Water police get a boost in NSW

A new police jet ski squadron will be patrolling the NSW waterways to improve marine safety.

The Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher, and NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione unveiled the Marine Enforcement Team (MET) recently as part of the launch of this year’s summer safety campaign.

The MET, comprising officers from Marine Area Command, is a dedicated mobile response unit designed to reduce marine-related crime and ensure safer waterways in NSW.

The team will be primarily located at Sydney Water Police and conduct duties in the Metropolitan sectors of Sydney, including Botany Bay and Broken Bay, as well as Newcastle and Port Stephens, during the boating season.

The MET will also have capabilities to deploy into waterways across the state when and where required.

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) have part-sponsored 10 new Sea-Doo personal watercraft (Sea-Doo RXT aS 260) for the MET, which were officially handed over by BRP to the NSW Police Force at a recent cerenomy.

NSW Police and Emergency Services Minister, Michael Gallacher, said the deployment of the Marine Enforcement Team is a key element to providing safe waterways.

"This year, the NSW Police Force has created a number of specialist teams dedicated to responding to differing needs of our community, and the Marine Enforcement Team will ensure our waterways are safe and free of crime," said Mr Gallacher.

NSW Police Force Commissioner Andrew Scipione said the MET highlights the importance of marine safety.

"The team will provide high-visibility patrols, conduct enforcement operations, including random breath testing and compliance checks, and assist with search and rescue, emergencies and disasters."

The Commissioner said while the police have the capabilities to respond, it is of the upmost importance for the community to make good decisions.

“I urge people to look after themselves and those they care about,” he said.

"This summer we will again ask the people of NSW to ‘Play Safe, Stay Safe’.

"Play Safe, Stay Safe’ is about reducing risk, taking the time to plan ahead and letting family and friends know what’s happening. Don’t put yourself -- or others -- in dangerous situations.

"We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun or ruin good times; this is about keeping people safe."

Kym Pardey, BRP Marketing Manager said the company was delighted to work with the Marine Area Command to improve marine safety in NSW.

"The Sea-Doo RXT aS 260 units provide police with state-of-the-art safety and performance, allowing quicker response and the ability to reach areas inaccessible to other vessels," Mr Pardey said.

"Capable of speeds of up to 115km/h, the Sea-Doo units feature a range of safety features including the world's only on-water braking system for significantly greater control and manoeuvrability.

"In addition, the watercraft meet the strict requirements to be CARB 3-Star certified for ultra-low emissions, and with unique sound-reduction technology the MET team can operate with an absolute minimal impact to the environment," he said.