As the weather heats up, Seqwater is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors to 21 of its picturesque lakes and recreational sites across South East Queensland this summer.
While summer is all about fun in the sun, safety on and around the water remains a top priority, with Seqwater launching it’s Be Safe, For Fun’s Sake campaign to remind visitors to stay safe at its lakes and sites.
With more than 2.5 million people visiting Seqwater’s recreation sites each year, the holiday season is expected to be one of the busiest yet. Visitors are urged to follow six simple tips:
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Always wear the right life jacket
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Always swim in the designated swimming areas
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Always keep an eye on your kids
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Always look out for hidden hazards
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Always keep a safe distance and speed when boating or skiing
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Always check the weather and lake conditions before you leave home
Seqwater Executive General Manager Operations, Fiore Zulli, said Seqwater is expecting bumper crowds this summer, and is encouraging locals to monitor the weather as conditions can change quickly.
“We’ve thankfully had no fatalities at our recreation sites this year, and we want everyone to continue to go home safely this summer and school holidays,” he said.
“As Queenslanders, we’re no strangers to a severe summer storm. Conditions can change quickly out on the water so it’s important you monitor the weather and check our recreation and safety notices before visiting.
“We urge everyone to stay informed, take warnings seriously, and avoid unnecessary risks. Your safety - and the safety of those around you - depends on making smart decisions.”
Mr Zulli also said a day on the water or at the region’s recreation sites should be enjoyable and safe.
“We love seeing families and friends enjoying a day out at our lakes and recreation sites and our rangers will patrol the sites to help keep the fun alive.
“But while our rangers will be out and about, they can’t be everywhere at once. That’s why we encourage everyone to look out for each other, follow the safety signs, and report anything that doesn’t seem right.
From boating and fishing to picnics and scenic walks, Seqwater has something on offer for everyone this summer.
A quick escape close to Brisbane, Ipswich, Somerset and the Lockyer Valley
Lake Wivenhoe, Lake Somerset and Atkinson Dam offer more than 12 recreation areas for outdoor activities for everyone and stunning views of the regions two largest dams. The region welcomes more than 200,000 visitors each summer as the go-to destination so close to Greater Brisbane.
Lake Somerset is the ideal location for water skiers and personal watercrafts and the perfect countryside escape just an hour from Brisbane.
Or if you’re an early riser and love to smash 5km before breakfast, Cormorant Bay hosts Parkrun every Saturday morning at 7am.
Heading south to the Gold Coast?
Nestled in the scenic Gold Coast hinterland, nearly 70,000 people visit Hinze Dam every summer to experience four different mountain bike trails for all experience levels, waterside parks, a cafe views overlooking Hinze Dam and picnic areas.
Visit the Moreton region
More than 120,000 visitors each summer think a great day out in Moreton Bay is a visit out to Lake Samsonvale - the perfect escape from the city and just north of Brisbane with scenic picnic spots or head out on the water for paddle on a kayak.
Take a trip to the Scenic Rim
Nearly 120,000 visitors each summer stop into the Scenic Rim to experience the perfect country escape with spectacular mountain ranges just an hour away from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It’s home to Lake Moogerah, Maroon and Wyaralong with picnic and recreation areas offering a range of outdoor activities including fishing, rowing and water skiing.
Planning to visit the Sunshine Coast?
The growing Sunshine Coast region is home to the picturesque Lake Baroon, Cooloolabin, Ewen Maddock, Macdonald and Wappa with beautiful recreation areas with views over lakes and natural areas. It’s the perfect summer getaway with more than 80,000 visitors seeking relaxation or adventure before a quick roadtrip to the seaside for culinary trips along the bustling streets of the CBD.
For more information:
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Plan ahead - our recreation map will help you find the perfect site for your next visit. Discover what outdoor activities are on offer, including facilities and location maps
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Check our recreation and safety notices before you leave for the latest information on conditions and closures
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Download our public safety app to access information about dam releases, dam levels and updates on recreation in South East Queensland at your fingertips
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Sign up for our free dam release notification service to receive notifications by SMS, email or recorded messages to landlines when gated dam releases are occurring, or un-gated dams are spilling
