Speeding Boaters Be Warned!

Boating anglers are being warned to stick to the designated speed limit on inland waters or risk being fined. Anyone observed exceeding the speed limits will be fined under Marine and Safety Tasmania regulations that carry a $130 fine.

At Arthurs Lake there is a 5 knot speed limit north of the transmission line in Cowpaddock Bay, which is beyond the Jonah Bay boat ramp and speed limit sign. However, speeding boats have been reported there over recent days. MAST’s rule of thumb is that “If you’re planing, then you’re doing more than 5 knots”.

This warning applies for a number of waters around the State and is an issue at Arthurs where the current high water level has left many previously exposed rocks and tree stumps submerged. These boating hazards pose a significant safety issue when travelling at high speed on the water.

Arthurs Lake is the State’s most popular fishery and there are also numerous boats on the water at this time of the year. It’s important therefore, that all boaters respect the rights of others to fish with minimal disturbance and for boaters to minimise their boat wake whilst moving around the lake.

Boaters are also requested to practice minimal impact on the lake’s environment by accelerating gently in shallow water to avoid the propeller jet underwash from stirring up the silt and mud on the bottom of the lake. This sediment clouds the water, disturbs sensitive weed beds, smothers aquatic plants and degrades fish habitat.