Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club is gearing up for a busy summer with two jet-skis in its arsenal.
After a successful trial last year, the jet-skis will be permanently based at Williamstown to patrol the water, including other jet-skiers.
Club president Josh Charlesworth said the jet-skis provided a deterrent to irresponsible jet-ski behaviour while also extending the club’s patrol capability and capacity.
“The latter is particularly important as it allows the club to be proactive and patrol waterways outside the flags,” he said.
Club lifesaving operations director Kane Treloar urged people to check conditions before going out on the water and to ensure they had appropriate safety equipment.
He said lifesavers recently helped a kite surfer who had been blown out to sea.
“Often members of the public are getting into trouble by using equipment they are unfamiliar with in challenging conditions,” Mr Treloar said.
“Always check the weather before going in the water and make sure they match your ability.”
During the jet-ski trial, lifesavers responded to requests ranging from medical incidents and water rescues to broken-down vessels, in addition to supporting other emergency service providers, including Victoria Police.
Williamstown MP Wade Noonan said the club had received a $25,000 state government grant for jet-ski storage, clubhouse upgrades and development of a Starfish Nippers program for children with additional needs.
