Safety reminders
Vessels must not exceed 5 knots in the following situations:
- In designated 5-knot zones.
- In designated ski areas, when not towing a skier.
- Within 120 metres of a swimmer or person in the water.
- Within 60 metres of: Another vessel or Infrastructure such as a jetty, wharf, pontoon, or moored boat.
Holiday incidents highlight the importance of preparation
The recent holiday season saw a significant increase in boating activity across Tasmania. Several preventable incidents highlighted the importance of proper trip preparation. Common issues included inadequate safety equipment, vessel breakdowns and boats running out of fuel.
MAST reminds all mariners that thorough preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Make sure your vessel is equipped with the required safety gear and all equipment is in good order, particularly inflatable life jackets that need to be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Before you set out, take the time to:
- check the weather forecast;
- plan your route carefully;
- ensure you have ample fuel for the journey;
- check that the required safety equipment is on board; and
- inform someone of your trip details.
Remember, a well-prepared trip is a safer trip.
Electronic Visual Distress Signals
Electronic Visual Distress Signals (EVDS) are a valuable safety tool and can legally replace orange smoke and red hand flares in Tasmania. If you choose to carry an EVDS, you must also have a VHF radio and an EPIRB on board your vessel.
For coastal waters, you are still required to carry two parachute rocket flares in addition to your EVDS.
EVDS provide a long-lasting, reusable option for signalling. Once activated, they operate for at least six hours and can last even longer if you carry spare batteries in your safety kit.
Next time you are ready to replace your inshore flares, consider the EVDS option and the associated requirements. Remember to always dispose of out-of-date flares correctly.
Collection points for out-of-date flares
Let there be light – in Blackman Bay
Mariners navigating Blackman Bay at Dunalley can now enjoy enhanced safety thanks to the installation of solar-powered navigation lights on several previously unlit navigation piles. The new Sealite SL70 solar lights, with a range of 2–3 nautical miles, provide essential guidance for vessels transiting between the Dunalley Jetty, Boomer Bay boat ramp and the Marion Narrows during times of reduced visibility.
This improvement is particularly beneficial during the summer months when vessels often operate around sunrise and sunset to check cray pots.
MAST also extends a big thank you to Cameron of Tasmania staff for their recent assistance in retrieving the fallen Marker 17 in the Marion Bay Narrows. This marker has been temporarily replaced with a buoy to maintain navigation safety.
While these enhancements improve safety, MAST reminds mariners that crossing the Marion Narrows in darkness is not recommended.
Farewell to Andrew Dobbie
After three years of dedicated service, MAST recently bid farewell to Andrew Dobbie, who retired as Project Officer. Throughout his time with MAST, Andrew contributed to numerous projects that have enhanced safety, accessibility and infrastructure across Tasmania’s waterways. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to boating infrastructure have left a lasting impact for boaters.
We thank Andrew for his hard work and wish him all the best in his retirement. He will be greatly missed by the team!
MAST Infrastructure Projects Update
MAST continues to plan and deliver statewide infrastructure projects funded by motorboat licences and recreational boat registrations.
- Boomer Bay Walkway Extension: Construction of a 12m extension is set to begin in Autumn 2025. Following local council and environmental approvals, this addition will provide extra layup space for launching and retrieving vessels.
- Geilston Bay Boat Ramp Upgrade: This project, which will start early this year, will extend the existing ramp and a floating modular pontoon will be installed to enhance user facilities.
- Pipeclay Lagoon Boat Beach Landing: Sand excavation has been completed following the formation of a shallow shoal. MAST worked with local authorities and environmental agencies to ensure the project’s success.
MAST remains dedicated to maintaining and improving its own marine facilities across Tasmania. Recent projects include:
- Conducting a comprehensive engineering audit involving divers, engineers and MAST staff to assess facility conditions.
- Undertaking remedial work at the Meredith Street Boat Ramp in Strahan, reinstating rock armour at the St Helens Training Wall, and completing repairs at multiple jetties statewide, including Dover, Swansea, Margate, Kettering and Port Sorell.
These initiatives are vital to ensuring the long-term functionality, safety and reliability of our boat ramps, jetties, marinas, and breakwaters.
