Almost 1000 vessel operators were paid a visit by NSW Maritime during a targeted safety operation on popular northern NSW waterways at the weekend.
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The state government agency deployed extra boating safety officers and maritime resources to holiday hotspots for the two-day blitz, which was primarily targeting jet-ski riders.
The operation, held in areas between Lake Macquarie and Tweed Heads, ended with officers having issued 42 penalty notices and 72 official cautions from 961 vessel safety checks.
NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings said the 88 per cent compliance rate was "pleasing" to see at this time of the year.
"The focus was on a wide range of safety considerations including maintaining a safe distance, speed, licensing, lifejacket rules, keeping a proper lookout, irregular and dangerous behaviour, and being aware of your surroundings," he said.
"Overall, safety checks were carried out on 961 vessels of all types with most people doing the right thing, contributing to a pleasing 88 per cent compliance rate across the weekend.
"Jet-ski operators were found to be more compliant than skippers of other boats, which is a great result and shows how far we have come with improving the safety behaviour of those on jet-skis.
"During January, the Hunter and North Coast areas typically experience an influx of tourists from across NSW, with an increase in the number of jet-ski riders, and to find 93 per cent of jet-ski operators are following the rules is really encouraging."
The top offences during the blitz were for not carrying specific safety equipment, including lifejackets.
"Wearing a lifejacket on the water continues to be the key message for people's safety," Mr Hutchings said.
"A correctly fitted lifejacket is essential for jetski riders and their loved ones' safety while on the water.
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