Fuel spill warning
Authorities remind boaters about fuel spills after yachtie dumps in Coffs HarbourRoads and Maritime Services is reminding vessel operators of their legal responsibility not to pollute the state’s waterways after a recent incident at Coffs Harbour.
Maritime Director Angus Mitchell said boating safety officers would not hesitate to issue penalty notices to boaters who are negligent and pollute the environment.
Boating safety officers responded to an incident at Coffs Harbour after a diesel spill from a yacht was reported last week.
"Fire and Rescue NSW and Roads and Maritime worked quickly and efficiently to contain the fuel with an absorbent boom," Mr Mitchell said.
"The vessel operator is expected to face a penalty notice under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 of up to $7500 for polluting the waterway, in addition to all clean-up costs.
"All boaters have a responsibility to ensure vessels do not pollute the waterways.
"Pollution of our waterways not only spoils the environment but also affects other boating and on-water activities.
"Boaters should maintain vessels to prevent leakage of fuel and other chemicals.
"Bilges should be kept clean to prevent pollutants from being charged overboard and waste such as sewage must be disposed appropriately ashore," Mr Mitchell reminds us.
More information about environmental responsibilities can be found in the Roads and Maritime Boating Handbook available at http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au.
If you believe a vessel is polluting the environment can
report the incident to Roads and Maritime by calling 13 12 56. Hopefully, motorists who refuel, drive rundown cars and dump on the environment also consider where their spills end up.
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