The changes respond to safety concerns sparked by conflict between commercial and recreational vessels and follow formal consultation with water users by the Department for Planning and Infrastructure and the Port of Broome.

Kimberley Regional Manager Peter Biber said the changes, detailed in the Department's new free Broome Boating Guide would provide for the needs of the local boating community for the foreseeable future; while at the same time allowing the operations of the port to expand.

The changes cover the waters of the Port of Broome which extend from Roebuck Bay around the Broome Peninsula to Cable Beach and include:

• the introduction of a boating prohibited area at Cable Beach to ensure the safety of swimmers;
  
• the reduction of areas for waterskiing, personal water craft (PWC) use and parasailing at Roebuck Bay while at Dampier Creek there will continue to be provision for the activities of the Broome Water Ski Club;
  
• the implementation of new eight knot speed restriction areas at Broome Jetty and at Gantheaume Point;
  
• a smaller water ski area at Gantheaume Point away from the commercial mooring area.

Mr Biber said the Port of Broome was increasingly busy and its waters could no longer safely include large areas for water skiing, the use of personal water craft and parasailing.

"We have now clearly defined and officially published in the Government Gazette appropriate areas of water off Broome that can safely accommodate these activities," Mr Biber said. 

"Special signage alerting water users to the changes will be part of an education campaign reinforcing the new boundaries for aquatic activities. The new boating guide, which also includes vital safety information for skippers in Broome is a key part of the campaign.”
 
For more information about the changes contact the Department’s Kimberley Regional Office on 9192 0203 or visit the office or www.dpi.wa.gov.au/imarine for a copy of the boating guide.
 
Media contact: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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