Baysiders welcome expanded no-go areas for jetskiers
BEACHGOERS have welcomed new expanded no-go jetski zones in the Sandringham area of Port Phillip Bay.
Bigger sections of the bay will now be off-limits to power water craft (PWC) from mid-February after complaints swimmers were being put in danger.
The new jetski-free zone includes the beach area around the Sandringham Lifesaving Club.
Changes to other Bayside beaches will also be part of the Parks Victoria stage 3 Mt Martha to Elwood variations.
Sandringham Foreshore Association president Vicki Karalis said the new zones were an answer to safety concerns, disruptive behaviour and excessive noise.
“We are thrilled with the further restrictions of jetskis on the Sandringham beaches,” Dr Karalis said.
“This will make our local swimming beaches safer and quieter.”
Parks Victoria is hoping the revised zones will be in place by mid-February. They will be identified by yellow timber piles in the water and land-based signs.
Acting Inspector Steve Towers said Water Police would monitor the new zones and any dangerous hooning would result in fines and impoundings.
“Exclusion zones are there to protect the safety of everyone and police will be paying particular attention to PWC operators,” he said.
Details of the zones: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au