Information about the Recreational Skipper's Ticket,   Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and changes to local boating areas will be available from the Department of Transport at this weekend's Esperance Show.

Transport's award winning Marine Safety Education Trailer will be at the event and Esperance based Regional Transport Officers and marine education officers will be on hand to discuss issues with skippers.

Regional Transport Officer Garry Wilson said information about the RST and EPIRBs was expected to account for the bulk of enquiries made at the trailer.

He said officers would also take the opportunity to reinforce the need for skippers to be aware of the new boating prohibited area off the Esperance foreshore near the end of the tanker jetty, also the need to log on and log off.

Mr Wilson 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 pick up a free copy of the RST Workbook and find out how to join the 126,000 people who have already gained the qualification in WA," Mr Wilson said.

The workbook contains all the information needed to gain an RST and a list of authorised training and assessment 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.

MEDIA CONTACT: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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