Boating changes to improve safety on the water north of Perth

Community feedback has confirmed the need for a lower speed limit at Hillarys Boat Harbour and a new motor boating prohibited zone at Marmion to improve safety for people enjoying the coastline between Two Rocks and North Fremantle.

Department of Transport (DoT) Manager Navigational Safety and Moorings Mark Briant said in February people had been given an opportunity to comment on the proposed changes and improvements to the management of the coastline following the release of the North Metropolitan Aquatic Use Review.

He said that while most of the current on-water arrangements north of Perth were working well there was still room for improvement and people had supported the key changes proposed in the review.

The changes will see a reduction from 6 knots to 5 knots in the speed restricted zone at Hillarys Boat Harbour from today.

“A 5 knot speed restriction is consistent with other small boat harbours in WA and will increase navigational safety at one of the State’s busiest boat harbours,” Mr Briant said.

At Marmion Beach a new area closed to motorised vessels will provide greater safety for users of the recently completed dive trail.

“The area will be in waters adjacent to the Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club and implemented by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) within the Marmion Marine Park as part of the Marmion Beach Dive Trail,” Mr Briant said. 

As part of the review DoT also consulted with key stakeholders, including the DBCA and the Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club.

"The purpose of the review was to ensure the safe, equitable and sustainable use of the coastline continues as the area’s population grows and demand increases for a variety of aquatic activities,” Mr Briant said.

Mr Briant said the feedback received ensured the changes reflected local community views.

For more information about the aquatic reviews visit the DoT website.

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