Ahoy there shipmates! Be aware of the new six knot speed limit on Lake Tinaroo
Cairns Water Police are advising the operators of all vessels, including Personal Water Craft (PWC), that a speed restriction of six knots will be implemented for Lake Tinaroo this week.
Maritime Safety Queensland, along with Sun Water and other local agencies have determined the current water levels and predicted falling water levels are exposing the public to an unacceptable risk of injury.
This situation is due to a number of submerged or partially submerged objects and obstructions in the lake causing dangerous navigational hazards for vessels travelling at speed.
The entirety of Lake Tinaroo apart from a designated area will be reduced to a 6 knot zone from August 29. This revised speed limit applies to all vessels (PWC inclusive) using the lake for any watersport or leisure activities.
Cairns Water Police are urging all operators to follow the new speed limits, as submerged objects can cause not only major vessel damage, but may also result in serious or fatal injuries.
Signage is being erected at boat ramps and camping areas to advise of the zones. Water Police and Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrols can enforce the speed limit, with penalties up to $365 applying to those ignoring the posted limit.
The new speed limit of six knots will remain in effect until favorable conditions return.
Maritime Safety Queensland will be working with Sun Water in order to monitor water levels and re assess speed limits throughout the remainder of the year.
A map of the new speed restriction zones will be available on the MSQ Notice to Mariners page, and is also available by clicking here.
For more information about boating safety please visit the Maritime Safety Queensland website.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form 24hrs per day.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
Source: Cairns Crime Alert
