Please select your home edition
Edition
Palm Beach Motor Yachts

Boating season kicks off

by Domenic Genua 2 Oct 2020 06:00 UTC
Boating season around Australia © Boating Industry Association

The first weekend in October, a long weekend in many parts of Australia, kicks off the summer boating season around Australia. Whilst data shows that boating occurs all year round, it is the improving temperatures at the beginning of October that lures Aussies back onto the water in greater numbers and frequency.

With more than 85 per cent of the population living within 50km of the coast, it is estimated that more than 20 per cent of all Australians engage in some form of boating annually and that almost 1 in 5 households have a boat or watercraft.

With the span of magnificent coastline, harbours, bays, and rivers - Aussies are spoilt with options for enjoying time in, on or around our waterways.

For seasoned boaters, this is the time to make sure your boat is serviced and ready to go, all the right gear is on board and that if you use a vehicle to tow your vessel, the trailer is in equally good condition. Check your boat licence and make sure your vessel rego and insurance is up to date. Experienced boaters will tell you that checking the detail before you go boating will have its rewards.

For those that don't own a boat, visit your local boating club and see what they have to offer. Think about getting a boat licence or joining some boating or sailing classes. Venture out with a small-craft hire, or simply do some research into what boating may be right for you.

Whether you are a seasoned boater or a novice to boating, this is the perfect time to take action in preparation for the beautiful boating summers Australia offers each year.

With all the challenges associated with COVID-19, many may be surprised that outdoor activities, and in particular recreational boating is currently seeing a boom in activity.

Whilst we are happy for those that can go boating, we also respect the challenges for those who are restricted from doing so, and likewise sympathise with those who are suffering or who have lost loved ones. The boating community's thoughts are with you and wish that everyone has an equal opportunity to be on the water as soon as possible.

Boating and the joy and benefits associated with it are being celebrated Australia-wide during National Boating Week.

Fittingly, the week will occur alongside with National Safe Boating Week organised and delivered by the Australia New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group (ANZSBEG). Today the focus is on educating the boating public about the importance of having and wearing lifejackets. A lifejacket is an important piece of safety equipment on any vessel. But it can't save your life unless you're wearing it. Find out more at www.amsa.gov.au/national-safe-boating-week

Boaters are also reminded to practice safe, responsible and enjoyable boating this summer. Skippers should always ensure the weather and sea conditions are suitable, check that your boat and equipment are suitable and your safety gear is complete and in-date, tell someone where you are going and your estimated time of return. Finally, be COVID Safe and follow physical distancing, gathering and hygiene advice.

Stay Safe - remember a great day on the water is a safe day.

People looking for more information about all forms of recreational boating are invited to visit DiscoverBoating.com.au or search for Discover Boating Australia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & Twitter.

Related Articles

Fishing: Patterning brown bass
Post-spawn through summer smallies Whitewater Fishing B.A.S.S. tournament pro, Alex Redwine, talks fishing the transition period Posted on 26 Jun
2025 Bahamas Fly-fishing Tournament Series
Anglers to compete across some of The Bahamas' top bonefishing spots The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation announced the launch of Bonefishing Tournament Series that will showcase diverse pristine flats across four islands - Grand Bahama, Andros, Eleuthera and the championship round will be held in Exuma Posted on 20 Jun
Mote leads seagrass restoration initiative
Florida legislature establishes the Seagrass Restoration Technology Development Initiative Seagrasses play a crucial role in the health and resilience of Florida's coastal ecosystems. They provide nursery habitats for keystone species and stabilize shorelines and sediments. Posted on 20 Jun
Maritimo M50 Flybridge & S60 Sedan Video
We speak to Maritimo's Neil McCabe & Phil Candler We talked to Neil McCabe, Maritimo's Design Office Manager, and Phil Candler, Maritimo's General Manager Operations, to find out more about the M50 Flybridge and S60 Sedan during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show. Posted on 17 Jun
“I'm living my dad's dream”
Carl made sure to provide young Kyle the chance to be a seasoned pond hopper Carl Cortiana is about to turn 70, but he still remembers the days four decades ago when he'd cast a practice plug across the living room floor and his toddler son, Kyle, now a highly accomplished Vexus pro on the MLF Toyota Series. Posted on 14 Jun
Stories From The Salt - Ep.6
Insights from PENN's top anglers Whether you're a passionate saltwater angler who eagerly dedicates every spare moment to being out on the water, or you simply enjoy watching the techniques and experiences of others, we invite you to anchor up and learn some valuable insights Posted on 14 Jun
Bulwarks and Bulldust – watch Episode Six
Episode Six is now live - Are boat shows still relevant? Episode Six - asks the question, 'Are boat shows still Relevant?' We also offer some thoughts on changes and updates. The final episode of Series One is now live Posted on 13 Jun
Scania, Viking showcase renewable diesel
Mack Attack shows outstanding efficiency without compromise in performance of Scania V8 Engines Scania, one of the world's leading manufacturers of engines, announced today the successful demonstration of the performance and viability of renewable marine diesel fuel in a Viking 48 Convertible powered by twin Scania 1,150 HP DI16-liter V8 engines. Posted on 10 Jun
Sportfishing industry applauds decision by NOAA
Elimination of proposed South Atlantic bottomfishing closure The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries withdrew the proposed bottomfishing closure from Amendment 59 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic. Posted on 10 Jun
Marine Auctions: June online auctions
Bidding to open on Friday 20th June The Bidding for the June Online Auction will commence on Thursday 20th June and will end on Thursday 26th June at 2pm AEST. Posted on 7 Jun
Palm Beach Motor YachtsMaritimo M75