South Australia’s emergency marine radio network has received a $1 million upgrade ahead of the busy summer boating season, strengthening distress communications for recreational and commercial vessels across the state.
The upgrade to the Very High Frequency (VHF) radio repeater network has now been completed, with new equipment installed at key monitoring locations including Outer Harbor, Semaphore and West Beach.
The network is one of the main ways boaties can contact emergency services when something goes wrong on the water, with Channels 16 and 67 providing 24-hour coverage.
Upgraded equipment is now operating across 14 South Australian Government Radio Network, Telstra and Ampitel sites throughout the state.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Joe Szakacs described the system as effectively the “Triple Zero of our waterways”.
“This million-dollar upgrade strengthens an important part of our safety infrastructure to ensure recreational and commercial vessel operators have access to reliable distress communications no matter where they are on the water,” he said.
The works have been completed as authorities prepare for increased activity on South Australian waterways, with the recreational boating season officially launching this weekend.
Marine Safety Officers are also reminding people that reliable communications are only one part of staying safe on the water.
Boaties are being urged to check that they have the required safety equipment before leaving the ramp, including compliant and serviced lifejackets, along with flares, torches and fire extinguishers where required.
More than 2,200 vessels have been inspected by Marine Safety Officers during the past 12 months, either at boat ramps or while on the water.
More than one-third of inspected vessels were found to be non-compliant, while failing to carry or wear a lifejacket accounted for 21 per cent of expiations issued.
Failing to carry or wear a lifejacket can attract a maximum penalty of $1,250.
Twenty-one people have drowned while boating on South Australian waters during the past five years.
“A lifejacket can only save your life if you’re wearing it,” Mr Szakacs said.
“Please carry the right equipment, make sure it’s maintained and in date.”
Boaties can find more information about marine radios and lifejacket requirements through Marine Safety SA.
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