Recreational boaters and fishers across Victoria are being encouraged to brush up on safety rules and prepare their vessels to stay safe and avoid fines this summer.
Minister for Fishing and Boating, Melissa Horne said marine incident rates were returning to pre-pandemic levels with 1,248 serious incidents recorded in 2020-21, compared to 1,134 in 2019-20.
Ms Horne said these included boat fires, capsizes, structural failure, flooding and a spear fisher struck by a vessel.
“With many boats and equipment sitting idle in garages over winter, authorities are concerned that incident levels could continue rising if critical checks aren’t done before people hit the water,” she said.
“Victorians can stay safe on the water by following simple steps, starting with checking they hold a valid recreational boating and/or fishing licence.”
Ms Horne said Maritime Safety Victoria reported vessel maintenance was an issue last year, with dramatic spikes in disablements directly after pandemic restrictions were eased.
The Minister advised boat owners to ensure their vessel was stocked with charged batteries, flares, a torch and a fire extinguisher.
Ms Horne said owners should also replace old fuel, check trailer tyres and start the boat’s engine before leaving home.
“Keeping safety gear in working order is critical, including having lifejackets for every person on board,” she said.
“Checking the Boating Vic app for updated tide, weather and boat ramp information is also important.”
The Minister said lifejackets were a must for jet skiers, kayakers and ocean ski paddlers as “these buy people time while raising the alarm if something does go wrong, particularly if exposed to cold water in Port Phillip Bay”.
Ms Horne reminded fishers and divers to tell a family member or friend before leaving for the water and recommended rock fishers wear lifejackets.
She said speed infringement rates were also returning to pre-pandemic levels and that brushing up on water safety rules before a trip could help boaters avoid fines.
Further information on waterway rules can be accessed at this PS News link.
