New boating safety campaign with the sailing community

Transport for NSW has formed a new partnership with Australian Sailing to help spread safe boating messages to those in the recreational boating community who prefers to set sail.

Neil Patchett from Transport's Centre for Maritime Safety said the department encouraged people to get out for a fun day on the water, but at the same time wants to
make sure they get back to land safely.

"Sadly, last year, 10 people lost their lives and 44 were seriously injured while they were out in recreational boats on our state’s waterways," he said.

Mr Patchet said many of these life-changing tragedies could have been prevented through safety partners such as with Australian Sailing, although looking at the statistics none of the 10 drownings occurred on sailing vessels.

Australian Sailing represents 20,000 members and 120 clubs in NSW alone, and also hosts major events including the Sail Sydney Regatta and Youth Championships.

Sailors at these events exhibit a high degree of safety — despite not requiring a boating licence or registration for their non-motorised craft —due to the inherent skill set required to sail a boat in the first place.

"Safety is one of the key priorities for Australian Sailing and we are always keen to collaborate to ensure those on the water remain safe," Australian Sailing CEO Matt Carroll said.

"We are very pleased to be working with Transport for NSW so together we can reach more people and encourage them to stay updated with the latest information."

A keen sailor himself, Mr Patchet said increasing lifejacket wear rates and reducing fatalities and serious injuries is the NSW Government’s number one maritime safety priority.

"Wearing a modern, comfortable lifejacket can save your life, and by partnering with Australian Sailing, we hope we can use their reach and influence to further promote safe, responsible and enjoyable boating," he said.

The overwhelming majority of fatal boating accidents occur with small outboard-powered craft and trailerable fishing boats on open waters, usually launching from popular boat ramps and with crew not wearing a lifejacket.

A recent coronial inquest in Victoria also found paddlers were at increased risk these days. More information at this Lifejackets Page from the Centre for Maritime Safety.

Photo Credit: Robin Evans