We, the undersigned, respectfully petition Sunshine Coast Council to:

(A) Extend dredging at Golden Beach to facilitate safe watersport activities.

(B) Restrict baited crab pots to reduce unsafe obstructions and risk of bull shark interaction where activities occur.

Reasons:

A. Foiling activity occurs mainly at the Lighthouse, as foils need more depth. Kiting, with short board fins, occurs mainly at the Cadets, Onslow Street.  Both areas are silting up, as is the newly closed bar area at Caloundra promenade.  

Caloundra is a recognised watersports paradise/destination, providing opportunities to learn and practice in a safe environment. Activities add an attractive colourful spectacle for spectators, positively impacting the appeal of the area. Because water in key Golden Beach areas is getting too shallow, this limits safe access for activities.  Target depths would be  0.5 m depth at the Cadets and 1.5 m in the area from Beattie Street roundabout to Caloundra promenade.   

B. Anecdotal reports from water users suggest increased bull shark activity near baited crab pots in popular recreation zones. Baited pots can attract marine life, potentially heightening risks of bull shark interaction in shared waterways where people are actively using the water. Crab pot lines also present a risk to fast moving board users.

People use water north of Military Jetty for water sports recreation, allowing the rest of Pumicestone passage for crabbing and other activities.  

This petition is brought forward in the interest of public safety, continued access to waterways, and balanced management of the Pumicestone Passage.