Comment sought on proposals to improve safety on the water at Geraldton

The introduction of formal water ski areas and the extension of boating prohibited zones to protect swimmers are part of proposed changes to improve boating safety at Geraldton.

The proposals, released today by the Department of Transport (DoT) for public comment as part of the Geraldton Aquatic Use Review, aim to improve the management of aquatic use in the waters off Geraldton and at Drummond Cove.

DoT's Manager Navigational Safety and Moorings Mark Briant said community comment was now invited in relation to seven proposals developed in consultation with the City of Greater Geraldton and Mid West Ports Authority.

"DoT encourages those who enjoy these waters to participate in the review and provide feedback on the proposals as the comments will be used to prepare a final aquatic use plan for Geraldton and Drummond Cove," Mr Briant said.

Mr Briant said the proposed changes would have many safety benefits and would not limit access as water ski areas are not exclusive use areas.

"All current users of these areas will retain access," Mr Briant said.

Proposed changes include:

• Creation of a new water ski and parasail area to the north of the Batavia Coast Marina to reduce congestion at Town Beach ski area and provide a location for the safe operation of parasailing vessels.
• Extension of the existing closed waters to motorised vessel area along Beresford foreshore northward approximately 240 metres to the southern side of the rock groyne to improve safety of swimmers.
• Extension of the western edge of the closed waters to motorised vessels area approximately 70 metres seaward to improve the safety of swimmers.
• Increase the size of the current water ski area at Town Beach to reduce congestion.
• Creation of a new water ski area at Pages Beach to provide an alternative area mostly for personal water craft and dinghies launched locally.
• Removal of the commercial parasailing area at Greys Beach.
• Creation of a new water ski area at Drummond Cove.

It's envisaged the outcomes of the review will be gazetted as law and implemented later this year. To participate in the review visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/geraldtonreview

Comments are welcome until 26 May 2017.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au