WHALES
A NUMBER of whale entanglements have occurred along the coast, including a mother and calf at Noosa. As soon as alerted, we contacted the Shark Control Program Hotline, and a contractor arrived at 9:20 pm, successfully releasing both by 11:00 pm with locals assisting.
We have a briefing with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on the need for faster rescue protocols. Following this, we facilitated a meeting with Oceans for All and relevant business, environment and water user groups to obtain their position on the trialling of alternative measures to shark nets during whale migration season. An overwhelming majority supported, which, in addition to previous surveys and late responses from those who could not attend, will be submitted to the state government.
E-BIKES
In response to our advocacy, the Minister for Transport and Main Roads has advised that they are increasing e-mobility education in schools, including the deployment of road safety officers to deliver presentations with police officers. While the Parliamentary Inquiry into e-mobility safety is underway, we continue to advocate for consistent age limits, the trial of ID-tags, as well as the consideration of registration/insurance and for progress on Office of Fair Trading enforcement of retailers who are supplying illegal devices under false or misleading claims.
NOOSA RIVER
Maritime Safety Queensland has advised that, following community concerns, they are consolidating the stage six and seven reforms of the Noosa River Management Plan into a single stage to avoid potentially the northern end becoming a ‘dumping ground’ for boats. These changes will now take effect on January 1, 2026, and implement a 28-day anchoring limit per financial year across the entire Noosa River system, including Lake Cooroibah and Lake Cootharaba.
KEEP IN TOUCH
With so much to share and limited space, stay ‘in the loop’ by heading to Noosa 360, where you can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter, which ensures you are notified of any Noosa-specific surveys or polls. In addition, follow ‘Sandy Bolton MP’ on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn! For any questions or assistance on state-related matters, do not hesitate to contact my office at 5319 3100.