Old4New lifejacket upgrade opportunity for Kununurra

Kununurra boat owners will have access to the Department of Transport's (DoT) very successful Old4New lifejacket upgrade program as part of a renewed focus on boating safety in the town later this month.

DoT will be visiting local boat ramps and attending the Kununurra Show to reinforce safety as the boating season in the north of WA enters its peak period.

DoT Manager Safety Education Laurie Adams said skippers could get updates and tips on safe boating and access the latest DoT boating guides and other free publications.

"Marine education and regional transport officers who permanently patrol waters in and around Kununurra will be on hand to engage and discuss issues with boat owners at various locations," Mr Adams said.

"The Old4New opportunity is sure to attract large numbers to the DoT stand at the Kununurra Show on Saturday July 15, 2017 and officers will talk to skippers while attending local boat ramps on Sunday July 16, 2017."

The Old4New program, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society of Western Australia, is an upgrade opportunity where old, damaged, obsolete or foam filled lifejackets can be exchanged for a voucher for use at a local retail outlet when purchasing a new lifejacket. This year nearly 700 unsafe lifejackets have been taken off boats in as part of the program.

"Voucher limits and restrictions are in place to ensure the benefits of the program apply to as many vessels as possible, Mr Adams said.

"To avoid disappointment it's important that people wanting to participate in the program read the Old4New guidelines at www.transport.wa.gov.au/lifejackets to check if their jackets qualify for an upgrade and to find out more information."

For more information on Old4New visit the Life jackets page.

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