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Boatsales Staff8 July 2013
NEWS

High-tech lights on the lakes

Latest technology makes boating safer on Gippsland Lakes

Minister for Ports David Hodgett was on the Gippsland Lakes recently to announce the completion of upgrades to navigational aids along the Aurora Channel making night-boating safer.

The $113,500 project included installation of the latest synchronised lighting technology along the channel.

"Gippsland Lakes are a hugely popular destination for boaters and it’s not hard to imagine why with more than 420 square kilometres of pristine waterways to enjoy," Mr Hodgett said.

"If you haven’t visited this part of the world, you’re missing out on one of the State’s most beautiful assets. As an avid boater myself, I encourage all to come here and see for yourself.

“The Victorian Government, through its is committed to improving safety and facilities throughout Victoria, to ensure that boaters can continue to do what they love in the safest way possible.”

Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, was also on the Gippsland Lakes for the announcement.

"I’m pleased to see the completion of the Aurora Channel upgrade. This is a very popular channel for recreational vessels accessing Bunga Arm, Steamer Landing and Ocean Grange. The new synchronised lighting will make it easier than ever before for boaters," Mr Bull said.

The project was jointly funded through the Coalition Government’s Boating Safety and Facilities Grant with a contribution of $43,723 and Gippsland Ports’ contribution of $69,777.

Gippsland Ports CEO Nick Murray said the previous navigation aids were in poor condition and lighting for night navigation was recommended as part of an external audit.

"This installation represents the first use by Gippsland Ports of radio-controlled lighting which allows for the remote adjustment of navigation light performance," Mr Murray said.

"The works were undertaken using Gippsland Ports own expertise and equipment. This use of contemporary technology will not only provide a better outcome for waterways users but also provide savings for Gippsland Ports in navigation aid maintenance and adjustment.

"We are proud of this natural asset and want to ensure that we maintain it so boaters, families and visitors can get the most out of it."

Meanwhile, the southern right whale seen wallowing in shallow water near the entrance to Gippsland Lake (as pictured), around which a boating exclusion zone was created, swam clear at high tide on the weekend. 
Locals with decades of experience and observation said dolphins were common but this was a first for a whale. 

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