Airlie Beach & Cannonvale Bathing Reserves

Consultation results and next steps

We thank the community for having their say on the proposal to create three new Bathing reserves at Cannonvale Beach, Shingley Beach and Boathaven Beach that were subject to consultation. The purpose of a bathing reserve is to limit motorised vessels, dangerous activities, vessel maintenance/storage or unruly behaviour, creating an area where public safety and enjoyment of the beach, foreshore and adjoining waters are prioritised for recreation.

Please view our consultation summary or detailed consultation report. Key feedback included:

• Opposition to increasing regulation that many perceive as unnecessary due to a lack of historic issues and responsible behaviour demonstrated by the local boating community.
• Desire for greater support of sailing and tourism industry, with the proposal expected to significantly impact mainland access to shops from moorings in the Bay.
• Identification that existing swimming enclosures function as safe bathing reserves that mitigate any potential conflicts with other users.
• If proceeding with proposed bathing reserves, consideration of:
  • exemptions for small dinghies or identification of designated areas for dinghy accesses to Shingley, Airlie Beach & Boathaven Beach.
  • strategic areas that may host water based recreational activities to support tourism in the future (such as hiring small sail craft or electric-foil boards).
  • amendments to Local law to permit various non-motorised watercraft, and associated small support vessels, including rescue / coaching craft for Outrigger and Junior sailing clubs.

Bathing reserves are enforced under Whitsunday Regional Council Local Law No.6 Bathing Reserves.

Please review Bathing reserve maps and our fact sheet to develop your understanding of the proposal.

Council will consider consultation results at an upcoming Council meeting and decide upon next steps for the proposed Bathing Reserves and/or future amendments to Local Law No.6.