A ROGUE marker indicating the position of a reef off the coast of Mackay has broken free of its mooring, boaties have been warned.

Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Mackay was advised by Maritime Safety Queensland of the wayward east cardinal mark at Dangerous Reef.

VMR Mackay took to Facebook about 12.30pm to warn those planning on taking to the water.

"Attention all mariners. MSQ have advised that the East Cardinal Mark at Dangerous Reef ( approx S 21 08.021, E 149 14.870 ) has broken free of its mooring,” the post read.

"There is currently no marker indicating the the position of Dangerous Reef.”

The mark could take several days to replace, "due to the strong winds forecast to affect the region in coming days”.

"Please exercise extreme caution in this area,” VMR Mackay added.

For more information about the hazard, phone VMR Mackay on 49555448.