Surfing Western Australia is pleased to announce a three-year extension to its partnership with the Department of Fisheries, to help improve surfer rescue skills and keep surfing events safe throughout WA. This will also see the delivery of a new jet ski and additional hi-tech drone for Surfing WA events and programs as part of the McGowan Government’s committed to keep WA on the world surfing map.
Collaborating with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Surfing WA works to ensure robust plans are in place for shark hazard mitigation during events to keep competitors safe.
For surfing competitions, drones now play an important role in providing effective aerial surveillance to detect sharks at surfing competitions and during other programs. The World Surfing League also uses drone technology for its shark surveillance program.
A new jet ski provided by the McGowan Government will also increase safety, as they are first response vehicles used to quickly remove participants or recreational surfers from the danger when required. Surfing WA will use it to replace an aging jet ski, giving the association the ability to operate two jet skis at specific events, or provide water safety at multiple locations.
Surfing WA firmly believes in jet skis operators work closely with drone pilots so they can survey areas of the ocean quickly and respond just as fast.
The WA surfing community has also benefited from the monthly Surfers Rescue 365 courses run year round by Surfing WA, to increase skills and confidence amongst surfers so they can assist others in distress.
Comments attributed to Fisheries Minister Peter Tinley:
“Surfing WA has an impressive record in administering surfing in our State and the McGowan Government highly values their energy in promoting their sport and improving safety in general for all surfers.
“Surfing competitions are held around our State, so it’s important we keep competitors safe and improving rescue skills amongst our surfers in general also helps the wider community.
“Local economies benefit from surfing competitions and when we can give participants and spectators alike greater confidence and surety that will help the growth of surfing as a sport.”
Media contact: Clint Thomas 0427 727 594 or 6552 5300
