Key Takeaways:
- The risk of collisions between jet-skis and swimmers is increasing due to the rising number of jet-skis on the water.
- Campaigners are calling for extended no-boat zones and stricter rules on jet-ski maneuvers to improve safety.
- The current five-knot speed restriction zone extends 200 meters from shore, but some argue it should be extended to 500 meters.
- Better licensing and education for jet-skiers are also being proposed to prevent dangerous behavior.
- Police and lifesaving organizations are urging jet-skiers to follow the rules and respect other water users.
Introduction to the Issue
The debate over jet-ski safety has been reignited, with campaigners arguing that the current rules are not doing enough to protect swimmers and other water users. Vicki Karalis, a long-time campaigner against jet-skis, has warned that the increasing number of jet-skis on the water is creating a "recipe for disaster." She is calling for extended no-boat zones and stricter rules on jet-ski maneuvers to improve safety. Karalis argues that the current five-knot speed restriction zone, which extends 200 meters from shore, is not sufficient and should be extended to 500 meters, as is the case on the Mornington Peninsula.
Current Regulations and Concerns
The current regulations prohibit jet-skis from performing doughnuts, weaves, or other "irregular" maneuvers within the shared five-knot speed restriction zone. However, Karalis argues that this is not enough, and that the noise and disruption caused by jet-skis can still be a problem for swimmers even at a distance of 200 meters. Peter Kovas, a regular jet-skier and co-founder of the Victorian Ski Riders group, agrees that safety is a concern, but argues that boundary changes would do little to stop hoons who already flout the rules. Instead, he suggests that better licensing and education for jet-skiers would be more effective in preventing dangerous behavior.
Licensing and Education
Kovas points out that there are no limits on the power of a jet-ski that a young person can ride, whereas licenses for young road users stipulate that they cannot drive vehicles with an excessive power-to-weight ratio. He argues that this is a major concern, and that young people should not be allowed to ride high-powered jet-skis without proper training and supervision. A police spokesperson agreed that licensing and education are important, and noted that police issued around 300 infringement notices to jet-skiers last summer. The spokesperson urged all jet-ski operators to know the rules and adhere to them, warning that the consequences of a collision with a swimmer or another vessel can be catastrophic.
Community Feedback and Support
Life Saving Victoria (LSV) commended police efforts to educate jet-skiers and enforce rule compliance, especially during peak periods. The organization supports continued review and improvement of exclusion zones and waterway management strategies, guided by data, risk assessments, and community feedback. A spokesperson for Hobsons Bay Council backed the proposed exclusion zone changes at Altona Pier, and suggested that they could go further. Port Phillip Council also expressed concern about high-powered jet-skis and said it would review proposed changes to exclusion zones around the revamped St Kilda pier.
Conclusion and Future Directions
The debate over jet-ski safety is ongoing, with campaigners, police, and lifesaving organizations all calling for improved safety measures. While there are differing opinions on the best way to achieve this, there is a general consensus that something needs to be done to prevent accidents and improve safety on the water. As the summer months approach, it is likely that the issue will continue to be a topic of discussion, with a range of stakeholders working together to find solutions that balance the needs of different water users. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, whether they are swimming, jet-skiing, or simply enjoying the beach.