Transport for NSW (TfNSW) Maritime is set to trial powered vessel exclusion zones, which target jet skis, at Port Stephens this summer.
The four-week pilot, at yet to be announced locations, will take place from 24 December to 26 January to improve safety for swimmers and paddlers during that peak period.
Port Stephens is one of the busiest waterways in NSW, with more than 6,000 registered vessels and 10,000 licensed skippers locally.
But, during summer, the population swells by up to 30,000 additional daily visitors.
“We want everyone who heads out this boating season to come home safely,” Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said.
“We know the majority of people are doing the right thing on the water.
“However, with the population surge we see during busy tourist times, the risks increase.
“That’s why we’ve listened to community concerns and committed to this trial of exclusion zones across Port Stephens to help keep swimmers and boaters safe.”
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington welcomed the announcement.
“During the summer holidays, Port Stephens welcomes tens of thousands of visitors to our stunning waterways,” she said.
“So, we want to make sure everyone can enjoy the water safely.
“Every summer we witness anti-social behaviour by some people on jet skis, so we’re trialling some exclusions zones.
“We’re acting on community concerns and putting safety first for swimmers, paddlers and boaters in our beautiful region.”
The pilot program follows a statewide pre-season safety blitz, which saw NSW Maritime conduct 1,650 vessel safety checks, interact with more than 7,200 people, and issue 62 fines and 141 cautions.
Sadly, the main offences included lifejacket non-compliance, not carrying correct safety equipment and licensing breaches.
“I want to stress that most waterway-users do the right thing,” NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings said.
“The trial we’re looking at here in Port Stephens is to help everyone feel safe and avoid conflicts between different people enjoying our amazing beaches.
“We are currently assessing potential locations for the initiative.
“But, we want to make sure the power craft-free zones have a clear onshore landmark to identify where they start and finish.
“Being respectful of others and responsible on the water is something we want to see 365 days a year.
“While it is hoped these zones will help reduce potential conflicts, we are still finalising details of the pilot, I’d ask everyone to always be safe and sensible – especially when it’s busy.”
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