Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is urging beachgoers in the State’s northern regions to take extra precautions as marine stinger season approaches, reminding swimmers to wear a full-body stinger suit, swim within designated enclosures where available and follow lifesaver and lifeguard advice.

Dangerous marine stingers may be present in Queensland waters from November through to May, with several species found along the coastline from Bustard Heads, north of Bundaberg, through to Port Douglas and further north.

During the 2025/26 marine stinger season, SLSQ recorded 1032 minor marine stinger incidents across Northern Queensland, alongside 18 major incidents involving suspected dangerous tropical marine stingers, including box jellyfish and Irukandji.

With the high risk season approaching, SLSQ is reminding swimmers that while marine stinger swimming enclosures provide an additional layer of protection, no enclosure can guarantee complete protection from marine stingers.

Marine stinger swimming enclosures will be installed from today at around 30 locations throughout Northern Queensland over the next two weeks. Locations include beaches in Port Douglas, Ellis Beach, Palm Cove, Clifton Beach, Kewarra Beach, Trinity Beach, Yorkeys Knob, Bramston Beach, Etty Bay, North Mission Beach, South Mission Beach, Forrest Beach, Balgal Beach, Pallarenda Beach, The Strand, Strand South, Picnic Bay and Horseshoe Bay (Magnetic Island).

SLSQ North Queensland Regional Operations Manager Rachael Wynberg said taking simple precautions could help beachgoers reduce their risk of being stung.

“Marine stingers are an important consideration for anyone heading into the ocean during the warmer months, particularly in tropical waters,” Ms Wynberg said.

“We encourage everyone to swim at a patrolled beach and check prevailing conditions with the lifeguard or lifesavers on duty.  We recommend to wear a full-body stinger suit, swim between the flags and stay within the netted swimming enclosure where one is available.

“Taking these precautions can significantly reduce your risk, helping you enjoy the water while staying as safe as possible.”

SLSQ North Barrier Regional Operations Manager Jason Wells said beachgoers should remain vigilant and follow the advice of lifesavers and lifeguards throughout the season.

“Swimming enclosures are an important part of our approach to keeping beachgoers safe, but they are not completely stinger-proof,” Mr Wells said.

“Our teams conduct regular drags in and around enclosures and patrol areas, and if dangerous marine stingers are identified, appropriate safety measures will be taken, including closing the beach where necessary.

“If you are stung, notify the lifesavers or lifeguards on duty immediately so you can receive the appropriate assistance.”

TIPS FOR SAFER SWIMMING IN TROPICAL WATERS

• Only ever swim at patrolled locations within the red and yellow flags, and where they are available, swim inside marine stinger swimming enclosures
• Always keep off the white boom of the enclosure, and away from the netting
• Wear a full-body lycra suit to provide a good measure of protection against marine stings
• Look for, and observe, warning signs.
• Never enter the water when a beach has been closed.
• Don’t touch marine stingers washed up on the beach – they can still sting you
• Check conditions with the lifeguard or lifesavers on duty before entering the water