NSW Maritime is urging boaters to check their marine flares ahead of the free statewide collection program for expired flares.
Collection points for expired flares will pop up at boat ramps across NSW between 17 April and 27 April 2025, and boaters are encouraged to check the program to see when NSW Maritime is visiting their area.
Executive Director for NSW Maritime Mark Hutchings said expired flares carry a serious safety risk and can be unstable and ineffective in emergencies.
“Marine flares can save lives – but we don’t want boaters to realise their flares have expired in the middle of an emergency, when they’re needed the most.”
“Trained Maritime officers will be out in the community during the collection program to give boaters a safe and responsible way to dispose of these hazardous items.
“Most flares have a use-by date of three years and must be replaced before expiry, so we encourage boaters to check their safety equipment, and make the most of the mobile collection program if their flares have expired.
“We want to ensure that every boater is prepared with reliable safety equipment on very trip.”
The program will cover more than 40 locations across the state, with the first collection point at Tweed Heads on Thursday 17 April, and the last at Sylvania Waters on Sunday 27 April.
Participants can drop off their expired flares at designated sites, where trained staff will handle the disposal process safely.
Collection locations and dates: for more information about the collection program and safe disposal methods, please visit Disposing of expired marine flares | NSW Government
