Inland boaters are flocking to the NSW coastline this summer as local dams, rivers and lakes fall below capacity.

Waterways Authority Chief Executive, Matthew Taylor said Waterways Boating Service Officers were noticing a significant increase in the number of boaters from rural and regional NSW not accustomed to coastal conditions.

"This year there is noticeable increase of rural boaters taking to the waters of the coast and this has raised some safety concerns," Mr Taylor said.

"Boaters accustomed to the waters of rivers, lakes and dams, have sometimes put themselves into unsafe situations because of a lack of knowledge about boating in coastal waters.

"Coastal waters have unique conditions such tides, current, ocean bars, oyster leases or bomboras that don't occur on enclosed waters like rivers, lakes or dams.

Mr Taylor said that when boating in an area for the first time it is important to gain local knowledge of the conditions.

"If you are new to a stretch of water, take some time to speak with the local Waterways officer, Coast Guard, Volunteer Coastal Patrol or even the nearest fishing tackle shop operator about local conditions," he said.

"It is also important that boaters have the correct safety equipment which includes; lifejackets, distress signals and a map or chart. These are some of the additional safety requirements when boating in open waters.

"An anchor of appropriate size and a long, strong anchor rope or chain is of much more importance in coastal conditions than inland waters.

"A lifejacket is perhaps the most important piece of safety equipment and it is the skippers responsibility to ensure there are enough for all people on board, they are in good condition and easily accessible."

For more information or maps on local waterways, safety equipment or local conditions call the Waterways Authority Info Line 13 12 56 or visit www.waterways.nsw.gov.au

Media Contact: Catherine Russell 02 9563 8652 or 0418 167 812

Monday, 13 January 2003
HARBOUR FIREWORKS BACK WITH A BANG FOR AUSTRALIA DAY

Australia Day 2003 will go out with a bang at 9pm, as part of the cancelled New Years Eve Fireworks are incorporated in Sydney Harbour's festivities.

NSW Waterways Authority, Chief Executive, Matthew Taylor said the one off late addition to the Australia Day calender will mean extra navigation restrictions for boaters.

"The annual Australia Day fireworks display will take place in Darling Harbour with the City of Sydney Family fireworks being staged off Goat Island and Fort Denison," Mr Taylor said.

"The 'one off ' addition of the 9pm Harbour fireworks will see an exclusion zone established from 8.30pm to 9.15pm between Goat Island to Fort Denison and marked by lit yellow buoys.

" For on-water spectators enjoying the Jazz concert in Johnston ' s Bay - there is no need to move. It is a great position to watch both fireworks displays.

" Thousands of spectators aboard ferries, tall ships, yachts, cruisers, kayaks, surfboards and tinnies will celebrate Australia Day on Sydney Harbour.

" With lots of aquatic activities to mark the national celebration, Waterways will coordinate a control fleet tasked with managing harbour traffic.

" A six - knot speed restriction will apply from 10am- 11pm throughout the harbour and 20 Waterways vessels supported by the Water Police and Volunteer Marine organisations, will activate a number of exclusion zones for the on-water events.

Mr Taylor said it is a long day for boaters with the Ferrython, Tall Ship's parade, the Regatta, Jazz on the Water and the fireworks display.

" Boaters need to be mindful of fatigue, keep under the 0.05 alcohol limit and if intending to watch the night time events your vessel must have appropriate navigation lights," he said.

Major safety tips for Australia Day include:
* Slow down, stay under six knots when near the event area;
* Keep clear of and no anchoring in the exclusion zones;
* Make sure everybody has a lifejacket;
* Keep under the 0.05 alcohol limit; and
* Have appropriate navigation lights.
For further information on water safety as an event spectator please contact the Waterways Authority on 13 12 56 or visit our aquatic events website www.waterways.nsw.gov.au/austday.html.

Media Contact: Catherine Russell 02 9563 8652 OR Neil Patchett 0418 279 465