Mackay Port Authority New protocol to cover harbour activities Article first published on Wednesday, 28 April 2004 @ 11:36:02 AM

The Mackay Port Authority is exploring new options that will enable junior sailors to continue to train at Mackay Harbour.

The MPA this afternoon convened a meeting between the Regional Harbour Master and the Mackay Yacht Club to discuss safety and security issues at the busy sea port.

The club’s dinghy division had expressed concerns that new Federal anti-terrorism legislation and an increase in safety-related incidents could force the young sailors out of the harbour.

MPA chairman John Taylor said today’s talks had been positive.

“The Mackay Port Authority has no objections over training, provided it is done safely, doesn’t interfere with port traffic and security responsibilities,” he said.

“Large ships and small boats just don’t mix – and we have had a couple of potentially serious incidents at the harbour over the past few weeks that have highlighted this.”

Mr Taylor said the Regional Harbour Master was responsible for port safety.

He said the Yacht Club would be required to obtain an authority, agreeing to comply with special conditions under the Marine Safety Act, if it wanted to continue to use the harbour area for leisure activities.

These conditions covered a duty of care, safety, codes of practice and general safety and security obligations.

Mr Taylor said a new protocol required the yacht club to check on shipping movements before the juniors were allowed to train in the harbour. A similar rule would cover yacht races and other aquatic events.

“The onus is on the club to obtain this information from Hay Point Vessel Traffic Service and the Mackay Port Authority.

“These talks today have given everyone an opportunity to have their say and agree on a way forward,” Mr Taylor said.