NSW Police, together with Transport for NSW, are urging residents to plan ahead and to expect a different holiday experience during the summer months, as they launch the western phase of their summer-safety campaign.
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Operation Summer Safe is a high-visibility operation which commenced in Western Region on Sunday to increase community engagement with the public during summer months in regional NSW.
It also aims to ensure adherence to current Public Health Orders and increased messaging about safety when using our inland waterways.
Police will be assisted by NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers to ensure recreational boaters on the region's waterways are complying with safety requirements.
Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie said police are ready for the influx of visitors to western NSW in the coming months.
"Western region is a playground for holiday goers and recreational hunting enthusiasts during the summer months and we know from previous years that our region's unique attractions draw in visitors from all over the state," he said.
"With that comes increased risks associated with the use of our inland waterways, hunting grounds and rural roads.
Assistant Commissioner McKechnie urged the public to comply with the current Public Health Orders and move through this phase of the pandemic by working with police, not against them.
"We want people to enjoy themselves and everything that our region has to offer, but in a responsible and considerate manner," he said.
NSW Maritime is currently applying zero tolerance to boating safety breaches, such as failing to wear or carry life jackets, speeding, unsafe towing activities and personal watercraft offences.
NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said the approach aimed to drive down unsafe behaviour and save lives on NSW waterways.
"Boating on an inland waterway is very different to boating on the coast.
"Regardless, boaters should always be aware of on-water conditions and avoid taking unnecessary risks," he said.
