Skippers warned to be safe on Australia Day, as tens of thousands take to the water for Skyworks
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The WA Department of Transport has called on skippers planning to see the Australia Day fireworks display from their boats to do a full safety check before going on the water.
Tens of thousands of vessels are expected on the Swan and Canning rivers to view the Skyworks.
The department's director of waterways safety management Chris Mather said full and proper safety checks were essential.
"Checking your boat, checking your fuel, your oil, check your equipment, test run your motor as well — nothing worse than getting down onto the boat ramp and finding your motor doesn't actually crank over," he said.
"Make sure you've got the right safety equipment for being out there and importantly, make sure your lights are working."
A "best check" guide is available online for those who need an extra reminder.
Mr Mather said skippers also needed to show patience when on the water.
"Australia Day is the busiest day on the Swan and Canning River, and I'd have to say, all the years I've worked at there've only ever been a few minor incidents," he said.
"Everyone just has to have a bit of patience, bearing in mind as the skipper of the boat they are responsible, and everyone just has [to have] a little bit more patience on the day."
Skippers warned to go easy on alcohol
Mr Mather also warned against going overboard on alcohol intake.
"It is an offence to drive a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol where it impairs your ability to safely navigate.
"If you're the skipper, probably best not to drink on the night because there's a lot of boats around and it's your responsibility to ensure everyone gets home safely," he said.
Closures and restricted speed areas are planned for Perth waters on the day, and skippers are being asked to tune their radios to channel 16 for marine command.
Heirisson Island Cove will be closed to all vessels, and the Belmont ski area will be closed from 3:00pm.
Skippers are reminded the open speed limit on the Swan Canning Riverpark after dark is 10 knots.
Topics: australia-day, perth-6000
