Broome next stop for Old4New lifejacket upgrade program

As the boating season peaks in the Kimberley, the Department of Transport (DoT) is reinforcing the need for skippers to check their vessel before each trip and ensure their safety gear is in good working order.

To assist Broome boat owners DoT's Marine Safety Education Trailer will be in town and there's an opportunity to participate in the very successful Old4New lifejacket upgrade at Cable Beach next week.

DoT Manager Safety Education Laurie Adams said the Old4New program, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society of Western Australia, was an upgrade opportunity where old, damaged, obsolete or foam filled lifejackets could be exchanged for a voucher for use at a local retail outlet when purchasing a new lifejacket.

"It is a hugely successful program and this year has seen more than 800 unsafe lifejackets taken off boats in WA," Mr Adams said.

Voucher limits and restrictions are in place to ensure the benefits of the program apply to as many vessels as possible so people who want to participate should check the guidelines at www.transport.wa.gov.au/lifejackets

Mr Adams said skippers could also get updates and tips on safe boating and access the latest DoT boating guides and other free publications from the Marine Safety Education Trailer as it tours the North West.

"Marine education and regional transport officers who permanently patrol local waters will be on hand to discuss issues and promote BEST checks before each voyage," Mr Adams said.

Old4New will be at Cable Beach at 9:00 am to 10:00 am on Thursday July 27, 2017.

To get the latest information on locations to visit the trailer while in the North West, visit the Lifejackets page or follow us @MarineSafetyWA or Facebook.

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