I kept on getting hassled paddling on the Maribyrnong. Always by the same rotund ranger dude from Parks and Gardens . They can't fine you, just try and tell you their interpretation, which as DJ said they and the Cops aren't clear on. Basically on the rivers you can't SUP without a PFD around the ships/commercial boating areas. When on the bay and you were as close to shore as you say, I would have have asked him for his name and identification number and let him know that you were going to report him, as he obviously doesn't understand the laws. You can still report him as he should have it logged in his daily report, but is it worth the hassle? As PT has suggested, I used to just say sorry and keep on paddling. If you go paddling after 3.00pm in the afternoon or before 9.00 am in the morning they are still too busy having their cups of coffee, or a quiet beer. It's basically a power trip because of the uniform. After three and a half years I've found the cops won't bother you as they have enough idiots on Jet Skis and illegal fisherpersons to deal with. Always a good idea to wear your leg rope so you can argue that your board is your PFD if they do pull you over but I've actually paddled past them on 3 or 4 occassions without a PFD and haven't even been talked to.
I had quite a fun day yesterday, i paddle boarded out at Terrigal with out a PDF then i went out fishing with my mate through the channel at Ettalong in our 4.5 metre boat without a PDF on all day.
If this was Victoria i would have to be wearing a PDF the entire time.
Makes no sense whatsoever.
I assume people in Victoria are not as bright as us or something and need protecting from themselves.
We might be dumb in Victoria but at least we don't wear computer files in the hope that they'll save our lives.
I had quite a fun day yesterday, i paddle boarded out at Terrigal with out a PDF then i went out fishing with my mate through the channel at Ettalong in our 4.5 metre boat without a PDF on all day.
If this was Victoria i would have to be wearing a PDF the entire time.
Makes no sense whatsoever.
I assume people in Victoria are not as bright as us or something and need protecting from themselves.
We might be dumb in Victoria but at least we don't wear computer files in the hope that they'll save our lives.
Yeah, where a vest and while you're at it you'd better put on a helmet in case you bump your head. I know I can't ride my bike without putting one on. Don't forget the compulsory booties to protect your toesies. Also you MUST wear a condom. Other wise you might get a PSTD .... paddle surf transmitted disease.
