Water safety checks made

The October long weekend saw the official start of the boating season with NSW Maritime carrying out 45 vessel on-water safety checks in the Hawkesbury and Broken Bay area.

According to NSW Maritime figures, only one formal warning was given to local boat users from October 2 to 4 and no infringement notices.

Marine Rescue Central Coast publicity officer Mr Ron Cole reminded local boat users to check all safety equipment on board before heading out on Brisbane Water this boating season.

Mr Cole said it was important for all boat owners to ensure they had all the necessary safety equipment as NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers would continue to be out in full force over the coming weeks.

NSW Maritime general manager of maritime operations Mr Howard Glenn said officers would specifically target compliance with lifejacket and powerboat driver licence requirements.

"Failure to comply with boating safety equipment requirements is serious because it could put lives at risk," Mr Glenn said.

"On-the-spot fines apply for non compliance."

"There will be a focus on the responsibility of the skipper, as well as the need for an appropriate lifejacket to be on hand and accessible for each and every person on board.

"Skippers are reminded of the need to be responsible for safety of their vessel and all those on board."

Press release, 6 Sep 2010 Howard Glenn, NSW Maritime Press release, 4 Oct 2010 Ron Cole, Marine Rescue Central Coast