Christmas has come early for outdoor enthusiasts, with recent rain boosting lake levels across South East Queensland, creating ideal recreation conditions.
Lake levels in popular recreation spots like Lake Moogerah in the Scenic Rim, Lake Borumba in Gympie and Lake Somerset in the Somerset Region have risen between 10 and 40 per cent.
Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said while the rise in lake levels was sure to attract holiday makers to SEQ lakes, it was important people remembered to Play It Safe during this busy summer period.
"Topped up lakes and lush green trails are ideal conditions to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, bushwalking, mountain biking or horse riding these holidays," Mr Butcher said.
"While we know people are eager to explore the great outdoors, it's important to be vigilant when it comes to your safety and the safety of those around you."
To make sure the safety message remains in the forefront of people's minds this summer, Seqwater is once again rolling out its annual Play It Safe campaign.
Member for Kurwongbah Shane King loves spending recreational time alongside the rest of the community at Lake Kurwongbah but reminded everyone to be conscious of their surroundings.
"We all need to be courteous, plan ahead, observe the safety rules, and know how to use and store safety equipment," Mr King said.
"If you're an experienced boatie, it's still worth checking the condition of your vessel before you launch.
"If you're planning to bring a furry friend, they need to remain in the dogs-on-leash areas, and only at permitted lakes."
Seqwater Chief Operating Officer Stuart Cassie said visitors should expect to see Seqwater rangers and compliance officers and the Queensland Police Service patrolling various sites to ensure visitors are aware of, and adhering to, the rules.
"Our rangers and compliance officers are ready for another busy summer, but they can't be everywhere, so we rely on visitors to do the right thing," Mr Cassie said.
Mr Cassie said Seqwater intercepted around 200 vessels last year between Christmas and New Year's Day, with fines and warning notices issued for operating vessels without a licence, failing to carry safety equipment and for exceeding speed and distance rules.
"Our team has also witnessed serious skiing accidents, severe injuries involving children, boat fires and near drownings," Mr Cassie said.
"If you're planning to visit one of our beautiful lakes or dams, check the Seqwater website, social media channels or our free app for the latest recreation and safety notices."
Recreation safety tips:
- Wearing a life jacket can save your life
- Watch out for submerged objects – they can cause vessel damage and result in injuries
- Check the conditions! Make sure you check the weather forecast and the condition of your boat before heading out
- Only swim in designated areas – for your safety and the safety of others
- Dogs are only allowed at a small number of sites, and they must stay within the dogs-on-leash areas
- Don't drink and drive a car or boat
- Boaties and jet-skiers must observe the on-water speed limits and distance rules
- When you are water skiing, you must travel in an anti-clockwise direction
- Please be patient and courteous with other visitors, abide by the rules and stick to the permitted activities for the location
- Supervise children at all times
- Bring a backpack with your essentials – a mobile phone, sun protection, first aid kit and reusable water bottle.
- Do the right thing – put rubbish in the bins.
View the latest recreation and safety notices at Seqwater's website www.seqwater.com.au
