The Department of Environment and Science (DES) is concerned that six turtles died last month due to boat strikes or propeller cuts in Moreton Bay.
The Department believes the toll could be higher as not every incident is reported.
In a statement, DES said that with school holidays in full swing, it was expecting to see an increased amount of traffic on waterways.
The Department called on boaties to reduce their speed in estuaries, sandy straits, shallow inshore areas and reef flats, and avoid shallow seagrass meadows if possible.
“Skippers travelling through Go Slow areas must operate their boats ‘off the plane’, and cannot operate boats in a manner or at a speed that would reasonably be expected to result in striking a turtle or dugong,” the Department said.
“Turtles and dugongs are at risk of being injured or killed when they come to the surface for air.”
It said Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services rangers regularly patrolled Go Slow areas and boaties doing the wrong thing there could receive an on-the-spot fine of $533.
“Anyone who comes across injured, stranded or dead marine wildlife should report it by calling 1300 130 372,” DES said.
It said examples of permanent Go Slow areas included Double Island Point in Great Sandy Marine Park, and Amity Banks in Moreton Bay Marine Park.
