POLICE are targeting jet ski users at the Patterson River boat ramp this summer. A police operation took place in late November – the Water Police Squad, Public Order Response Team, and Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section teamed with Safe Transport Victoria officers to conduct random licence and vessel checks at the boat ramp.
A jet ski rider from Narre Warren South is expected to be charged with several marine offences after he was allegedly caught driving unlicensed while over the legal alcohol limit. Police say he blew 0.075 during a breath test.
More than 135 vehicle and vessel checks were conducted during the most recent one-day operation. Five infringement notices were handed out for a range of life jacket offences, including failing to ensure a child under the age of 12 was correctly wearing a life jacket, failing to provide a life jacket for everyone on board a vessel, and failing to wear a life jacket when the sole occupant of a vessel.
Victoria Police water squad acting sergeant Lauren Foley says that life jackets can be the difference between life and death. “We continue to see water users failing to wear or carry life jackets. It’s disappointing because it is the simplest way to ensure your safety on the water,” Foley said. “Think of a life jacket like a seat belt. It should be automatic before heading for a day out. “The community can expect to see us conducting breath tests and licence checks over the entire summer period. Our aim is to ensure everyone enjoys the water and can get home safely.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 4 December 2024