Maritime Safety Queensland has called for an increased focus on water safety after the State recorded an alarming increase in recreational boating deaths in 2019.
The Agency reported that 18 people died in Queensland’s waters last year in marine incidents. Of the 14 who drowned or went missing, only one was known to be wearing a lifejacket.
It said reported incidents involved 412 Queensland registered recreational vessels and 31 Queensland registered commercial vessels, resulting in 109 injuries, including 37 people who were admitted to hospital.
The most commonly reported incidents were collisions between ships, collisions with objects, groundings and capsizes.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the findings of the 2019 Marine Incident Report marked a grim milestone for the State.
“Last year was the worst in Queensland for decades, in terms of the number of lives lost on the water,” Mr Bailey said.
“One particularly tragic event saw a group of five family members and friends lost at sea in the Torres Strait.
“The number of reported marine incidents and hospitalisations last year was slightly down on the previous year, but sadly there were four serious incidents that claimed multiple lives.”
He said human factors were the significant contributor to most of the incidents, which frequently happened on smooth water, with good visibility in clear weather.
Mr Bailey said the report showed that boat users needed to pay more attention to safety messages and commit to the routine use of lifejackets.
“Of the 113 people who have drowned during marine incidents in Queensland over the past 20 years, only five were known to have been wearing a lifejacket,” he said.
“Boat operators need to keep a proper lookout at all times and always travel at a safe speed.
“Most importantly, they must have enough lifejackets on board for everyone and make sure everyone knows how to use them,” the Minister said.
