On patrol: Parks Victoria and fisheries staff Catherine James, Paddy Hernon, Mike Philip, Stuart Willsher, Maddie Glynn and Laurie Dri. Picture: Tommy Ritchie 75317
MICHELLE HERBISON
MORE boats and personal water-craft are using Barwon Heads’ waterways every year, according to land managers.
Barwon Coast’s Maddie Glynn said the swarms of boats and jetskis needed to respect swimmers and marine life in the Barwon estuary.
Water police Senior Sergeant Steve Towers said this summer was providing prime conditions for boating, with one-in-three Victorians now owning a boat.
He said strike teams would be patrolling all areas around Geelong, Bellarine and Surf Coast during summer.
“Our strike teams travel around and may just turn up unplanned,” Sen Sgt Towers said.
He warned boat users to be ready for breath tests and checks of safety gear including life jackets.
