However, as more people use jet skis, the chance of accidents increase, and authorities are appealing to jet ski riders to pay more attention to safety and try to prevent accidents this summer.
Jet skis (personal watercraft) are a powerful force on the water. They offer unparalleled excitement and freedom, but with great power comes great responsibility of staying safe and in control.
If you are driving a jet ski it is mandatory to;
•carry a waterproof buoyant torch (Vic only, NSW recommended)
•wear a lifejacket (per person) either a Level 100, Level 50 or Level 50S
•carry your marine licence with a PWC endorsement on you
It is strongly advised to;
•wearing protective clothing
•carrying a phone (in a waterproof pouch) so you can call for help
•wear a personal locator beacon (PLB) or second means of communication
•have a fire extinguisher
•have a first aid kit
Your thrill...But rules must apply
On NSW Waterways
When driving a PWC (including when towing a person or people) you must keep the vessel, any towing equipment and anyone being towed, a minimum distance of:
• 60 metres from people in the water or, if that is not practicable, a safe distance and speed
• 60 metres from a dive flag on the surface of the water or, if that is not practicable, a safe distance and speed
• 200 metres from vessels and people in the water when tow in surfing. Exceptions are when you are supporting swimmers or divers in the water; or you are launching or removing your PWC from the water, taking care to avoid injuring people or damaging property.
When driving a PWC at a speed of six knots or more (including when towing a person or people) you must keep the vessel, any towing equipment and anyone being towed, a minimum distance of:
• 30 metres from any other vessel, land, structures (including jetties, bridges and navigation markers), moored or anchored vessels, or if that it is not practicable, a safe distance and safe speed.
Also note; No PWCs are permitted on Lake Mulwala between the main traffic bridge and the railway bridge.
On Victorian Waterways;
A 5-knot speed limit applies to boat operators and jet ski riders if you are:
•Within 50m of a person, vessel, fixed or floating structure and the shore on inland waters, wharf, jetty, slipway, diving platform or boat ramp on coastal and enclosed waters
•Within 100m of a dive flag
•Within 200m of the shore on enclosed and coastal waters
•Or as per the scheduled waterway rules
It’s not their thrill
Remember, as you revel in the rush of the ride, there are others sharing the water with you and it’s crucial to respect their space and experience.
Remember to ride within the proper zones, obey local waterway laws and respect your surrounding environment.
Jet ski riders such as yourself are subject to Hoon legislation. This means riders:
Can not operate at a speed or in a manner which is dangerous to the public, birds and marine animals are required to always maintain a proper lookout
Must keep noise to a minimum, especially when riding close to the shore, people and wildlife.
For more information go to:
Cool Your Jets | Safe Transport Victoria
Boating and marine | NSW Government
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