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Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20

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Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20

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Radio Frequencies monitored: General: VHF 21,22, Emergency: VHF 16,67 Discount on membership fee for regular raffle supporters.

What We Do
Coast Guard CQ cover an area from as far south to Cape Capricorn, north to Percy Group, east to the Swains and the bounds of the Fitzroy river and waterways. Australian Volunteer Coast Guard - Keppel Sands - Monitoring Marine Radio:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
06:00 to 18:00

Coast Guard Yeppoon will respond to any radio calls to Coast Guard Keppel Sands 06:00 - 18:00 all other days

Call Sign: VMR 471 Coast Guard Keppel Sands

Radio Frequencies Monitored:
VHF 16, 21, 22
27Mhz 86, 88
Resuming soon:
MF/HF 2182, 2524, 4125, 6215, 8291

QF20MarineAssist
The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard, Keppel Sands is staffed entirely by volunteers providing radio monitoring and a marine search and rescue service. In addition to some State Government funding, we raise our funds from interested members of the public including our Marine Assist Contributors, major sponsors and fund raising. CONTRIBUTOR LEVELS:
•PWC – Limited Personal Water Craft (Jet-Skis; Kayaks; & Boats under 3 metres) - an area bounded by Waterpark Point, Keppel Islands to Cape Keppel.
•LR – Limited Recreational (traditional membership level) - an area bounded by Cape Manifold, Perforated Island, Barren Island, Hummocky Island to Cape Capricorn.
•OR – Open Recreational - an area bounded by Island Head Creek, North West Island, Masthead Island to the southern end of Curtis Island. MARINE ASSIST FEATURES:
Unique identifying number, no longer required to provide a trip sheet provided you log on and off by radio. Assistance on the water

Weather forecasts on request.
15% discount on Suncorp Boat insurance. UPGRADE:
Contributors may upgrade to another category at any time by paying a pro-rata fee. CONTRIBUTION:
Your contribution will apply to a single boat owner or joint owners for a specific vessel and is not transferable on change of ownership of the vessel. Contribution commences on lodgement of an application and payment of the chosen fee. TRAINING:
Coast Guard Yeppoon is an accredited training centre for Marine Radio. Marine Assist contributors may undertake a one-day training course and the examination to obtain a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate of Proficiency. Marine radios do not require registration but VHF operators are required to hold a Certificate of Proficiency. SPONSORSHIP
Our current major sponsor is: Central Highlands Safety Services

WHAT WE DO
Coast Guard plays an extremely important role in the safety of mariners around our vast Australian coastline, far out to sea, and in many of our inland waterways. Each year Coast Guard volunteers perform thousands of activations. Rescues range from assisting sinking vessels, vessels with flat batteries and other mechanical problems, vessels that have run aground and often towing these disabled vessels back to safe harbour. As well, when emergencies arise, Coast Guard is often called upon to perform Medivac responses from hard to reach islands and beaches and to provide crucial search and rescue functions for persons who may be lost or missing at sea or in other waterways. Our vessels must be maintained to commercial standards and be ready to respond 24 hours per day, every single day of the year. This takes a great deal of dedication from our volunteers to fundraise the money needed to keep these vessels ready to respond at any time. Coast Guard also maintains radio safety watches along many parts of the coastline and some inland waterways on VHF, 27MHz and HF frequencies with weather reports available on request.

03/11/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20261101

Weather during the week was not good for boating but what a stunning morning on Sunday with multiple boats taking to the water. Most boats returned early as the wind came up in the afternoon. Overall there were seventy vessels on the logs across the flotillas.
UPCOMING COURSES: There are no further courses planned for the month of November.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
* Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Transition: Things are progressing as we move closer to the transition date of November 9. All members are busy completing inductions and learning the new systems. This will be our second last report as the Central Queensland flotillas but reports will continue once we transition.
We would ask for some patience on November 9 if you are calling in to log on and off as this will be our first live date for the new ActivateMRQ systems. All our people are volunteers doing the best they can.

* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

*Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
ACTIVATIONS: Three assists for Yeppoon Flotilla during the first half of this week, including a very long rescue from up near Shoalwater Bay and challenging conditions at the Corio Bay bar.

* Monday 26 October: At 0958hrs the owner of a 13m monohull yacht requested assistance from near Pelican Island. This vessel had two adults and three children on board, and had unfortunately suffered repeat engine issues of late, necessitating two prior assists. Yeppoon Rescue Two with three volunteer crew members responded. The calmer conditions permitted the yacht to be safely berthed in Keppel Bay Marina without assistance from a second rescue boat. The rescue crews completed the activation at 1054hrs. As with their previous assists, the owner kindly again provided a donation for the help.

* Tuesday 27 October: At 1022hrs the owner and one of two adults aboard an 18m cabin cruiser requested a tow due to its inability to start the engines. Yeppoon Rescue Two headed out with four volunteer crew members on board, making the long journey up to Townshend Island. The crew towed the boat back to Keppel Bay Marina, with the crew finally returning to base at 2219hrs after eleven hours at sea. This was a very long rescue and a credit to the crew for their teamwork in effecting a safe rescue in fresh conditions and across a prolonged duration well into the night. The cost to the Flotilla of such a long activation is calculated at $300 per hour, and the owners kindly made a donation to cover this large expense.

* Wednesday 28 October: At 2229hrs assistance was requested by the Queensland Water Police to assist a 6.5m cuddy cabin in trouble at the Corio Bay bar. This vessel had two adults on board, but this was only their first time at sea and they were very uncomfortable with the weather conditions. Unfortunately they were having issues with propulsion, as whilst their engine would run it could no longer effectively propel the boat more than a short distance. Given the mechanical issues, weather conditions, and low experience, the boaters correctly decided to anchor and request help rather than attempt a solo return. As this request came in via Queensland Police, Maritime SAR were consulted, who considered helicopter activation but with the boat anchored securely in 4m of water they determined that a Coast Guard rescue would be the best option. Yeppoon Rescue Two with four volunteer crew members responded and reached Corio Bay at midnight. The disabled boat was able to motor out to meet the rescue vessel, and was taken under tow back to the Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps. The rescue crew completed the activation at 0222hrs.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Weather conditions
Storm season is already upon us and summer rapidly approaches, bringing changeable conditions and increased risks to all boaters. It is crucial to check weather conditions before heading out to sea, and to monitor the weather during your trip in case of unforeseen changes. Important considerations include:
Marine weather warnings: As well as checking the forecast for the duration of your trip, look also for changing conditions in the hours afterwards.
* Wind and gusts: Gusts can be as much as 40% stronger than sustained wind speeds. Know the safe limits of your vessel.
* Waves and swells: Wind speed directly impacts sea conditions, and wind is a primary driver of waves and swell. Heavy rain and winds can impact tidal ranges, and bring about wind-against-tide situations.
* Fuel: Remember the rule of thirds, ensuring sufficient reserve fuel balance to support such contingencies as a detour to a lee shore to avoid a threatening storm, or increased fuel consumption running home against strengthened tides and currents.

Multiple resources exist for checking marine weather:
* Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) Marine Forecasts: Provides detailed forecasts, warnings, and other marine information.
* MetEye: A BoM tool for viewing weather maps, including wind and wave forecasts.
* MarineLite: A service for downloading weather information in remote areas or for users with limited internet access.
* VHF Radio: Coastal radio stations transmit weather reports every day. In Capricornia, the Coast Guard weather reports are provided three times daily: 07:10 am, 12:10 pm, and 17:10 pm. It is also possible to call the Coast Guard over the phone or radio to receive weather information at other times.

Finally, if you are ever in doubt as to your capacity to make it home or to safe waters due to changing conditions, do not hesitate to call for advice or assistance!
# Safetybyallmeans

28/10/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20261025

With the wind still up and the rain coming down, the combination dampened the enthusiasm to get out on the water with only forty-five vessels logged on across the week. A large water snake approximately two metres long, took the quieter conditions as an invitation to visit the harbour on Sunday.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
MRQ Transition: It is getting closer to transition time to MRQ which will start on November 9 and roll out over the four flotillas that week. Uniforms have arrived, members have a new email address, last meetings are occurring as Australian Volunteer Coast Guard flotillas and squadron, and radio operators and skippers are skilling themselves on the new systems. Training of Coxswains continues across the flotillas.
We would ask for some patience on November 9 if you are calling in to log on and off as this will be our first live date for the new ActivateMRQ systems. All our people are volunteers doing the best they can and a little kindness goes a long way.

Saturday October 24: The Central Queensland Squadron held a Special Meeting to formally dissolve the four flotillas - QF11, QF19, QF20, and QF24 - and appoint an administrator as we transition to MRQ on the week starting November 9. This was the last meeting as Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and a special presentation was made to Mike and Leeanne O’Dell in recognition of their service to the Central Queensland Squadron. We wish them well in their new adventures in the Bundaberg area.

* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 said a sad farewell to Mike and Leeanne O’Dell who have moved to Bundaberg. The husband and wife team were heavily involved both at the flotilla and squadron level and will be missed. Mike was awarded a Life Membership of QF19 in recognition of his efforts.
QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

*Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

*Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
Whilst blustery and mixed conditions during the week kept many boaters on dry land, some still braved the wind and swell with 16 trips on the log and three activations for Yeppoon Flotilla this week.
Tuesday 20 October: Our regular bi-monthly meeting was held but was a milestone event as this will be the last meeting as a Coast Guard Flotilla. Myron presented a heartfelt message praising the efforts of all volunteers to make this flotilla such a well-run and professional service to the boating public.

ACTIVATIONS:
* Wednesday 21 October: At 1200hrs assistance was requested for a 15m vessel located at Kemp Beach. This vessel, with five adults on board, was a barge that had flat batteries after partial submersion returning from Great Keppel Island (Woppa) and could not be started; unfortunately, it was also taking on water and could not power its bilge pumps. Yeppoon Rescue Two with three volunteer crew members assisted with provision of a dewatering pump and a jump starter. The barge was eventually taken under tow and was nosed safely onto their unloading ramp at Rosslyn Bay Harbour, with the crew returning to base at 1337hrs.
* Friday 23 October: At 1000hrs the owner and sole occupant of a 5.6m centre console requested a tow due to inability to start the engine. Yeppoon Rescue Two headed out with four volunteer crew members on board, meeting the vessel at Putney Beach, Great Keppel Island (Woppa). The crew towed the boat back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour public ramps, completing the activation at 1130hrs.
* Sunday 25 October: At 0817hrs the owner of a 12.2m monohull yacht requested assistance to enter Rosslyn Bay Harbour due to engine failure. This vessel had two adults and three children on board. Both Yeppoon Rescue Two and Marine Assist Rescue responded to assist the yacht, with the former vessel acting as tow boat and the latter off the stern of the yacht working as a brake vessel. This ensures adequate control of the yacht in windy conditions and within the limited working room of the Marina. The yacht was safely berthed in Keppel Bay Marina on the blue arm with the rescue crews completing the activation at 0941hrs.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Fire at sea.
For boaters, fire at sea is a serious emergency that requires immediate action. Always have a fully equipped fire extinguisher within easy reach and regularly check its condition. Ensure all crew members know how to use it. Install smoke detectors and fire alarms where possible. In case of fire, try to contain it by isolating fuel sources and evacuating to a safe area if needed. Ensure all life jackets are accessible and call for help immediately by using VHF radio or distress signals. If your only radio device is built into the boat, consider also having a handheld marine radio in case you must abandon your vessel; having a second handheld radio is useful for tender use anyway. Regularly practice fire drills and maintain safety equipment for quick response in emergencies, keeping your EPIRB just inside the cabin close to the main exit point.
# Safetybyallmeans

20/10/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20261018
Windy and wet conditions kept boaters off the water this week with brief lulls on Friday allowing some campers to get back home from the islands. This was reflected in the log on/off statistics with only thirty-eight vessels logged on over the course of the week. Coast Guards Keppel Sands and Yeppoon took the opportunity on the weekend to undertake training in the rougher conditions to hone their rescue skills.

UPCOMING COURSES: There are no further courses planned for the month of October.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

* Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11:
It has been a quiet week due to inclement weather, but on and off water training was still undertaken. There were two activations occurring late last Sunday with only a public service event this week.
** Wednesday 13 October Training in Activate MRQ: The TripWatch system currently in use will be replaced with Activate MRQ on 9th November when QF11 transitions to MRQ. Steve Maher, a volunteer from MRQ Bundaberg, travelled to Yeppoon to provide training in the use of the system which is in use at their unit. Twelve participants with a range of roles gained experience in using the system with particular emphasis on logging boats on and off.
** Wednesday 13 October Public Service: A request for a Scattering of Ashes took place off Wreck Point with three volunteer crew members aboard Yeppoon Rescue Two conducting the request.
** Activations:
* Late last week - Sunday 11 October - Two jet ski requests.
At 16:00 a call was received from the first jet ski with one person on board which had a flat battery near Man and Wife Islands. Yeppoon Rescue Two was dispatched with four volunteer crew members and a battery jump starter. After attending to another closer jet ski call for assistance, they arrived and were able to jump start the craft and shadow it into Rosslyn Bay harbour arriving at 17:47. The owner donated for the service provided.
* At 16:07 while getting ready to address the first jet ski request, a second jet ski with one person on board ran out of fuel in Statue Bay. This was dealt with first by Yeppoon Rescue Two with four volunteer crew members. The craft was taken under tow and returned to Rosslyn Bay harbour at 16:30. Yeppoon Rescue Two then set out to the first request.
This Week: No activations occurred this week.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Flat batteries
Flat marine batteries in Queensland happen quickly because hot tropical and subtropical weather speeds up internal chemical reactions, water evaporation, and self-discharge. High electrical loads from fish finders, live-well pumps, and fridges also drain batteries fast while out on the water. Rough chop and trailering can loosen wing nuts or cables, interrupting proper charging from the outboard alternator.
Some Suggestion on How to Avoid Flat Batteries:
Use a Smart Charger: Invest in a multi-stage smart charger or maintainer (such as a SmartCharge system) and keep the battery plugged in when the boat is stored at home.
Manage Summer Heat: Store your boat in shaded or ventilated areas and use insulated battery boxes if the battery sits in direct sun or a hot engine bay.
Install a Battery Monitor: Use a real-time battery monitor or Bluetooth-enabled BMS (Battery Management System) to track voltage drops and state of charge before you launch.
Match Battery Chemistry & Purpose: Separate starting banks from house banks, use AGM, gel, or LFP (lithium iron phosphate) where appropriate, and ensure compliance with AS NZ 3004 Standards for marine electrical setups.
Carry a Portable Jump Starter: Keep a compact, waterproof-rated portable marine jump starter charged and stored safely on board.
# Safetybyallmeans

13/10/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20261011

Though hot towards the end of the week, the winds were mild resulting in 130 vessels logged on to TripWatch across the four flotillas. The water wasn’t looking its best with the blue-green algae in abundance, particularly around the coastline.

UPCOMING COURSES: There are no further courses planned for the month of October.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

* Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11: A busy weekend at the ramps once again and training continues for Delta crew with on-water training in rafting and recovery of a person overboard using our training dummy.

Barbecue Lunch Saturday 10 October - A full get together and barbecue lunch was held for all crews as a goodbye to Coast Guard and a welcome to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) as this weekend marks the final round of crew weeks. It also provided the opportunity for an update around the transition to MRQ on the 9th of November and an opportunity to ask any questions.

Activations: There were three activations this week with one aborted on the way to the destination.
● Monday 5 October - A call was received at 12:37 from a Marine Assist member in a five metre runabout with four people on board. They were experiencing engine problems at Putney Beach on Great Keppel Island (Woppa) and requested a tow. Yeppoon Rescue Two with four volunteer crew members was dispatched and took the vessel under tow returning to Rosslyn Bay harbour at 14:15.
● Tuesday 6 October - A call was received at 10:19 from a Marine Assist member who couldn’t get the engine of his 6.1m runabout started at Outer Rock. Yeppoon Rescue Two set off with four volunteer crew members. When they were near Conical Rock they received a call to say that the owner and the other person on board had solved the problem and a tow was no longer needed. Yeppoon Rescue Two returned to base arriving at 11:37.
● Friday 9 October - At 11:09 a 13.7m yacht with two people on board reported that their engine wouldn’t start and they were unable to steer or anchor and were located in the mouth of the Fitzroy River. They were travelling south and they requested a tow to Cape Capricorn where Coast Guard Yeppoon would be able to hand over the tow to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) Gladstone. The diesel engine would then be able to be repaired in Gladstone. This was agreed upon by both organisations and Yeppoon Rescue Two set out with four volunteer crew members. They took the vessel under tow in the mouth of the Fitzroy River and were able to successfully hand the tow over to MRQ Gladstone at Cape Capricorn. Coast Guard Yeppoon then returned to Rosslyn Bay harbour arriving at 17:00 after a long trip.

SAFETY MESSAGE: How to Stay Cool While Boating
With the weather heating up, don’t underestimate the importance of staying cool while you’re out boating. When your body overheats, you can experience fatigue, loss of concentration, dizziness, and nausea, among other things. Eventually heatstroke will occur if you don’t cool down, which is a potentially fatal medical emergency.
● Stay Cool in the Shade - create shade on your boat!
● Stay Hydrated - drink plenty of water.
● Wear Cool Attire - wearing a hat, long-sleeve shirt and pants might keep you cooler than swimming clothing. If you’re wearing loose, breathable, and lightweight materials, non-swimwear allows air to circulate across your body, wicks away sweat and shields your skin from direct sunlight. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
● Dampen the Deck - pouring cool water onto a hot deck absorbs much of the surface heat, keeping the feet of both you and your passengers and the deck itself cooler.
● Eat Healthy Snacks - to replace the sodium and potassium your body loses when you sweat.
● Indulge in swimming and/or water sports - nothing cools your entire body off better than getting off the boat and taking a dip in the water.
# Safetybyallmeans

07/10/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20261004

Rough winds created poor conditions at the start of the week but eased slightly for the weekend encouraging some boaters out on to the water for the last weekend of the school holidays. There were seventy-six vessels on the log across the four flotillas for the week. Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) and the Water Police were also spotted out and about around the Keppels this weekend helping to keep boaters safe.

UPCOMING COURSES: There are no further courses planned for the month of October.
Just Held: Safe Boating 3 October. The course was well attended with ten members of the public once again appreciating the information and the opportunity to activate a flare safely.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
* Public Service: Coast Guards Yeppoon, Rockhampton, and Keppel Sands provided safety vessels for the CapRoc regatta held on 3 - 5 October off Fisherman’s Beach at Emu Park. This regatta provided a variety of events such as an 11.5km marathon, an around Great Keppel Island (Woppa) change over race, and a downwind event from Emu Park to Farnborough beach. Many thanks to all the volunteers who gave up their time over the long weekend to make this a safer event. Conditions in the changeover event on Sunday certainly gave the crews some training in rough water.

* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

* Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11: A busy weekend at the ramps but encouragingly only two activations were required.
Sunday 4 October - A call was received at 09:30 from a boater in a 5.5m Cuddy cabin with two people on board which ran out of fuel in Keppel Bay. Yeppoon Rescue Two with four volunteer crew members and two trainees was dispatched to tow the vessel back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour. While on this activation a second call was received from a yellow flexihull acting as an es**rt boat in the Around Great Keppel change over outrigger canoe race. They had lost their steering in the vicinity of Great Keppel Island (Woppa) and needed a tow back to Rosslyn Bay Harbour. Yeppoon Rescue Two proceeded to this vessel, took it also under tow, and both vessels were brought back into the harbour arriving at 14:35.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Overloading
Overloading is one of the easiest ways to capsize your boat and contributes greatly to boating fatalities. The more weight in the boat, the lower the freeboard which increases the chances of swamping and lowers stability. Overpowering your vessel also causes overloading due to the increased weight. Overloading compromises the safety of everyone on board.
● Check for the Australian Builder’s Plate (ABP) attached to your vessel. The ABP is an information plate attached to most new powered recreational boats, including imported boats. The ABP provides essential information to a boat’s operator regarding the safe operation of a boat. It includes information such as the boat’s maximum loading capacity, maximum engine power, and the flotation performance of the boat in the case of an emergency.
● Know how to safely load your boat by:
● storing heavy items low and central in a place where they cannot move around.
● distributing the weight, including passengers, evenly throughout the boat
● compensating for the weight of extra fuel
# Safetybyallmeans

30/09/2026

Coast Guard – Central Qld Squadron Media Release 20260927

Rough winds created poor conditions for boating on the weekend with only 95 vessels on the log across the four flotillas for the week.

Many thanks to the gentleman who reported a sick bird in the marina area to Coast Guard Yeppoon. This allowed us to contact the relevant agency for assistance. With Avian flu a possibility, it is important to report any sick wildlife that could be affected. If you see a sick animal please report it - do not touch the animals. To report, phone immediately:
o Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 (business hours), or
o Contact the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline at 1800 675 888.

UPCOMING COURSES for October:
Safe Boating 3 October 0800-1130hrs - This free course will be held at the Coast Guard Yeppoon’s Operations centre. The course is a great introduction for new boaters or those new to the area and covers general safety and information regarding local boating. Enjoy a fun morning where you can learn how to safely use flares and different lifejackets, and improve your boating skills and knowledge. This course has no examination. Due to the use of flares in this course, closed footwear is required. For more information and to register, please call (07) 4933 6600.

FLOTILLA INFORMATION:
● Face to Face Meeting: On Saturday 26th November members of the Central Queensland flotillas were invited to a Face to Face meeting at Coast Guard Yeppoon operations centre with joint AVCGA/MRQ delegates. AVCGA National Commodore Matthew Semmens along with Deputy National Commodore David Taylor also joined in online. The purpose of the meeting was to provide AVCGA members with the required information about the transition process to MRQ and their constitutional rights during this process. This is ahead of the proposed transition date of the week beginning November 9. The meeting was well attended with many questions about the process asked and answered.
● Coxswain’s Grade 1 Course - On Sunday 27 November five QF11 members and one QF19 member continued their course with a practical diesel and electrical assessment.

* Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20: Coast Guard Keppel Sands provides a Radio listening watch for the Capricorn Coast on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6am to 6pm. The service covers Channel 16 (emergency) and Channels 21 and 22. Our crew is on standby for assistance, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Regular training is held so the crews are ready to assist vessels in the Keppel Bay area.
You can log your trips by calling on Channels 21 or 22, Phone 49344906 or using the QR Code signs at the boat ramps. Yeppoon log-ins come to us automatically on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and ours go automatically to Yeppoon on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
We welcome visitors to our centre on the top of Limpus Heights (South Bluff), Keppel Sands, where there is a wonderful view from our lookout point, of Long Beach down to the mouth of the Fitzroy River, Keppel Bay, and the Islands in the bay.

* Coast Guard Rockhampton QF19: QF19 Rockhampton maintains 24/7 safety coverage for the commercial and recreational boating communities along the Fitzroy River region. The areas of coverage include the Fitzroy River freshwater section from the barrage to the current water ski area, the Fitzroy River tidal section out to Curtis Island, and the Port Alma area to a location halfway down the Narrows channel. QF19 can be contacted any time on 0428 580 646.

* Coast Guard Thirsty Sound QF24: QF24 is located at Stanage Bay and is always on the alert through the northern regions on VHF Channels 81 and 83. Be sure to log on as you travel through that area.

* Coast Guard Yeppoon QF11: It was a quiet week at Coast Guard Yeppoon with only two activations early on in the week.
ACTIVATIONS:
● Monday 21 September - A call was received at 13:45 from the owner of a 5.8m Cuddy cabin with four people on board (two adults and two children) who was at Barren Island with an engine that wouldn't tilt down. He didn’t have any tools so Yeppoon Rescue Two set out with four volunteer crew members and a flat bladed screwdriver that was able to solve the problem. With the motor now down he was able to make way back towards the harbour shadowed by Coast Guard for two thirds of the way. He then peeled off on his own way with Coast Guard Yeppoon arriving back at base at 15:35.
● Tuesday 22 September - A call was received at 9:30 from a 7.3m Cabin Cruiser with a blown motor with seven adults and five children on board. He requested a tow from Great Keppel Island (Woppa) back to Rosslyn Bay harbour. Yeppoon Rescue Two set out for the tow with four volunteer crew members. They returned to base with the boat in tow at 11:30.

SAFETY MESSAGE: Basic Tool Kit for Boating
You need a tool kit when boating to handle sudden mechanical failures, perform emergency quick-fixes, and stay safe on the water where help can take time to arrive.
Suggestions for a basic toolkit:
● spark plug spanner and spark plugs (for petrol engines)
● small adjustable spanner that will fit the propeller
● pair of pliers
● metal file
● wire brush
● hacksaw and blade
● Phillips head and standard screwdriver
● spare fuel line
● electrical wiring
● insulation tape
● a can of water-displacing spray.

# Safetybyallmeans

Address

Coast Guard Keppel Sands QF20
Keppel Sands, QLD
4702

Opening Hours

Tuesday	9am - 6pm
Wednesday	6am - 6pm
Thursday	6am - 6pm

Telephone

+61749344906

Website

http://www.coastguard.com.au/flotilla/41-qf20

Alerts

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