What’s happening?
Boaties are being told to ease off the throttle this spring as Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) launches a six-month crackdown on unsafe behaviour across local waterways. The state-wide campaign will target personal watercraft (PWC) riders, who continue to be among the most common offenders when it comes to speeding and safety breaches.
Why it matters
The figures tell the story. Between 2022 and 2025, five per cent of Townsville’s PWC riders pulled over by compliance officers were caught speeding, along with just over three per cent of motorboats. Statewide, the rates are even higher — with 28 per cent of PWC riders caught exceeding speed limits and more than 8 per cent of motorboats facing fines.
Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon said it’s time for every skipper to take safety seriously. “Slow down, keep a proper lookout and make sure you and your passengers are complying with lifejacket rules,” he said. “Our waterways are busiest over the holidays, and there’s no room for complacency.”
By the Numbers:
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5% of PWC riders in Townsville caught speeding between 2022 and 2025.
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3% of Townsville motorboats also caught exceeding speed limits.
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28% of PWC riders statewide intercepted for speeding.
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$333 starting fine for speeding on Queensland waters.
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6 knots speed limit within 60 metres of swimmers, shorelines, pontoons, and anchored vessels.
Zoom In
Maritime Enforcement Teams will be out in force across the Townsville region, reminding riders to ‘cool your jets’ and stay within the limits. Dillon said the number of reckless operators remains a concern. “Too often we are seeing jet skis and tinnies weaving through busy waterways at high speed, putting families, children, paddlers and other boaties at risk,” he said. “This kind of behaviour is dangerous, deliberate and unacceptable. If you put others at risk, expect an on-the-spot fine.”
Zoom Out
The campaign also reinforces new lifejacket rules introduced in December 2024, requiring lifejackets to be worn in specific high-risk situations.
“The new laws save lives,” Mr Dillon said. “It’s important that every skipper brushes up on the lifejacket laws and complies.”
Local Impact
In Townsville, where boating and fishing are part of daily life, the message is clear — safety isn’t optional. The added patrols aim to protect everyone enjoying the water, from weekend jet skiers to families on fishing trips. With more people taking to the sea during spring, enforcement will focus on education and compliance to keep incidents down.
What to look for next
MSQ patrols will continue through summer and into early 2026, ensuring Townsville’s waterways remain safe and enjoyable for all. Boaties can visit www.msq.qld.gov.au for full details on safety and speed rules.
