Ray Williams – med rel Spectator safety on the harbour for this year’s Sydney to Hobart yacht race

Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Roads Ray Williams is reminding boaties to remain vigilant when hitting the water to watch the start of this year’s Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

“This iconic Australian yacht race is a Boxing Day tradition that draws a staggering 2000 spectator boats to key vantage points around Sydney Harbour,” Mr Williams said.

“It means boaties and their crews need to be extra vigilant with so many spectator craft out there jockeying for position.

“Keep a good look out, be responsible with alcohol onboard, adhere to the exclusion zone and follow the directions of our Boating Safety Offices and water Police.
“50 water traffic control vessels and support craft authorised to be inside the exclusion zone will display a special flag in a prominent position.

“The port of Sydney will be closed from 9am to 4pm to allow the yachts to safely exit the harbour and a marked exclusion zone will be in effect between 12pm and 2.20pm.

“Spectator boats should stay clear of the exclusion zone from Bradleys Head to Middle Head and North Head and from just north of Shark Island to South Head between midday and 2.20pm.

“Skippers should observe the six-knot speed limit and ensure they are producing minimal wash and follow the advice of officials on the water.

“Spectator craft should not operate under sail near the exclusion zone from midday until the race fleet clears Sydney Heads. Non-powered craft such as kayaks, canoes and surfboats should remain at least100 metres from the exclusion zone.

“As well as reminding all water users about the importance of navigating safely during one of the busiest times on the harbour, it is important to remind everyone heading out on the water to have a lifejacket and know when to wear it.”

Mr Williams said the best on-water vantage points were on either side of the start line at Steele Point or Taylors Bay when the race cannon fires at 1pm.

Boaters can position themselves in the western channel at Chowder Bay, Obelisk Bay and waters to North Head or in the eastern channel, Watsons Bay, Camp Cove and around South Head.

To view the race start on land, the best vantage points are Bradleys Head, Chowder Bay, Georges Heights and Middle Head on the west, Shark Island, Steele Point, Vaucluse Point, South Head and The Gap on the east, and North Head in the north.