[Paddlewise] Fw: [nswseakayaker] BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING

regulations re sea kayaking are pretty relaxed in Australia compared to what i pick up on paddlewise from the US.

However the potential is out there as the following shows. Every now and then such potential shows up from MSB waterways (state govt marine/waterways regulatory body in New South Wales). So far nothing has come of such scares which in the past have revolved around requirements for life vests not buoancy vests (PFDs) and such like issues. 
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From: David  Winkworth <storm_at_acr.net.au>
To: NSWSKC <nswseakayaker_at_nswseakayaker.asn.au>
Subject: [nswseakayaker] BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING
Date: Tuesday, 19 October 1999 16:33

Last weekend, I attended the Australian Board of Canoe Education AGM in Sydney.

At the meeting a few of us were talking about MSB Waterways and their regs etc. Keith Albury (NSW Aust Canoeing delegate) from Newcastle told me that his club was required to obtain an Aquatic Licence to hold a whitewater event on the Barrington River at Gloucester. Now this is a ridgy-didge whitewater river in this area....and yet....one of the conditions of the licence stated that the paddlers must be followed down the river by a powered rescue boat! I wonder who would rescue who? So much for Waterways Officers knowing their areas!
For this fabulous piece of safety advice, Keith's club was charged $249.00, which is the annual fee for an Aquatic Licence.

I then thought about some of our NSWSKC activities along the coast so I made a phone enquiry to MSB Waterways. Sure enough, they'd be pleased to take our money too.

ALL of our club activities in Sydney Harbour would require an Aquatic Licence and activities elsewhere along the coast would have to be investigated by the individual regional managers for MSB Waterways to make sure that we didn't hinder or obstruct other waterways users. Each activity or calendar event would be individually investigated.

I pointed out to Christine (Waterways Team Manager) that a dozen of our kayaks would be less of a hindrance ( through noise or space or pollution) than one power boat.

      "So, Christine, suppose we pay $249.00 for an Aquatic Licence. What  do we get from Waterways for our money?"

      "Well, we check you for safety - make sure you're wearing life jackets" she replied.

     "We already do that, and lots more, with full insurance and a training program unmatched by interstate sea kayaking clubs" I said

     "Where shall I send the application form?" - her tone was becoming firmer.

I said goodbye at this point.

Anyone want to comment on governments dipping into our pockets in return for keeping us safe?

Dave

    
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