The Queensland Government is stepping up compliance operations on the Noosa River to improve safety, protect the environment, and ensure fair access for waterway users.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) marine officers have been conducting targeted patrols, including at night, as well as vessel inspections and enforcement of the 28-day anchorage restrictions.
Since the restrictions took effect on January 1, 2026, MSQ marine officers have conducted hundreds of vessel intercepts to check compliance with Queensland’s maritime safety laws.
Operations also targeting lifejacket and speeding offences, vessel seaworthiness, marine pollution, navigation lights and other unsafe on-water behaviour.
Since the final stage of the Noosa River Management Plan was introduced, more than 80 vessels have relocated or been removed and more than 50 marine infringement notices have been issued to non-compliant vessel owners, with patrols and further compliance action ongoing.
In recent weeks, MSQ also removed four derelict or abandoned vessels, including the 11-metre sailing vessel Adelaide, from Tewantin under the Queensland Government’s waterways safety program.
Vessel owners and operators must comply with Queensland’s maritime safety laws or face enforcement action.
The restrictions apply to vessels longer than five metres and are designed to improve navigational safety, protect the Noosa River environment, and ensure fair access for all users.
For more information about the Noosa River Waterway Management Plan, the 28-day anchorage restrictions, vessel safety requirements or marine pollution obligations, visit the MSQ website.