FREE PADDLE SAFE PROGRAM TOMORROW AT PORT SORELL The popularity of kayaks and canoes continues to increase with over 10,000 of them sold in Tasmania within the last two years. As with any water sport, there are potential dangers that users should be aware particularly as light weight craft are vulnerable to changing wind and water conditions. MAST’s Recreation Boating Project Officer, Mr Ian Ross said “The biggest problem is people’s expectations of what they are able to do and their actual abilities not matching up.” Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) have been working with retailers over the last three years to raise awareness of the dangers involved so they can better assist shoppers with their purchase. MAST has also teamed with Surf Life Saving Tasmania to deliver the Paddle Safe Program, which is free and open to all ages and levels of experience. Its purpose is to educate recreational paddlers about safety and paddle skill development in open waters as well as new legislative requirements that came into effect on 1 January. The 90-minute free session is being held at North Freers Beach, Shearwater tomorrow evening at 6.00 pm. You must register online at mast.tas.gov.au (search Paddle Safe) and bring along your kayak and life jacket. If you don’t yet have your own kayak, equipment will be provided.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 21:34:01 +0000