Old4New lifejacket upgrade opportunity for Port Hedland

Port Hedland boat owners will have access to the Department of Transport's (DoT) very successful Old4New lifejacket upgrade program this weekend.

It is part of a two day stopover in town for DoT's Marine Safety Education Trailer which is touring the North West during the busy winter boating season to promote safety.

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 Port Hedland will be on hand to engage and discuss issues with boat owners at various locations," Mr Adams said.

The trailer will be attending local boat ramps on Saturday July 29, 2017 and Sunday July 30, 2017. However, those wanting to participate in Old4New need to be at Town Ramp, The Esplanade on Sunday morning between 8:00 am and noon.

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 more than 800 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."

To get the latest information on locations follow us @MarineSafetyWA or Facebook or visit the Life jackets page.

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