QF20 Keppel Sands

Operating Times

• 06:00 to 18:00 Daily Tuesday to Thursday
• There is an on-site caretaker present most times

Resources

• CHSS Rescue – 7.8m Cat twin 175hp O/B
• CHSS 2 – 4.8m Polycraft 70hp O/B
• Isuzu D-MAX

Why should I contact Coast Guard?

• For your own safety; to check your radio is working
• To allow Coast Guard to keep a log of your boating activities in case of emergency
• To ask for weather reports and Notices to Mariners including Shoalwater Bay closures
• To ask for assistance in the unlikely – but possible – event of trouble.

Cape Capricorn to Island Head Creek 0600 – 1800 daily

• North of Emu Park – Call on VHF Ch 21
• South of Emu Park – Call on VHF Ch 22
• Fitzroy River — Call on VHF Ch 22
• 27 MHz radios are not recommended in Keppel Bay and Fitzroy River – numerous radio black spots
• After Hours Call on VHF Ch 16 for all Emergencies and requests for assistance, Call 000 Emergencies only

North of Island Head Creek 0630 – 2130 daily

• Call on VHF Ch 81 or Call on VHF Ch 83 (Percy Islands)
• After Hours Call on VHF Ch 16 for all Emergencies and requests for assistance, Call 000 Emergencies only
• WARNING: Mobile phone coverage north of Manifold Point is very limited

When do I call for assistance?

• A breakdown where you cannot get back to shore unaided.
• Medical assistance beyond your capability or knowledge

What is an emergency?

• A breakdown where time is critical – sinking, sunset, drifting to rocks or danger, major medical problem

What do I say?

For Assistance

• “PAN PAN   PAN PAN   PAN PAN Coast Guard (3 times) this is Boat Name (3 times) I need assistance – over.”

For Emergency

• “MAYDAY  MAYDAY  MAYDAY this is Boat Name (3 times) at (position) (Nature of distress) (x POB (persons on board) – over.”
• A Mayday can be given on any channel but VHF Ch 16 has the widest coverage
• Mayday is reserved for life-threatening emergencies

Weather Forecasts broadcast daily:

• VHF Ch 21
• 0705, 1205, 1705
• VHF Ch 81(Thirsty Sound)
• 0633, 1645

Contact