Langton Street, Garbut
(07) 3330 4536 or 13 25 23
2
Ingham Karumba*
7 Haig Street, Ingham Lot 75, Yappar Street, Karumba 4891
(07) 4776 1611 or 13 25 23 (07) 4745 9281 A/H 1300 551 899
Cairns Thursday Island*
38-40 Tingira Street, Portsmith, Cairns Hastings Street, Thursday Island 4875
(07) 4035 0700 or 13 25 23 (07) 4069 1351 A/H 1300 551 899
Port Douglas #
Office is closed on Mondays
9 Ashford Avenue, Port Douglas
(07) 4099 5160 or 13 25 23 * Telephone enquiries only.
Karumba
8 Palmer Street, The Point, Karumba Queensland Water Police
(07) 4745 9142 or 13 25 23 Gold Coast................................................. (07) 5509 5700
Weipa Brisbane..................................................... (07) 3895 0333
Kerr Point, Evans landing, Weipa Redland Bay..............................................(07) 3829 4129
(07) 4069 8114 or 13 25 23 Sunshine Coast....................................... (07) 5457 6711
Maritime Safety Queensland Hervey Bay..................................................(07) 4125 3900
Gold Coast Gladstone.................................................... (07) 4971 3222
4044 Sea World Drive, Main Beach 4217 Yeppoon...................................................... (07) 4933 7990
(07) 5585 1810 A/H (07) 5539 7373 Whitsunday............................................... (07) 4967 7222
Brisbane Townsville.................................................... (07) 4759 9777
MacArthur Avenue East, Pinkenba 4008 Cairns............................................................ (07) 4057 3577
(07) 3632 7500 A/H (07) 3305 1700
Thursday Island...................................... (07) 4069 1520
Sunshine Coast#
Parkyn Parade (Old Pilot Station), The Water Police are responsible for crime
Mooloolaba 4557
(07) 5373 2310 A/H (07) 3305 1700 prevention on the water and facilitate search
and rescue activities in conjunction with the
Gladstone Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Level 7, 21 Yarroon Street, Gladstone 4680
(07) 4971 5200 A/H (07) 4971 5200 Please note: All noise complaints must be directed to
your local government.
Bundaberg
Floor 2, 46 Quay Street, Bundaberg 4670 For marine emergencies including search and rescue
(07) 4132 6600 A/H (07) 4971 5200 telephone 000.
Hervey Bay
Buccaneer Avenue, Hervey Bay 4655 National parks, marine parks, fish
(07) 4194 9600 A/H (07) 4971 5200
habitat areas and wildlife
Mackay Ph. 13 QGOV (13 74 68)
Floor 3, 44 Nelson Street, Mackay 4740 www.npsr.qld.gov.au
(07) 4944 3700 A/H (07) 4956 3489
Report marine strandings on
Airlie Beach 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).
384 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach 4802
(07) 4841 4500 A/H (07) 4956 3489
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Townsville
60 Ross Street, South Townsville 4810 Authority
(07) 4421 8100 A/H 1300 721 263 Townsville head office
Cairns 268 Flinders Street, Townsville 4810
100106 Tingira Street, Portsmith 4870 (07) 4750 0700
(07) 4052 7400 A/H 1300 551 899
www.gbrmpa.gov.au
Weipa*
1 Iraci Avenue, Weipa 4874 Report marine park offences:
(07) 4069 7165 A/H 1300 551 899 1800 341 211 (24 hr)
3
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Changes to the marine Check that your boat is in good condition
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board, in good condition and easily
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rules. Recreational ships will continue to operate
as they currently do, with only a few changes Have the right marine licence and know how
affecting vessel owners and operators. to handle the boat
Know how to use your marine radio
General changes for Queensland regulated
Check the weather before you go out
ships
Know the rules of the sea-road and follow them
In line with national changes, the Australian
Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) EPIRB Lifejacket wear it! If its not on it cant save
registration label will no longer need to be you.
attached to the EPIRB. The EPIRB will still
need to be registered with AMSA. Australian Builders Plate
A Ride Smart sticker will no longer need to be The Australian
displayed on a personal watercraft (PWC). Builders Plate
(ABP) is required for
A Capacity Label will no longer be required to
new and imported
be displayed on a PWC or a Ship.
recreational boats
Personal flotation devices (PFDs) will now built from 1 July
be referred to as Lifejackets for national 2006.
consistency.
The Australian
The registration application form will change Builders Plate (ABP) is
to include the registration of both recreational required for new and
ships and other Queensland regulated ships imported recreational
with the application process only differing for boats built from 1 July
prescribed other Queensland regulated ships. 2006.
You can now check the registration status of a It provides essential
ship, the ships purpose of use and other safety information
details such as the description of the ship about a vessels
online. operational capability in a standard format.
Vessel owners who are upsizing motors on
General rules and recreational boats and/or altering the
requirements performance by design may not be meeting their

general safety obligation if the engine power is
General safety obligation greater than the manufacturers
The Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Act recommendation on the ABP.
1994 imposes a safety obligation on all vessel Dont go overboard!
owners and operators (skippers and PWC riders) Overloading your boat is one of the easiest ways
to operate vessels safely at all times. to capsize it and compromises the safety of
everyone on board. By allowing more people on
Youre responsible for making sure the vessel board a boat than its maximum capacity, the risk
is safe, properly equipped and maintained of capsizing significantly increases.
and operated in a safe manner. Placing an ABP or capacity label adjacent to a
This includes loading within the vessel limits, boats steering position means skippers are
people, cargo and stores, and making sure constantly reminded of their boats
the vessel is adequate for the waters you recommended loading capacity in good
intend to use it. conditions (fair weather conditions in smooth
waters).
8
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The onus of safety rests with the skipper at all A second hand boat
times. When using the boat in exposed waters or Because the boat is older and may have been
in rough conditions, the skipper should consider modified by previous owners, be sure to check
reducing the number of persons taken on the that:
trip.
All skippers must comply with the ABP. it can safely go where you want to go, take who
Responsible skippers check the maximum you want to take and do what you want to do.
number of people and weight load of a boat, as Lifejackets meet the current standard
well as the maximum engine weight and power. Flares or EPIRB are in date;
Know how to safely load your boat by:
If tiller steered, a safety lanyard is attached to
storing heavy items low and central in a place the cut-off switch for the motor.
where they cannot move around
Buy with confidence. Consider getting a person
distributing the weight, including passengers,
with marine experience like a boat surveyor or
evenly around the boat
builder to inspect the boat and give you a non-
compensating for the weight of extra fuel. biased report.
You and your boat For more information about choosing the
safe boat (old or new) visit
A new boat
www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating.
All new boats must have an Australian Builders
Plate affixed. If not check with the dealer before
Boat owner responsibility
purchasing.
Boat owners are responsible for their boat from
If safety equipment has been supplied, double purchase to disposal. As a boat owner you are
check the safety equipment table (page 22) to
responsible for ensuring your vessel remains
ensure you have all the required equipment.
Lifejackets are vital items consider if you need seaworthy, is not a hazard to navigation, and is not
to upgrade to better quality or inflatable lifejackets a marine pollution risk. Dont allow your vessel to
which can be worn with comfort all of the time. become derelict.
If the boat is fitted with an under floor fuel tank,
Insurance for vessels over 15 m
ensure a water trap fuel filter has been fitted.
It will help ensure that fuel does not become Legislation requires all ships over 15 metres
contaminated resulting in engine problems while (for example 15.01 metres) in length to have
out boating. insurance sufficient to pay for potential pollution
clean-up, salvage and wreck removal.
Registering a boat
All boats fitted with a motor or auxiliary of 3kW
or more require registration when on the water in
Queensland.
Registration forms must be lodged with a
THEDepartment
LURE SHOP 15and Main
of Transport VHP [NEW]
Roads
customer service centre. Fees are calculated
CATEGORY:
according to the boat length (exemptions and
FISHING
concessions do apply in some cases).
Local advice, charter bookings

Bait, ice, tackle & boating supplies VHF and UHF radios and acc.
Marine and land electronics Batteries boat, 4WD, deep cycle
Chandlery and trailer parts Spearshing and snorkelling
First Aid supplies Firearm and ammo dealer
Pigging and archery supplies Ice boxes, tarps, swags, etc
Local
Phone: 4069 5396 Fax: 4069 6677 advice, charter
Mobile: 0427 bookings
623 398
Email: sh@thelureshop.net.au Web: www.thelureshop.net.au www.facebook.com/thelureshop
Bait, ice, tackle & boating supplies
10 VHF and UHF radios and acc.
Marine and land electronics
Vessels not capable of planing, (for example

canoes with motors, yachts) must have symbols
a minimum of 75mm high on both sides or on
the stern.
When a registered boat is sold it is the responsibility
of the new owner to lodge an application for transfer
of the registration within 14 days. Registration
may be cancelled if the boat is no longer used in
Queensland, is withdrawn from service or no longer
meets registration requirements.
Third party insurance is not included in the cost
of registering your vessel. Independent advice
The registration label must be attached to the should be sought about insurance as required.
exterior of the boat in a conspicuous place above For more information about boat registrations visit
the waterline on the port (left) side. www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating.
Your boat will be allocated registration symbols.
These must be clearly visible in plain characters Tenders
in a contrasting colour to the hull of the boat. The Tenders are exempt from registration provided
size of the symbols depends on the type of boat they are used within two nautical miles of the
and must be able to be read from a distance of primary boat. The tender must be marked with
30 metres. the word tender as well as the primary boats
registration symbols (at least 75mm high) on the
Vessels capable of planing must have symbols exterior of the tender. If this is not possible, they
a minimum of 150mm high on both sides. must be marked on the inside of the boat in the
Personal watercraft (PWC) registration symbols largest characters possible. The tender may be
must be displayed on both sides at least 100mm marked with the owners name, if it is used for
high, easily seen while the craft is underway. more than one of the owners boats.
11
Marine driver licence Are your boating skills up to date?

The average marine licence holder has their
A valid licence is required to operate all licence for 10 years before they register a boat.
recreational boats powered by a motor of more Inexperienced or out-of-practice skippers are a
than 4.5kW in Queensland. major cause or marine incidents. Practice makes
Unlicensed drivers may drive a boat (where a perfect. You can refresh your boating skills at any
time by re-doing your BoatSafe course.
licence is needed) provided a licensed driver is
on board and is able to take immediate control. For more information about boat registrations
visit www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating.
Unlicensed drivers are not allowed to tow a
person (such as a water skier).
To obtain a recreational marine driver licence
Alcohol & Drugs
you must be aged 16 years or older and pass an The skipper of a recreational boat must have a
blood alcohol limit of less than .05 . Skippers
approved BoatSafe course or have a recognised
should be aware that the limit is still .05 when
and valid interstate or overseas marine licence. your boat is at anchor, unless the boat is securely
Marine licence forms must be lodged with moored in a marina, to a jetty or wharf or on a
a Department of Transport and Main Roads swing mooring.
customer service centre. You will receive a Police can ask you to provide a saliva sample to
printed receipted showing you have a marine detect the presence of drugs. There is a zero
licence. If you have a valid Queensland Drivers tolerance for boating under the influence of
drugs.
licence, a new licence will be sent to you in the
mail with your marine licence/s printed on the The skipper is also responsible for the safety
of passengers and their alcohol consumption.
back. If not, you will be sent a marine licence
People on board need to take care because
indicator card. studies have shown that boat passengers are just
as likely as skippers to be involved in incidents
such as capsizing the vessel or falling overboard
as a result of drinking alcohol.
Remember that the effects of alcohol are
increased while on the water due to the sun,
wind, and constant motion. Reflexes and
BoatSafe is a competency-based scheme to response times to emergencies are slowed and
ensure marine licence applicants meet the swimming ability deteriorates considerably.
minimum level of skills and knowledge before Alcohol and drugs affect your coordination,
obtaining a licence. When you enrol in a judgement, vision, balance and reaction time
BoatSafe course, you must complete a Medical increasing your risk of having a marine incident.
Fitness Disclosure Statement and give it to the
BoatSafe trainer. Dont multiply the risks think before you drink
For a list of BoatSafe training providers in your
Marine incidents
local area visit www.qld.gov.au/transport/
boating. All marine incidents must be reported to a
shipping inspector on the approved form within
Queensland recognises other states marine 48 hours. Shipping inspectors and forms are
licences. If your home state does not have any available at Maritime Safety Queensland,
licensing requirements, you should obtain a Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol and
marine licence before boating in Queensland. Queensland Water Police offices.
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Reportable incidents include: boats anchored, moored to the shore or

aground
The loss of a person from a boat
jetty, wharf, pontoon or boat ramp
The death of, grievous bodily harm to, and
injuries to a person caused by a boats people in the water
operations
The loss or abandonment of a boat 30 metres
A collision with a boat
The stranding of a boat
Material damage to a boat
Material damage caused by a boats operations
Danger to a person caused by a boats
operations
Danger of serious damage to a boat
Danger of serious damage to a structure 30 metres 30 metres
caused by a boats operations.
If in doubt about whether an incident is reportable
report it.
Why reporting is important
The reporting of marine incidents is vital to the 30 metres
development of safety standards, education and
on-water compliance programs that will benefit all
waterways users. Except PWCs which must not operate at more
Reporting a marine incident may also help you than 6 knots within 60 meters of people in the
if you decide to make insurance claims on any water. See page 46 for all PWC rules.
damage. Some insurance companies may require
a marine incident report to validate claims.
Speed limits
Speed limits
may apply. For
safety reasons,
it may be
necessary to
reduce your
speed, stay
below these
limits and
operate for the
conditions. See
page 36 for
information on
Ask your marine supplier for Aurora Inshore Distress Signal Kits
safe speed. Distress Flares
A 6 knot speed Parachute Rockets
Line Throwers | Manoverboard
limit applies Life Smoke | Survivor
to all boat Location Lights | Seamark Dye
Safety Grab Bags | Poly Bottles
harbours, Bird Scare Line | Cyalume Lightsticks
marinas and Life Jacket and Life Buoy Lights
canals in Waterproof Matches
Queensland. Drew Marine
Signal & Safety Australia
Distance off Ph (03) 9650 1488 Fax (03) 9639 8811info@aurora-marine.com
A speed limit of 6 knots within 30 metres of: www.aurora-marine.com
13
Wash Lifejackets must display information about

Wash can create serious safety hazards for other which Australian Standard (AS) applies. The
boats, especially in marinas and anchorages current standard is AS 4758 (AS 4758), which
where there is an expectation of calm conditions. has replaced AS 15121996, AS 14991996
Wash can also create damage to: and AS 22601996. Lifejackets that meet these
previous standards are still acceptable for use if
Pontoons they are in good condition.
Jetties
Vessels moored to these structures Level 100 - open waters
Vessels in shallow water or anchored on a
foreshore
Shorelines and river banks.
Even at slow speeds your boat will create wash.
Responsible skippers look behind and ensure
your wash is kept to a minimum. Be aware of the
impact wash can have on other waterway users.
Unlawful operations
A person who is the owner or master of a ship AS 4758 compliant lifejackets will be marked
must not operate the ship within 30 metres of a Level 100, Level 150 or Level 275.
diver in the water if a code. A flag is displayed in AS 15121996 compliant lifejackets will be
the vicinity of the diver. marked PFD type 1.
will keep you face up in a floating position in
Safety equipment calm water
Having the right safety equipment on board and Can be used in smooth, partially smooth and
knowing how to use it is essential it will save open waters
your life in an emergency. Not for use by personal watercraft (PWC) riders,
What you are required to carry depends on skiers or people being towed.
the size of your boat, whether it needs to be
registered and where youre operating. Level 50 - partially smooth waters
Page 22 provides a list of the minimum safety
equipment to be carried on all recreational boats
and PWCs.
Be prepared for the unexpected!

Recommended safety equipment is optional but
responsible skippers should be consider carrying
the equipment at all times particularly by
unregistered boats.
Safety equipment includes parts that can
deteriorate over time. This lowers their usefulness
or makes them unusable. You must check your
safety equipment regularly to ensure its in good
condition. Some items will need to be replaced AS 4758 compliant lifejackets will be marked
or serviced by the expiry date or according to the Level 50.
manufacturers recommendations. AS 1499-1996 compliant lifejackets will be
marked with PFD type 2.
Lifejackets may not rotate you to float face up, but will
Lifejackets are a vital piece of safety equipment. return you to the surface.
Think of them like your seatbelt on the water. Can be used in smooth or partially smooth
All lifejackets are designed for different purposes, waters.
wearer ages, sizes and weights. So choosing the Can be used by PWC riders beyond smooth and
right life jacket is important. partially smooth waters.
14
Level 50 Special purpose (50S) - smooth waters
AS 4758 compliant lifejackets will be marked

Level 50 special purpose.
AS 2260-1996 compliant lifejackets will be
marked with PFD type 3.
May be a wet suit with built in buoyancy
Must follow the manufacturers serving periods
may not rotate you to float face up, but will and instructions
return you to the surface
Can be used in the waters allowed by its
Not suitable for use beyond smooth waters. buoyancy level.
Inflatable lifejackets Coastal and SOLAS

Not recommended for use when waterskiing, Not recommended for use when waterskiing,
tubing or riding a PWC tubing or riding a PWC
Must be gas inflated (must not rely solely on Designed to keep the body afloat for long
oral inflation) periods
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Ph: 0414 182 182
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These lifejackets have more flotation than a Distress signals, flares & EPIRBs
Level 100 lifejacket and have reflective tape If you are in an emergency on the water and
and a whistle to attract attention need help you can use distress signals, flares
and EPIRBs to show you are in distress and need
Can be used in all waters.
assistance.
Signalling devices are
Compulsory wearing of life jackets compulsory for all boats
It is compulsory to wear a life jacket: operating between sunset
and sunrise. A torch,
when crossing a designated coastal bar* in an fluorescent light, lantern
open boat that is less than 4.8 m in length. or cyalume stick are all
suitable as long as they
if you are under the age of 12 (from 12 months
generate enough light to be seen by other boats
and up to, but not including, 12 years of age) in and prevent a collision and attract attention.
an open boat that is less than 4.8 m in length Other distress signals include marine radio,
and under way flares, V sheet or a mobile phone.
When riding a PWC, waterskiing or tubing.
Flares
*The designated coastal bars are listed on page 51.
Flares are a way for a boat in trouble to attract
the attention of other boats or aircraft in the area.
All vessels and PWCs (excluding tenders not
requiring registration) operating beyond smooth
water limits must carry orange smoke and red
hand flares as part of their safety equipment.
If youre not wearing it, it cant save you

Wear it!
Life jacket checklist

Do you have the right lifejackets for your
whole trip?
Are your lifejackets suited to your activity?
Do you have enough lifejackets for
everyone that will be on board and are they Always read the instructions and familiarise
yourself with them before storing your flares on
the right size? board. Store flares in a dry place where they will
Are your lifejackets in good condition? be readily accessible in an emergency.
If you will be boating at night, do your
lifejackets have reflective tape to help
other see you better at night?
Do you have a LIFEJACKET sticker on your
boat to show others where the lifejackets
are stored?
16
Flares have a lifespan of three years and must Safety Authority registration is free and must
be replaced prior to the expiry date. be renewed every 2 years
Boaties are reminded to dispose of old flares have proof of current registration
correctly. Visit www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating For more information on EPIRBs visit
for flare disposal locations in Queensland. www.beacons.amsa.gov.au.
Boaties should be aware that personal locator
EPIRBS beacons are not acceptable substitutes for
An EPIRB is a small EPIRBs.
electronic device that, when
activated, can help search Search and rescue authorities respond to all
and rescue authorities activations you must only activate the EPIRB
pinpoint your position. in an emergency. If you accidentally activate
Once activated, EPIRBs an EPIRB or no longer require help you must
continuously send out a tell them immediately by radioing your local
signal for at least 48 hours. volunteer marine rescue organisation or calling
All boats, including tenders Rescue Coordination Centres 24-hour emergency
must carry a 406MHz number on 1800 641 792. To avoid accidental
Emergency Positioning activations store EPIRBs in an accessible place
Radio Beacon (EPIRB) when away from gear and passengers.
operating more than 2
An EPIRB must be serviced or replaced
nautical miles from land or the partially smooth
according to the manufacturers
water limits.
recommendations before it expires.
EPIRBs must:
Boaties are reminded to dispose of old EPIRBs
comply with the Australian Standard correctly. Battery World stores around Australia
4280.1:2003 will accept and dispose of expired EPIRBs for
be registered with the Australian Maritime a small fee. Do not dispose of your beacon in
18
general waste as it will end up in landfill and Reef Anchor

could be activated inadvertently. Designed for coral or rock
by using prongs that can
Firefighting equipment straighten out, creating less
All registered recreational boats environmental impact.
over 5 metres in length must
carry firefighting equipment that
can extinguish a fire quickly and
effectively.
Ensure you buy your firefighting
equipment from an authorised
dealer who can work out the best
type of extinguisher for your needs. Sea Anchor
Fire extinguishers must be A small drogue acting like a parachute,
serviced at specified intervals or replaced dramatically slows the rate of drift.
according to the manufacturers advice before Manual propulsion equipment. Boats under
it expires.
6 metres in length should carry oars or
paddles in case of an emergency. If the boat
Navigation equipment has fittings for rowlocks, carry the correct
All boats operating in partially smooth waters length oars with rowlocks securely attached. If
and beyond should carry some form of navigation not, the paddles should be long and of
equipment for example, charts, compass or GPS.
sufficient strength to do the job.
GPS verification marks are installed at selected Drinking water. All boats should carry
boat ramps for boaters to check the accuracy
of on board GPS navigation equipment. Visit sufficient drinking water for everyone on board
www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating for GPS for the duration of the trip.
verification mark locations in Queensland.
Check out Maritime Safety Queenslands free
Boating Maps for selective waterways at
www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating.
Other important equipment

It is recommended that all boats carry suitable:
Pumping and bailing equipment. For boats
under 5 metres, buckets are considered
suitable bailing equipment. Boats 5 metres
and over require a bilge pump. Let R Marine Crawley help
Anchoring equipment. All boats should carry a
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SIZE Boating in Queensland
ROCNA. DESIGN
Marine radio ROCK BY
Marine radios are essential safety equipment
SOLID.
A SAILOR FOLb
Mobile phones
Although commonly carried on boats, mobile
phones are not seen as a substitute for marine
FELLOW BOATIEa
and can be the only way to communicate with
radio or emergency radio communications.
other boats or marine rescue groups and receive
navigation warnings and weather updates.
Coastal distress marine radio network
W
K SOLID.
Responsible skippers should know how to
ROCNA MODEL
Maritime Safety Queensland has a 24 hours

operate a marine radio, the distress and safety Legendary kiwi yachtie Peter Smithe
5m | 16ft
4m | 13ft
frequencies and how to properly format and listening watch service to cover most coastal
transmit distress and safety messages. been designing, building and sailins
waters between Cooktown and the New South
Wales border on VHF channels 16 and 67 for
Licences and certificates
and cruising yachts since the early aa1
distress and urgency calls.
Volunteer marine rescue organisations play an
Under federal regulations, operators of VHF and important role100,000
in delivering the coastal distress
With over nautical miles of cruising Pet
1T
2T
4
MF/HF radios are required to hold an operating marine radio network service. They maintain a H
certificate. Many Coast Guard and Volunteer experienced the same anchoring problems tha
Marine Rescue stations provide these courses or
listening watch during their operating hours. For o
stillinformation
more prevalenton today needing
volunteer to carry a variet
rescue stations
may advise where a local course is available. R
andanchors to suit
frequencies variousin seabeds,
monitored yet still the
your area contact
5T
Visit www.acma.gov.au and navigate to the your local Australian Volunteer Coast Guard
anchors dragged.
marine, amateur and CB radio pages for more or Marine Rescue Queensland flotilla or the A
information. Moreton Bay Trailer Boat Club Radio Room.
i
He was fed up, and in the New Zealand traditio
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s
of do-it-yourself he designed the Original
h
Rocna to solve these problems once and for all
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Your Marine Inspection Specialist

Navsafe specialise in providing marine inspection reports
that deliver the facts without confusion.
Run by Australian Maritime safety Authority accredited
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Novice boat owners with safety equipment, pre-purchased
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and more.
Call Toby to assist with your marine inspections.
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Toby Blundell: 0421 570 475

Jim McKinnon: 0418 748 023
Safety equipment for Queensland regulated ships

All equipment must be in good working order. For EPIRBs, fire extinguisher, flares and inflatable lifejackets, check the service
expiry or replacement date. Make sure yours are current.
Boats not requiring registration means Queensland regulated ships with an engine or auxiliary under 3 kW.
Requirements or recommendations listed also apply to international or interstate boats operating in Queensland.
Boats requiring registration means Queensland regulated ships with an engine or auxiliary of 3 kW or more.
Requirements or recommendations listed also apply to international or interstate boats operating in Queensland.
PWC means personal watercraft for example a jet ski.
Required means equipment that must be carried. Recommended means equipment that is suggested to be carried to meet the
General Safety Obligation.
Beyond smooth and
Smooth water Partially smooth waters
partially smooth waters
Item
Not requiring Not requiring Not requiring
registration Registered* PWC registration Registered* PWC Registered* PWC
registration
EPIRB (406 MHz)

Emergency Position Indicating
Required Required Required
Radio Beacon.When operating
more than 2nm from land
and not within smooth and
partially smooth waters. Must
be registered with AMSA.
EPIRBs must have a printed expiry date and be replaced or serviced by the manufacturer (or
Registration must be renewed authorised service agent) by this date; must comply with Australian Standard
every two years. AS/NZ 4280.1:2003; and must be registered in the name of the owner/master with AMSA.
Signalling device
For example a torch, or fluorescent
light, or lantern or cyalume stick. Required Required Required Required Required Required Required Required Required
Required when operating between
sunset and sunrise.
Lifejackets# Level 275, Level 275, Level 50 or Level 275, Level 275, Level 50 Level 275, Level 275, Level 50
One of the appropriate size for 150, 100, level 150, 100, level 50 150, 100, or 150, 100, required 150 or 100 150 or 100 required
50 or level 50 level 50 or special level 50 or level 50 recommended required
each person (12 months special purpose level 50 purpose recommended required
and over) on board, except if a recommended special required
person is wearing an inflatable purpose
diver jacket and the vessel is required
engaged in diving activities.
Children under 12 must wear
the lifejacket when underway
in an open boat under 4.8m. Lifejackets not required
if a ship, other than
Lifejackets must be worn when a PWC, has a level
crossing designated coastal flotation statement
bars in open boats under 4.8m. in the approved form
and is operating in a
Skiers or people being towed river, creek, stream, or
+ At least level 50 or level 50 the waters contained
special purpose, or wetsuit within breakwaters
with inbuilt flotation approved or revetments and is
equipped with grab
as level 50 special purpose in lines, grab rails or other
smooth waters. permanent means of
+ At least level 50 in partially giving each person on
board a way of keeping
smooth waters. a secure hold to the ship.
V sheet Recommended Required Required^ Recommended Required Required^
Flares
Two red hand flares and two Recommended Required Required^ Recommended Required Required^
hand held orange smoke signals.
Fire fighting equipment
All boats over 5m. Must be Required Recommended Required Required Recommended
Recommended Recommended
capable of extinguishing a fire
quickly and effectively.
22
Beyond smooth and

Smooth water Partially smooth waters
partially smooth waters
Item
Not requiring Not requiring Not requiring
registration Registered* PWC registration Registered* PWC Registered* PWC
registration
Navigation
A chart and a liquid damped
compass appropriate to the
operational area, or other directional Recommended Recommended Recommended^ Recommended Recommended Recommended^
finding or positioning equipment. For
a PWC without a chart or compass,
an electronic navigation device
appropriate to the operational area.
Anchoring
For boats less than 5m, the Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended^ Recommended Recommended Recommended^
cable can be chain or rope.
For boats over 5m, the cable
can be chain of at least less than 5m: one anchor with less than 5m: one anchor with less than 5m: one anchor with
2m attached to anchor and at least 18m of cable at least 18m of cable at least 18m of cable
rope. The type and weight of 5m to less than 8m: one 5m to less than 8m: one 5m to less than 8m: one
anchor and length and anchor with at least 27m anchor with at least 27m anchor with at least 27m
thickness of the cable should of cable of cable of cable
be appropriate for the type and 8m and over: two anchors 8m and over: two anchors 8m and over: two anchors
weight of ship, the weather and with at least 37m of with at least 37m of with at least 37m of
sea conditions and the nature cable each cable each cable each
of the seabed.
Pumping/bailing Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended

equipment
less than 5m: suitable bailing equipment less than 5m: suitable bailing equipment less than 5m: suitable bailing equipment
5m to less than 8m: bilge pump 45L/ 5m to less than 8m: bilge pump 45L/ 5m to less than 8m: bilge pump 45L/
minute capacity minute capacity minute capacity
8m and over: bilge pump 70L/minute 8m and over: bilge pump 70L/minute 8m and over: bilge pump 70L/minute
capacity capacity capacity
Manual propulsion
Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended
Oars or paddles (boats under 6m).
Drinking water
Enough for everyone on board Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended Recommended^ Recommended Recommended Recommended^
for the trip.
* Also includes boats that are required to be registered but are not.
^ Does not apply to a PWC operating in an approved aquatic event or beyond partially smooth waters and within 0.5
nautical miles from land.
# Owners/masters must give each person on board information about where the safety equipment is kept. Lifejackets must
be clearly visible to passengers or readily accessible and indicated by a clearly visible sign with a white background
marked with the word lifejackets in red letters or vice versa.
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25
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To learn more, visit

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26
Water limits
Because Queenslands waterways are so diverse there are designated
BOAT AND
water limits affecting the types of safety equipment required. JETSKI
There are three types of limits: LICENCE
smooth waters include rivers, creeks, streams and lakes, waters
within breakwaters or revetments and within half a nautical mile from
land within partially smooth limits and other waters specified in
legislation
partially smooth waters are determined by Maritime Safety
Queensland and are specified in legislation
open waters are areas beyond these limits.
A complete list of maps showing these designated water limits on page
28 33.
Get both on
the same day
Call Alan on
0428 729 355
Jacobs well
Online courses at
www.boatandjetski.com.au
Boat & Jet Ski Licensing

Yachting Queensland
BoatSafe Training Providers
Matthew Bampton 0488 020 855 NOOSAVILLE, GLADSTONE, HERVEY BAY
Gregory Cullen 0400 858 004 BRISBANE
Andrew Denzin 0428 181 931 THURSDAY ISLAND
Gregory Heath 0408 075 899 MISSION BEACH
Tim Hillier 0428 540 503 THURSDAY ISLAND
David Lucas 0400 864 069 NOOSA, MOOLOOLABA, BRIBIE
Jason Ivory 0421 420 227 MACKAY
Gordon Johnston 0407 116 948 KURRIMINE BEACH
Claudine Ward 0417 926 367 KARUMBA
Phone: 07 3393 6788

Email: queensland@sailing.org.au
www.qld.yachting.org.au
Interested in learning how to sail? Visit www.discoversailing.org.au
27
Legend partially the red line designates
smooth waters smooth open waters limits beyond which EPIRBs
waters must be carried.
BRIBIE
ISLAND
Comboyuro

BRISBANE SEVENTEEN SEVENTY

Point PARTIALLY SMOOTH SMOOTH WATERS
AND SMOOTH WATERS
Skirmish
South Point
Point MORETON
ISLAND
REDCLIFFE BUSTARD Round Hill Head

Moreton Bay BAY
'Short Point'
Reeders Pt
Amity Pt Monument Point
BRISBANE
Cleveland SEVENTEEN
Pt NORTH SEVENTY
STRADBROKE
ISLAND
k
ee
Cr
ll
Hi
Jumpinpin Eurimbula
National
SOUTH Park
Round
STRADBROKE
ISLAND
The Spit
SOUTHPORT
Rooney Point
GLADSTONE

PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS
Hervey Bay
Cape Keppel
Burrum Point Fairway

Beacon Division Point
CURTIS
FRASER Th
e ISLAND
HERVEY BAY ISLAND
Na
rro
Connor Bluff
ws

North Point
River FACING
y
Mar South ISLAND
Trees
MARYBOROUGH Is East Point
MARYBOROUGH GLADSTONE
Gr
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
ea t
AND SMOOTH WATERS

Sa
Clews
nd
Point
y
Rodds
Str
Hook Point Bay

ait
Inskip Point
Double Island Point Lake

Awoonga
28
Legend Boating in Queensland
partially the red line designates

PORT ALMA
Port of Hay Point
Peak Island SMOOTH WATERS

LLEWELLYN BAY
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
Cape AND SMOOTH WATERS
Keppel Bay Keppel
Cattle Sea Hill

Point Point SARINA
Cullen
Islet
CURTIS
Llewellyn Bay Irving
ISLAND
Island
Division
Point
PORT
ALMA
Ince Bay
Cape
Palmerstone

Sand Bay

Water Park Point
KEPPEL BAY
PARTIALLY SMOOTH MACKAY AND HAY POINT
AND SMOOTH WATERS
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS
Slade
Point
Outer Slade
Rocks Islet
MACKAY
Great Keppel The Child
YEPPOON Island
Egg Rock
Long 149 30' E
Hay Point
Half
Tide
Beach
Keppel
Bay
Cape Keppel
ROCKHAMPTON
Sea Hill
Cattle Point Point
CURTIS
ISLAND Llewellyn Bay
29
BOWEN, WHITSUNDAY PASSAGE

AND REPULSE BAY
SAND BAY Holbourne Is
PARTIALLY SMOOTH AND SMOOTH WATERS
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS
Gloucester
Head Rattray
Is Dolphin
Cape Hillsborough Don
River Pt
Pinnacle
Gloucester Eshelby Pt
Is Is Hayman
Edgecumbe Is
Bay
Hook Deloraine
Is Is
Sand Bay Whitsunday
Whit
Harold
Is Is
su
nday
AIRLIE
BEACH
Pass
age
Maher
PROSERPINE Is
Shaw
Is
Repulse
Bay
Slade
Point
Hervey Creek

BOWEN
SMOOTH WATERS
Repulse
Islands
Anchor

Islands
Don River
Cape Edgecumbe
ST HELENS BAY
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS
BOWEN
St Helens
Bay
Dalrymple
Point
Stone Island
Cape
Hillsborough Edgecumbe
Bay
Sand
Bay Adelaide
Point
30

UPSTART BAY
PARTIALLY SMOOTH

PALM ISLES
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS AND SMOOTH WATERS
Hinchinbrook
Island
George Point
Rita
Island
Lucinda Point Pelorus

Burdekin Island
R
Iris Point
Peters Cape
Is Upstart
Orpheus
Island Curacoa
Island
INGHAM
Halifax
Upstart Bay
Bay Great
Palm
Island
Nobbies
Inlet

TOWNSVILLE
PARTIALLY SMOOTH
Rockingham
Bay
AND SMOOTH WATERS
Cape
Sandwich
White Hecate
Rock Orchard Point
The Rocks
Point
Bay CARDWELL
H
Rock
in
c
hi
Magnetic
nb
ro
Island
ok
Halifax
Bay Hinchinbrook
Cape Cape Island
Pallarenda Cleveland
Rowes
Bay Cleveland
Bay
George
Cr Point
ss
Ro Channel
TOWNSVILLE

r
Rive Lucinda
s Point
Ros
LUCINDA
SMOOTH WATERS INGHAM
31
Ninney Point

ROCKINGHAM BAY
PARTIALLY SMOOTH CAIRNS

AND SMOOTH WATERS PARTIALLY SMOOTH
Clump Point
AND SMOOTH WATERS
MISSION
BEACH
Dunk
Island
Upolu
Reef
Double Island
Buchan Point
Green
Island
Rockingham
Bay
Brook
Trinity Bay
Islands
Goold
Island South Island
Ellie
Barr Point
on River Mission
Bay Little
Turtle Little
Cape Bessie Bay Fitzroy
Sandwich CAIRNS Point Island
Missionary
Hecate Bay
CARDWELL Point Fitzroy
Island
Trinity
Inlet
Hinchinbrook
Island

MOURILYAN
Cape Tribulation
PORT DOUGLAS

PARTIALLY SMOOTH
SMOOTH WATERS AND SMOOTH WATERS
Alexandra
Bay
Etty Bay
Dai
ntr
ee
TOWN OF River
MOURILYAN DAINTREE Cape
HARBOUR Kimberley
Goodman Point
Camp
Point
Hayter Point
Trinity
Moresby
Bay
Ri
ve
Low Islets
r
Double Point
nR
ss ma
Mo
Dicksons
MOSSMAN Inlet
North Barnard Island Point
Islands
PORT
DOUGLAS
32
COOKTOWN

SMOOTH WATERS
GULF
OF
CARPENTARIA
Indian Head
Pine
River
Bay
Duyfken
Pt
er
Riv
n
ssio
Mi
WEIPA
Wooldrum
Point
le y River
Albatross Emb
Bay Hey Point
Hey
Queens
R
Chair
iver
Finch
Bay
COOKTOWN
(on the Endeavour River) Boyd

Point
Monkhouse Thud Point WEIPA

Point PARTIALLY SMOOTH
AND SMOOTH WATERS
l
les Channe GULF
Prince of Wa OF
Hammond
CARPENTARIA
Rock Ince Point
Wednesday
Harrison Island
Rock Goods Channel Strait
Hammond
Is Is Rock Rock
Thursday
Island King Point
Friday
Pott Point Is Kiwain
Point Horn
Hochepied Island
Point
Red Point
4nM
Prince of Wales 7.5nM

Island Peak
Point Alligator Pt
Rattlesnake Zuna
Island Possession
Point Island KARUMBA
No
rm
CAPE an
ait YORK
St r Parau PENINSULA

our
Byn
eav Island Ri
ve
End r

oe
Van Speult KARUMBA

Point PARTIALLY SMOOTH
THURSDAY ISLAND
Riv
AND SMOOTH WATERS

er
Jar PARTIALLY SMOOTH

d
Riv ine AND SMOOTH WATERS
er
33
Safe operation
It is the responsibility of every boat owner and
skipper to operate the boat under their control in
a safe manner.
Operating safely combines the following:
the boat is in good condition and safe to
operate
crew and passengers are safe
the right equipment is on board and ready to
be used
crew and passengers know what to do in an
emergency
With a fixed throttle system, if the skipper leaves
the skipper is competent in operating the boat or is thrown from the helm position, the vessel
rules are followed so that other waterway users will maintain speed until the throttle is altered
are not injured by unsafe operations. to reduce speed. It is strongly recommended
that the skippers of all boats, but especially tiller
Driving a boat is very different to driving a car.
steered boats, have a throttle lanyard attached
There are a range of rules that you must know as
to their wrist which will stop the motor instantly if
a boat owner or skipper.
the skipper loses control of the boat.
Do not be complacent because of the perception
Ensure you wear a safety lanyard at all times
of open water. Often narrow channels restrict
that will stop the motor in emergencies.
boats to passing close to one another, and
between beacons and shallow banks. There is
How to avoid marine incidents
plenty to hit when driving a boat.
Most marine incidents are avoidable and
are often caused through inattention, lack of
Navigating checklist knowledge and experience, or complacency of
the skipper.
Visibility: Operate slowly in rain, fog, mist,
smoke and glare. Take special care when Collisions
travelling at night as potential hazards are Make your intentions clear - Actions must be clear
harder to see. and deliberate so other skippers can see your
Other boats: Slow down in busy areas and intentions. Never assume the skipper of another
boat will observe the rules; always be prepared to
when near moored or anchored boats, and
take action to avoid a collision.
remember working boats and larger ships
may have difficulty manoeuvring. Keep a proper lookout - A proper lookout, through
sight and sound, must be kept at all times. Slow
Navigation hazards: Slow down in shallow down and take extra precautions in bad weather,
areas and when boating in unfamiliar restricted visibility and the hours of darkness to
water. Water depth can vary and change assist with the early detection of other boats in
quickly, particularly in freshwater. the area.
Wind, waves and currents: These may Assess risk of collision and take action - Use all
affect the boats stopping and turning means available to assess whether other boats
ability. The type of motor, hull and design pose a risk of collision. If a risk of collision exists
will all impact on the boats take early positive action (changing course and/
manoeuvrability. or speed) to eliminate the risk. Never assume the
other boat will automatically give way.
Skipper safety
Most boats have a fixed throttle system. This Groundings
means the skipper can set the throttle for a Know the waterway plan your trip and use
specific speed and the engine will maintain navigational aids such as charts, GPS and beacons.
revolutions until the throttle is altered unlike a Pay attention many groundings occur because
motor vehicle which has a spring operated foot the skipper misreads a beacon through
accelerator. inattention.
34
Help protect Queenslands maritime heritage

Queenslands shipwrecks, aircraft wrecks, and associated
relics that are more than 75 years old are protected by law.
The following historic shipwrecks lie within protected
zones that require a permit to enter, dive or fish:
HMS Pandora Llewellyn
HMCS Mermaid Cato
Foam HMS Porpoise
Yongala Aarhus
Gothenburg AHS Centaur
To apply for a free permit visit www.environment.gov.au/heritage/historic-shipwrecks
Queenslands Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

has developed the following information to assist divers:
guidelines for diving on historic shipwrecks
dive guides for key wrecks in Moreton Bay and
the Great Barrier Reef.
Visit www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/heritage/
To report the remains, or relics, of a ship or
aircraft, contact EHP by phone: 13 QGOV or
email: archaeology@ehp.qld.gov.au
35
Tides the height of the tide may mean some the sea. They give clear indication about passing,
waterways are unnavigable at certain times. approaching, giving way and overtaking to avoid
Check out Maritime Safety Queenslands free collisions with other boats.
Tide Tables for official tidal predictions for
All boat skippers must thoroughly understand
Queensland ports www.qld.gov.au/transport/
boating. and apply the rules in all situations.
Capsizes Channels
Boats capsize or swamp mostly because of When navigating in narrow channels, all boats
poor stability or rough conditions. Poor stability should travel on the starboard side or right hand
is caused by excess weight on board, whether side of the channel and pass oncoming boats on
it is people or cargo, and where the weight is the port side.
positioned. It is essential to position weight as
low as possible and ensure the bow or stern is
not lower than the other. If the boat appears to be
slow to respond to a roll or pitch then the boat is
overloaded.
In rough conditions the boat relies on the bow
to provide lift into the prevailing sea condition
whether it is wind chop or ocean swell. When a
boat breaks down or is drifting, the wind will turn If plenty of distance separates two passing boats,
the bow away from the wave direction and the theres no need to deliberately alter course to
stern will face into the waves. This is a dangerous pass to the right of the other boat. The rule is
situation as the stern or transom usually has the simply there to remove doubt in the event of a
lowest freeboard and is subject to taking water. close situation.
If you break down or are adrift in rough Small boats (including sailing boats) should keep
conditions, anchor immediately if practical or clear of large boats that have limited room to
deploy a drogue (a bucket can act as a drogue) manoeuvre in channels.
to keep the bow into the sea. Never anchor your
boat by the stern. Even the passing wake of a
boat can come over the transom and cause a
swamping.
Speeding
All boats must travel at a safe speed so you can
act to avoid a collision and stop the boat in time
to avoid any danger that arises suddenly. Wash
created by speed must not cause any damage to
the shoreline.
The skipper of a boat must operate the boat at
less than six knots (about the same as a brisk
walking pace) or the speed necessary to safely
control and manoeuvre the boat if it is causing Giving way
excessive wash. All boats, whether power or sail, must always
take action to avoid a collision
Collision rules Power boats
The International Regulations for Preventing Look all around, give way to the right, turn to the
Collisions at Sea (Colregs) are the traffic laws of right and stay to the right.
36
We cant be
everywhere
to help you.
Play it safe at our
dams, lakes and parks.
Visit seqwater.com.au
Head on Overtaking
When meeting head on, both boats are required If you are overtaking a boat, you can do so
to alter course to starboard (right), never to port to either side of the boat you wish to pass.
(left). Any turn should be large enough to be However, you must keep well clear of the boat
obvious to the other boat. you are overtaking. This applies to both sail
and powerboats. In narrow channels you must
be particularly careful when overtaking. In all
instances, make sure you do not cut in front of
the boat you have overtaken.
DANGERZONE
38
Sailing boats
Wind on different side
When each sailing boat has the wind on a
different side, the boat with wind on the port side
Two World Leading
shall keep out of the way of the other.
If sailing a boat with the wind on the port side
Anchor Designs
and you see a sailing boat to windward and
cannot determine with certainty whether the boat The Super Sarca and Stick with co
nvex
has the wind on the port or starboard side, take Sarca Excel are design and le
the mud behi
ave
action to keep clear. nd.
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Both anchor designs are new releases delivering unrivalled

holding power tested with T.A.T.S
Check out the holding Power figures on

Wind on the same side www.anchorright.com.au
When both sailing boats have the wind on the
same side, the boat to windward shall keep out of Call now to place your orders. Anchor
Ph: 03 5968 5014 Fax: 03 5968 6006 Mobile: 0408 371 668
the way of the boat to leeward. Right
AustrAliA Pty ltd
Note: The windward side is the side opposite to

that on which the mainsail is carried or, in the case
of a square-rigged boat, the side opposite to that larger vessels. Boats over 12 metres should
on which the largest fore and aft sail is carried. carry sound signals, a whistle and a bell. Vessels
under 12 metres should have some means of
making an efficient sound signal. You should be
aware of signals and what action you should take
when you hear a signal. Sound signals may be
accompanied by light signals.
All boats should use sound signals in restricted
visibility to alert others of their position. Use
common sense and slow your boat or stop, and
be ready to take immediate action. Be extremely
cautious when operating in restricted visibility.
One short blast means

Power and sail
I am altering my course to starboard.
A power boat generally gives way to sail unless
the sailing boat is in the process of overtaking it. Two short blasts mean
However, dont expect large, less manoeuvrable I am altering my course to port.
boats under power to give way. All small craft Three short blasts mean
should give large boats a wide berth. I am operating engines astern
(the boat may be reversing or stopping).
Sound signals Five (or more) short blasts mean
Most recreational boats do not use sound I am unsure of your intentions.
signals. However, they are used by ships and
39
Navigation lights should be fitted by the manufacturer or an

authorised person.
Are your navigation lights fitted correctly?
It is important that lights are fitted according to The masthead and/or all-round white light
the collision regulations so that other boats can must be fitted (if practical) on the centre line
determine what type of boat you are and the (bow to stern) of the boat and positioned a
course you are on. minimum of one metre above the side lights.
When operating at night, carry replacement
A common mistake is the fitting of the red and bulbs.
green sidelights on the same angle of the curve
of the bow of the boat. This results in the angles
of light crossing over each other when seen from Incorrect installation
head on. This also affects the side view.
Side lights must be kept parallel to the centreline
of the boat.
Correct installation
Minimum required lights

Boats under way
Power boats
Less than 7 metres in length with a maximum
speed not exceeding 7 knots a white light
By law, boats operating from sunset to sunrise, visible all round and, if possible, separate or
whether at anchor or under way, must display combined sidelights.
the correct lighting. A boat is under way when Less than 12 metres in length:
it is not at anchor, made fast to shore or separate or combined sidelights, a masthead
aground (this includes drifting). light and a stern light or
Navigation lights must also be used in daylight separate or combined sidelights, an all-round
hours during periods of restricted visibility white light.
or in other circumstances when it is deemed
necessary.
Lights must be placed and displayed
appropriate to the size and class of your boat.
These lights tell other boat skippers about
the boat and what it is doing whether it is at
anchor, under sail or motoring.
Navigation lights must be positioned so they
are not obscured by the boats superstructure
or interfered with by the deck lights. They
40
Under the COLREGS, the anchor

light must be visible for 2 nautical
miles for all vessels up to 50
metres in length.
There are many other www.rocna.com.au
combinations of lights used on
boats. The lights shown will relate
to the activity the boat or ship is
engaged in (for example fishing,
dredging, not under command).
A simple rule of thumb for a small
Sailing boats and boats under oars
powerboat is to stay clear of any
Less than 7 metres in length
boats exhibiting additional lights.
the lights required for sailing
boats over 7 metres in length. If
not, a torch or lantern showing a Navigation at night
white light ready to display to
Guaranteed
The waterways are not like
to be the best
www.rocna.com
avoid a collision. well-defined roads. It is unsafe
More than 7 metres in length to navigate a boat with lights anchor
and less than 20 metres in illuminating the water directly youve ever used
length:
www.rocna.com
www.rocna.com
ahead because it will deprive you
a) combined lantern at or near the and other boat skippers of night
top of the mast that vision.
incorporates sidelights and stern Spotlights can be used to identify
www.rocna.com
light or specific hazards, but this should
1300 791 432
b) separate sidelights and stern light. be done only when operating www.oceansolutions.com.au
at very slow speed and without
affecting other waterway users.
The most important rules to
remember when driving a boat at
night are to slow down and keep a Est. 1991
good lookout. QUEENSLANDS 1st &
No1 ON-WATER DRIVING SCHOOL
Night navigation tips Phone:

Not all navigation (07) 3399 6422
hazards have lights 1/41 Steel Place,
indicating their position
(examples are shallow
Morningside
banks, oyster leases, and QLD 4170
many navigation markers). Email:
It is difficult to judge dorach@bigpond.com
distances at night.
Boats moored or at anchor Web:
Background lighting can www.archiesboat
The International Regulations for cause confusion.
the Prevention of Collisions at Sea
licence.com
All boats are required to
1972 (COLREGS) require vessels show lights. On-Line or In-Class
at anchor to display an all round Training available
white light, where it may be best A safe speed is a speed at
which sufficient action can
seen, between the hours of sunset
be taken in time to prevent
and sunrise and during times of
a collision.
restricted visibility. For moored
boats, it is a condition of the boor Keep an extra good
mooring authority to display an lookout.
anchor light.
41
Boats with limited manoeuvrability Lateral marks

Many work boats operate in Queensland Port and starboard marks are referred to as
waterways. The nature of the activities lateral marks. They indicate the port-hand
undertaken by these craft means that they and starboard-hand sides of navigable waters
are often stationary and not always noticed by (channels).
passing vessel traffic. The effects of wash on When both a port and starboard mark are placed
a stationary workboat can pose a considerable near to each other, travel directly between them.
risk, as crew are often moving between the Often lateral marks are not placed in pairs where
vessel and a fixed structure, for example, a the safe side to pass is generally determined by
marine aid to navigation. To protect vessels and the direction of travel to or from the sea, or a
their crew, internationally recognised marine predetermined local direction of buoyage.
signals are displayed. When a vessel displaying
any of these signals is sighted, other traffic When going upstream (away from the sea)
should stay clear and preferably slow down, to l Keep red (port-hand marks) on the left-hand
minimise wash. side (to port)
Vessel situation Day shapes 'Signature lights'

lK
eep green (starboard-hand marks) on the
right-hand side (to starboard)
Restricted in ability
to manoeuvre When going downstream (towards the sea)
l Keep red (port-hand marks) on your right-hand
side (to starboard)
Not under l Keep green (starboard-hand marks) on
command your left-hand side (to port)
Local direction of buoyage
Where there is doubt, the direction of buoyage is
A vessel displaying the combination of flags indicated on charts by the symbol:
shown, either separately or in conjunction with
one of the above signals, is requesting that
passing boats slow down.
PORT
(Can)
IALA buoyage system

A system of buoys, spars and lights, known as
IALA Buoyage System A is used to assist safe
navigation. QUICK FLASHING Group FLASHING
These are the equivalent of road signs on highways.
Each type of mark has a unique combination of LONG FLASHING FLASHING
colour, shape, topmark and light. You must be
able to recognise these and pass them safely on
the correct side.
42
STARBOARD
(Cone)
QUICK FLASHING Group FLASHING
LONG FLASHING FLASHING
Cardinal marks
A cardinal mark indicates where the deepest
and safest water can be found. That is, where
We Can Assist You With...
the mariner has safe passage. It may also Commercial and Recreational
indicate the safe side on which to pass a Vessel Surveying
danger and to draw attention to a feature in
the channel such as a bend or junction. Vessel Pre Purchase Reports
Insurance Condition Reports

NORTH Vessel Valuations Customs,
Safe water to the North of the cardinal Insurance, Taxation etc
Top marks point up toward the NORTH for
safest water. At night the frequency of the Project Management and Consultancy
flashes are an uninterrupted quick flash.
Vessel Maintenance and Scheduling
Safety Management Systems SMS
Vessel Operation Manuals
Skippering, Navigation and Voyage

Planning Services and Tuition
SOUTH
Safe water to the South of the cardinal
Topmarks both point down towards the
SOUTH for safe water. The frequency of
flashes is 6 quick flashes in a group
followed by a long flash.
MASTER 5 - MED II - ACCREDITED MARINE SURVEYOR

Recognised by Club Marine, Nautilus Marine
and Trident Marine Insurers
MSA Member -
Marine Surveyors Association
43
EAST any other than those used for the white lights of a
cardinal, isolated danger and safe water marks.
Safe water to the East of the cardinal
Variations in the design of buoys will exist in many
The topmarks are in the shape of an egg, so areas. Illustrations indicate the approved shapes,
remember the e of egg is for safe water to the colouring and topmarks.
EAST. The frequency of the flashes is 3 quick
flashes in a group.
LONG FLASHING QUICK FLASHING
Safe water marks

Indicates that there is navigable water all around
the mark for example, mid channel.
WEST At night a white light shows a single long flash
Safe water to the West of the cardinal every 10 seconds. To remember this, associate a
single sphere with a single flash.
The topmarks make the shape of a wine glass so
remember the w of wine glass is for safe water to
the WEST. The frequency of the flashes is 9 quick
flashes in a group.
ISOPHASE
OCCULTING
To remember the
light flash rates North LONG FLASH 10s
for cardinal marks,
the number of 12
flashes for east,
south and west West9 3East Isolated danger marks
agrees with a Indicates there is an isolated danger with
clock face. navigable water all around it for example, an
6 isolated shoal, rock or wreck.
A north mark
has a continuous South At night a white flashing light shows groups of
flashing light. two flashes. The best way to remember this is to
associate two flashes with two spheres as the
topmarks.
Special marks
Special marks can be used to mark a specific
structure or feature such as a cable or pipeline,
or to indicate that a channel divides. The
direction to navigate around a special mark is GROUP FLASHING
often obvious by using a chart.
At night the light is yellow and the rhythm may be
44
Emergency wreck marking buoy

The emergency wreck marking buoy is designed Ship navigation area tips
to provide high visual and radio aid to navigation Maintain a constant lookout at all times,
recognition. using all means available.
Monitor the appropriate VHF channel for
the area when near shipping traffic and
keep up-to-date with local traffic
movement information.
Dont rely only on mobile phones for
marine communications the ships
captain or pilot wont know your number,
and you dont know theirs!
Always cross a shipping channel at 90
degrees behind a ship and only when it is
clear and safe to travel.
Never cross in front of a large ship. If a
Boating in ship navigation areas small boat breaks downs or runs out of
The chances of large ships and small boats fuel this can end with disastrous results.
interacting is high in shipping channels, pilot Between sunset and sunrise and when
boarding grounds, anchorages, swing basins or visibility is restructured show the correct
port berths. navigation lights.
Ships can approach quickly and silently and do Dont anchor near, or fish in, channel
not have brakes. Large ships often travel at or near navigation aids marking designated
speeds over 20 knots and can have a stopping shipping channels.
distance equal to 28 football fields (2.5 nautical
miles).
A small boat rarely appears on ships radar
and can be unseen from the helm of the ship. Navigating with a Global Positioning
This blind spot can extend several nautical System (GPS)
mile because the bow of the ship and its cargo
obscures the view. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are commonly
found on recreational boats, and while a good
When travelling in narrower channels, large ships navigation aid, they should not be relied upon
can have very low under-keel clearance and (like any other electronic equipment dependent
cannot turn or slow down. on battery power). A GPS is able to provide
Skippers of smaller boats should avoid or keep a latitude and longitude, updated almost
clear of these areas. continuously. This can then be plotted on a chart
and should be verified with a compass.
There have been a number of navigational
incidents, where boats have run aground and
into obstructions, attributed to people using GPS
data alone. Some positions given by GPS will
need to be adjusted due to differing datum (see
cautionary advice on charts). As with all fixes,
the GPS position should be checked against
something else.
A GPS is not a substitute for sound watch keeping
and navigational practices and should be used
only in conjunction with other aids to navigation.
Masters should still maintain a proper lookout
while the vessel is underway to identify any
approaching hazards.
When going to a waypoint in a straight line, check
what is in between your boats initial location and
the waypoint.
45
reasonably withstand the weather they may

encounter and you are prepared.
Maritime Safety Queensland has plans in place
for extreme weather events to reduce the damage
caused by cyclones and tidal surges in most
harbours throughout the state.
Extreme weather event contingency plans vary
from region to region. Ensure you are familiar with
the warning and/or alert levels used in your area,
as they can differ. Copies of the extreme weather
contingency plans are available at Maritime
Safety Queensland offices or by visiting
www.msq.qld.gov.au.
You must obey and follow all direction issues
by the Regional Harbour Master during extreme
weather events. And dont leave your cyclone
mooring or shelter until the harbour master has
given the all clear.
Prepare, plan and obey these simple rules and
you could prevent damage to your boat and
others.
Boating weather Personal watercraft

Be prepared! Whether you own or just borrow a PWC, it is
Always check marine weather forecasts before important to ride responsibly by understanding
you go boating. And keep checking them while the safety rules and regulations for PWCs in
you are on the water. Queensland.
Forecast information is available from the Bureau Its easy to lose track of how close you are to the
of Meteorology and is regularly broadcast on VHF shore, fixed objects and other waterway users -
radio channel 67 by volunteer marine rescue keep a proper look out at all times. To gain the
organisations. most enjoyment from your PWC ride where you
Visit www.bom.gov.au for the latest weather can have fun but remain mindful of others. Ride
forecasting. Check out the MetEye forecast maps responsibly know your limits!
which are adjusted by meteorologists to better
represent expected weather. It also allows you to Personal watercraft licensing
better select the weather information you want It is compulsory for all PWC riders to hold a
for your boating area. personal watercraft licence (PWCL) in addition to
Personal safety is the number one priority. At a recreational marine driver licence (RMDL).
the first sign of bad or severe weather, make A supervised unlicensed driver is not allowed to
sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket. carry passengers. A supervising PWCL holder
If you cannot get back to your mooring or boat must wear the kill switch safety lanyard when the
ramp, look for shelter in rivers or creeks with a PWC is being driven by an unlicensed driver.
mangrove fringe to act as a buffer from the wind.
If you are in a marina or hardstand area, ask the To obtain a PWCL you must be aged 16 years or
manager for instructions. older and pass an approved BoatSafe course.
A valid recreational marine driver licence is a
prerequisite for the PWC licence.
Extreme weather events and cyclones
Note:
Severe weather season in Queensland is from
November to April. Boat skippers need to ensure Equivalent interstate PWCL are acceptable and
that they make all possible preparations for transferable to Queenslands PWCL.
extreme weather, cyclones and flooding. Restricted PWC Licence issued to children in
Dont leave preparations to the last minute. states such as New South Wales and Victoria
All boat owners are responsible for ensuring are not accepted or transferable to
that their boat is properly maintained, able to Queenslands PWCL.
46
Short-term visitors to Queensland can use injury to others. Consider the density of traffic in
their boat licence if that is all that is required to the area to determine a safe speed.
operate a PWC in their home state. When riding a PWC the following distances must
be maintained, or speed reduced to 6 knots
Personal watercraft registration (approx 11kph) within 60 metres from:
All PWCs must be registered and must display: people in the water
Registration symbols on both sides from anchored or moored boats, boat ramps,
Symbols which are at least 100mm high and in jetties or pontoons
a contrasting colour to the hull the shore
Symbols which are visible from 30 metres boundary of bathing reserve.
when the PWC is underway
Exceptions apply to 6 knots within 60 metres
Registration sticker on the port side adjacent
from the shore rule under the following
to the registration symbols
conditions:
Safety equipment for personal the waterway is less than 120 metres wide and
the PWC is navigated in as close as practicable
watercraft to a straight line to transit the area and the
See page 28 for safety equipment requirements. PWC stays as close as is practicable to the
It is recommended that PWCs operating in centre of the waterway or a marked channel
partially smooth and open waters also carry the PWC is being used in waterskiing/towing.
navigation equipment, anchoring, pumping/
bailing equipment and drinking water. PWCs must also remain under 10 knots within
30 metres of another moving vessel (unless the
PWC riders and passengers must wear PWC is in an approved aquatic event or where
a lifejacket at all times. See page 14 for compliance would endanger the operator or
information on lifejackets.
another person).
Navigation lights
PWCs travelling at night or at times of reduced
visibility must show navigation lights sidelights
and either an all-round white light or a stern and
masthead light.
Personal watercraft distance and speed

It is important you do not exceed set speed limits
for your safety and everyone else using the water. Consider the boat traffic in the area to
Do not travel at speeds where your wash can determine a safe speed and adjust accordingly.
cause damage to the shoreline, other boats or Ride responsibly.
BOAT & JET SKI

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ONLINE THEORY AND FACE TO FACE
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47
In coastal waters, freestyling or wave jumping is Rules on the water

not permitted when: Direction of travel - When skiing in lakes,
in any 6 knot zone including harbours, marinas rivers and creeks, boats should travel in
and speed zones as signed an anticlockwise pattern (see right). In a few
within 200 metres of the shore if dwellings are locations local customs and conditions may
within 100 metres of the shore line and those dictate the direction of travel. Always check
dwellings are visible to the PWC rider. before skiing.
Water sports
Queenslands waterways are shared by all types
of boats used for water sports, including those
that do not require registration. All boats are
subject to marine safety regulations.
Water skiing
Water skiing involves towing people behind a boat
on skis, bare feet, inflatable toys, boards and
parasailing. Skiing or towing on a personal watercraft -
When towing a skier on a PWC you must obey
The skipper of the boat or PWC is responsible for
personal watercraft rules. See page 32 for
the safety of others and must be appropriately
more information on PWC requirements.
licensed. They have a general safety obligation to:
make sure the boat is capable of towing skiers Prohibited areas - Water skiing is prohibited
in all 6 knot zones including harbours and
have the correct safety equipment for skiers
marinas, within 30 metres of people in the
and passengers
water, anchored boats, divers flags, jetties,
operate the boat as safely as possible and pontoons or boat ramps and within 60 metres
check the area is safe for skiing.
of people in the water if operating a PWC.
Observers Restricted areas Restricted areas are
You must not drive a boat towing a skier unless published on the Maritime Safety Queensland
there is another person, the observer, on board. website at www.msq.qld.gov.au and Gold
The observer must be more than 12 years old
Coast Waterways Authority website at
and competent to watch the skier at all times.
www.gcwa.qld.gov.au. Additionally, the Gold
They must immediately tell the skipper if:
and Sunshine Coasts have some designated
there is a danger, or potential for danger, to water ski areas and times for operation - These
the skier
are usually marked by signs.
the skier signals the observer
Water skiing is permitted in all other areas.
the skier has a fall or mishap However, it is the responsibility of the driver to
a vessel is approaching from behind ensure the area is safe and suitable for skiing.
Life jackets for skiers
When water skiing, the skier must wear a life
jacket at all times:
at least Level 50 or Level 50 S (special
purpose) or a wetsuit with inbuilt flotation
approved as a Level 50S in smooth water limits.
at least Level 50 in partially smooth water
limits.
It is compulsory for all children under 12 years,
in open boats under 4.8 metres whilst underway,
to wear an appropriately fitted life jacket at all
times.
See page 14 for information on lifejackets.
48
Water skiing safety tips

Check the depth and width of the waterway (to make turns safely) and look for any hazards in
the area to see if it is safe for skiing.
The tip of the ski must always be showing before the boat starts.
After a fall, a skier should always clasp hands over head if unhurt until seen by the observer
and boat driver.
No signal from a fallen skier calls for immediate action by the observer and skipper.
A fallen skier getting into a boat should leave their skis in the water and swim towards the boat.
The skipper should always stop the engine(s) before picking up the skiers in the water.
Skiers should enter a boat over the stern whenever possible.
Recognised water ski signals

The following signals are suggestions only. The observer and skiers should agree to the signals beforehand.
1 2 3
Start: Nod the head. Faster: Open palm facing up Slower: Open palm facing down
motion upwards or nod head if both motion downwards or shake head if
hands in use. both hands are in use.
4a 4b 5
Speed required: Use the number of fingers for km required. For example, 23 Speed OK: Arm upraised with thumb
first two fingers then three fingers. and forefinger making an O OK signal.
6 7 8
Turns: Palm vertical, curving motion Whip off: Point to direction and then Stop: Hand up with fingers outstretched.
of hand in direction required. give quick circular motions with hand.
9 10 11
Back to dock: Point with downward Cut motor: Finger drawn across OK after fall: Skier should clasp hands
swing of the arm. throat in cutting motion. over head if unhurt, until seen by the
boat driver.
49
Sail boats and sail boards Kitesurfing

Sail boats and boards are propelled by the wind, Kitesurfing involves a surfboard with 30 metres
requiring special skills to control direction and of line attached to a kite. The kite acts as a sail
speed. When learning to sail, choose a quiet area and propels the rider through the water. Kitesurfs
away from anchored boats and activity. work best in windy conditions and reach speeds
Like all other boat users, sailors have a up to 30 knots.
responsibility to take all action to avoid a collision Sailing rules apply to kitesurfers and other boats
and follow the rules. should give them a wide berth. If a kitesurfer
drops the kite, other boats should travel upwind
Rowing of the kitesurfer to avoid becoming tangled in the
Like canoes and kayaks, rowing boats are difficult line.
to see and can be swamped easily. Kitesurfers should stay at least 30 metres from
As a general rule, keep the starboard side close swimmers and boats.
to the shore of busy rivers. An all-round white
flashing light is recommended between sunset Tow-in surfing
and sunrise. (see also page on lighting) A code of conduct has been developed to
A code of conduct has been developed to promote the safety of tow-in surfing on the Gold
promote safety on the Brisbane River. All rowing Coast. The code provides guidance on a number
boats must be fitted with an all-round white of important safety aspects, including:
flashing light if they are on the river before general rules relating to proceeding at a safe
sunrise or after sunset. Download the code of speed, keeping a proper lookout and avoiding
conduct and the Brisbane RiverShare Pocket
collision
Guide from Maritime Safety Queenslands
website www.msq.qld.gov.au. specific rules of operation for personal
watercraft (PWC) in relation to speed and
Canoes, kayaks and surf skis distance off requirements
Canoes and kayaks create little or no noise and have a rules governing the operation of vessels in and
small profile on the water, often making them difficult near Gold Coast City Council bathing reserves
to see, and they often appear stationary. It is essential requirements to be met to qualify for the tow-in
to be seen all the time as speedboats and larger boats surfing observer exemption
can create wash capable of capsizing the boat. specific requirements for tow-in surfing
Travel close to banks to avoid high traffic areas. Where operations within Currumbin Alley and
possible travel in a group, keep the group together and Tallebudgera Creek mouth.
adopt a one/all stop attitude. Wear a lifejacket. Download the code of conduct from Maritime
Safety Queenslands website www.msq.qld.gov.au.
Divers flags
Divers can surface at any time,
sometimes a significant distance
Boating offshore
from where they enter the water. Boating in offshore waters brings with it a new
In the interest of diver safety, any range of safety risks which the skipper must be
boat is excluded from operating aware of. The most important thing is to have a
within 30 metres of a diver in the boat that can handle offshore conditions and is
water if a Code A flag is displayed capable of travelling extended distances in rough
(see above). It is legal for the boat tending the conditions. Dinghies are not suitable offshore
diver to operate within the 30 metres. craft.
Norman R. Wright & Sons

Boat builders and designers since 1909
Boats are our passion. 19 Byron St, Bulimba QLD 4171 P: 07 3399 3911
Weve been building them for over 105 years. E: info@wrightsons.com.au wrightsons.com.au
50
While conditions in the morning might look ideal, take a number of precautions and manoeuvre
these can change rapidly and become rough the boat with extreme caution.
and dangerous. Offshore boats should have an All bars are different. Local knowledge,
enclosed foredeck to prevent water coming on experience and the right kind of boat are critical
board, or if the craft is an open boat with centre when trying to cross a bar. Only experienced
console configuration, a self-draining deck. skippers should try to cross a coastal bar and,
Flotation is a must and many new boats will have even then, you should be very careful. You can
buoyancy built in and specified on the Australian learn about each bar by asking local boaters,
Builders Plate. However, the aim is to prevent volunteer marine rescue organisations or local
water coming on board, and if it does, to be able marine authorities who cross it regularly.
to escape as quickly as possible.
Its a good idea to radio the local marine rescue
Consider installing a second high volume bilge group for an update on bar conditions and advise
pump which will offload water quickly. Always them of your intended crossing and safe passing.
have at least two heavy-duty buckets ready for
use, as a bucket is an extremely efficient method
of bailing water. Boating on freshwater
Consider carrying two batteries, one for starting Queensland has many inland waterways ideal
and one for running accessories. This way you for fishing, boating and water sports. Operating
will always be able to start the motor. Make sure on freshwater lakes and dams, however, can be
they are marine batteries which can handle rough quite different to estuary boating.
conditions, have a high-cranking power and are
deep-cycle which means they can charge faster. Boat registration and licensing requirements are
the same for freshwater, inland waterways and
coastal waters.
Safety tips when boating offshore
Some freshwater impoundments and dams do
Keep a weather watch receive regular not allow some types of activities while other
weather updates for changes. have specific restrictions or permit requirements.
Keep a fuel watch ensure the boat is fully Petrol motors are not always permitted on some
fuelled before leaving the ramp or marina. dams for environmental reasons. Always check
Be aware that in rough weather more fuel the local waterway rules before you go.
will be used than on the outward trip.
Always have a reserve supply. Freshwater boating tips
Freshwater does not necessarily mean calm
water have your safety equipment on board
Bar crossings and be prepared for any conditions. Always
check the weather.
A bar is an accumulation of sand or silt at the
entrance of a river, creek, lake or harbour. Never Freshwater is less buoyant than salt water and
underestimate a coastal bar as conditions can the water temperature is usually colder. This
change quickly and without warning. increases the risk of cold water shock to the
body and reduces the ability to function - so
Designated coastal bars in Queensland include wear a lifejacket.
Currumbin Bar, Tallebudgera Bar, Jumpinpin Bar,
South Passage Bar, Caloundra Bar, Mooloolah If you are using an electric motor on your boat,
River mouth, Noosa Bar, Gold Coast Seaway, make sure the battery is fully charged before
Round Hill Creek, Wide Bay Bar. every trip and have a back-up.
If you are canoeing and kayaking, travel close
Bar crossing rules (under 4.8m) to the banks to avoid high traffic area and be
Everyone in open boats under 4.8 metres, while aware of wash from larger boats.
crossing a designated coastal bar, must be If you are boating, riding your PWC or water-
wearing a lifejacket. skiing, remember to consider other waterway
If you cross the bar without a lifejacket on, you users and be aware of your speed, wash and
cross the line! freshwater hazards.
Keep a proper lookout at all times.
Bar crossings can be dangerous - Heavy rain can cause strong currents and
Bar conditions can be steep and often breaking bring debris and flotsam to the waterway.
seas. Even small waves can capsize, swamp or - Drought can cause a big drop in the water
sink a boat. For these reasons it is important to level and expose submerged objects like old
51
fences, sticks, trees, rocks and sandbanks. Have secure bins or garbage bags to store
Slow down when boating close to shore and garbage on board until you return to shore.
avoid hitting underwater hazards. Use crockery or re-useable plates and cutlery.
- Rivers can have blind spots at river bends Make the effort to retrieve lost or damaged
or caused by land, tree and overhanging fishing gear.
branch obstructions.
If garbage does end up in the water, take the
Dont go alone and tell someone where you time to pick it up.
are. Freshwater areas can be remote and
miles wide with no quick access to shelter or Dont abandon crab pots, as floats and lines
assistance if you run into trouble. can entangle wildlife and foul boat propellers.
Paint scrapings and residues that enter the
water from hull maintenance activities are
Carbon monoxide classed as garbage pollution.
hazard Vessels 12 metres and over
All vessels measuring 12 metres or more are
Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas made by
required by law to display a placard with the
incomplete ignition or burning of carbon-based
following information.
fuels like petrol, propane, charcoal, wood and
oil. You cant smell it, see it or taste it, but it can
pose a real threat to the personal safety of those
on board your boat.
Carbon monoxide can accumulate anywhere
in and around your boat and in all weather
conditions. Sources of carbon monoxide on
your boat include engines, gas cooking ranges
and gas and water heaters. Boats with partially-
enclosed cabins, wheelhouses or passenger
accommodation are at higher risk. It can also
collect in area near the exhaust outlets at the
stern of the boat.
Fitting and maintain carbon monoxide detectors
and alarms is a good way to minimise the risks of
carbon monoxide poisoning. High concentrations Garbage management plans
of carbon monoxide can be fatal in minutes. If Garbage management plans are required for
poisoning is suspected move to fresh air and vessels of 100 gross tons and above (generally
seek medical advice immediately. vessels of 12 metres or more) or with the
capacity to carry 15 or more persons.
If you have enclosed spaces whether temporary
or permanent on board your boat ensure you This is an international requirement arising from
understand the risks and have safety the International Convention for the Prevention
procedures in place. More information on carbon of Pollution from Ships, which is given effect in
monoxide and boats is available at commonwealth and state/territory legislation.
www.qld.gov.au/transport/boating. For more information visit Maritime Safety
Queenslands website www.msq.qld.gov.au.
Pollution Fuels, oils and chemicals

Whether your boat is large or small, it is an Most oil and chemical pollution results from
offence to deliberately discharge pollutants into activities such as refuelling, boat maintenance
Queensland coastal waters. and bilge discharges. Reduce oil and chemicals
entering our waterways:
Garbage requirements Do not overfill your tank.
Garbage is hazardous to marine life and all
users of our waterways. All skippers and PWC Watch the breathers for signs of blow-back or
riders need to manage the use and disposal of overflow.
all garbage generated on board correctly. Play Ensure your bilges are clean before
your part: discharging them.
Dont throw anything overboard. Use phosphate free biodegradable detergents.
52
Carry absorbent material on board to clean up wharf or jetty other than a jetty that is a marina
any accidental spills. (b) within 1852m (1 nM) of
Repair oil and fuel leaks when first noticed.
aquaculture fisheries resources
If you accidentally spill oil or chemicals into the
water, or see a spill, do your bit for the marine if a vessel has 715 people on board: a reef,
environment and contact your local harbour or the mean low water mark of an island or
master, marina manager or Port Authority, so
the mainland.
it can be contained and cleaned up as soon as
possible. Note: If you have 16 or more persons on board,
the discharge of untreated sewage is not
Sewage permitted anywhere in Queensland coastal
The discharge of sewage into the marine waters.
environment poses serious health and
environmental issues. To reduce the impacts Treated sewage
associated with vessel sourced sewage Treated sewage is sewage that has passed
prohibitions and restrictions are in place for the through an on board sewage treatment system
discharge of sewage.
and is categorised as either grade A, B or C
Untreated sewage depending on the level of treatment it has
Untreated sewage is sewage that has not passed
received.
through an on-board sewage treatment system.
In areas where the discharge of untreated All treated sewage is prohibited from being
sewage is allowed, the effluent must pass discharged in prohibited discharge waters such
through a macerator before being discharged, in as canals, marinas, boat harbours, the Noosa
order to assist with dispersion and improve visual River and designated areas of state marine
amenity for all waterways users.
parks.
Note: Macerated sewage is not classed as
treated sewage. Macerated sewage is untreated Additionally, the following types of treated sewage
sewage. have the following restrictions on discharge:
Untreated sewage is prohibited from being Grade A treated sewage (highest level of
discharged in the following areas: treatment) No further restrictions.
Prohibited discharge waters these are
Grade B treated sewage (moderate level of
canals, marinas, boat harbours, the Noosa
River and designated areas of state marine treatment) Nil discharge in Hervey Bay
parks. waters, Northern Moreton Bay waters, open
Smooth waters these are the designated waters and smooth waters within 700m of a
smooth water limits. See page xx for more person in the water, an aquaculture fisheries
information on smooth waters. resource and a reef.
Hervey Bay and Northern Moreton Bay waters Grade C treated sewage (lowest treatment)
within 1852m (1 nM) of reefs, for example Nil discharge in Hervey Bay waters, Northern
oyster lease or fish farm, the mean low water
Moreton Bay waters, open waters and smooth
mark of the mainland, or if the ship is a
declared ship, all Hervey Bay and Northern waters within 926m ( nM) of a person in the
Moreton Bay waters. (A declared ship is a Class water, an aquaculture fisheries resource and a
1 commercial passenger-carrying vessel with a reef.
fixed toilet).
For more information visit Maritime Safety
Open waters (a) within 926m ( nM) of a Queenslands website www.msq.qld.gov.au.
53
Marine Parks in Queensland
Marine Parks in Marine parks zoning

Marine parks are divided into zones that help
Queensland keep the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage
Area healthy, productive and flourishing.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Seven colour-coded zones guide where and
coastal Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park how different activities can occur (see GBRMP
together make one of the worlds most beautiful Zoning table on page 56).
and richly diverse marine ecosystems, lying right There is no fishing allowed in Green Zones. In a
next to our coastline and stretching from the top Yellow Zone you can only fish with one line with
of Cape York south to Bundaberg. one hook per person (except when trolling). All
The marine parks are multiple-use areas zoning rules are outlined in free zoning maps
supporting a range of activities including available from bait and tackle shops, boating
commercial and recreational fishing, boating, stores and tourist information centres along
tourism and shipping. the Great Barrier Reef coast.
Although some areas do not allow fishing, Research shows fish eggs carried on currents
there is no shortage of areas to wet a line, with from parents that live in protected green zones
almost 70 per cent of the marine parks open to play an important role in sustaining populations
recreational fishing. of fish such as coral trout in areas open to
fishing. So taking those important breeders
impacts on everyone. It is very important to
help protect green zones by not fishing in them
and reporting those who do. You can free call
to report marine park offences to the Great
Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA)
on 1800 341 211 (24hr).
Fishing in green zones is treated very seriously
by the GBRMPA. Dont risk a large fine. Know
your zones and where you are when out on the
water.
54
If youre planning a day out in the marine

parks, there are simple things you can do to
have a great time and help protect the area
for the future.
Pick up a free zoning map for the area you
are visiting so you know where you can go
and what you can do
When out on the water, keep your eye on
your GPS and use your zoning map to help
you locate where you are so you fish in the
right area
Take all your rubbish home including line,
tackle and bait bags
Anchor in sand or mud away from corals.
Visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au to download zoning
maps and find more tips on how you can help
protect the Reef.
55
All About Boat & Jet Ski Licences

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Brisbane - Logan - Ipswich - Redland - Scenic Rim - Gold Coast
Phone: (07) 3287 6262 Mobile: 0418 159 162
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LARGE RANGE OF USED PROPS STARTER MOTORS, FLYWHEELS, Getting You Back On The Water Fast!!
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PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP FACILITIES WITH QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS. Phone: 07 4774 8330 www.nqoutboards.com
56
Know your zones in Moreton Bay Penalties apply:

Marine Park On-the-spot fines can be issued
Moreton Bay Marine Park supports more than
1000 species of marine wildlife including fish,
marine turtles, humpback whales, dolphins Conservation park (yellow) zone
and several threated species such as grey These zones are
nurse sharks and dugong. Covering 3400 areas of high
Boating 3
square kilometres (km2)stretching 125km conservation value
from Caloundra to the Gold Coastthe park is Diving 3
for habitat and
a hot spot for fishers and boaties in South East wildlife that also
Queensland. Line fishing 32
allow for limited
To effectively manage various activities in the recreational and
marine park, and protect the parks unique commercial uses Trolling 32
biodiversity, it has been divided into zones, which such as fishing
restrict some activities. and crabbing.
The main areas of concern for anglers are
Crabbing 33
national park (green) zones, which prohibit all
extractive uses including fishing and collecting.
Bait gathering 3
In go slow areas, vessels must operate off-the- Bait netting
plane to help protect turtles and dugong from 3
boat strike, and to avoid damaging vulnerable Netting (other than
habitats. bait netting 81
Penalties apply so familiarise yourself with zone
restrictions. Limited spearfishing 3
Marine national park (green) zone Limited collecting 34
Like a national
park in the water,
Boating 3 Trawling 81
these areas are 1
All equipment to conduct this activity must
no take areas of
Diving 3 be stowed or secured in board the vessel and
high conservation completely out of the water.
value. Anyone Line fishing 81 2
A maximum of two lines and a total of two
can enter and hooks per angler.
undertake Trolling 81 3
Maximum of four crab pots per person.
activities such
as boating, Crabbing
4
No coral or protected species (except under a
snorkelling and
81 permit). Limits apply to species and equipment
sailing. used.
Bait gathering 81
Green zones
provide the Bait netting 81
greatest level of
protection in the Netting (other than
marine park. All bait netting 81
forms of take
(fishing, collecting Limited spearfishing 81
or extracting) are
prohibited. Limited collecting 8
Trawling 81
1
All equipment to conduct this activity must
be stowed or secured in board the vessel and
completely out of the water.
57
Visit www.npsr.qld.gov.au and search Moreton

Habitat protection (dark blue) zone
Bay, for detailed zoning maps and other useful
Protect sensitive
habitats by
Boating 3 information.
keeping them
generally free
Diving 3 Artificial reefs
from potentially There are artificial reefs in Moreton Bay Marine
damaging Line fishing 3 Park that sustain a diversity of fish species and
activities. No have been designed to benefit a range of fishing
trawling is allowed Trolling 3 techniquesincluding spearfishing, bottom fishing
in these zones. and game fishing for pelagic species. These areas
Crabbing 3 make for some exciting fishing:
Harry Atkinson Artificial Reef7km east-south-
Bait gathering 3 east of St Helena Island
West Peel Artificial Reefwest of Peel Island and
Bait netting 3 north-east of Cleveland Point
Netting (other than East Coochie Artificial Reefeast of
bait netting 3 Coochiemudlo Island
Limited spearfishing 3 Wild Banks Artificial Reefeast of the Wild
Banks, which are east of Bribie Island
Limited collecting 34 North Moreton Artificial Reefnorth of Moreton
Island
Trawling 81 South Stradbroke Artificial Reefeast of South
1
All equipment to conduct this activity must Stradbroke Island, approximately 3km north of
be stowed or secured in board the vessel and the Gold Coast seaway.
completely out of the water. Visit www.npsr.qld.gov.au for detailed location
4
No coral or protected species (except under a maps and activities on offer at each reef.
permit). Limits apply to species and equipment used.
General use (light blue) zone Fish habitat areas

Declared fish habitat areas (FHAs) protect key
Boating 3 areas of inshore and estuarine fish habitats (e.g.
vegetation, sand bars and rocky headlands) along
Diving 3 the Queensland coast from development impacts.
Habitat protection is critical to ensure fishing for
Line fishing 3 the future.
FHAs are open to:
Trolling 3 fishing (legal recreational, commercial and
traditional)
Crabbing 3
boating, swimming, walking and other
Bait gathering 3 recreational activities
collecting bait (except with a digging implement).
Bait netting 3 Approvals may be required for specific types of
works within a declared FHA. Check with Fisheries
Netting (other than
bait netting 3 Queensland before you:
undertake any construction, digging or
Limited spearfishing 3 maintenance works
undertake any sampling or surveying
Limited collecting 34
remove weeds, using a pesticide or engage in
Trawling 3 biological control of a pest.
4
No coral or protected species (except under a For more information about FHAs visit
permit). Limits apply to species and equipment used. www.npsr.qld.gov.au.
58
Artificial reefs locality map

Moreton Bay Marine Park
1530'E 15315'E 15330'E
Caloundra
Pumicestone Channel
CPZ01 Wild Banks

Artificial Reef
MNP01
No
rth
North Moreton
We
MNP02 Bribie MNP03
st
Island (NP) Artificial Reef CPZ03
Ch
Wild Banks Flinders MNP04
an
Reef
ne
270'S
270'S
l
MNP05
CPZ04
Pumicestone Channel
MNP06
MNP07 MNP08
Bulwer
CPZ02
Moreton
Island (NP)
MNP09
Cowan Cowan
MNP10
Deception Moreton Bay Moorgumpin
Bay
Quandamooka
CPZ05 Tangalooma
Turner
Artificial Reef
Redcliffe
MNP11
2715'S
2715'S
Hays Inlet MNP12
CPZ06
Bramble
Bay
MNP15
MNP13 Mud Island MNP14
MNP16
MNP17 Moreton
South Passage MNP19
Harry Atkinson Banks
State of Queensland. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing. MA707 August 2015
CPZ07
Artificial Reef MNP18
Amity
Brisbane St Helena Island (NP)
MNP21 MNP20 Point
Scale River
0 5 10 15 20 km Amity Banks North Lookout
Brisbane Waterloo
Manly Bay
MNP22 Stradbroke
West Peel MNP23
Artificial Reef Island
2730'S
2730'S
Legend Raby Bay Dunwich
CPZ09
CPZ08 Minjerribah
Marine park outer boundary Cleveland Peel Island
Teerk Roo Ra (NP)
MNP24
Artificial reef special activity area Coochiemudlo East Coochie
Island Artificial Reef
Turner Artificial Reef area
Macleay MNP26 MNP25
Island MNP27
General use zone (GUZ)
Habitat protection zone (HPZ)

MNP29
Conservation park zone (CPZ) Russell
MNP28
Island
Marine national park zone (MNP) Logan
MNP31 CPZ10
River MNP30 Swan Bay
Jumpinpin
2745'S
2745'S
Disclaimer
The maps contained within this product are not to be used for navigation. For navigation, refer to Jacobs Well
official nautical charts published by maritime agencies. MNP32
While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of this product, the Department of National Parks,
Sport and Racing makes no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, MNP33 South
completeness or suitability for any particular purpose. Stradbroke
The Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing disclaims all responsibility and all liability Island
Hope
(including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages (including
indirect or consequential damage) and costs which might be incurred as a result of the product Island South Stradbroke
being inaccurate or incomplete in any way and for any reason. Artificial Reef
Hydrographic and maritime information is the copyright of the State of Queensland and is used
Runaway
MNP34 Bay
under licence with the permission of Maritime Safety Queensland. All rights reserved.
Gold Coast Seaway
1530'E 15315'E 15330'E
59
Great Sandy Marine Park Conservation, along with the reasonable use of
The Department of National Parks, Sport and significant marine natural resources, is achieved
Racings (NPSR) Queensland Parks and Wildlife through a zoning plan consisting of five zones, eight
Service (QPWS) manages the Great Sandy designated areas, and a system of regulations and
Marine Park. permits. The zones range from no-take marine
national park zones (green zones) to general use
The marine park offers a wide range of recreational, zones (light blue zones).
research and commercial opportunities. Its tidal
lands and marine waters form a transition zone For more information about the location of zones
between tropical and temperate waters, where throughout the Great Sandy Marine Park visit the
changing water temperatures drive unique and NPSR website www.npsr.qld.gov.au.
dynamic life cycles and influence marine habitats,
communities and wildlife.
60
Fishing in Queensland
conserve heavily exploited species

Fishing in Queensland conserve species that are susceptible to capture
share the catch more equitably among anglers
Recreational fishing reduce illegal marketing of fish
rules for Queensland promote ethical and responsible behaviour
A brief guide when using a limited natural resource.
Recreational fishing in Handy hint
Queensland waters Fish ID
Recreational fishing is a favourite pastime for You should carry a good fish identification guide
many Queenslanders. However, we all have when fishing. Guides can be purchased from
a part to play in ensuring current and future most bait and tackle stores. Remember, fish that
generations are able to enjoy the pleasures of look similar may in fact be different species with
recreational fishing and abundant seafood that different size and possession limits.
are hallmarks of the Queensland lifestyle.
Fisheries Queensland manages the states Check your limits
fishing resources through management For a complete list of size and possession limits,
arrangements that protect valuable fish stocks, see the back section of this guide.
surveillance of Queenslands fishing waters, the All information in this guide is correct at time of
enforcement of fishing and boating safety laws, printing. For the most up-to-date information and
and by educating and informing Queenslanders changes to regulations, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
about responsible fishing.
Fishers should consult the Fisheries Regulation Measuring
2008 for the latest recreational fishing rules or Measuring fin fish
visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au Fin fish are measured from the tip of their
Recreational fishers should also be aware that snout to the end of their tail (see Handy hint
other local, state and federal regulations may below).
applyyou will need to check with the relevant What if you catch an undersized fish?
authorities. If you unintentionally take a fish (including fin fish
or crustaceans) that is not legal size, return it to the
Size and possession limits water immediately, taking as much care as possible
Why do we have size limits? to avoid causing any injury to the fish.
In Queensland, there are limits on the size
(length) of fish that can be legally taken for many Handy hint
species. There are minimum size limits and also Measuring device
some maximum size limits. Use a sturdy ruler with an end stop to measure
Size limits are typically, though not always, the length of catch. Adhesive or stick-on devices
based on biological research into each species can be unreliable and shrink when exposed to
reproductive cycles. Minimum size limits generally the weather.
allow fish to spawn at least once and contribute to For an instructional video on measuring fish
the population before they are taken. correctly, check out www.youtube.com/fisheriesqld
However, in some species larger individuals
contribute more to the population, which is why
some maximum size limits apply. For example,
most barramundi begin their lives as males and
later, as they grow larger, become females. A
maximum size limit is applied to protect large
females and to allow them to spawn.
Why do we have possession limits?
A possession limit is the total number of fish
that one person can legally take and keep at any
one time it does not apply on a per day basis.
It includes the fish you have caught previously,
for example, previous catches in your freezer at Measuring crabs
home. These limits aim to: For guidelines on how to measure crabs see page 76.
61
Catch and release Cut the line when its not possible to remove
You should always be prepared to release part of the hook without harming the fish, cut the line
your catch to comply with Queenslands size and as close to the hook as possible. Only leave
possession limits and fishing closure rules, and to a small piece of line on the hook as this may
ensure the sustainability of our fish species. progress through the fishs digestive system.
Research has found that cutting the line greatly
Releasing undersized or no take species should increases the survival of deeply hooked fish. Its
be done carefully to ensure the fish has the best a good idea to use degradable hooks and line
chance of survival. The survival of fish depends
when catching and releasing.
on factors such as the length of the fight, where
the fish is hooked, and how the fish is handled Do not touch the gills dont handle fish
and released. Stressed fish become exhausted by placing your fingers in the gill slits. Fish gill
quickly and have less chance of surviving when filaments are very sensitive and can easily be
released. injured. Fish should be handled by cradling the
To give the fish you release the best chance of survival: fish near the head and tail if possible, or by
gently holding the fish near the mid-section.
Use barbless hooks or circle hooks. - Barbless
hooks make the quick removal of the hook from Releasing the fish hold the fish upright
the fish much easier and reduce the risk of underwater into the current or, if there is no
hooking injuries to the angler. Pinching down current, by swimming it around until it swims off
the barb with needle-nose pliers works well. on its own.
Circle hooks reduce the risk of hooking fish Taking photos if youre going to take photos
deeply and usually jaw hook fish. with your fish before release, support the fish
Play the fish quickly try to catch your fish properly and do it as quickly as possible. Do not
as quickly as possible and dont play the fish delay the return of the fish to the water. The
to exhaustion. Long, drawn out fights are likely to longer the fish is out of the water, the greater
result in the fish dying when released, due to the stress and damage the fish can suffer. For
stress and build-up of lactic acid in its body. If it protected species, fish must be returned to the
takes a long time to land the fish, your drag may water immediately unharmed.
be set too loosely or your gear may be too light For an instructional video on fish handling
for the fish youre catching. Use appropriate gear methods, check out www.youtube.com/fisheriesqld
for your target fish.
Use a landing net using a fine-mesh landing Sustaining our fisheries
net may help in reducing the amount of time Fisheries monitoring and research
required to land a fish, and keep it from thrashing The future of our fisheries relies on our resources
about in shallow water or on the shore. being used in a sustainable way. This requires keeping
Keep the fish in the water the longer a fish is a close eye on fish stocks and the performance of
held out of water the greater the chance of it management arrangements for each fishery.
being injured. Its best to remove the hook from
Stock status
a fish you intend to release without taking it out
In 2014 Fisheries Queensland committed to the
of the water, or at least reduce the amount of
National Status of Key Australian Fish Stocks
time a fish is held out of water. If you must
(SAFS) process. SAFS aims to bring together
remove the fish from the water, do it as gently as
biological, catch and effort data to determine
possible. Dont hold up large fish by the line, jaw
or gills as this can cause fatal injuries. For small the status of key fish stock against a nationally
to medium sized fish, place your hand flat and lift agreed reporting framework. This process
the fish out of the water by its side. provides advice to policy makers, industry and
the general public on the sustainability of the fish
Wet your hands wet your hands, your net and stocks assessed.
other materials that may come in contact with
the fish. This reduces the removal of mucus on The status of fish stocks across Australia are
the fish and lessens the possibility of bacterial compiled and can be found at: www.fish.gov.au
infection. Get involved in fisheries monitoring
Remove hooks quickly hooks should be If you enjoy recreational fishing, you can get
removed from the fish as quickly as possible. involved in a Fisheries Queensland volunteer
Long-nose pliers are an essential tool for quickly monitoring program. You can help ensure a
removing hooks and wire cutters can also help sustainable future for our fisheries by providing
with hook removal. valuable monitoring information.
62
Get outside and enjoy
the great outdoors
Seqwater is responsible for the management of recreation at major water storages

in South East Queensland. Fishing and boating are permitted at the following sites:
Lake Fishing Boating

Atkinson Yes All types
Baroon Yes Electric/non-powered and paddle craft
Borumba Yes* All types
Clarendon Yes Paddle craft only
Cooloolabin Yes No boating (shore-based fishing only)
Dyer (Bill Gunn) Yes* All types
Enoggera Yes Paddle craft only
Ewen Maddock Yes Paddle craft only
Hinze (Advancetown) Yes* Electric/non-powered and paddle craft
Kurwongbah Yes Fuel-powered (club only), paddle craft
Macdonald Yes* Electric/non-powered and paddle craft
Manchester Yes Paddle craft only
Maroon Yes* All types
Fuel-powered (6 knot speed limit in some parts),
Moogerah Yes*
electric/non-powered and paddle craft
Samsonvale (North Pine) Yes* Club-access only - electric/non-powered and paddle craft
Fuel-powered (6 knot speed limit in some parts),
Somerset Yes*
Fuel-powered (low emission, 8 knot max speed),
Wivenhoe Yes*
Wyaralong Yes Electric/non-powered and paddle craft
* A permit is required to fish at these dams. For more information visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.
Phone 1800 SEQWATER

For more information visit our website www.seqwater.com.au
The status of our recreation sites regularly change due to weather events, seasonal cycles and other events such as
planned burns. Always check our recreation and safety notices at www.seqwater.com.au before heading out and
remember to play it safe.
Visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au to learn more boating safety laws, surveillance and providing
about: educational resources.
the Keen Angler Program donate your fish A list of QBFP offices is provided in the front of
frames to science this guide.
local boat ramp and fishing surveys let our Illegal sales
scientific staff measure your catch Recreational fishing is for personal enjoyment and
fishing surveys if you get a call, let us know consumption. Taking fish to sell is illegal without an
your fishing habits. appropriate licence. Illegal marketing of fish poses
a threat to the legitimate seafood market and can
Handy hint pose a threat to food safety.
Take only what you need Reporting illegal fishing activities
While possession limits must not be exceeded, To report suspected illegal fishing activities in
Fisheries Queensland recommends taking only Queensland call the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on
what you need to help ensure the sustainability 1800 017 116 (free call within Queensland).
of Queenslands fisheries.
If you see, or have any information on fishing
Tagged fish activities you suspect are unlawful:
Research projects involving the tagging of fish record the date, time and area where the
are often conducted throughout Queensland activity occurs
by scientists at universities, state and federal record any vehicle registration numbers and a
agencies, and community groups to improve our description of any vehicles involved
understanding of fish movement, growth and
record any boat registration numbers and a
survival rates.
description of any vessels involved
If you want to get involved in a fish tagging
if you know the person or persons involved, give
project contact:
their details as well
Suntag
give an accurate description of the activity
1800 077 001 (toll-free).
involved, e.g. setting large numbers of crab pots,
You can keep a tagged fish if it is within the size netting the local creek at low tides
and possession limits. If you catch a tagged
ring the Fishwatch hotline as soon as possible to
fish and decide to release it, please phone the
pass on this information.
number on the tag or the toll-free number above
with the following information: It is important you do not engage with the
person/s, as this can compromise an investigation.
the tag number (if the fish has two tags, record
both tag details) A Fishwatch online report form is also available
the date and place of capture at www.facebook.com/FisheriesQueensland.
Reports lodged via the form are processed during
the fork and/or total length
business hours only. For immediate action, call
details of where the fish was released. the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.
Alternatively, if you keep the fish you can phone Reporting lost and found gear
the number on the tag with the information or Interfering with fishing equipment that isnt yours
post the tag and the information to the tagging is illegal. If you find commercial fishing or shark
coordinator. control equipment on local beaches, report it so it
can be returned to its owner. To report found shark
If the tag has Keep Frame on it, fisheries control equipment, call the Shark Hotline on
officers may wish to examine the fish. If you 1800 806 891, and to report commercial fishing
keep the fish (rather than releasing it), please gear, call the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.
freeze the fish frame and contact the tagging
coordinator on the toll-free number or your local Handy hint
QBFP office to arrange for collection.
Shark hotline
If you notice that an animal has been entangled
Compliance in shark control equipment, contact the 24-hour
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol Shark Hotline on 1800 806 891 (free call within
(QBFP) is responsible for enforcing fishing and Queensland).
64
Miscellaneous prohibitions Fishing ethics

The following activities are illegal Code of practice
throughout Queensland: Fisheries Queensland supports
jagging or foul-hooking fish fishing responsibly, sustainably
using explosives, poisons or and in a way that respects the
electrical devices to take fish environment and the rights of
(divers may use a powerhead others. Approximately 642,000 We Can Assist
on a spear gun only in defence Queenslanders go fishing each year
You With...
against sharks) and it is vitally important that we
Commercial and Recreational
Vessel Surveying
interfering with authorised look after our fisheries for future Vessel Pre Purchase Reports
aquaculture activities generations. This is why a national Insurance Condition Reports
obstructing lawful netting code of practice for recreational Vessel Valuations Customs,
Insurance, Taxation etc
operations, damaging or fishers was developed by Recfish Project Management
interfering with fishing Australia. and Consultancy
apparatus (including removing Vessel Maintenance
fish from the apparatus) The code addresses four main and Scheduling
areas: Safety Management
possessing or carrying Systems SMS
prohibited apparatus in closed treating fish humanely Vessel Operation Manuals
waters unless the apparatus is looking after our fisheries Skippering, Navigation
and Voyage Planning
dismantled, stowed and secured Services and Tuition
protecting the environment
removing, damaging or
interfering with markers or signs respecting the rights of others.
erected under the authority of For more information visit
fisheries legislation www.daf.qld.gov.au
using underwater breathing
apparatus (other than a snorkel) Responsible disposal of rubbish
to take fish Everyday items such as cigarette
butts, plastic bags, bottles, cans
using fishing apparatus,
including nets, across a and discarded fishing gear are
common causes of marine pollution
Upgrading
waterway or navigation channel
in a way that makes more than and impact marine ecosystems. your Boat?
half of its width impassable to a Always ensure you dispose of litter
boat or fish. responsibly. QLDs best
range of
quality used:
Runabouts
Half cabins
Tiller steer
Bowriders
Fishing boats
Centre consoles
Side consoles
All pre-tested
& warranted
and all online
Ph 3890 2322
www.johncrawfordmarine.com.au
65
Fresh waters a scoop or dip net (cast nets and bait nets
cannot be used).
No take species
Fishing lines
A person must not use a set line as a cross-line or
use more than six fishing lines. Only one hook or an
artificial fly or lure can be attached to a fishing line.
Fishers must be no more than 50 m from any of
Australian lungfish their fishing lines.
Bloomfield River cod
River blackfish
Scoop or dip nets

A scoop or dip net must not exceed 1 m in any
dimension, with a handle no longer than 2.5 m and
a mesh size of no more than 25 mm.
Spiny crayfish
Freshwater sawfish, cling goby and Edgbaston
hardyhead are also no take species.
Freshwater fishing gear

Why are there restrictions on fishing gear?
A number of restrictions apply to fishing gear in
Queensland to protect fish stocks from overfishing.
General conditions
While fishing in fresh water, a person must not use Canister traps
at one time more than four freshwater traps in any A canister trap must be no longer than 60 cm and
combination. No age limit applies to people using no more than 50 cm in width, height or diameter.
freshwater fishing gear. The trap must be open at one end. The width,
In freshwater areas, fish may only be caught using: height or diameter of the trapmeasured anywhere
a fishing line that consists of a handheld line along its lengthmust not be more than the width,
with or without a pole, reel or rod height or diameter of the traps open end. If the trap
a trap that can be a canister trap, collapsible does not have a mesh made of rigid material, the
trap, dilly net, funnel trap or round trap size of the mesh must be no more than 25 mm.
66
Collapsible traps
A collapsible trap must be made of rigid material Open top pyramid traps
with one or more collapsible sides. Open top pyramid traps can be used in all
Queensland freshwater areas provided they have:
a single, rigid top opening, with a minimum
size of 15 cm in all its dimensions, parallel to
the base of the trap
a mesh size of no more than 25 mm
a maximum base size of 60 cm in length and
width
Dilly nets
A dilly net must have a diameter of no more than
125 cm and a mesh size of no more than 25 mm.
Handy hint
Check your traps
Traps should be checked regularly to improve the
quality of your catch and ensure any non-target
Funnel traps and round traps species (such as freshwater turtles) that are
The use of certain funnel and round traps is accidentally caught can be released safely.
prohibited outside of some listed impoundments
Prohibited fishing gear
(see www.fisheries.qld.gov.au). This means that: All other forms of fishing apparatus other
funnel traps and round traps with a rigid opening than those mentioned on page 66 and 67 are
size of up to 5 cm maximum in all its dimensions prohibited, including:
can be used in all Queensland non-tidal waters setlines
floatlines
funnel traps and round traps within a rigid
all forms of nets (except landing nets, scoop or
opening size between 5 cm and 10 cm can only
dip nets, and dilly nets)
be used in listed impoundments east of a line
fish traps
following the Great Dividing Range and east of
drum nets
the Gore Highway (A39) or in non-tidal waters
west of the aforementioned boundary. cross-lines
67
spears and spear guns (spearfishing is prohibited Freshwater prawn or shrimp (Macrobrachium
in all fresh waters). A spear gun includes a bow australiensis) are found throughout Queensland
for propelling a spear and can be used as bait in all areas of the state.
cast nets. Yabby or blueclaw crayfish (Cherax destructor)
Marking traps are found naturally in the MurrayDarling, Lake
All freshwater traps must have a tag on the trap Eyre and BullooBancannia drainage divisions,
showing the owners surname and address. If a and some river basins in the East Coast Drainage
trap is not fixed to something stationary (i.e. a Division. Yabbies can be used as bait only in
branch or boat) above the surface of the water, these areas.
it must have a solid light-coloured float attached
that is at least 15 cm in all its dimensions and Freshwater closed seasons
marked with the owners surname. Why do we have closed seasons?
Closed seasons (regulated periods) prevent people
Interfering with gear you didnt set from taking particular species at certain times of the
Interfering with fresh water gear that you didnt set year. This protects these species at vulnerable times
is a serious offence which carries heavy penalties. in their life cycle, such as during spawning seasons.
Bait Barramundi
Any fish caught to be used as bait must comply Throughout the Queensland east coast, a closed
with all recreational fishing regulations (such as season applies to barramundi from midday 1
size and possession limits, and closed seasons). November to midday 1 February, except in and from
No take species cannot be used as bait. Any fish waterways upstream of Aplins Weir (also includes
that are not native to the area (non-indigenous Black Weir and Gleeson Weir), Awoonga, Ben
and noxioussee page 69 of this guide) must not Anderson Barrage (also includes Paradise Dam,
be put back in the water even as bait. Claude Wharton Weir and Jones Weir), Burdekin
Falls, Callide, Eungella, Fairbairn, Fred Haigh (Lake
Monduran), Kinchant, Koombooloomba, Lake
Handy hint
Gregory (Isis Balancing Storage), Copperlode Falls
Catch local bait (Lake Morris), Lenthalls, Peter Faust, Teemburra,
The easiest way to prevent movement of fish Tinaroo and Wuruma Dams.
species is to catch your bait at the location where
you are fishing. But remember, any noxious or non- The dates for the Gulf of Carpentaria closed season
indigenous fish are not to be put back into the water for barramundi are midday 7 October to midday
or used as bait, even if caught at that location. 1 February (but possession on boats allowed to
midday 17 October).
Using marine baits in freshwaters These closures do no apply in East Leichhart
The use of baits from the marine (saltwater) Dam and Belmore, Corella, Fred Tritton, Julius and
environment is prohibited unless the bait has Moondarra Lakes, and to waterways upstream of
been frozen, cooked or preserved. This is to these impoundments.
prevent the spread of disease and parasites in A possession limit of one barramundi applies
Queenslands freshwater systems, and to protect during the closed season in all of the 19 lakes and
native fish populations and the future viability of dams mentioned above. The barramundi may be
freshwater fish stocking programs. greater than 120 cm. Recreational fishers may
continue to fish in the 19 dams and lakes once
Freshwater bait
they have reached their limit of one barramundi.
The use of fish and crustaceans such as spangled
perch, redclaw, yabbies (blueclaw) as bait (dead Outside of the closed season, in the 19 dams and
or alive) is prohibited outside their natural lakes mentioned previously, a possession limit of
environment or range. This is to prevent species five applies to barramundi (can include one greater
from becoming established in foreign habitats and than 120 cm).
causing environmental damage. It is prohibited to deliberately target barramundi
Natural ranges for some commonly used live bait outside of the dams listed above for catch and release
species are listed below: during these closed seasons, as the stress of capture
Redclaw (Cherax quadricarinatus) are native to may prevent a fish from spawning. Barramundi
the Gulf of Carpentaria Drainage Division and caught accidentally during the closed season must be
some river basins in the far northern portion of immediately returned to the water unharmed.
the East Coast Drainage Division. Redclaw can Mary River cod
be used as bait only in these areas. A spawning season closure from 1 September
68
to 30 November applies to all non-tidal waters, Crosby Weir; and from 100 m upstream to 600 m
including stocked impoundments. At all other times, downstream of the Wivenhoe Dam wall.
Mary River cod is a no take species in all waters Burdekin River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
except the impounded waters of Cressbrook, Hinze, downstream of Clare Weir.
Maroon, Moogerah, North Pine, Somerset and
Wivenhoe Dams, and lakes Dyer (Bill Gunn dam) Burnett Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
and Clarendon. downstream of the Maroon Dam wall.
Murray cod Burnett River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
A spawning season closure applies to all downstream of Burnett Barrage; from 100 m
Queensland waters contained in the Murray upstream to 200 m downstream of the Kirar Weir;
Darling Drainage Division from 1 September to Ned Churchward (Walla) Weir, Claude Wharton Weir
30 November. An exception to this closed season and the Paradise Dam wall.
applies to Beardmore Dam, Beehive Dam, Connolly Condamine River: from 100 m upstream to
Dam, Cooby Dam, Coolmunda Dam, Glenlyon Dam, 200 m downstream of Chinchilla Weir; Loudon
Leslie Dam and Storm King Dam. Weir, Lemon Tree Weir, Yarramalong Weir, Cecil
Plains Weir and from 270224 S 1495712 E
Freshwater closed waters (approximately 14 km upstream of Reillys Weir) to
Why do we have closed waters? 200 m downstream of Reillys Weir.
Closed waters (regulated waters) prevent people
from fishing in certain areas and these may be: Dawson River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
downstream of the Glebe Weir; Gyranda Weir,
where a population of endangered or threatened Orange Creek Weir, Theodore Weir, Moura Weir and
species lives
Neville Hewitt Weir
where fish congregate during or before spawning
Dogwood Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
where fish may aggregate or get trapped near downstream of Gil Weir.
artificial barriers and be susceptible to overfishing
Dumaresq River: from Bonshaw Weir to 100 m
to separate incompatible uses (e.g. fishing from downstream of Bonshaw Weir.
a bathing area)
Fitzroy River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
to enable successful migration of fish through downstream of the Fitzroy River Barrage; and from
fishways. 100 m upstream to 200 m downstream of Eden
Waters closed to line fishing Bann Weir; and Wattlebank Control Weir.
A person must not possess or use a fishing line in Kolan River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
the following area: downstream of Kolan Barrage.
Obi Obi Creek: No fish can be taken from Obi Obi Logan River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
Creek all year round between the Baroon Pocket downstream of Cedar Grove Weir; and South
Dam wall and the shortest line across the creek at Maclean Weir.
the downstream side of Obi Obi Creek crossing 4
Macintyre Brook: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
(Manuel Hornibrook Bridge).
downstream of the Coolmunda Dam spillway wall,
Waters closed to all forms of fishing Whetstone Weir and Ben Dor Weir.
Fishing, which includes collecting, is not allowed in Macintyre River: from 150 m upstream to 150 m
the following areas: downstream of Goondiwindi Weir.
Albert River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Mary River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
downstream of Luscombe Weir. downstream of Mary River Barrage.
Balonne River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Nerang River: from 100 m upstream to 600 m
downstream of Surat Weir; Beadmore Dam wall downstream of the Hinze Dam wall.
and Jack Taylor Weir.
Nogo River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
Barwon River: from Mungindi Weir to 100 m
downstream of the Wuruma Dam wall.
downstream of Mungindi Weir.
Nogoa River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
Boyne River (in the Auburn River basin): from
downstream of the Fairbairn Dam wall.
100 m upstream to 200 m downstream of the
Boondooma Dam wall. North Pine River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
Brisbane River: from 100 m upstream to 200 downstream of the North Pine Dam wall.
m downstream of Old Mount Crosby Weir; from Pike Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
100 m upstream to 200 m downstream of Mount downstream of the Glenlyon Dam wall.
69
Pioneer River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Gordonbrook Dam, Hinze Dam, Inglewood Town
downstream of Marian Weir; 100 m upstream to Weir, Isis Balancing Storage (Lake Gregory), Jones
200 m downstream of Mirani Weir; and 100 m Weir, Kinchant Dam, Koombooloomba Dam, Lake
upstream to 200 m downstream of Dumbleton Belmore, Lake Kurwongbah, Lemon Tree Weir,
Weir. Lenthalls Dam, Leslie Dam, Maroon Dam, Miles
Quart Pot Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Weir, Moogerah Dam, Lake MacDonald, Lake
downstream of the Storm King Dam wall. Monduran (Fred Haigh Dam), North Pine Dam,
Reynolds Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Peter Faust Dam, Somerset Dam, Storm King Dam,
downstream of the Moogerah Dam wall. Surat Weir, Talgai Weir, Teemburra Dam, Theresa
Sandy Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m Creek Dam, Tinaroo Falls Dam, Whetstone Weir,
downstream of the Leslie Dam wall. Wivenhoe Dam, Woodford Weir, Wuruma Dam,
Severn River: the part of the Severn River Wyaralong Dam & Yarramalong Dam.
commonly known as Queen Mine waterhole, about For a current list of impoundments, visit
6 km west of Ballandean. www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Sideling Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m What fish are stocked in SIPS impoundments?
downstream of the Sideling Creek dam (Lake Species stocked include Australian bass,
Kurwongbah).
barramundi, golden perch, Mary River cod, Murray
Six Mile Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m River cod, saratoga, silver perch and sooty grunter.
downstream of the Lake MacDonald Dam wall.
Who needs a permit?
Stuart River: from 750 m upstream to 200 m
Any person aged 18 or over needs a permit to fish
downstream of the Gordonbrook Dam wall.
by line at a SIPS impoundment. People under 18
Teviot Brook: from 100 m upstream to 200 m do not need a permit.
downstream of Wyaralong Dam wall.
Three Moon Creek: from 100 m upstream to How much does a permit cost?
200 m downstream of Cania Dam wall. Yearly, weekly and concession permits are available
for purchase and allow the holder to fish at any
Thomson River: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
of the impoundments involved in the scheme. For
downstream of Fairmount Weir.
current permit prices visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Tinana Creek: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
downstream of Tinana Creek Barrage. Where can I apply for a permit?
Permits are available online at www.fisheries.qld.
Yabba Creek: from 100 m upstream to 200 m
downstream from Borumba Dam wall. gov.au or over the phone during business hours
by calling 13 25 23. Payment can be made with
Stocked Impoundment Permit a credit card. Permits are also available from
Scheme (SIPS) Australia Post outlets in Queensland and some
Northern New South Wales outlets as well as
What is SIPS?
SIPS impoundments are put, grow and take some small business outlets near select
fisheries where most stocked species will not impoundments. For details of the locations, visit
reproduce. This means the impoundments need www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
to be stocked regularly. Funds raised from the Do I need to carry my permit with me?
sale of fishing permits go towards management Yes. The permit must be carried with you at all times
of the SIPS and to community stocking groups for
when fishing. Failure to produce a permit may result
purchasing native fish fingerlings.
in an on-the-spot fine. The permit may be a digital
What impoundments are on the scheme? email, digital sms, paper receipt or any copy of these
Alpins Weir, Baroon Pocket Dam, Beehive Dam, permits displayed on paper or an electronic device. If
Ben Anderson Barrage, Ben Dor Weir, Bill Gunn you require a replacement permit please phone 13
Dam (Lake Dyer), Bjelke-Petersen Dam, Black Weir,
25 23 during business hours.
Bonshaw Weir, Boondooma Dam, Borumba Dam,
Burdekin Falls Dam, Caboolture River Weir, Callide
Dam, Cania Dam, Cecil Plains Weir, Chinchilla Weir, Handy hint
Claude Wharton Weir, Connolly Dam, Cooby Dam, When is a permit needed?
Coolmunda Dam, Cressbrook Dam, Cunningham You only need a permit when using a fishing line
(Beebo) Weir, Eungella Dam, Ewen Maddock Dam, at a SIPS dam. Permits are not required if you are
Fairbairn Dam, Gil Weir, Gleeson Weir, Glenarbon only using permitted traps (e.g. for redclaw).
Weir, Glenlyon Dam, Goondiwindi (Hilton) Weir,
70
Fish stocking
Several fish species are available for stocking
farm dams and other artificial water bodies on
private land. It is important to stock these waters
with fish that occur naturally in the area. It is an
offence to stock them with fish that do not occur Oriental weatherloach
naturally in the area. For more information about
stocking fish, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au For a complete listing of declared noxious fish in
Queensland, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Pest fish
Noxious fish Noxious fish must not be released into
Noxious fish compete with native species and Queensland waters alive, dead, or used as bait.
could greatly reduce native fish numbers and After they are caught, all noxious fish must
affect their habitat. immediately be killed and must not be returned
People who catch noxious fish must not keep, to the water. The fish should be buried well away
feed, move or sell the fish. Some of the declared from the water or disposed of in a rubbish bin.
species of noxious fish include:
Non-indigenous fish
Non-indigenous fish must not be released into
Queensland waters or be used as bait either alive
or dead. Non-indigenous fish are any species that
are not native to a particular area.
Non-indigenous fish include:
Tilapia species that are not native to Queensland, such
as goldfish
species that are native to certain parts (or
catchments) of Queensland but have been
introduced to areas outside of their natural
range. For example, redclaw are only native to
Carp north Queensland and the Gulf of Carpentaria
but are now found in waters in central, western
and south-east Queensland. Redclaw are
therefore considered non-indigenous in these
catchments as they are outside of their original
natural distribution.
Handy hint
Help stop the spread of pest fish:
Learn how to identify pest fish check out
www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Avoid spreading pest fish between waterways
Report sightings of pest fish to 13 25 23
Gambusia Report any suspicious or unlawful activities
relating to the releasing or breeding of pest fish
to the Fishwatch hotline 1800 017 116.
Handy hint
Sale of fish
The taking of fish for sale, other than by licensed
fishers, is prohibited in Queensland.
Climbing perch
71
Tidal waters
No take species
Red bass
Other no take species include:

Barramundi cod female mud and blue swimmer crabs
egg-bearing spanner crabs, three-spot crabs,
slipper lobsters, tropical rocklobsters (tropical
spiny rock lobsters), red champagne lobsters,
shovel nose lobsters and smooth bugs
tropical rocklobsters with tar spots (sperm
packets) attached
Chinaman fish (juvenile) all sawfish
White sharks, speartooth sharks and manta rays
clams in the family Tridacnidae, helmet shells
and trumpet shells
black teatfish (species of sea cucumber).
Note: Grey nurse sharks, whales, porpoises,
dugongs, turtles and dolphins are protected
Chinaman fish (adult) under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
Tidal fishing gear

Why are there restrictions on fishing gear?
A number of restrictions apply to fishing gear in
Queensland to protect fish stocks from overfishing.
Humphead Maori wrasse
Fishing lines
In tidal waters, up to three fishing lines with up to six
hooks in total (in any configuration) are permitted.
An artificial fly or lure, or gang hook is deemed to be
equal to one hook. Fishers should be in attendance at
all times when using this equipment.
Paddletail A fishing line does not include the following:
a cross line
a drum line
a free-floating line
a set line.
Potato rockcod Scoop or dip nets
A scoop or dip net must not exceed
2 m in any dimension, with a handle
not longer than 2.5 m and a mesh size
of at least 25 mm.
A gaff or landing net may be used to
Queensland grouper secure line-caught fish.
72
Handy hint any fish (except coral reef fin fish) caught in a
seine net can be kept provided they meet size and
Know your limits
possession limits
Cast nets can be used to catch prawns for bait or
any fish not being kept, must be released into water
to eat. Remember that a take and possession limit deep enough to allow the fish to escape.
of 10L per person applies to all species of prawns.
Hand pumps
A hand pump may be used on foreshores in tidal
Cast nets waters to take yabbies only.
Cast nets can be no more than 3.7 m when
measured from the point of attachment of the
cord or rope to the rest of the net, to the net
leadline or bottom of the lowest pocket of the net,
whichever is greater (see the illustration below).
Mesh size must be no greater than 28 mm.
Worm digging forks

A digging fork may be used on foreshores in tidal
waters to take worms.
The use of digging implements is prohibited in
Fish Habitat Areas (FHA).
Crab pots and dillies
See the Crabbing gear section on page 77.
Handy hint
Aquarium fishing
Remember, if you are fishing for live fish for an
aquarium, the fish taken must comply with size
and possession limits, and your net must also
comply with the regulations.
Spearfishing
Gear
Spear guns and spears must not be used to take
fish while using or wearing underwater breathing
apparatus other than a snorkel. The use of
underwater breathing apparatus other than a snorkel
is not permitted when taking fish, whether by spear,
spear gun, hand or any other means. A powerhead is
Seine nets not permitted other than for defence against sharks.
Seine nets (commonly known as bait nets or
drag nets) can be used in tidal waters but must Spearfishing for barramundi
not exceed 16 m in length, 3 m in drop and must Spearfishing for barramundi is prohibited
have a mesh size no greater than 28 mm. The net between 6 pm and 6 am.
must not contain a bag, pocket or similar device. Spearfishing areas
The use of the net is subject to the following Spearfishing is prohibited in all non-tidal waters.
conditions:
Spearfishing and spear guns are permitted in
it must not be anchored, staked or fixed some tidal waters; however certain tidal areas
no part of the net containing fish must be out are closed to spearfishing to maintain safety and
of the water other than to immediately remove fish avoid potentially conflicting uses of an area.
from the net for release In tidal waters, some areas are marked by an SFB
73
sign. For precise boundaries consult the Fisheries Long Island: the western side.
Regulation 2008 at www.fisheries.qld.gov.au. South Molle Island: the northern side.
For details of spearfishing areas managed by the West Molle Island (Daydream Island):
Great Barrier Marine Park Authority visit surrounding waters.
www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
Hook Island: the eastern, south-eastern and
Other local, state and federal regulations may southern sides.
also applycheck with the relevant authority.
Hayman Island: the southern and western sides.
Closed waters to spearfishing Port Dennison: waters under, or within 100 m of,
Spearfishing is prohibited in the following tidal the main wharf at Port Dennison, Bowen, and a
areas: structure attached to the wharf.
South East Queensland: within 100 m of all Cape Edgecumbe: the foreshores and waters
public jetties in and south of the Noosa River. seaward 50 m from low water mark from the boat
Tallebudgera Creek: upstream of a straight line ramp in Greys Bay around Cape Edgecumbe to
between the eastern extremity of Burleigh Heads the eastern headland of Horseshoe Bay.
and the seaward end of the rock groyne near its Dungeness and Lucinda Point: within 100 m of
southern bank of the creek end. the public jetties.
Southern Moreton Bay: Jumpinpin and the Richards Island (Bedarra Island): the
Southport Broadwater (including the seaway) northwestern and northern sides.
Moreton Bay south of 2742 S (Logan River).
Dunk Island: the north-western and western sides.
Moreton Island: waters between Bulwer and
Cooktown: within 100 m of the main wharf and
Tangalooma Point out to the shipping beacons.
pontoons.
Pumicestone Strait: between a line from Elimbah
Creek to Gallagher Point, Bribie Island, and a line Worm digging
from Ninghi Creek to Dux Creek, Bribie Island.
Recreational worm digging is banned on the
Pumicestone Strait: north of a line from Bells foreshores between Lota Creek and the rock
Creek to the northern tip of the most northern groyne near the northern end of Wynnum North
island of a group of islands east of Bells Creek, to Esplanade for a distance of 100 m from the
the western side of Bribie Island. foreshore rock wall. Between Cedar Street and
Mooloolah River: downstream of the Nicklin Way Charlotte Street the closure extends from the
Bridge and Brisbane Road. foreshore rock wall to the low water mark.
Maroochy River: waterways joining it downstream
of, and including, the Cod Hole.
Skin and fillet removal
In relation to coral reef fin fish, a recreational
Lake Weyba (Noosa River) and waterway adjoining fisher:
the lake and river downstream of Parkyns Jetty at
must not possess on board a boat a fish other than
Tewantin and the western tip of Goat Island.
in any of the following formswhole, gilled, gutted
Woodgate: in the vicinity of the artificial reef, or filleted
Hervey Bay. may possess on board a boat a fillet of a fish other
Woody Island: waters adjacent to the eastern than a blue spotted coral trout (Chinese footballer)
side of Big Woody Island including the artificial as long as the length of the fillet is at least 40 cm,
reef, Hervey Bay. and the skin and scales of the fillet are attached to
Bargara Beach (Bundaberg): the Basin. the fillet
Great Keppel Island: western foreshore waters must not return fish to a boat that have been taken
and waters within 400m out to sea from the ashore from a boat and filleted, unless the length of
the fillet is at least 40 cm and the skin and scales
islands shore at low water, between Little
of the fillet is attached to the fillet
Peninsula on the islands north-western foreshore
and Monkey Point at the islands south-western tip. must not possess a live coral reef fin fish unless the
person or fisher intends to immediately return the
North Keppel Island: the western and southern sides. fish to the sea.
Brampton and Carlisle Islands: waters between In relation to fin fish (other than coral reef fin fish) a
the islands. recreational fisher must not:
Seaforth Island. remove the skin from a fish on a boat until the fish
Lindeman Island: the western and southern sides. is brought to shore
74
bring a fish ashore and remove its skin and return The closure dates for 201518 are as follows:
the fish to the boat 28 October to 1 November 2016, 26 to 30
divide a fish into portions other than in a way that November 2016
allows an inspector to easily count the number of 17 to 21 October 2017, 15 to 19 November 2017
fish possessed by the fisher. 6 to 10 October 2018, 5 to 9 November 2018.
In relation to barred javelin (spotted grunter) Note: For information on closed seasons for spanner
taken in the Gulf of Carpentaria, in addition to the crabs and tropical rocklobsters see page 78.
above, a recreational fisher may fillet or process
the fish as long as:
Tidal waters closed waters
the fillet is at least 26 cm in length and has the Why do we have closed waters?
skin left on Closed waters (regulated waters) prevent people
a whole fish or one that has been processed into a from fishing in certain areas, and these may be:
form other than fillets is at least 40 cm in length. where a population of endangered or
Note: For information applying to recreational threatened species lives
fishers on commercial fishing tours, consult the where fish congregate during or before
fisheries legislation at www.fisheries.qld.gov.au spawning
where fish may aggregate or get trapped
Tidal waters closed seasons near artificial barriers and be susceptible to
overfishing
Why do we have closed seasons?
Closed seasons (regulated periods) prevent to separate incompatible uses (e.g.
people from taking particular species at certain spearfishing in a bathing area).
times of the year. This protects these species at
vulnerable times in their life cycle, such as during Handy hint
spawning seasons. Check closure information online
Australian bass Visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au for all the latest
A closed season applies to Australian bass closure information, including boundaries.
throughout Queensland tidal waters from 1 June
to 31 August. Waters closed to all forms of fishing
Note: For precise boundaries consult the
Barramundi Fisheries Regulation 2008 at www.fisheries.
Throughout the Queensland east coast, a closed qld.gov.au or contact your local QBFP office. For
season applies to barramundi from midday 1 marine park boundaries contact the Queensland
November to midday 1 February. Parks and Wildlife Service or the Great Barrier
Throughout the Gulf of Carpentaria and Reef Marine Park Authority.
adjoining waterways west and south of longitude Fishing is totally prohibited in the following areas:
142 3149 E, a closed season applies to Certain areas within state and Commonwealth
barramundi. marine parks.
The dates for the Gulf of Carpentaria closed Coombabah Lake and tidal waters of
season for barramundi are midday 7 October Coombabah Creek upstream from the lake.
to midday 1 February (but possession on boats Swan Bay and tidal waters of the unnamed creek
allowed to midday 17 October). joining the bays northern end.
It is also prohibited to deliberately target Mary River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
barramundi for catch and release during these downstream of the Mary River Barrage.
closed seasons, as the stress of capture may Tinana Creek: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
prevent a fish from spawning. downstream of the Tinana Creek Barrage.
See the freshwater Closed seasons section on Fraser Island: eastern foreshore waters and
page 66 for information on taking barramundi waters within 400 m out to sea from the eastern
shore at low water, between 400 m north of
from some fresh waters during the closure.
Waddy Point and 400 m south of Indian Head.
Coral reef fin fish Closed from midday 1 August to midday 30
Two five-day periods have been implemented as September every year (fin fish only).
closed seasons to the taking of coral reef fin fish Burnett River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m
in October and November. downstream of the Burnett River Barrage.
75
Kolan River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m Castlereagh Point, Scarborough, but not including
downstream of the Kolan Barrage. a waterway flowing into the area upstream of a
Fitzroy River: from 400 m upstream to 400 m line between its banks.
downstream of the Fitzroy River Barrage. Nudgee Beach: Bramble Bay foreshores at
Keppel Bay: within a 150 m radius of the Middle Nudgee Beach between the eastern bank of
Island Underwater Observatory. the main channel of Nudgee Creek and western
Hook Island Observatory: waters within a 100 m bank of the main channel of the Kedron Brook
radius of the observatory. floodway, but not including the foreshores
Orpheus Island: waters under or within 100 m of of Nudgee Creek upstream of a straight line
Yanks Jetty. between its banks or Kedron Brook floodway
Centenary Lakes: Saltwater Creek, Lily upstream of a straight line between its banks.
Creek and lakes joining the creeks, between
Wynnum: Foreshores of Moreton Bay and the
Greenslopes Street and Collins Avenue, Cairns.
boat passage, between the south-eastern tip of
Barron River: at the place commonly known as Fisherman Island and the northern breakwater
Barron Waters, between FB signs on opposite
sides of the river near its junction with Stony of the Manly Boat Harbour, but not including
Creek and its junction with Camp Oven Creek. foreshores west of the road bridge over the
boat passage or upstream of a line between the
Mission Bay: south of a line between Cape
Grafton and False Cape and waters flowing into banks of a waterway.
that part of the bay. Bramble Bay: Waters within the following
South Mitchell River (and waterways joining it): boundaryfrom the seaward end of the Sandgate
between FB signs near the mouth of the river Pier to the mainland shore at high water mark;
and FB signs where it joins Surprise Creek. along the foreshore at high water mark to
Bizant River and German Bar Lagoon: from the Haughton Highway Bridge; in a straight line to
road crossing commonly known as German Bar seaward end of Sandgate Pier.
downstream for 2 km.
Torres Strait: waters within the following Waters closed to netting
boundaryfrom Turtle Head, Hammond Island, Burnett River: Closed to all methods of
to Hammond Rock; to 1 nautical mile east of recreational netting including cast-netting, within
Menmuir Point, Hammond Island; to the northern the town-reach waters of the Burnett River at
tip of Kapuda Island; to Bruce Point, Hammond Bundaberg. This area includes all waters of the
Island; along the eastern shore of Hammond Burnett River upstream from its junction with
Island to Turtle Head. Bundaberg Creek (but excluding Bundaberg
Waters closed to taking fish Creek itself) to a boundary line near the
In Queensland there are a number of areas intersection of the most western point of Harriet
closed to taking some fish or all fish, or the Island and the banks of the Burnett River.
use of certain fishing apparatus. For more
Water Park Creek: Water Park Creek flowing into
information refer to fisheries legislation at
www.fisheries.qld.gov.au Corio Bay and waterways joining it, upstream of
the shortest line across the creek at the place
Grey nurse shark protection areas known as Kellys Landing (approx. 2.6 km from
The grey nurse shark is now listed under the creeks banks).
Queenslands Nature Conservation Act 1992 as
an endangered animal. There are four grey nurse Rodds Harbour: Waters within the boundary from
shark protection areas in Queensland: Wolf Rock, the eastern tip of Blackney Point to the eastern
Flat Rock, Henderson Rock and Cherubs Cave. For tip of Bird Island, to the western bank of Mort
more information visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au or Creek, Rodds Peninsula and along the shore to
call 13 25 23. Blackney Point. For a map of this closure visit
Closed areas to taking gastropods or bivalve www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
molluscs (e.g. pipis and cockles) Hervey Bay: From the eastern tip of Point Vernon
Note: Foreshores are defined as the area to the seaward end of the Scarness Jetty to the
between the high and low water mark. seaward end of the Urangan Pier to the seaward
Deception Bay: Foreshores between the public end of the rock wall of the Urangan Boat Harbour
ramp at Emerald Avenue, Deception Bay, and then west to the mainland shore. For a map of
the seaward end of Reef Point Esplanade, this closure visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
76
Closed areas to taking Bche de mer (sea penalties. Stealing crabs or crab pots is a
cucumber) criminal offence, so those caught will be referred
Waters south of latitude 20 south (near to the police.
Bowen) and waters west of longitude 1423149
East (Gulf waters) Handy hint
Crabbing Sorting your crabs
Crabbing gear Sort your crabs on a pot-by-pot basis to remove
Crab pots and dillies any illegal crabs before moving on. If you dont,
In tidal waters, when fishing for blue swimmer, they are deemed to be in your possession.
mud and spanner crabs, no more than four crab Its also important to check your pots regularly to
pots or dillies (or a combination of pots and
ensure any by-catch or regulated crabs can be
dillies) may be used per person. Also a person
must not possess more than four crab apparatus released unharmed.
per person, on a boat on the water.
Crab pots and dillies must be marked by an Gender identification
identifying tag bearing the surname and address Determine crab gender from the underside of the
of the owner. In addition, the pot or dilly must be crab.
attached by a rope to either: Female mud crabs and blue swimmer crabs, and
a float that is at least 15 cm in all its egg-bearing spanner crabs and three-spotted
dimensions and marked with the owners crabs are protected throughout Queensland. This
surname, or means you cannot possess them at any time
a fixed object above high water (e.g. a jetty or without a permit.
tree). The rope must have a tag attached to
it above the high water mark with the owners
surname on it. Sunken and unmarked pots are
illegal.
It is important to make sure your pot is a
sufficient weight and has enough rope attached
to the float so that it is not lost in strong tidal
currents. Lost pots can harm marine animals.
Measurement
The use of inverted dilly apparatus (witches hats) The size of a blue swimmer crabs is determined
is prohibited. by measuring the distance between the notch
immediately forward of the base of the large
lateral spine of the crab on one side of the crab
and the notch immediately forward of the base
of the large lateral spine of the crab on the other
side of the crab. Blue swimmer crabs must be a
minimum of 11.5 cm from notch to notch.
Note: The age limit for the recreational use of

crab apparatus has been removed.
Crab Hooking
The hooking of crabs is prohibited.
Positioning your gear
You must make sure that your crab pots are in
sufficient depth of water at all stages of the tide
so that marine animals are not exposed to the
sun and unwanted crabs can be released alive.
Interfering with gear you didnt set
Interfering with crabbing gear that you didnt
set is a serious offence which carries heavy
77
The size of a mud crab and three-spotted crab is Tropical rocklobster

determined by measuring the widest part of its A recreational fisher:
carapace. Mud crabs must be a minimum size must not possess live tropical rocklobsters
of 15 cm across the widest point of its carapace.
must not possess egg-bearing tropical
Three-spot crabs must measure a minimum of 10
rocklobsters
cm across the widest point of its carapace.
must not possess tropical rocklobsters with tar
spots (sperm packets) attached
Measurement
The size of a painted crayfish is determined by
measuring the distance from the front of the
carapace between the two spikes on the painted
crayfishs head, to the rear edge of the carapace
where the tail begins.
If the carapace is damaged or separated from the
The size of a spanner crab is determined by
painted crayfish body, the size must be decided
measuring the shortest distance between the tip
by measuring the tail. To do this, measure the
of the spike at the middle of the front edge of its
dorsal surface of the tail laid flat on a horizontal
carapace and the mid-point of the rear edge of its
surface, from the front edge of the somite (shell)
carapace. This distance must be a minimum of where the painted crayfishs tail begins to the
10cm. If the carapace is damaged or separated rear edge of the somite where the tail fins begins.
from the crabs body, the size must be decided
by measuring its sternite at the widest part of the
front of its breastplate, located directly in front of
the bases of the main claws. This measurement
must be a minimum of 3.7 cm.
Note: The size limit applies regardless of the
condition of the carapace.
Possessing crabs and crabmeat

A person must not possess:
mud or blue swimmer crabs with the carapace
(shell) missing (this includes possessing claws Closed seasons
without the rest of the crab) A closed season applies to all species of tropical
rocklobster (family Panuliridae) from immediately
crabmeatunless the crab with a missing shell after midnight at the beginning of 1 October and
or the crab meat is for immediate consumption. ends immediately before midnight at the end of
Closed seasons 31 January in Queensland tidal waters:
A closed season applies to spanner crabs from (i) north of latitude 14 S and east of longitude
midnight at the beginning of 20 November and 1423149 E
ends immediately before midnight at the end of (ii) in the Gulf of Carpentaria, shoreward of the 25
20 December in Queensland tidal waters. nautical mile line and south of latitude 1048 S.
Other crustaceans and shellfish Oysters
Prawns All licensed oyster grounds are required to display
A person must not possess prawns with the signage indicating the grounds are a licensed
heads or any other part removed, unless the oyster bed. Taking oysters from or interfering with
removal was to process the prawns for immediate aquaculture infrastructure and licensed oyster
consumption. grounds is illegal and carries heavy penalties.
78
All oyster beds outside of marked licensed

areas are classed as public. Oysters from public More information
reserves cannot be collected and taken from the For more information about fisheries regulations
grounds. They must be consumed on-the-spot. and other fisheries issues or programs, call
13 25 23 or visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Pipis, mud whelks and cockles
Possession limits apply to pipis, mud whelks and To access complete copies of the Fisheries Act
cockles in Queensland. Some areas are closed 1994 and other fisheries legislation, visit
to the taking of gastropods and bivalve molluscs. www.legislation.qld.gov.au
Check www.fisheries.qld.gov.au for specific area Information on other relevant legislation may be
details. found at www.afma.gov.au (national),
For more information, visit www.fisheries.qld. www.gbrmpa.gov.au (Great Barrier Reef Marine
gov.au or call 13 25 23. Park) and www.nprsr.qld.gov.au (Queensland
marine parks).
Marine plants You can protect Queenslands fisheries resources
In Queensland, mangroves and all other marine by reporting any suspected illegal fishing
plants are completely protected under the activities to the 24-hour, toll-free Fishwatch
Fisheries Act 1994. hotline on 1800 017 116. (This number is not to
The protection extends to seagrasses, saltcouch be used for general enquiries.)
and plants such as melaleuca that grow adjacent
to tidal lands. Any disturbance (such as trimming,
mowing or removal) of marine plants requires an Handy hint
approval from Fisheries Queensland. Love your fishing?
Stay up-to-date with all the latest fisheries news
and developments as they happen. Follow us at:
Handy hint
Room with a view could cost you a fine
www.facebook.com/FisheriesQueensland
Protection of marine plants, including mangroves,
applies over all tenures, including privately owned
land, leasehold and state lands. Fines apply
www.twitter.com/fisheriesQLD
for hedging, trimming, lopping or spraying with
herbicide; removing marine plants for river views
or other aesthetic reasons; removing mangroves
or saltcouch from a beach or foreshore; running www.youtube.com/fisheriesqld
machinery over marine plants; filling of tidal lands;
or dumping garden waste (e.g. grass clippings and
pruning) onto tidal areas. http://instagram.com/fisheriesqld
Download our Qld Fishing app

from iTunes App Store and Google
Play Store.
79
80
81
Size and possession limits

Tidal waters
The following legal limits apply to sh taken in Queensland waters. A possession limit is the total
number of sh that one person can legally take and keep at any one time.
The rules and regulations are accurate as at 1 July 2015. Fishers should consult the Fisheries
Regulation 2008 or www.fisheries.qld.gov.au for updates.
Coral reef fin fish*

In addition to individual possession limits for each coral reef fin fish species listed, a combined possession limit of 20 in total for
all coral reef fin fish applies. For a complete list of coral reef species, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au
Species Size limit (cm) Possession limit

All cods and groupers 38 min Combined limit of 5 in total of all
cod and grouper species
Cod and grouper exceptions

Camouflage grouper 50 min 70 max
Flowery rockcod 50 min 70 max
Greasy rockcod 38 min 100 max
Maori rockcod 45 min
Barramundi cod No take
Potato rockcod No take
Queensland grouper No take
All coral trout 38 min
Combined limit of 7 in total of all
trout species
Coral trout exceptions

Blue spotted coral trout (Chinese footballer) 50 min 80 max
All emperors 25 min 5 per species
Emperor exceptions (see also Grass emperor (sweetlip) in Other tidal species)
Redthroat emperor (sweetlip emperor) 38 min 8
Long nose emperor 38 min 5
Spangled emperor 45 min 5
All fusiliers No limit No individual limit but must comply

with combined coral reef fin fish limit
* Coral reef fin fish closures apply. Please refer to page 75 for more information.
82
Coral reef fin fish*

In addition to individual possession limits for each coral reef fin fish species listed, a combined possession limit of 20 in total for
all coral reef fin fish applies. For a complete list of coral reef species, visit www.fisheries.qld.gov.au

All parrotfishes (see also Wrasse) 25 min 5 per species
All surgeonfishes 25 min 5 per species
All sweetlips 25 min 5 per species
All tropical snappers and sea perches 25 min 5 per species

including Moses perch (snapper)
Tropical snappers and sea perch exceptions
Rosy snapper (jobfish) and lavender snapper 38 min Combined limit of 8 in total of
(jobfish) both species
Chinaman fish No take
Crimson snapper (small mouth nannygai) and 40 min Combined limit of 9 in total of
saddletail snapper (large mouth nannygai) both species
Flame snapper 38 min 5
Goldband snapper 38 min 5
Hussar 25 min 10
Paddletail No take
Red bass No take
Red emperor 55 min 5
Prescribed jobfish (Green, Smalltooth and Ruby snapper) 38 min 5 per species
All wrasse 30 min 5 per species
Wrasse exceptions
Humphead Maori No take
Tuskfish (anchor, blackspot, blue, purple and venus 30 min Combined limit of 6 in total of all
tuskfish) tuskfish species
Triple tail Maori wrasse

Red breast Maori wrasse 25 min 5 per species
Pig fish
* Coral reef fin fish closures apply. Please refer to page 75 for more information.
All Marine Trimming including Clears, Seats, Carpets, Covers & Telephone 07 5502 7782 | www.classicmarine.com.au
Canopies as well as Exterior Blinds, Awnings and Upholstery Mobile 0421 064408
83
Other tidal species

Australian bass 30 min 2
Barramundi 58 min 120 max 5
Bche de mer (sea cucumber) No limit 5
Bche de mer exception
Black teatfish No take
Bream
Pikey Combined limit of 30 in total of
Tarwhine 25 min pikey and yellowfin bream, and
Yellowfin tarwhine
Bugs
Moreton Bay (bay lobster) 7.5 min (across No limit
widest part of

carapace)
Smooth (Balmain) 10.5 min (across No limit
widest part of
carapace)
Cobia (black kingfish) 75 min 2
Estuary Cod
Blackspotted rockcod (estuary cod) Combined limit of 5 in total of
38 min 120 max
Goldspotted rockcod all cod and grouper species
Crab
Blue swimmer 11.5 min No limit
Mud 15 min 10
Spanner 10 min 20

Three-spot 10 min No limit
Eels
Longfin
Combined limit of 10 in total of
Pacific shortfin (south Pacific) 30 min
all species
Southern shortfin
Flathead Combined limit of 5 in total of
30 min
all species (except dusky flathead)
Flathead exception
Dusky flathead (mud flathead) 40 min 75 max 5
Garfish No limit 50
Golden snapper (fingermark) 35 min 5
Grass emperor (sweetlip) 30 min 10
Green Snail 280 g min No limit
A closed season or closed waters applies to these species. Please refer to page 75 and 78 for more information.
84
85
Other tidal species

Javelin
Barred (spotted grunter)
40 min 10
East Coast
Barred (spotted grunter) 40 min (whole 10 whole fish or 20 fillets
Gulf of Carpentaria or with head or
tail removed)
or 26 min fillet
length (whilst
on a boat)
Silver (small spotted grunter) 30 min 10
Jewfish
Black (East coast) 75 min 2
Black (Gulf of Carpentaria) 60 min 2
Scaly (jewel fish) 45 min No limit
Luderick 30 min 10
Mackerel
Grey 60 min 5
Spanish 75 min 3
School 50 min 10
Shark 50 min 10
Spotted 60 min 5
Mahi Mahi (dolphin fish) 50 min 5
Mangrove jack 35 min 5
Mullet
Diamondscale
30 min 20
Sea
Bivalve molluscs and gastropods (including pipis,
No limit 50
mud whelks and cockles, and excluding all oysters)
Oysters
No limit No limit
Oyster exceptions
Blacklip pearl oyster 9 min No limit
Goldlip pearl oyster 13 min 23 max No limit
Mulloway 75 min 2
Pearl perch 35 min 5
Prawns No limit 10 litres

It is illegal to take oysters from any oyster ground; however you may consume oysters on the spot where taken in any public oyster
reserve or unlicensed oyster grounds.

A person must not possess prawns with the heads or any other part removed, unless the removal is to process the prawns for
immediate consumption.
86
Other tidal species
Sharks and rays 1.5m max 1

Sharks and rays exceptions
White sharks
Sand tiger sharks
Sawfish No take
Speartooth sharks
Manta ray
Snapper 35 min 4 with no more than 1 over 70 cm
Tailor 35 min 20
Teraglin 38 min 5
Threadfin (salmon)
King 60 min 5
Blue (East coast) 40 min 10
Blue (Gulf of Carpentaria) 40 min 20
Trevally (family Carangidae, which includes but is not No limit Combined limit of 20 for all fish in
limited to trevally, queenfish, dart and scad/yakka) total applies to all members of this
family
Trevally exceptions
Amberjack Combined limit of 2 in total of
50 min
Samsonfish amberjack and samsonfish
Swallowtail dart 30 min 30
Giant queenfish 50 min 5
Yellowtail kingfish 60 min 2
Trochus 8 min 12.5 max 50
Tropical rocklobster # No limit Above 14 south latitude and in
Gulf waters: combined limit of 3 per
person / 6 per boat in total of all
species
Below 14 south latitude:
combined limit of 5 per person /
10 per boat in total of all species
Tropical rocklobster exceptions

Painted crayfish # (Panulirus ornatus) 11.5 tail min As above
9 carapace min
Red champagne lobster 7.5 min As above
A closed season applies to these species. Please refer to page 78 for more information.
#
Recreational fishers must not possess live tropical rocklobsters.
87
Other tidal species
Wahoo 75 min 2
Whiting
Sand (summer)
Combined limit of 30 in total of
Goldenline 23 min
these whiting species
Northern
Trumpeter (winter) No limit 50
Dorab Wolf herring No limit 10
Worms (including part thereof)
Beach No limit 30
Blood ( all worms of the family Eunicidae) No limit 50
No take species
Barramundi cod
Chinaman fish
Humphead Maori wrasse
Paddletail
Potato rockcod
Queensland grouper
Red bass
Female mud and blue swimmer crabs
Egg-bearing spanner crabs, three-spot crabs, slipper lobsters and tropical rocklobsters and smooth bugs
Tropical rocklobsters with tar spots attached (tar spots and sperm packets)
All sawfish
White sharks, sand tiger sharks, speartooth sharks and manta rays
Clams in the family Tridacnidae, helmet shells and trumpet shells
Black teatfish
Note: Grey nurse sharks, whales, porpoises, dugongs, turtles and dolphins are protected under the Nature
Conservation Act 1992.
88
89
90
Size and possession limits

Fresh waters
The following legal limits apply to fish taken in Queensland waters. A bag limit (take and possession
limit) is the total number of fish that one person can legally take and keep at any one time.
The rules and regulations are accurate as at 1 July 2016. Fishers should consult the Fisheries
Regulation 2008 or www.fisheries.qld.gov.au for updates.
A possession limit of 20 per species applies to all freshwater fin fish not listed below
Australian bass 30 min 2
Australian lungfish No take
Barramundi* 58 min 5 (1 during the closed season for
120 max some dams)
(1 greater than
120 cm from
some dams)
Cherabins No limit Combined limit of 10 in total of both

species: Macrobrachium lar and M.
rosenbergii
Cod
Bloomfield River cod No take
Mary River cod (upstream of the walls of Cressbrook, 50 min 1
Hinze, Maroon, Moogerah, North Pine, Somerset
and Wivenhoe dams, and lakes Dyer (Bill Gunn Dam)
and Clarendon)
Mary River cod* (elsewhere in Queensland) No take
Murray Cod (Queensland part of Murray-Darling 60 min 110 max 2
Drainage Division)
* A closed season applies to these species. Please refer to page 68 & 69 for more information.
91

Eels
Longfin
Pacific shortfin (south Pacific) 30 min Combined limit of 10 in total of
all species
Southern shortfin
Freshwater catfish (eel-tailed catfish)
Eel Tailed Catfish (Tandanus tandanus) 35 min
Combined limit of 5 in total of fish
Eel Tailed Catfish (genera Anodontiglanis, No limit in the genera Anodontiglanis,
Neosilurus and Neosiluroides) Neosilurus, Tandanus and
Neosiluroides (e.g. black, Cooper
Creek, eel-tailed, false spine, short-
finned catfish and Hyrtls tandan)
Freshwater sawfish No take
Garfish No limit 50
Goby
Cling goby No take
Edgbaston hardyhead, Myross hardyhead No take (Thomson River)
Mangrove Jack 35 min 5
Molluscs (excluding oysters) No limit 50
Mullet
Freshwater mullet
30 min 20
Sea mullet
Perch and grunter
Golden perch (yellowbelly) 30 min 10
Jungle perch Combined limit of 1 in total of jungle
35 max
Spotted flagtail (northern jungle perch) perch and spotted flagtail
Silver perch Combined limit of 5 in total of silver
Barcoo grunter perch, Welchs grunter and Barcoo
Welchs grunter grunter (no more than 2 of these fish
30 min may be silver perch)
Silver perch in Paroo and Warrego

River basins are a no take species
Sooty grunter 28 min
Khaki grunter (khaki bream) No limit Combined limit of 10 in total for
sooty, khaki, Gulf and lake grunter
Gulf grunter 28 min
species
Lake grunter No limit
92

Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia sp.) No limit Combined limit of 20 for all
rainbowfish species
Redclaw (in its natural range)
Gulf of Carpentaria Drainage Division and from the No limit 40 (females carrying eggs or
Jacky Jacky River basin south to the Normanby young must be returned to the
River basin on the east coast of Queensland water within their natural range)
River blackfish No take
Saratoga
Northern Combined limit of 1 in total of
50 min
Southern northern and southern saratoga
Spiny crayfish No take

Yabby (blue claw crayfish) No limit 100 (females carrying eggs or
(Cherax destructor) young must be returned to the
water within their natural range)
No take species
Australian lungfish
Bloomfield River cod
Cling goby
Freshwater sawfish
Mary River cod
Edgbaston hardyhead (Thomson River)
River blackfish
Spiny crayfish
Myross hardyhead (Thomson River)
Except upstream of some dams see Cod section
93
94
95
Pre-trip item checklist

Fuel Appropriate shoes Check weather/tides/
Water Warm/weatherproof bars
jacket Check expiry dates on
First aid kit
Zip lock bag to keep EPIRB/flares
Lifejackets
wallet/phone dry Radio
Current charts/maps
Rule book Fire extinguisher/fire
Ropes blanket/fire bucket
Tape measure
Tools Bung
Camera
Food Battery power
Sharp knife
Sunscreen Suitable clothing/ Emergency plan
Hat spare set Fishing rod/tackle
96
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All About Boat & Jetski Licenses

JETSKI & BOAT LICENCE COURSES

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