Margate beachgoers need to keep their distance from a yacht that has been grounded on the beach, Moreton Bay City Council says.
“Council strongly advises the public to keep a safe distance from the grounded vessel for their own safety” a council spokesperson told News Cop today.
“The vessel is privately owned property and should not be interfered with by members of the public.”
Some of the vessel’s contents have already been carefully unloaded after News Cop visited the site on Sunday.
The yacht is believed to have broken free from its mooring on Thursday, August 8, and ran aground on Margate, a beachside suburb located on the Redcliffe Peninsula, Brisbane.
The site of the grounded yacht faces directly out across Moreton Bay, to Moreton Island and the renowned shipwrecks of Tangalooma.
MARGATE BEACHING
Some residents had reported that the yacht had been taking in water before it ran aground and council confirmed that there was damage to the hull.
“The vessel’s hull sustained significant structural damage, making refloating problematic,” the spokesperson says.
“Given the extent of hull damage, it is likely the vessel took on water at some stage prior to grounding.”
Early reports failed to find any evidence of fuel or oil pollution, the spokesperson told News Cop.
“A preliminary inspection found no evidence of fuel or oil pollution,” she says.
“A more detailed inspection will be carried out in coming days.”
The council spokesperson says Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is working closely with the yacht’s owner to arrange for its safe removal.
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MARITIME SAFETY TIPS
Meanwhile, MSQ said in a social media post that it has a team out on the waters on Moreton Bay to ensure safety during August which is known for strong westerly winds across South East Queensland.
- It offers the following tips to skippers.
- Don’t wait for the wind to ruin your weekend.
- Plan your trip early.
- Stay up to date on the latest weather forecast and continually monitor the conditions.
- Wear a lifejacket and remain prepared.
STORM SAFETY: Click here to learn more from MSQ
