News from Marine and Safety Tasmania – May 2024
Scallop Season
The scallop fishing season is normally open from the Saturday before Easter to the end of July.
It is essential you have the necessary diving skills before attempting to go scalloping. Already this year there have been some serious accidents. Make sure you attend a course before diving and do not assume it’s a simple process of connecting to hooker gear and jumping into the water.
If you are experienced enough to dive, please ensure that Code Flag A is flown at all times and is visible from 360 degrees.
Tas Combined Dive Club Weekend
The Tas Combined Dive Club Weekend is a popular event that will take place on the King’s Birthday long weekend in June. If the weather remains calm and pleasant, many boats are expected to be out on the water. Again, it’s important to keep a lookout for Code Flag A during this time. If you would like more information about the event, please click on the link provided below.
Do you swim offshore?
There have been some concerns raised by the boating community regarding swimmers who are offshore. While there is nothing inherently wrong with swimming at a distance from the shore, it is important to ensure that you are visible to others on the water. Swimmers can be difficult to spot, especially when a boat is heading into the sun or the water is a little choppy. As such, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the water.
Facility Upgrades
Autumn has been a busy time for the MAST project team.
The construction of Freemans Jetty at Coles Bay is progressing well, with the piles almost completed. The decking will be laid soon and, weather permitting, the jetty will be ready by the end of June.
Other significant projects include the makeover of the Eddystone Point access and walkway and the new stepped-down walkway at Burnie.
Both projects are expected to be completed by the end of June.
Works at Little Pine Lagoon ramp and the pile wrap at Squeaking Point jetty have been completed.
Great Lake Ramps
Just a reminder that the ramps at Swan Bay, Brandum Bay and Cramps Bay are currently closed and will remain so until further notice. These facilities are owned by Hydro Tasmania and as soon as there has been sufficient rain to allow the ramps to be safely reopened, the public will be notified.
Aids to Navigation
The servicing of a number of aids has also been completed. These include:
- Smithton Region including Bluff Hill, Sandy Cape and Hunter Island Lights
- Bridport and Musselroe Bay Region
- Furneaux Islands
- South West Region including Port Davey, Actaeon Island, Fisher Point and Low Rocky Point
