Increasing usage of waters in popular Geographe Bay has prompted an upgrade of on water markers and signage highlighting areas for boating and boundaries for water skiing.

Department of Transport Regional Manager Peter Kiely said the timing of the upgrade could not have been better given the temporary closure of the ski areas at Koombana Bay and the Power House in Bunbury and the likely increase in users at Geographe Bay.

He said misunderstandings at some locations had seen conflict increase in recent years and improved markers and signage would educate users and ensure safer operation on the water even at the busiest times.

New signage will also be installed at boat ramps and along the shoreline at key locations and on the water 30 new navigation aids clearly show the existing gazetted water skiing take off areas, water skiing prohibited areas, boating prohibited areas and 8knot/ water skiing prohibited areas.

Locations targeted as part of the upgrade included: East Busselton; West Busselton; Newtown Beach; Siesta Park and Quindalup.

Mr Kiely said at each location water ski take off areas had been marked to increase safety and clearly define the boundary of adjacent 8 knot limit / water skiing prohibited zones.

"The large water skiing prohibited area between East Busselton and West Busselton has been marked for those involved in general boating and the boating prohibited area within that boundary has also been highlighted to protect swimmers following the snorkel trail," Mr Kiely said.

"The upgrade also provides users with a clear boundary for the 8 knot /water skiing prohibited area extending 300 metres from the shoreline making it safer for people to swim."

Mr Kiely said the $34,000 upgrade had been implemented as part of Transport's 2009/10 Navigation Aid Capital Works Plan.

Transport is responsible for developing and maintaining an extensive network of navigation aids within WA waters to assist with safe usage of the waterways.

The agency currently manages more than 1,000 navigation aides in WA and works closely with stakeholders to identify projects and works to improve navigation and keep all aquatic users safer.

Transport has also updated its popular South West Boating Guide for the waters off Geographe Bay.  The new guide clearly shows areas for swimming, boating, water skiing and the operation of personal water craft. To download a copy visit  www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine or alternatively contact Transport's South West Regional Office on 97902 6607.

Media Contact: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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