DANGER to swimmers off Kingston beaches from passing jet-skis could be reduced if planned boating zone changes are introduced as part of a by Parks Victoria review.
The state government agency is seeking feedback on extending swimming-only areas off beaches by up to 60 metres at several bayside and peninsula beaches.
A Boating Zone Review proposes wider exclusion zones for jet-skis off Aspendale, Bonbeach, Carrum and Chelsea beaches.
Feedback is also being sought on jet-ski use along Patterson River.
“Parks Victoria is inviting beachgoers, swimmers, paddle craft users, vessel operators, local residents, local businesses and the broader community to provide feedback on proposed improvements to existing boating and swimming zones in Port Phillip and Western Port,” the review states.
Kingston Council has been flagging the danger posed by jet-skis mixing with swimmers off bayside beaches for the past couple of years.
Gnotuk Ave in Aspendale, Williams Grove in Bonbeach and Watkins St/Coleman Rd in Aspendale are three areas where council wants to see no-go zones extended for watercraft.
Parks Victoria is working with Maritime Safety Victoria to improve safety at bayside beaches.
Parks Victoria encourages feedback on the proposed changes to existing boating and swimming zones.
An online survey can be completed at parkweb.vic.gov.au or feedback can be submitted in writing by email to boatingzonereview@parks.vic.gov.au or by letter to The Manager, Local Ports and Waterways, Boating Zone Review, Parks Victoria, 10/535 Bourke St, Melbourne.
The deadline for submissions is Friday 16 December.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 7 December 2016
