FROM NSWKBA:

WAKEUP CALL FOR BOTANY KITERS BEHAVING BADLY

If you kite at Botany Bay you should be aware that that Kitesurfing is currently under the spotlight by Southern Sydney NSW Maritime Authority.

If the situation doesn't improve soon it's highly likely that there will be significant consequences for kiting in the area, possibly even a ban on kiting altogether.
There are significant number of other water users in the Bay. Currently, many are very unhappy about the behaviour of some of the kitesurfers on the water in this area.

It's a busy waterway and common courtesy on the water is absolutely essential if kiting is to be continued to be permitted there by Maritime authorities.We should not underestimate the power that these other groups yield, and as our sport continues to explode it's becoming more and more important that we observe the rules of the water and are courteous to ALL other vessels.


THE ISSUE:

Complaints have increased DRAMATICALLY in the recent year of kiters insisting on enforcing RIGHT-OF-WAY rules on the water. NWS Maritime rules are that all water users should take whatever actions are required to avoid collisions. Just because you may have right-of-way does not mean that you must enforce it. If your insistence on right-of-way results in a collision you may still be held responsible because you did not take action to avoid a collision.

NSW Maritime have contacted NSWKBA and asked us to self-police the situation before they are forced to take action themselves. They are being reasonable and patient, but if we don't fix the situation, they will.


THE SOLUTION:
Common courtesy will go a long way at resolving this situation. PLEASE BE COURTEOUS TO ALL OTHER VESSELS AT ALL TIMES. (even if you think you are in the right) Give way to all other vessels on the water at all time, even when to don't have to.

Do not be surprised if you are slapped with a $500 fine for disregarding the rules of the water. NSW Maritime officers are watching.

Kiting could be banned. It would be a disaster if kiting was banned in Botany Bay. Not only would one of the best kite spots in Sydney be gone, but the beaches where it is currently tolerated will become crowded, and eventually lost too.

Please visit the NSWKBA website and familiarize yourself with our guidelines.

www.nswkba.com.au/coc

IMPORTANT ! Pass this message on to other kiters !!!

Mark Morgan
President, NSWKBA