BOATING SAFETY
All boats must comply with safety requirements as laid down by NSW Maritime. Any boat not complying with these regulations will risk disqualification. The Safety Committee reserves the right to inspect any boat to ensure compliance.
Alcohol and boating don’t mix. The blood alcohol limit on the water is the same as on the roads 0.05% - be mindful the combined impact of wind, sun and wave action multiply the effect of alcohol. Your chances of disorientation and drowning are increased - this applies to everyone, the skipper, crew and passengers.
Ensure you have sufficient approved lifejackets for all aboard the boat and everyone on board knows where they are located and how and when to use them. A lifejacket can be the difference between survival and disaster in a boating accident especially when crossing bars when the wearing of a lifejacket is compulsory by law.
Always check the weather (Weather Info’ line 1900 937107) and log your boat on and off with the local Coast Guard or Marine Rescue base. Keep your radio alert for weather changes or warnings. Do not hesitate to seek assistance if you need it. Do not rely solely on a mobile phone for help as the range of most mobile phones is limited at sea.
Most boating accidents involve recreational craft of less than 6 metres. It is important you know the wind and wave limits of your boat and don’t take chances in conditions you might not be able to handle. If you do capsize, stay with the boat and your chances of rescue are improved.
ROCK FISHING SAFETY
It is now a legal requirement for anyone who is rock fishing anywhere in the Randwick local government area, including children, or anyone who is helping them rock fish, must wear a lifejacket. This is also recommended for all other rock fishing areas.
Rock Fishing can be dangerous. Never fish by yourself. Fish in a group of at least 3 people, within sight of each other. Inform others or Tournament Committee of your plans – always let family or friends know where you are going and when you will be back. If some one is washed in, one person should ideally stay and help while the other alerts emergency services. Dial 000 on mobile to access emergency services.
Wear the right gear. Light clothing such as shorts and a spray jacket or a wet suit will let you swim more easily if you are washed in. Jumpers can be heavy and difficult to take off in the water. Wear sandals and sandshoes with non slip soles or with cleats to suit the rock surface. Wear a lifejacket or buoyancy vest and bring something buoyant that can be easily thrown and held onto to help stay afloat. Carry ropes and torches.
Observe first- fish later. Spend some time watching your intended spot to get an idea of the conditions over a full swell/wave cycle. Know the tides as wave conditions can worsen with a rising tide. Plan an escape route in case you are washed in. Stay calm if you are washed in – swim away from the rocks and look for a safe place to come ashore or stay afloat until help comes. Stay alert – never turn your back on the sea. If waves, weather or swell threaten your fishing spot then leave immediately.
Avoid fishing in exposed locations during rough or rising seas. Make sure you are aware of local weather, swell and tidal conditions before going fishing. Be aware that conditions can and do change dramatically and quickly.