lighting regulations

[blanchy]

Hi Guys

I have asked this question on different forums and got completely different responses, so figured I would ask here

Does anybody know the regulations in QLD (particularly GC canals etc) regarding lights on a kayak for night fishing, I have been told if its Brisbane river its a flashing white light(so city cats know its a kayak), also been told if not a registered vessel no light is requires, also been told that a headlamp is sufficient

putting aside the safety aspect, just curious about the legal regulations

if anybody can assist, would be much appreciated

Cheers

Tony

[mouse]

http://www.msq.qld.gov.au/safety/navigation-lights.aspx

If in doubt, give these guys a call.

[gbc]

We did this not long ago. The river one is only along the city cat routes and I think only mentions row boats.

Here's the brissy river one by msq

http://www.msq.qld.gov.au/~/media/msqin ... onduct.pdf


Here is the msq mandatory requirement (signalling torch)

http://www.msq.qld.gov.au/Safety/Navigation-lights.aspx

Here is the excerpt from colregs rule 25 that states you may set up your boat with proper Nav lights if you want, but you have to get it right if going that way.

d) (i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 meter in length shall, if practicable, exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 25(a) or (b), but if she does not, she shall exhibit an all around white light or have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision. Sailing Vessel Underway less than 7meters

(ii) A vessel under oars may exhibit the lights prescribed in this rule for sailing vessels, but if she does not, she shall exhibit an all around white light or have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.Vessel Under Oars



Bottom line, you NEED a signal torch at night. A head torch might not cut it. You are under no duress to carry anything else in QLD, however you have the right to go further should you wish. Retro reflective tape is awesome at night - highly recommended. Be seen.

[simons rat]

I would go for the all round white light and get some reflective tape onto the yak and your paddle.

If you are on the Brisbane River use the flashing white light, because the city cat captains are looking for it.

It is a scary place on the water at night when you hear something coming towards you and they have no lights on. Light yourself up like an Xmas Tree.

cheers,

S

[Dodge]

I would go for the all round white light and get some reflective tape onto the yak and your paddle.
S

Agree with S, be sure you are visible and stay alert to move as you are likely the smallest vessel when in collision with another boat.

Many years ago was driving a 4 ton bay cruiser [nav lights on, cabin lights out to keep night eyes OK] in a main channel at night, it was pitch dark and knew there was a good bream spot straddling the channel so trickling along about 3 knots enough to give steerage.

At only 15m was flashed with torches and had a few unlit tinnies fishing dead ahead, I stopped and asked why they left it so late to flash me.

All said we saw your lights and were watching you, NONE seemed to realize while I was visible to them due to lights, they were unlit and blending with the night.

While there was no heat in the discussion among us all it was an accident waiting to happen I felt, I called coastguard on the radio telling of the risk on the main channel, and a while later looking back i saw a police boat arrive to open the channel.

Will finish with one comment re night safety..

Often see a recommendation to shine a torch in the oncoming skippers eyes, that is ridiculous advice as you have instantly blinded the driver by destroying his night vision ..... a quick flash across the windscreen alerts, but does not blind the other boat.