Lower river level prompts safety changes for Black Weir
Date published: 12 November 2015
Safety measures have been stepped up for recreational boat use on Black Weir on Ross River in response to falling water levels.
In consultation with Marine Safety Queensland, the Townsville City Council has adopted four stages of restrictions for skiing craft on the weir’s two publicly bookable zones (A and B), which will be triggered by lowering river levels.
With the current level more than 1.25m below the top of the weir, the first stage of restrictions was introduced today.
Stage 1 reduces the number of skiing vessels permitted at any one time on Zone B of the weir from six to four. A 6 knot safety zone will also be in place 20m either side of submerged hazards in an area known as "The Spit".
Council’s Sport, Recreation and Parks Committee chairman said the river was becoming narrower and shallower, reducing the safe capacity for skiing vessels.
"The council has consulted Marine Safety Queensland and our own safety professionals and the most responsible action is to put in place restrictions that will protect the safety of river users," Cr Ernst said.
"As well as having a narrower navigable stretch of water, the drop in river level also means submerged obstacles are closer to the surface.
"MSQ has carried out a hydrographical survey of the river to locate potential hazards in the water, and these areas are being marked with buoys and speed limits will be in place so boaties can see and avoid them.
"The council has acted to ensure that until we receive rain and the river levels rise again, we have appropriate measures in place for the safe use of power craft on the river.
"I urge anyone using the river to water ski to make sure they book first and exercise care. The council’s Water Ranger will also continue to patrol the river to ensure people have permits and operate boats safely.
Council staff will also carry out work to reduce the amount of weed in the river, and on-going monitoring of the water level which is currently falling at around 2.5cm week.
The river’s ski clubs have been consulted and signage has been installed at the Black Weir boat ramp advising of the changes.
Council’s on-line booking system has also been amended to reflect the temporary limits.
There will be no restrictions on the rowing club or the use of unpowered craft on the weir at any stage.
