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Skippers need to ensure they have the correct, operational navigation lights if their vessel is joining the thousands of spectator craft on the water for tonight’s Australia Day Skyworks.

Department of Transport (DoT) Marine Officers want skippers to do a full check of their vessel and safety equipment before leaving home.

DoT Director of Waterways Safety Management Chris Mather said skippers need to be aware it is illegal to be on the water after dark without the correct combination and fully operational navigation lights, including tender vessels of larger craft

He said safety equipment was also an important consideration in preparing for the event and strongly recommended lifejackets to be worn while on the water, in-date flares be carried and an anchor.
 
“It’s the busiest time of the year on the river and skippers need to be responsible, patient and courteous and adhere to any restrictions and instructions given by DoT Marine Officers and other authorised officers,” Mr Mather said.

“Skippers also need to be mindful it’s an offence to navigate a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”

Mr Mather said conditions were particularly hazardous for small craft following the event as traffic on the water peaks, and if possible, skippers are encouraged to delay their journey home to ease congestion on the river and at boat ramps.

Boats fitted with a radio are asked to monitor 27.88 MHz or VHF 9 and 16 (call sign is ‘Marine Command’). These frequencies are for any on water information or instructions relating to the event. A message will be broadcast on these channels detailing closures and reopening of Perth Water. DoT Marine Officers will also be on hand to advise uncertain members of the boating public.

On water restrictions and closures in place for Australia Day, including the locations of spectator vessel areas, can be found on the Australia Day fireworks display page.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au

Photo: City of Perth 

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Skippers need to ensure they have the correct, operational navigation lights if their vessel is joining the thousands of spectator craft on the water for this year’s Australia Day Skyworks.

Department of Transport (DoT) Marine Officers want skippers to do a full check of their vessel and safety equipment well in advance of the event to have time to fix any issues.

DoT Director of Waterways Safety Management Chris Mather said skippers need to be aware it is illegal to be on the water after dark without the correct combination and fully operational navigation lights, including tender vessels of larger craft.

“Skippers planning on attending the Skyworks should prepare by doing a BEST check to ensure their Boat, Equipment, Safety equipment and Trailer are all in good working order,” Mr Mather said.

“It is strongly recommended that lifejackets be worn, and vessels carry flares and a suitable anchor to avoid drift.”

Mr Mather said skippers were responsible for their passengers at all times and should be familiar with the restrictions and closures in place for the event.

“There will be special speed restrictions, additional exclusion zones and closures, to keep everyone safe on the water on the night and during the days prior,” Mr Mather said.

This includes the closure of the centre of Perth Water from 6.00 pm to 9.45 pm on Australia Day, vessels will not be able to transit up or down stream through Perth Water during this time.

Given the high number of vessels and their close proximity when anchored, DoT will not be permitting commercial operators to raft up on Perth Water on the day.  

For more information about Australia Day restrictions and closures and how to do the BEST safety check visit the Australia Day fireworks display page. 

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au

Photo: City of Perth