Flare and fire extinguisher demonstrations, lifejacket servicing clinics, and a bonanza of boating safety information will be part of the fun at a NSW Maritime community event this weekend in Wollongong’s northern suburbs.

NSW Maritime Director South Hendrik Clasie said Bellambi Boat Ramp will host the state’s first ‘Are You Boat Ready? Day’ event between 10am and 3pm this Saturday, 19 November. 

“The Are You Boat Ready? Day is a fantastic opportunity for boaters and the local community to see water safety equipment in action, update their knowledge, and ask local experts any questions they have about boating in the Illawarra,” Mr Clasie said. 

“We will have our NSW Maritime officers on site, along with representatives from NSW Police, Marine Rescue NSW, Service NSW, Surf Life Saving NSW, and Wollongong City Council, plus retail partners so you can grab a new lifejacket right here on site.”

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary for Safety Environment and Regulation Tara McCarthy said the day will reinforce key safety messages for the location.

“This Saturday is about equipping boaters with everything they need to Plan, Prepare, Predict for every trip on the water,” Ms McCarthy said.

“Whether it is equipment advice, local knowledge, lifejacket servicing techniques, or how to set up weather alerts on your phone, we’ll have experts on site ready to help.” 

Those heading to the Are You Boat Ready? Day can also enjoy a snag by the seaside, with a barbeque being set up by the Woonona Lions Club.

For more information about the Bellambi Are You Boat Ready? Day visit NSW Maritime’s Facebook page here

For more information on boating safety, please go to: lifejacketwearit.com.au