Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House the need to reduce the maximum speed limit for watercraft using the Pumicestone Passage at Bribie Island to improve safety for human and marine life.

The present maximum speed limit of 40 knots (74kph) in the southern end of the Passage is excessive and dangerous for humans and marine wildlife such as breeding and feeding dolphins, dugongs and turtles. The Caloundra end of the Passage has had a reduction in speed limit to 20 knots (37kph) and southern Bribie Island residents contend this 20-knot speed limit should apply to the entirety of the Passage from the Caloundra entrance to South Point at Bongaree.  

The Pumicestone Passage is designated an area of International Environmental Significance under the terms of the Ramsar Treaty and is also part of the Moreton Bay Marine Park Habitat Protection zone. The Queensland Environment Department designates the Passage as a Conservation Park, containing a Marine National Park 6 knot green zone. 

Due to the competing uses on the waterway from the ever-increasing boating population, a reduction in speed is vital for the safety of passive watercraft such as kayaks and paddle boards. Marine species such as critically endangered dugongs, turtles and dolphins will benefit by being allowed more time to avoid speeding watercraft.  This speed reduction will also reduce noise pollution.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to legislate to reduce the maximum speed for watercraft on the entire Pumicestone Passage to 20 knots.