New Boating Guide to help save lives

14/8/03
The latest guide to safe boating will be available free of charge to the community from today.
Launching the Official Western Australian Boating Guide - Fifth Edition at the Perth Boat Show today, Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the updated guide provided boat owners and enthusiasts with key information for a safe and enjoyable day on the water.
Ms MacTiernan said the easy-to-use reference included a greater amount of boating information than previous editions and detailed the State's boating rules and regulations.
"These include recently updated diving regulations, basic boat handling and maintenance, compulsory and recommended safety equipment for vessels, emergencies procedures, voyage planning, boating education opportunities and bag limits for fish," she said.
"All boat owners should ensure they have the updated version on their vessel before they next take to the water.
"In an emergency, the information included in the guide could save a life."
The guide, produced using funds from recreational boat registration fees, includes updated radio frequencies and contact telephone numbers for marine emergencies.
There is also a section devoted to basic first aid.
There are more than 70,000 registered recreational boat owners in WA, an increase of more than 11 per cent in the past three years.
"The growing number of boat owners reinforces the need for a comprehensive boating guide," the Minister said.
Copies of the guide are available free of charge from regional and metropolitan offices of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
The guide also will be distributed to marine outlets and clubs throughout WA and to local Volunteer Sea Search and Rescue Groups, training providers of marine and boating safety courses, Boating Industry Association members and will be made available at boat shows.
People can also access the guide on the department's web site http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/imarine
"The guide is produced using funds from recreational boat registration fees," Ms MacTiernan said.
Minister's Office - 9213 6400