With Christmas fast approaching, there will be hundreds of kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards bought by Tasmanians, so popular is paddling.
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At MAST, we are focused on Tasmanians enjoying all aspects of life on the water - safely.
The popularity of kayaking has seen more Tasmanians paddling further offshore.
Sadly, a recent Coronial investigation outlined what can happen when things go wrong.
Coroner Simon Cooper said the man who died in October 2020 in Frederick Henry Bay had attempted a journey well beyond his capabilities and experience, noting that this is another example of a tragedy that was completely avoidable.
Coroner Cooper said the kayak used was wholly unsuited to the trip - it did not have a leash to ensure it stayed in contact with the deceased man nor could he retain control of his paddle, which was also inadequate.
The man who lost his life was also inadequately clad.
Coroner Cooper recommended all recreational paddlers have regard to the Paddle Safe guidelines published on the MAST website.
Coroner Cooper recommended all recreational paddlers have regard to the Paddle Safe guidelines published on the MAST website.
MAST has prepared an easy-to-follow guide which is distributed at major Tasmanian retailers.
Paddle Safe - Follow These Tips:
- P repare your craft
- A bility - don't push your capabilities
- D on't paddle alone
- D on't cross paths and be aware of other vessels
- L ifejackets - wear the right type
- E xperience - consider this when purchasing a craft
- S tick close to the shore
- A t night, paddle with a light
- F orecast and environment
- E nter the water safely
- T ides and times - know the tide times and tell others when you will be back
- Y ourself! Now are YOU ready?
We also have a guide as to the correct safety equipment to carry in smooth, sheltered or coastal waters.
On any paddlecraft, you must always wear a life jacket at all times and if venturing more than 200m offshore you must use a tether to connect you to the craft.
In whatever waters you are paddling, you must carry a light with 360-degree visibility if paddling at night.
And in coastal waters, paddlers must carry an EPIRB or PLB, plus a compass and flares, as well as a VHF Handheld Radio.
It's not just inexperienced kayakers who can get into trouble.
The latest edition of MAST's Boatwise publication carries a cautionary tale from Roz Barber, a very experienced paddler rescued by helicopter in Ralph's Bay when conditions turned catastrophically stormy.
She was carrying all the right gear and was able to call for help.
But she was in serious trouble.
The bottom line is, in Tasmania, we know conditions can change extremely quickly.
So when you are contemplating your Christmas purchases, for family or yourself, please always buy from one of MAST's BoatSafe Partners.
These can be found on the MAST website.
The staff have been trained on safety equipment, including life jackets, and can provide guidance on the right craft for you
Whether you are in a kayak, a canoe or on a stand-up paddle board, remember:
- Always wear a life jacket
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
- Never venture too far offshore - weather changes can be quick and severe
- If setting out, and you are paddling with the wind or tide, remember you may have these against you on your way back!
- Spend some time close to shore to get used to your kayak or canoe
- Try to paddle in company
- Check your canoe or kayak prior to each trip for leaks or cracks
- Seek local knowledge if paddling in new and unknown waters
- Always use a tether - it may save your life
- Make sure you are carrying the required safety equipment
- Always check the latest weather forecast. MAST has partnered with Deckee to deliver a free boating safety app for Tasmanians. This app allows you to log trips, check the weather, set reminders for replacement and servicing of safety gear and much more! Join the Deckee community today.
- Or check the BOM on MetEye
At MAST, we want you to enjoy Tasmania's waterways over the summer months.
But we want you to come home safely - every time.
Lia Morris, Marine and Safety Tasmania CEO
