Get up to speed with safety at Expo

by Greg Shoemark on 17 Sep 2012 Visitors to the all-new Club Marine Sports Boat & PWC Expo this weekend can get up to date on Victoria’s latest water safety rules – and even do their licence test.

Visit the Transport Safety Victoria (TSV) stand to learn all about the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic) (MSA), which has important implications for boaters and PWC operators.

TSV’s experts will be on hand to provide advice and hold presentations about the Marine Safety Act and being safe on the water.

There will be free copies of the new Recreational Boating Safety Handbook for anyone planning to sit their licence test or simply brush up on their knowledge. There will also be free handy brochures and stickers to take away.

TSV’s stand is located at stand A2, next to the Prize Stand and opposite JV Marine.

Visitors will also be able to sit their license test at the Expo, with the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Academy running a half-day seminar and testing session each day.

On successful completion of the tests, students will receive a Marine Safety Certificate which they can take to Vicroads within six months to pay for and obtain their licence.

Visit www.theboatexpo.com.au for details of licence training and testing times, and email boatlicence.vic@coastguard.com.au to book in and confirm requirements for ID.

In addition to Victoria’s general marine licence for people over 16, there is a restricted licence for people from 12 to 16, and a PWC endorsement can be added to either licence.

Restricted license holders must not travel at more than 10 knots, operate before sunrise or after sunset, or tow a person, another vessel or an object.

The Club Marine Sports Boat & PWC Expo runs from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 September, and is open from 12 noon to 9pm Friday, 10am to 9pm Saturday, and 10am to 6pm Sunday.

Admission is just $15 for adults, $10 concession, and free for children 15 and under (when accompanied by an adult) – tickets at the door or online at www.theboatexpo.com.au