Emergency & Safety of Life Communications
Marine Radio Contacts
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.
Here are a few FAQs to help you
Do I have to be a member of Marine Rescue or Coast Guard to use a log-on service?
No! The service is free of charge for all members of the public
I have a kayak or canoe, can I log on/off when heading out?
Yes! By simply providing a call sign that you wish to be addressed to identify you
I'm on a jet ski. Can I log on/off too?
Yes! In fact, it is highly encouraged that jetski riders log their journeys
Do you need a radio to log on/off?
No! You can call your nearest unit and speak to volunteers that 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
What other services over the radio can be provided?
You can ask for a radio check or a weather report
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)
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 the Marine Rescue Queensland 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 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
Our Information
Our Callsign: SEQUEST RADIO
At SEQUEST we conduct a listening watch on VHF Marine Channel 16 Distress covering from the Brisbane & Bremer Rivers, downstream out to Moreton Bay
We also provide a vessel log-on system where we will happily assist you in monitoring your journey on the water
Don't forget if you are heading on the Brisbane or Bremer Rivers check out our Riverwatch page