With boating season underway, Flinders Ports has launched its annual Public Safety Campaign. The aim is to ensure South Australians can enjoy getting out on the water safely and without obstructing the region’s busy shipping channels.
In Adelaide, boaters are asked to take special care on the water in Port River, Outer Harbour and around the shipping channel.
While fishing and recreation are welcomed on the Port River, small boats should keep well clear of the Port River channel and its approaches when large ships are manoeuvring.
Ships that are 300 metres long, weighing over 100,000 tonnes are now common around Port Adelaide. Sailing around these massive ships can have many hidden dangers, and it is important that boaties know their responsibilities and do not become complacent when out on the water.
Commenting on the new campaign, Flinders Ports General Manager, Carl Kavina, said:
“We want to make sure everyone can safely enjoy the water around our ports, especially during the summer season. Before heading out, make sure you are prepared and carrying the right equipment, and be aware of the different kind of vessels you’ll be sharing the water with.
“Remember: Be responsible. Be aware. Be seen.”
If you are planning to head out for a day on the water, you are responsible for your own safety, and for knowing the do’s and don’ts. You can reduce the risks of boating around large ships by following a few easy tips.
- Be responsible.
Be aware of your responsibilities. Get a free copy of the South Australian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook atwww.ondeck.sa.gov.au. You can also download a fact sheet from www.flindersports.com.au/safeonthewater for information on staying safe on the water around Port Adelaide.
- Be aware.
Know who is about. Before you head out on the water in Port Adelaide, start by visiting Flinders Ports’ mobile phone and tablet-friendly website, www.portmis.flindersports.com.au, to check out the shipping schedule. This has the latest information on shipping movements and port rules in and around Flinders Ports’ South Australian ports.
Never anchor in a shipping channel. It is illegal and extremely dangerous. Small boats should also avoid sailing in a channel and its approaches when large vessels are using that channel. It is often impossible for big ships to stop or change course to avoid a small boat. Big ships need deep water to navigate safely and must maintain speed to be able to steer. Appearances can be deceptive too. Large vessels are often travelling far faster than they seem to be.
- Be seen
Never assume you have been seen. The bridge of a large ship can be over 100 metres away from the bow. Her blind spot span up to one kilometre in front of the ship, so just because you have spotted a big vessel, never assume that her crew has seen your boat. If you are out on the water at night or when visibility is poor, always switch on your navigation lights.
Remember to keep clear of big ships and be seen. Know the rules and enjoy South Australia’s coastal havens this summer.
For a free copy of the South Australian Recreational Boating Safety Handbook at www.ondeck.sa.gov.au
For details on shipping movements at South Australian ports operated by Flinders Ports visit: www.portmis.flindersports.com.au