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Avoid 'ramp rage'

Busselton Dunsborough Times

Geographe Bay recreational boat users are urged to be patient while launching their vessels this summer.

More than 120 volunteers with the Naturaliste Volunteer Sea Rescue and Busselton Volunteer Marine Rescue Group are gearing up for the busy season ahead, with boat users flocking to the region.

Naturaliste commander Geoff Brierley urged boat users to be patient while launching their boats, in an effort to avoid incidents of “ramp rage”.

“It’s going to be chaotic at the ramps, so people need to remember to be patient,” he said.

Mr Brierley said the majority of incidents last season continued to revolve around break downs, battery problems and insufficient fuel.

“People should check their boat before heading out, and should get them serviced annually,” he said.

“Also, they need to make sure they have the right safety gear on board . . . (and) observe the speed limits in the different areas of the bay.”

Busselton commander Peter Taylor emphasised the importance of having the right safety equipment on board.

“It’s important to have good communication, and having a GPS on board will help us respond quickly,” he said.

“Ninety-nine percent of the time you don’t need the safety gear, but they could save your life.”

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