The Department of Transport’s Old4New lifejacket upgrade program will visit boat ramps in the South West, giving skippers a chance to exchange old, damaged, obsolete or foam filled lifejackets for a voucher to be used when purchasing a new one.
DOT director waterways safety management Chris Mather said that the summer months see an increase in popularity of boating in the South West with many people heading out on the water.
“It’s a timely reminder now the warmer weather is here, that skippers need to regularly review their safety equipment before heading out on the water, this includes making sure lifejackets and other safety equipment are up-to-date and working properly.”
Skippers can visit the trailer at the Augusta Boat Harbour boat ramp from 10am to 11am on Thursday, January 4.
The Port Geographe boat ramp from 8.30am to 9.30am on Friday, January 5 or the Casuarina Boat Harbour in Bunbury from 11am to 12pm.
The education initiative, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society of WA, spearheads a state-wide campaign promoting the benefits of wearing lifejackets at all times while boating.
“The aim is to change people’s behaviour and improve the safety of people who enjoy boating in WA,” Mr Mather said.
“Voucher limits and restrictions are in place to ensure the benefits of the program apply to as many vessels as possible.
“To avoid disappointment it’s important that people wanting to participate in the program read the Old4New guidelines at transport.wa.gov.au/lifejackets to check if their jackets qualify for an upgrade and to find out more information.”