Premier Colin Barnett today inspected the first of 12 new jet-skis delivered to Surf Life Saving WA (SLSWA) as part of a $6.85million package of shark mitigation measures to be delivered in the next four years.
Mr Barnett said the new jet-skis, funded by a $500,000 State Government commitment across two years, would significantly bolster SLSWA's beach patrol capability in time for the hotter summer months.
"Jet-skis have proven to be an incredibly effective tool in keeping our beaches safe, and their presence will give beachgoers added confidence for this summer," he said.
The funding will go towards the purchase of up to 12 new jet-skis, associated rescue equipment and training to allow additional jet-ski patrols at Western Australian beaches to increase beach safety.
"The State Government has worked with SLSWA to identify where these additional resources would provide maximum coverage across our coastline," the Premier said.
"The first six jet-skis have been delivered and will be based at Perth beaches from Fremantle to Mullaloo, with teams on call year-round."
The new jet-skis will increase the resources of the nine existing Wesfarmers Emergency Response Teams which conduct jet-ski patrols along WA's coastline.
The additional Government funding comes on top of a $2.4million commitment across four years of SLSWA's helicopter and beach patrols' program.
There will be patrols at metropolitan beaches for 221 days of the year, and daily flights by the South-West beach safety helicopter, which began on November 19, until February 3.
"I congratulate the SLSWA staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the State's beaches safe year in, year out, and I hope these additional resources will go a way to making their work easier," Mr Barnett said.
Fact File
State Government announced $500,000 new funding across two years towards jet-skis for SLSWA as part of a $6.85m package of shark research and mitigation measures
Funding adds to $13.65m for research, tagging programs and other hazard mitigation strategies, announced Nov 2011
SLSWA performed 2,062 rescues and sighted 247 sharks last season
All shark sightings should be reported to WA Water Police on 9442 8600
More information at: http://www.fish.wa.gov.au
Premier's office - 6552 5000
