Boat licence theory course returns

A training seminar to help boaters acquire the skills and knowledge they need to stay safer on local waterways is scheduled for Saturday, February 15.

The certified Marine Rescue Boat Licence Theory Course is being held at the temporary Marine Rescue Operations Centre at the Woy Woy Community Centre.

The theory course will be conducted by trainer and assessor Ian Leafe, and co-ordinators Bob Gilbody, Paul Broad, Jane and Raymond Lewis.

Only 10 applicants will be accepted for the five-hour course, which starts at 8.30am.

To gain a full boat licence, participants will also need to complete the Practical Handbook.

They are required to take a minimum of three trips with an experienced skipper, who has held a licence for a minimum of three consecutive years.

Marine Rescue Central Coast is a Registered Training Organisation with members professionally trained to national standards for their roles, both on and off the water, but does not offer the practical component.

“Courses are designed to teach you the ins and outs of safe boat handling and help build your confidence in local navigation, boating safety and the marine environment,” Ian Leafe said.

In addition, a PWC (jet ski) licence course is available on the same day.

Should a person wish to undertake both a general boat licence (young person or adult) and a PWC, they will need to enrol in two courses.

Everything you need to know about the course is available here at https://www.marinerescuensw.com.au/courses-licenses/general-boat-licence-and-pwc-licence/ and https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/boating-and-marine

Book online via the Marine Rescue website or phone the base on 4337 9600.

The course costs $165 adults, $145 young person (12-15-year-old with parent of guardian), PWC licence $50 with $10 deposit payable on application for all courses.

The Marine Rescue Central Coast temporary Operations Centre is located at the Peninsula Community Centre, corner Ocean Beach and McMasters Rds at Woy Woy.