PARKS VICTORIA MEDIA RELEASE

Friday, 20 November, 2009

SAFETY WARNING FOR PIERS AND JETTIES

Parks Victoria is urging the public not to jump or dive from piers and jetties as hotter weather draws increasing numbers of people to Victoria’s bays and waterways.

"Diving from piers is highly dangerous, especially on the bays, where varying tidal and sand
movements constantly change the water depths and submerged debris can pose an unexpected hazard”, said Parks Victoria Chief Ranger, Graeme Davis.

Every year a number of people are seriously injured or sometimes die as a result of injuries
caused by jumping from piers.

"The safety of swimmers who continue to dive from piers despite the clear ‘no diving’ signage is of great concern to Parks Victoria”, said Mr Davis.

Parks Victoria has in place clear ‘no diving’ signs on all its piers across Port Phillip and Western Port.

Parents should be especially vigilant andensure their children are aware that jumping off piers is not a safe way to enjoy the water.

Mr Davis continued, “The last thing anyone wants to hear is a story of a fun day by the bay
resulting in a severe injury or even worse – loss of life”

Not only is the practice of jumping or diving off piers hazardous to those engaged in the activity, it also puts at risk boat operators attempting to berth and disembark passengers.

Parks Victoria wants to encourage people to think carefully about their safety before choosing a location for swimming. There are safer places than piers to enter the water to swim and enjoy the beach.

For more information about the piers and jetties around Port Phillip call Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit our website at www.parkweb.vic.gov.au

Photo opportunities:
Photo opportunities by arrangement featuring Parks Victoria Rangers patrolling on piers.
MEDIA ARE ASKED NOT TO USE IMAGES OR FOOTAGE OF PEOPLE JUMPING FROM PIERS.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Jarred Parsons
Regional Marketing & Communications
Ph: (03) 8680 2855 or 0407 509 938
E: jparsons@parks.vic.gov.au