With summer holidays now underway, thousands of boaties are hitting the region’s recreation lakes after recent rain boosted dam levels.  

However, Seqwater Principal Compliance Officer Amber Blake said it was important boat owners took the time to first check the condition of their vessels before taking it on the water to avoid potential boat strandings or break downs. 

“Many of the boat strandings we respond to could have been avoided if the vessel operators had simply taken the time to check the condition of their boat and their fuel levels before going on the lake,” Ms Blake said.

“On average, if we’re not already out on the water, it can take up to an hour to respond to and tow back a boat that’s broken down, which is time that could have been better spent on other duties to ensure visitor safety at our lakes.

“There have been instances where we’ve responded to three requests for assistance while on the water at a lake in a single day.

“Remember to get your vessel serviced regularly, have enough fuel for the journey and check weather reports ahead of going out.”

Ms Blake said in addition to checking the condition of a boat, it was equally important for boaties to hold an appropriate licence and that the registration for their vessel is current.

“Ensure you also have all the required safety equipment on board, such as lifejackets, and that it is easily accessible, in date and compliant.

Ms Blake said Seqwater would be working with Queensland Police and Maritime Safety Queensland to ensure boating rules and regulations were being followed during the summer.

Seqwater’s dam and lakes provide some of the best boating and fishing in South East Queensland but we need people Play it safe while partaking in these activities.

View the latest recreation and safety notices at Seqwater’s website, www.seqwater.com.au. Boating checklists are available at msq.qld.gov.au.