As school holidays kicked off on April 13-14, NSW Maritime officers conducted more than 1,200 vessel safety checks as part of a statewide boating safety blitz dubbed Operation Stay Afloat – Reduce the Risk, with 181 checks conducted in the Hawkesbury River/Central Coast area alone.
This comprised 181 checks on recreational vessels and 25 on jet skis.
Eleven penalty notices and 13 official cautions were issued, with Brisbane Water being the top offence location, clocking up 10 offences.
NSW Maritime Principal Manager South Deon Voyer said the number of boating related deaths had doubled from seven last financial year to 14 since July 2023 and of these 11 were not wearing lifejackets.
“Although most people we checked this weekend were doing the right thing, a concerning number of skippers and jet ski riders were found to be operating dangerously, putting themselves and others at risk,” he said.
“Across the two-day operation, NSW Maritime officers issued 52 fines and 145 official warnings.
“The top three offences were for failure to carry or wear an appropriate lifejacket representing 34 per cent of fines, failing to carry or maintain the required safety equipment at 25 per cent and licence and registration at 23 per cent.”
When it comes to staying safe on the water, skippers are being urged to exercise good judgement, plan ahead and consider ways to reduce the risk.
“We’re expecting to see an increase in popular activities like waterskiing and towing as families flock to enjoy the last of the warm weather, but thrillseekers are advised to take extra care as the number of towing incidents has doubled to seven so far this financial year, up from three the year before,” Voyer said.
“We want people to have fun, but remember that as your speed increases, so does your risk.
“When towing, always keep a proper lookout, wear a lifejacket and ensure that the skipper, observer and person being towed stay under the 0.05 alcohol limit.”
Voyer said the recent storms were a timely reminder that rough weather was a significant risk factor on the water, with strong winds and choppy waters contributing to more than 100 serious incidents since July 2023.
“We have seen flash flooding and severe weather across parts of the state in the past 10 days and know the impact of storms lingers long after the sky clears,” he said.
“Be on the look out for debris and changed conditions, particularly on inland waterways.
“Check conditions before heading out and if the offshore conditions look a bit dicey then head to an enclosed waterway.
“Chances are you’ll still have an enjoyable time and you’ll make it back to shore in one piece.”
Voyer stressed that lifejackets were the most important item of safety equipment on any recreational vessel, but they could only save lives if they’re worn.
“Make sure kids are wearing their lifejackets and that they fit properly, and lead by example by wearing yours too,” he said.
For the latest safety information go to: https://www.lifejacketwearit.com.au/