Southern 80 Ski Race this weekend

With tens of thousands expected to converge on the Murray River this weekend, Roads and Maritime Services is urging all members of the boating public to observe boating safety requirements and use ‘common sense’ during this prestigious event on the waterway.

Director Maritime Angus Mitchell said safety is the first priority for Boating Safety Officers (BSOs) managing the more than 500 competitors and 50,000 spectators attending this year’s event.

"Due to the high speeds involved in the event all spectators should exercise extreme caution when near the event area and be aware of approaching race vessels," Mr Mitchell said.

"Spectators are reminded swimming along the river is prohibited during the event due to the inherent dangers presented by passing vessels at high speed and will result in race suspension.

"Exclusion zones will be in place on Saturday from the 1690km river marker at Perricoota Marina, Goldsborough Road, Moama, to the 1712km river marker at Victoria Park Echuca and Sunday from the Torrumbarry Weir to the 1712 kilometre river marker at the Victoria Park Boat Ramp at Echuca."

Roads and Maritime control vessels will mark each end of the course and advise any approaching craft of the river closure.

BSOs will be positioned along the race course to ensure the exclusion zone is adhered to.

Roads and Maritime will support event organisers to make the event as safe as possible and has worked with organisers to implement numerous recommendations for two safety reviews conducted in recent years.

Occupants of moored vessels in the race area are required to move to safer locations and moor parallel to the river bank.

Skippers should remember the blood alcohol limit on the water is the same as on the road – 0.05.

Mr Mitchell urged boaters and spectators alike to display appropriate behaviour to allow the event to run as safely as possible. Everyone is asked to do their bit and pitch in to make the 51st Southern 80 Ski Race the best to date. Full race program and details at www.southern80.com.au.