Old4New lifejacket upgrade program visits Woodman Point

As the boating season nears, 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 metropolitan boat owners DoT's very successful Old4New lifejacket upgrade program will visit Woodman Point next weekend.

DoT Manager Safety Education Laurie Adams said the Old4New program, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society of Western Australia, was an opportunity where old, damaged, obsolete or foam filled lifejackets could be upgraded to a new modern lifejacket for $65.

"It is a hugely successful program and this year has seen more than 1,000 unsafe lifejackets taken off boats in WA," Mr Adams said.

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 including the need to undertake a BEST check (Maintaining your boat) before each voyage and an annual 45 point check," Mr Adams said.

Old4New will be at the public boat ramp at Woodman Point from 8:00 am to 10:00 am on Saturday October 21, 2017.

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