BOATIES URGED TO TAKE CARE

Boat users are being urged to take greater care on the water this long weekend, following a death on the south coast and several serious incidents over the past week.

Maritime Minister, Melinda Pavey, says there have been nine boating deaths already this year, with almost 90 per cent happening in regional areas.

She says the use of lifejackets has increased, but there’s more to do to improve the wear-rate.

Boat users are also being reminded to keep close tabs on the weather, and stay a safe distance from other vessels.