PUMICESTONE PASSAGE

• Latitude: -27.0641
• Longitude: 153.142
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Pumicestone Passage Queensland Australia

Pumicestone Passage is a significant waterway located between Bribie Island and the mainland of Queensland, Australia. While it is not a major commercial marine port, it is a notable marine area that is popular for recreational boating, fishing, and tourism activities. Below are details about the Pumicestone Passage:

Geographical Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately between 27.0°S latitude and 153.1°E longitude.
• Region: Southeast Queensland, situated between Bribie Island and the mainland, including localities such as Caloundra and Golden Beach.

Physical Characteristics:

• Length: Approximately 35 kilometers.
• Width: Varies, generally from 1 to 3 kilometers.
• Depth: Shallow with varying depths, generally between 1 to 6 meters, making it suitable primarily for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Tides: Subject to tidal changes with moderate tidal ranges affecting navigability.

Navigational Information:

• Channels: Marked navigation channels suitable for small boats; care is needed due to shallow areas and sandbanks.
• Buoyage: Several buoys and navigational markers are present to aid in safe passage.
• Tidal Influence: The area experiences significant tidal flows, which need to be considered by mariners.
• Hazards: Shallow waters, sandbanks, seagrass beds, and significant marine life.

Facilities and Services:

• Marinas: Local marinas and boat ramps include Spinnaker Sound Marina and various public boat ramps around Bribie Island and Caloundra.
• Mooring: Limited mooring facilities; mainly informal moorings for recreational boats.
• Fueling Stations: Some marine fueling options at local marinas.
• Amenities: Facilities like restrooms, picnic areas, and parking at public recreational spots.

Environmental Considerations:

• Protected Areas: Part of the Moreton Bay Marine Park, with zones designated for different levels of protection and uses.
• Wildlife: Rich biodiversity including dugongs, turtles, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these habitats.
• Regulations: Specific boating and fishing regulations to preserve the marine environment. Activities like anchoring and speed limits are controlled in sensitive areas.

Usage:

• Recreational: Predominantly used for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and eco-tourism.
• Tourism: Popular for sightseeing and guided tours, with attractions like the Glass House Mountains views and marine life observation.
• Fishing: Both commercial (on a limited scale) and recreational fishing are popular, subject to Queensland fishing regulations.

Accessibility:

• Road Access: Easily accessible from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast via the Bruce Highway.
• Public Transport: Limited public transport options, but bus services connect Caloundra and Bribie Island to other major towns.

Development:

The area aims to balance ecological preservation with recreational use, maintaining a sustainable approach to tourism and community enjoyment.

Key Points:

• Not a significant commercial port; mainly focused on recreational and tourism activities.
• Careful navigation required due to shallow waters.
• Emphasis on environmental protection due to sensitive ecological zones.

Pumicestone Passage is a valued natural resource in the region, offering a blend of recreational opportunities and conservation efforts to protect its unique marine ecosystem.