All watercraft users should Log On & Log Off with their nearest Marine Rescue or Coast Guard unit whenever they head out on the water.

This is a simple process that lets them know when you’re leaving, where you’re heading and when you expect to return.

This way, someone responsible knows that you’re out on your boat and that you’ve returned safely at the end of your trip.

If you don’t Log Off, they can take steps to try to find you to ensure you are safe.

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Here are a few FAQS to help you

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Do I have to be a Marine Rescue or Coast Guard member to use a log-on service?

No! The service is free of charge for all members of the public

 

I have a kayak or a canoe. Can I log on/off when heading out?

Yes! By simply providing a call sign that you wish to be addressed as, identify yourself

 

I'm on a jet ski. Can I log on/off, too?

Yes! It is highly encouraged that jet ski riders log their journeys

 

Do you need a radio to log on/off?

No! You can call your nearest unit and speak to volunteers who can log your trip by phone, as well as guide you through the log-on/off process

 

Is the log-on/off service only for vessels going offshore?

No! All vessels, no matter their destination, can use this service

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What other services can be provided over the radio?

You can ask for a radio check or a weather report

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Log On Information Required

      Vessel Registration Number and/or Name of Vessel

       Make and model the vessel

     Number of people on board (POB)

     Mobile Phone Number

     Departure Point and Destination

     Estimated Time of Return (ETR)

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If you are staying out overnight, please request to be placed on the overnight log. 

If you change your planned estimated time of return, radio or phone the base again and advise them of your change in plans. If you are sailing up or down the coast, you should establish a voyage plan and an Offshore Tracking Schedule to check in (a ‘sked’) with other Marine Rescue or Coast Guard units along the way.

They will keep track of your progress until you safely arrive at your destination

 

What to do if you intend to cross a Bar

Queensland has many dangerous coastal bars

They are often the only way boats can access or reach shelter from open waters

Conditions on a bar can change quickly and without warning, even on a good day

Don’t risk crossing a bar if the weather looks bad or is forecast to deteriorate

Local knowledge, experience and the right kind of boat are critical when trying to cross a bar

Wear lifejackets while crossing a bar in any boat at any time. Your boat can capsize quickly, and it is almost impossible to put on a lifejacket in choppy waters

Conditions offshore can be ideal for boating, but the conditions on the bar can be dangerous.

Never underestimate a coastal bar, as weather conditions can change quickly without warning

Do not try to cross a bar if the weather looks bad or in heavy swells, strong wind, or on a run-out tide when wave conditions are usually the most dangerous

It’s compulsory for everyone to wear a lifejacket while crossing designated coastal bars in open boats under 4.8m.

Designated coastal bar locations:

Bribie Island 

Caloundra  

Cawarral Creek  

Currumbin  

Gold Coast Seaway  

Jumpinpin  

Mooloolah River  

Maroochy River  

Noosa River  

Round Hill Creek  

South Passage  

Tallebudgera  

Wide Bay  

Please advise Marine Rescue or Coast Guard that you plan to cross the bar. Please do this before entering the bar

Once you have safely crossed to the other side, please, once again, notify them that you have safely crossed the bar

This ensures that you  are aware you are safe through the bar and offshore, or that you have safely returned to inshore waters

 

Don't forget to familiarise yourself with the marine channels in SEQ on our channel page

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Our Information

Callsign: SEQUEST RADIO 

At SEQUEST, we conduct a listening watch on VHF Marine Distress Channel 16, covering from the Brisbane & Bremer  Rivers, downstream out to Moreton Bay

Don't forget, if you are heading on the Brisbane or Bremer Rivers, check out our Riverwatch page

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