Boaties Urged To Stay Clear Of Ergon’s Underwater And Overhead Powerlines

With plenty of boaties out on the water this Australia Day long weekend, Ergon Energy Network is urging skippers to take extra care when anchoring or navigating to avoid damaging electricity infrastructure and risking serious injury.

Ergon Work Group Leader Ryan Tuivaiti said the electricity company, at times, has recovered dozens of anchors from underwater electricity cables during inspections by commercial divers.

“We’ve seen far too many cases where anchors have been dropped directly onto our underwater cables, which can cause serious damage and pose a significant safety risk,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Before anchoring, boat owners must look for our large yellow signs on either side of the waterway or river. These signs indicate the presence of an underwater electricity cable crossing, and anchoring is strictly prohibited within 200 metres of these zones.”

Ergon is also reminding sailors to be aware of overhead powerlines in some waterways, especially during the highest astronomical tides.

“Sailboat owners should always check marine charts before heading out to ensure their vessel won’t come into contact with overhead powerlines,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Owners of trailable sailboats must fold down their masts before leaving the boat ramp. We’ve had incidents where masts have struck overhead powerlines while boats were being driven away.”

If a boat’s mast accidentally strikes an overhead powerline, everyone on board should avoid touching the mast and move as far away from it as possible.

Similarly, if an anchor hooks onto an underwater electricity cable, never attempt to pull the cable to the surface. If possible, cut the rope or chain and leave the anchor behind.

“If there’s no safe way to free your boat, call for help immediately,” Mr Tuivaiti said.

“Contact the Coast Guard, Voluntary Marine Rescue (VMR), or dial triple zero. Your safety is the priority.”

Ergon continues to work closely with marine authorities to raise awareness and protect Queensland’s electricity network from avoidable damage.

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