Play Safe On The Water

The Northern Territory Government has launched a new $100,000 marine safety campaign encouraging Territorians to ‘Play Safe’ on the water.

Transport Minister Gerry McCarthy said boating is a great part of the Territory lifestyle, but there’s no need to take unnecessary risk - so play safe.

“Our beautiful harbour and extraordinary river systems provide some of the best fishing and recreational boating in the world, but we all need to follow safe boating practices to reduce the risks on the water,” said Mr McCarthy

“We have the highest recreational boat ownership per capita in Australia and most boat owners are very responsible, however we still see dangerous behaviour far too often.”

The major threats to recreational boat users are;

· Severe weather, either from strong winds in the dry season or large storms that approach quickly in the wet.

· Large tides which expose navigation hazards at extreme low tides

· Operators failing to carry safety equipment and

· A lack of boating knowledge and common sense

The campaign which will include print, radio and TV ads highlights the simple steps to Play Safe on the water, they include;

· Ensuring the skipper is always responsible

· Check the weather and tides before you go

· Check your safety equipment and

· Know the rules of the water

“Thankfully fatalities on the water are uncommon, but with the number of recreational vessels in the Territory increasing by about 1000 boats a year we all need to use a bit of common sense to keep recreational boating safe,” said Mr McCarthy.

“As part of the campaign to improve marine safety a Safety Guide for Pleasure Craft booklet has been prepared and will be available at the Darwin Boat and Leisure Show this weekend.

“I encourage all recreational boat users to get down to the Boat Show this weekend to see everything the Territory has to offer for fun on the water.

“It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions about boat use and marine safety.”

The Safety Guide will also be available online at www.marinesafety.nt.gov.au.

Media Contact: Bethaney Maley 0423 593 999

Related files:
Marine Safety.pdf ( 407.19 kb )


Gerry McCarthy MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT