A retired magistrate, Ron Kilner, is advocating for stricter regulations and reduced speed limits on the Nerang River in the Gold Coast to combat dangerous boating behaviours. He has been raising concerns for four years about the safety dangers posed by reckless boaters, emphasising that the river is frequented by various users for different activities. Kilner insists everyone should feel safe on the water, stating the need for better enforcement of law to address reckless behaviour typically punished on roads.
Currently, speed limits on the Nerang River are inconsistent, with larger vessels restricted to six knots and smaller boats allowed up to 40 knots. Kilner proposes that a uniform speed limit of six knots for all vessels, akin to the Coomera River’s regulations, would enhance safety overall. He argues that those engaging in illegal boating conduct seem to evade prosecution compared to similar situations on roads. While the Gold Coast Waterways Authority maintains commitment to best practices in setting speed limits, enforcement responsibility lies with Water Police and other authorities. The growing push for streamlined speed regulations underscores the community’s desire for a safer boating environment.