Skippers who have failed to secure a digital 406 MHz EPIRB (Emergency Positioning Indicating Radio Beacon) should only operate within two nautical miles off the WA coast or in the metropolitan EPIRB exempt area.
 
Issuing the warning today, Department for Planning and Infrastructure Marine Safety General Manager David Harrod said satellite receivers for analogue 121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs had been switched off overnight as decided by international marine authorities eight years ago.

Mr Harrod said with no satellite processing for 121.5/243 MHz beacons skippers using them in a distress situation would not be heard.

“It is a requirement for all vessels more than two nautical miles offshore and outside the EPIRB exempt area off the metropolitan coast to carry a 406 MHz beacon and those found to be in breach face a $200 fine,” Mr Harrod said.

“More importantly, skippers operating in these areas without a 406 MHz beacon are risking their safety and that of their passengers.” 

Mr Harrod said the need for boat owners to update to the more effective digital 406 MHz beacon had been highlighted in awareness campaigns undertaken at the national level by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and also at a State level.

“The Department has continuously highlighted the need to update to a 406 MHz beacon since August 2004 targeting the State's 90,000 boat owners by including information in  registration renewal notices, its Boating Communities newsletter, the Marine Safety Education Trailer, various other publications and online,” Mr Harrod said.

“Unfortunately, many people did not act when they were informed of the changeover.

“AMSA recently advised the Department 406 MHz beacons are still available. However, supply and demand issues, which are out of the control of Government, are a factor and we strongly recommend skippers remain close to the coast until they secure a 406.”  

Boat owners are also reminded that all 406 MHz beacons must be registered with AMSA and must display its registration sticker. While the EPIRB will work without registration, the response time may be delayed while authorities attempt to obtain more information and check whether or not the activation is a false alarm.

For more information about EPIRBS or a brochure advising the best type for marine use visit www.dpi.wa.gov.au/imarine or contact the Department on 9216 8966.

Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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