CHANGES to boating and swimming zones in Port Phillip and Western Port bays are part of an ongoing review to improve public safety on the water.
Parks Victoria is inviting public comment on the proposed changes.
“It’s important that boating and swimming zones are a good reflection of the current and future needs of water-based activities in the area, and that they maximise safety on the water,” acting senior manager for local ports and waterways Cathy Jenkins said.
“The focus of [the] review is to refine the zones in order to provide a safer environment through better separation of boating and swimming activities in high density bathing areas, and to ensure sport and recreational activities operate legally and safely.
“Parks Victoria is committed to ensuring our bays can handle the increasing numbers of visitors and a diverse range of recreational water activities.”
In 2009 Parks Victoria with Maritime Safety Victoria completed a comprehensive two-year review of all boating and swimming zones across both bays. It involved consultation with beach and boat users and operators, local government, business and life-saving clubs.
Swimming and boating zones are clearly marked with aids to navigation (piles or buoys) installed in the water and advisory signs on the shore.
An overview of proposed adjustments, implementation history, rules and supporting maps is available at: parks.vic.gov.au/boatzonereview
Parks Victoria is seeking feedback from those interested. They should complete the survey via the Parks Victoria website, email boatingzonereview@parks.vic.gov.au or write to Boating Zone Review, Parks Victoria, 10/535 Bourke St, Melbourne, 3000.
The deadline for feedback is Friday 16 December.
Details: visit parks.vic.gov.au or call 13 19 63.
First published in the Mornington News – 6 December 2016
