Boaties are being reminded that new anchoring restrictions for vessels over five
metres will take effect on the Noosa River from 31 May, as part of Stage 5 of the
Noosa River Management Plan.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) confirmed the changes follow extensive
community consultation and are aimed at improving safety and protecting the river’s
fragile ecosystem. Under the new rules, vessels longer than five metres will be
prohibited from anchoring within 30 metres of the northern shoreline between the
Noosa Coastal Bar and Lake Cooroibah, including Goat Island. The same restriction
applies to the southern shore between Lake Doonella and Lake Cooroibah, covering
Makepeace and Sheep Islands.
MSQ said the new limits complement restrictions already introduced since July 2024
across the southern shoreline, Woods Bay, Dog Beach and Little Woods Bay.
“These changes have significantly decluttered the river’s edges, improving safety
and restoring access for recreational use,” a spokesperson said.
An existing trial will continue, allowing vessels 5 to 7.5 metres to anchor in the
affected zones for up to two hours daily, provided it’s done safely and respectfully.
Vessels under five metres can still anchor in these areas without restriction, as long
as they don’t obstruct other users.
Stage 6 of the plan is set for rollout on 1 October 2025. It will limit vessels over five
metres to 28 anchoring days per financial year in the busy lower section of the river
downstream of Lake Cooroibah, aiming to reduce long-term stays and prevent
anchoring-related incidents.
The changes are part of MSQ’s broader efforts to enhance navigational safety,
reduce marine pollution, and preserve the river’s natural beauty. More information on
the upcoming stages and full anchoring rules is available via the Maritime Safety
Queensland website.
