CHIFLEY Dam users can expect to see a heavier presence from Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) over the summer boating season.
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A spokesperson for the RMS said there would be increased on-water patrols to “monitor compliance and ensure safety on the waterway”.
The presence of the RMS has become more important this year, as the new Bathurst Aqua Park will remain open from now until the end of March 2019.
In order to protect all dam users, the aqua park is marked by a floating barrier, as per the conditions of the approved Direction Notice, which prevents vessels from getting too close to the inflatable structure.
“There are three ‘No Towing’ aqua buoys in place on the dam and signs installed on the shoreline at the eastern end of Bathurst Aqua Park to restrict towing activities near the ramp and aqua park,” the RMS spokesperson said.
“[There are] three existing ‘All Vessels Prohibited’ aqua buoys in place on the dam and signs installed on the shoreline at the western end of the Aqua Park to exclude vessels from the area.”
Bathurst Aqua Park opened on November 3 and its second day of operation coincided with the Western Region Dragon Boat Regatta.
Proof that the RMS was taking safety seriously, a highly visible presence was maintained on the waterway across that weekend.
The spokesperson said there was only one vessel intercepted for a minor breach regarding the exclusion zone around the park.
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“Roads and Maritime encourages all waterway users to continue to comply with all waterway signs and directions,” the spokesperson said.
People are encouraged to report any maritime issues they spot at the dam to Roads and Maritime on 13 12 36.