What's with the proposal to make life jackets for sups compulsory in WA
They can't be real
As the government flounders
This is the best they can come up with
S
Has anyone drowned while on their SUP, is there a distance from shore they specify or will I need to wear one at Hilary's boat harbour???
One of the many reasons I left WA 25 years ago and moved to paradise.
no 7 months without any surf over here:-)
I'm in the process of moving to Vic
This state is going backwards and will be that way for at least 7 yrs
Victoria and NSW (and possibly others) already have laws that require you to wear a pfd at all times when in kayaks, canoes, small yachts, PWC's etc and when more than 400m off shore on SUPs, kiteboards and sailboards.
Been compulsory down here for a few years, at all times a legrope and PFD must be worn unless your in the surf zone, most guys don't have a problem and wear an inflatable bum bag style one. Marine & Safety are pretty good to deal with and have even donated a few bum bag inflatable ones as prizes at comps.
As long as they are biodegradable... we don't want the GW's having the same issues as turtles eating plastic bags.
Correct me if I'm wrong but in the eastern states wearing a pfd is applicable in open waters more than 400m from the coast. Whereas the story in the west here yesterday stated pfd's were applicable in rivers and lakes as well as the open ocean which is over kill and a bit much. . . .
Currently boating regs its under review (first time in 25 years?), and there will be two public forums, as well an online survey.
Apparently 6 people drowned last year, and 11 this year. A Dot spokesman said this may indicate a level of "complacency".
Whilst 6 to 11 is almost double, it seems a pretty small % in terms of number of people on the water, and new people on the water.
Have you say &complete the official survey here:
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/safety-equipment-review.asp 
From the review document:
"Compulsory wearing of lifejackets might be best targeted at vessels that are: ? likely to capsize (small vessels operating in the ocean, small sailing dinghies, canoes, kayaks, sailboards, paddle boards);"
Have your say:
www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/safety-equipment-review.asp
