I have heard so many stories of late of how boats are being either launched or coming in and children (and sometimes adults) have either jumped off jetty in front of or behind their boats - which as you would know is extremely dangerous.
The SUPpers, swimmers, and general ocean goers this time of year have to realise that if a boat is coming or going to the jetty - they need to stop and give way.
Or even better, could consider starting their swim from the northern side of the jetty, rather than in front of the White Elephant Cafe.
Boats only have one place to launch and retrieve in this situation, and so they have the right of way.
The Gnarabup jetty was not made for a kids jumping ramp - it was made to launch boats and it is an integral part of making sure that recreational fisherman as well as Sea Search and Rescue have access to the ocean around the area.
During summer we also see an increase in traffic at boat parking bays at ramps around the region including Gnarabup, Hamelin, Augusta and even as far north as Canal Rocks.
These bays are used by passenger vehicles instead of boat trailers, and this creates issues for people needing to use the bays for their intended purpose.
I am totally aware that this time of year finding a parking bay at any of our beaches is difficult and maybe this is something our local planners will need to address in the future.
We all love to visit the beach, swim, SUP, snorkel, fish and have fun - but at this busy time of year we need to be extremely mindful of the safety factor required around boats of all sizes in the ocean.
Please stay safe and have a wonderful school holidays!
Roz Cummings
Down South Camping & Outdoors
