Does anyone know if I'm required by law to wear a PDF when paddling from boat at Lobster Beach to Box Head break? Thanks

i surf and paddle skis out here alot, so i find this actual question of some interest

i did a few quick google searches, it seems that NSW law is very open to interpretation but doesn't actually appear to state sups in any of their legislation

Victoria puts sups in under kiteboards or sailboards, being more than 400m from shore you need a life jacket, where NSW just states kiteboards or sailboards,

maritimemanagement.transport.nsw.gov.au/lifejackets/lifejacket-law/index.html

www.wearalifejacket.vic.gov.au/lifejacket-laws

the above are what i was going off

it is interesting as you are crossing a channel and a bar, but technically there aren't any rules or laws against doing it on a surfboard, as long as you don't paddle in front of the ferry or get a really fussy maritime officer you shouldn't have any issues

i welcome feedback if i am wrong or have missed anything

Jarryd

Thanks Jarryd. I gave Maritime Services a call to confirm. Paddle boards are classified as a 'surf toy' not a vessel, so are exempt from life jacket laws.
Under Marine Safety Regs. 2016 - A floating apparatus used in surfing or bathing is not declared to be a vessel unless it is a kiteboard or windsurfer.

yeah thats what i was thinking, but alot of their terminology and wording is open to interpretation and probably need to be upgraded and re written, have fun anyway

Jarryd

I have thought the same thing when i have been out there. If your leg rope breaks out there, make no mistake, you are in a world of hurt. Along way off shore. Having said that the same can be said for surfers as well

The current is also very strong out there. On an outgoing tide you would be well and truly screwed. Personally i think wearing a flotation vest of some kind out there is a good idea.