Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is responsible for the safety of navigation, including anchoring and mooring, in Queensland State waters under the Transport Operations (Marine Safety) Regulation 2016, and ship sourced pollution under the Transport Operations (Marine Pollution) Regulation 2008.
The management of live-aboard vessels on Noosa River falls under the Transport Infrastructure (Waterways Management) Regulation 2012 and is managed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads Boat Harbour Controller in collaboration with MSQ. MSQ and its compliance partners closely monitor unseaworthy vessels and those vessels identified as having the potential to become derelict. Such vessels are managed within a legislative and policy framework, which achieves the most acceptable safety and environmental outcome.
MSQ is monitoring the four vessels referred to in the Noosa Integrated Catchment Association Riverwatch report and is in contact with the owners of those with registration details. None of the vessels are currently assessed as a pollution or navigation risk. MSQ and Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol conducted an audit of suspect vessels in the Noosa River on 11 July 2018 and along with Noosa Council, are working to identify owners. The removal of these vessels can be complicated, especially with respect to safe access and confirming ownership status. It is also important to note that in some cases, vessels may look untidy but they may not necessarily be considered derelict or in contravention of regulations.
If a vessel has been identified for removal in the Noosa River, MSQ will relay the information to our office.