Release date: 03/02/10
The growing popularity of the waters in the northern suburbs for recreational boating, personal water craft (PWC) use and other aquatic activities has prompted significant changes, including the introduction of a new ski area and new speed restrictions.

Department of Transport Manager Navigational Safety and Compliance Ray Buchholz said increased boating activity coupled with safety concerns had prompted a formal review of aquatic usage between Hillarys Boat Harbour and Quinns Beach.

"Congestion in some areas has seen conflict between users increase in recent years," Mr Buchholz said.

The changes to the gazetted areas for on-water activities, combined with improved education and increased compliance patrols, will ensure safer operation of the waters even at the busiest times," Mr Buchholz said.

"As part of the 12 month review undertaken by the Department, officers consulted extensively with the City of Joondalup, City of Wanneroo, Department of Environment and Conservation, Department of Fisheries, Water Police, Whitfords Sea Search Rescue, Surf Lifesaving WA, Boating WA and the Hillarys Yacht Club.”

The changes include:

a significant expansion of the existing Whitfords ski area;

the creation of a new ski area off Quinns Beach;

the creation of an eight knot speed restriction extending 200m offshore from the southern end of the Mindarie Marina breakwater to the northern end of Quinns Beach; and,

amendments to the existing eight knot speed restrictions areas at the entrance of Hillarys Boat Harbour and Ocean Beach Boat Harbour.
Mr Buchholz said 25 marker buoys defining the new zones had been installed at strategic points and new signage erected at adjacent boat ramps to assist skippers and other users comply with new gazettal areas.

"Transport has also updated its boating guide for the waters between Hillarys and Quinns Beach to clearly show the gazetted areas for boating, water skiing and PWC use and it is available free of charge," Mr Buchholz said.

People wanting a copy of the new Hillarys Boating Guide or more information about the changes can visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine or contact the Department on 9431 1011.

Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220