The importance of safety on the water will be highlighted next week at one of the biggest events on WA's agricultural calendar, the Dowerin Field Days.

The Department of Transport's award winning Marine Safety Education Trailer will be at the event and marine education officers will be on hand to provide the latest advice to skippers.

Department Acting Manager Safety Education Sue Matthews said issues for discussion included the recent requirement for a 406 MHz Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) and other initiatives such as the Recreational Skipper's Ticket (RST).

"With the high number of people attending the field days, it is a perfect time to inform and educate the boating community and we urge skippers to take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about boating safety," Ms Matthews said.

“The Department and its officers are committed to reaching all parts of the State’s boating community as it works to educate and inform people about safety on the water.

“The field days are an important part of the annual schedule of events for the safety trailer.”

Ms Matthews said a special brochure would be available detailing the correct type of EPIRB for marine use, and importantly, it gives information about the correct disposal of old beacons. 

"People visiting the trailer can also get advice on how to obtain their RST and join more than 125,000 people who have already gained the qualification," Ms Matthews said.

Copies of the free workbook, which contains all the information needed to gain an RST and a list of authorised providers, will be available from officers at the trailer.

It is compulsory for people in charge of a recreational vessel with a motor of more than 4.5 kilowatts (6HP) to hold an RST or face a fine of $200.

People wanting further information about safe boating can log on to http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine or contact the Department on 9216 8966.

The Dowerin Fields Days begin on Wednesday August 26th and conclude on Thursday August 27th, 2009.

MEDIA CONTACT: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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