All watercraft users should log on and log off with their nearest Marine Rescue or Coast Guard unit before heading out on the water.

This simple process 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 may take steps to locate you and ensure your safety.

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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, you can  identify yourself

 

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

Yes! Jet ski riders are strongly encouraged to log their journeys.

 

Do you need a radio to log on/off?

No! You can call your nearest unit and speak with volunteers who can log your trip by phone and 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 of 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 estimated return time, radio or phone the base again and advise them of the change. 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 units along the way.

They will monitor 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 shelter from open water.

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 crossing a bar.

Wear a lifejacket 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.

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

Never underestimate a coastal bar; weather can change quickly without warning.

Do not try to cross a bar if the weather looks bad, if there are heavy swells or strong winds, or if the tide is running out, when wave conditions are usually most dangerous.

Everyone must 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  

Tweed Heads 

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 notify them again that you have crossed the bar.

This ensures you know 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 the Brisbane & Bremer Rivers downstream 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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