PWC Operation Ride Safe: Georges River targeted

7:55 AM Tue 9 Dec 2008 GMT

Ports and Waterways Minister Joe Tripodi said there will be zero tolerance for anti-social behaviour on our waterways over the holiday period. NSW Maritime will crack down on unsafe and irresponsible use of 'personal watercraft' (PWC) on the Georges River over the next six weeks.

"NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers will bolster normal patrol numbers and be on the water this Christmas and New Year. They will work with Water Police in conducting Operation Ride Safe," Mr Tripodi said. "There have been a number of PWC riders operating in an unsafe and irresponsible manner recently in the Georges River - especially around the Georges River National Park near Revesby and Brighton le Sands.

"There can be up to 50 PWC on the river at any one time in what becomes quite a crowded stretch of the river. "Large numbers of vessels and waterskiers also use the boat ramp and there is certainly potential for conflict if people are not doing the right thing."

Since the start of the boating season, six people on the Georges River have been banned from holding any NSW boating licence for a period of up to two years, after they were found to be operating a PWC either without the appropriate licence, or after committing two safety offences.

"Every person who operates a PWC must understand how to do so safely," Mr Tripodi said. "There will be a zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour of PWC riders. The waterways are here to share." Anyone who wishes to drive a PWC at any speed must have a NSW PWC photo-licence and it must be carried at all times when operating the craft.

The penalty for dangerous and unlicensed riding of a PWC can reach $1500.

www.maritime.nsw.gov.au

by NSW Government Media

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PWC Operation Ride Safe: Georges River targeted

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