Safety Reminder – Operating in Port Waters
When you’re boating in and around Tasmania’s ports, it’s important to remember that vessels under pilotage have the right of way.
Any vessel over 35 metres operating in a defined pilotage area must either carry a licensed Marine Pilot or be under the command of a Master with a pilotage exemption for that area. These vessels can be identified by their flags:
- International Code Flag H – vessel with a Pilot on board
- Plain white flag – vessel with a Pilot-exempt Master
Every other craft – recreational or commercial, power, paddle or sail – must give way.
Boaters are strongly encouraged to check expected shipping movements before heading out. These are available on the TasPorts Website.
Prohibited Zones During Berthing
A 60-metre exclusion zone applies around:
- Any vessel under pilotage engaged in berthing operations
- Any tug assisting in the berthing operation
Large commercial vessels and their tugs can create dangerous wash, and cruise ships secured at berth may use thrusters at any time. For your safety, always keep well clear.
Shared waterways mean shared responsibility — stay alert and give way to ships under pilotage.
First Aid Kit – Essential Safety Gear
A first aid kit is essential safety equipment on any vessel. It is mandatory for boats operating in coastal waters and recommended for vessels in all other areas.
To ensure your kit is effective:
- Regularly check the contents for completeness.
- Replace expired or used items promptly.
- Consider tailoring your kit to the number of people on board and the types of trips you take.
Remember, a well-stocked and properly maintained first aid kit can make a real difference in an emergency. Just like any other safety equipment on board, it deserves the same care and attention — regularly checked, kept in good condition and always ready for use.
MAST at the Montrose Bay Yacht Club Open Day
Recently, MAST attended the Montrose Bay Yacht Club Open Day, engaging with the boating community and providing safety information to visitors of all ages.
Staff were on hand to demonstrate safety equipment, discuss boating rules and regulations and answer questions from recreational boaters. The event was a great opportunity to promote safe boating practices and highlight MAST’s programs and resources.
We thank the Montrose Bay Yacht Club for hosting the event and look forward to participating in more community activities throughout the season.
Challenge Your Boating Knowledge with MAST’s Online Practice Test
Think you’re a boating expert? Now is your chance to prove it.
Whether you’re preparing for your recreational boating licence or simply want to refresh your skills, the MAST Online Practice Test is a valuable resource. It features 25 randomly selected questions covering essential boating topics.
Perfect for both beginners and experienced boaters, the test is an excellent way to assess your knowledge and review key safety information. All answers can be found in the Safe Boating Handbook, making it an excellent study and refresher tool.
Facilities Update
Bridgewater Boat Ramp
Work has commenced on replacing the Bridgewater boat ramp. The new ramp will be a like-for-like replacement and constructed directly under the new bridge.
Garden Point Boat Ramp
Planning is underway for an eight-metre extension to the pontoon. This will increase holding capacity and allow for smoother launching and retrieval during busy periods.
Lake Crescent New Timber Walkway
MAST, in conjunction with Inland Fisheries, Anglers Alliance and Central Highlands Council, is seeking approvals to build an 18-metre walkway alongside the existing boat ramp. MAST aims to complete the works by the end of summer, when lake levels are traditionally at their lowest.
Cruising Mooring Maintenance
Annual maintenance of MAST’s cruising moorings is currently underway across the state. Each mooring is serviced in the months leading up to peak boating season.
