Campaign targets PWC safety

Transport Safety Victoria (TSV) says it is making personal water craft (PWC) safety a priority this summer with the launch of the ‘Be cool, respect the rules’ campaign.

The new campaign will make PWC operators more aware of their responsibilities and accountable for their behaviour on the water.

“This summer we will be intensifying our efforts and patrolling hot spots around Port Phillip Bay and other busy waterways in a bid to stamp out dangerous PWC behaviour," said TSV’s Director of Maritime safety, Peter Corcoran.

Paul Corkill, TSV’s Manager, Safety Education, said the campaign will make all PWC operators more aware of their responsibilities and ensure those committing maritime offences are held accountable for their actions.

“There are 15,000 registered PWC owners in Victoria and the majority of PWC operators do the right thing and ride safely.

“Unfortunately, the actions of a few give the rest of PWC operators a bad name and spoil the day for other water users.

“In 2011-12, Victoria Police issued more than 500 infringement notices to PWC operators, predominantly in Port Phillip Bay.

“PWC operators are also the source of a high number of complaints from members of the general public about alleged dangerous and anti-social behaviour.

“Hoon behaviour, such as speeding near swimmers or close to shore, and performing high speed manoeuvres, is highly dangerous and puts other waterway users at grave risk,” Mr Corkill said.

TSV’s Maritime Safety Officers and the Water Police will play a pivotal role in the campaign by cracking down on hoon behaviour on the water and enforcing the following safety rules:

For more information: www.transportsafety.vic.gov.au