The Maritime Management Centre within Transport for NSW (TfNSW) together with Roads and Maritime Services is undertaking a state-wide study of existing boating facilities and safety measures to inform the development of Regional Boating Plans for each of the major waterways in NSW.

The study will identify the actions required to enhance the boating experience across NSW by improving boating safety, boat storage and waterway access on our major waterways. A comprehensive stakeholder engagement program has been developed to ensure we capture input from a variety of stakeholders ranging from high-level industry and stakeholder groups to everyday users of boating facilities.

You can initially have your say by completing one of the surveys below which asks for your views on boating issues in your region.

http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/engagement/nsw-regional-boating-plans

Deadline for surveys around Pittwater and Sydney Harbour is 13th April

Thanks Pewit,

I think we all need to get onboard with this one. I believe that the rules are inconsistent in that one can use a paddle board or kayak on the Harbour and as long as you keep out of the way of the ships it is all good. However, a windsurfer is not even allowed in many areas of the harbour and not meant to cross the channel's etc, which I think is not reasonable considering I have witnessed a lot of boats anchoring in a channel or yachts involved in racing reluctant to give way to ships. Pewit could you please also post this in the NSW section.

I have filled out the survey and said my piece. Have a look at the different rules for windsurfers as opposed to kayaks. I.e. windsurfers you are not allowed to be basically half the harbour and if you do we will fine you $1500. Kayakers if possible stay outside the channel (your draft is 10cm) and no mention of any real fine. I'm not trying to have a go at kayakers but just point out that rules should be broadly consistent for all small craft on the harbour. There are not as many windsurfers as there use to be, and the rules need revision. Sailboarding is an Olympic sport and sailboarders should come under the same rules as sailing boats. Here's your chance there is chance to comment right at the end of the survey.

www.windsurfingnsw.com/wp-content/2009/01/ws-rules.pdf

www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/sbh/other_boating/canoes.html

NSW windsurfers, take you opportunity. In Victoria we are fighting a rearguard action against some stupid moves by Parks Victoria. Get on teh Vic forum and have a read to see what happens if you don't get in front of the game.

Filled it in - hope it does some good.