Navigation markers on the Swan River have been upgraded to assist skippers using the waterway, especially at night. 

Department of Transport Manager of Navigational Safety and Compliance Ray Buchholz said the installation of synchronised lighting on existing lateral marks on Perth Waters and at Rocky Bay would significantly improve night navigation in those areas. 

"Perth Waters and Rocky Bay are some of the busiest parts of the Swan River and the upgrade will make it easier to navigate the designated channels," Mr Buchholz said.

"Earlier this year navigation was significantly improved at Rocky Bay with the installation of new markers and changes made to existing ones to direct vessels away from the sandbar to ease congestion especially during peak times. 

"The recent addition of synchronised lighting on the markers at Rocky Bay further improves the safety of those using the waterway at night."     

Mr Buchholz said the introduction of synchronised lighting to the navigation markers had cost approximately $51,000 and had been implemented as part of Transport's 2009/10 Navigation Aid Capital Works Plan. 

He said Transport would continue with its work to improve navigation aids on the Swan and Canning Rivers during 2010-11. 

Transport is responsible for developing and maintaining an extensive network of navigation aids within WA waters to provide safe passage for recreational and commercial vessels.

"Transport currently manages more than 1,100 navigation aides in WA and works closely with stakeholders to identify projects and works to improve navigation and keep boat owners and their passengers safe, " Mr Buchholz said.

MEDIA CONTACT: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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