Changes to Operational Areas
Following a review of the operational areas and requests from people who go boating in Adventure Bay, that area is now classified as Sheltered Waters. Previously it was classed as Coastal Waters. These changes alter the requirements for minimum safety equipment.
The chart can be found on the MAST website.
MAST Cruising Page
Whether you go cruising in a tinnie, half cab, 30-footer or 60-footer, the MAST cruising page has some really useful information covering most parts of the state.
It details where fuel may be available and there is some great drone footage of popular anchorages. When planning your next trip away on the boat, why not reference the MAST cruising page to see if there is information about your preferred destination?
A new chartlet of the Denison Canal is also available for those electing and able to take the shortcut heading to or from the East Coast.
Rubbish and Oil Waste left on MAST Facilities
Concerns have been raised about the presence of litter and oil waste left on jetties throughout the state. This has been of particular concern at Dover and several private facilities. Rubbish should be taken home or properly disposed of in designated bins if available. Please refrain from leaving rubbish for others to handle.
MAST intends to monitor the CCTV system at Dover. By invoking the applicable By-Laws, MAST aim to impose fines on those identified as responsible for such incidents.
Should users observe any dumping of liquids or rubbish, MAST encourage them to promptly contact MAST at 6235 8888 and provide photographic and detailed evidence to aid efforts. Your cooperation is vital in ensuring the well-being of our waterways and facilities.
Electronic Visual Distress Signals
If your hand flares are due to expire shortly, don’t forget the option of carrying an electronic visual distress signal in lieu of hand flares. If you elect to use an EVDS, then you must carry a GPS-enabled EPIRB and a VHF radio. EVDS can be carried on all motor boats including PWC. EVDS are available from several MAST BoatSafe Partners.
VHF Radio
Do you have a VHF radio on board? Turn it on. There are a few simple reasons why this is important. Firstly, weather forecasts are broadcast by Tas Maritime Radio at particular times during the day. These broadcasts will also include recently issued Notices to Mariners (NtM).
Should there be a relevant NtM for your current location, you will be informed. Moreover, in the event that a nearby boat encounters difficulties, your activated VHF could enable you to extend assistance — a comforting thought if you were in distress, knowing that another vessel is nearby and ready to provide aid if necessary. It’s worth noting that while many boats have VHF radios, only a limited percentage of operators keep them powered on.
Tas Maritime also welcomes log-on and log-off calls, whether you are away for a day or a week. Have you considered joining Tas Maritime Radio? Supporting this invaluable volunteer service is a worthy undertaking.
Always remember to activate your VHF and maintain a listening watch on Channel 16. MAST provides an excellent video to help you master the proper use of your radio.
Infrastructure Upgrades
The Coles Bay jetty extension has commenced off-site with the construction of panels. On-site work will commence after Easter to ensure there is minimal disturbance to users over the summer and early autumn period.
Another exciting project commencing in 2024 is the new toe to the low tide ramp at Penguin. This will improve launching at the site and work will commence in the coming months once all the approvals are through. A new landing is also planned at Lewisham. This popular ramp does take pressure off the very busy Dodges Ferry boat ramp at peak times.
Cruising Moorings
These are being well utilised by both local and visiting interstate boats. MAST is planning another two cruising moorings. One will be placed at Adventure Bay and the other at Recherché Bay in the far south. The latter is a popular departure point for boats heading to Port Davey. All existing cruising moorings have been serviced over the last six months. Please remember the rules when using these as MAST have received reports of boats being left on cruising moorings for long periods without approval from MAST.
A reminder as well that there are other cruising moorings owned by the Derwent Sailing Squadron and Kingborough Aquatic Club. These must not be used unless you are a member of those Clubs.
Podcasts
MAST has produced a number of podcasts covering a diverse range of topics covering everything from boatbuilders to paddlers. Listen to these podcasts to understand why the mandatory use of life jackets was introduced, explore the scenic Tassie coast with cruising insights and learn from a seasoned sailor who has navigated various waters worldwide. These podcasts offer a mix of enjoyable content and practical tips for all those who are keen on getting out on the water.
Work is currently underway on additional podcasts featuring a Tasmanian competitor from the ’98 Sydney Hobart race and tailored discussions with industry experts.
MAST podcasts can be found on Spotify. Simply search for Marine and Safety Tasmania. These will be released every 2-3 weeks.
