MURRINDINDI: Eildon boatie blows .134
An alleged drunken boatie was among 14 vessel operators caught flouting the law at Lake Eildon.
The 38-year-old skipper had several passengers on board a 3.5 metre tinny when he was intercepted by the Water Police Squad about 5pm on Friday, January 31.
He went positive on a preliminary breath test and allegedly blew 0.134 during an evidentiary breath test.
The Kilsyth man had his marine licence immediately suspended for six months and was fined $840.
The squad – which regularly patrols the popular waterway throughout summer – conducted more than 60 vessel inspections, licence checks and breath tests during the deployment.
Eight further boaties were issued with infringement notices for:
n Operating a boat without a licence
n Failing to carry a lifejacket (x4)
n Towing a skier without an observer (x2)
n Failing to maintain safety gear
Water Police also had jet skis closely in their sights.
Four riders were caught allegedly speeding too close to shore or other vessels, while another was fined $988 for riding unlicensed.
The Water Police Squad will continue to have a highly visible presence at inland waterways this summer.
Several planned operations will take place across Victoria, on top of regular patrols.
Boat and jet ski operators can expect to be breath tested, and have vessels inspected for mandatory safety equipment including lifejackets.
Water Police Acting Senior Sergeant Dave McHenry said:
“As the warm weather continues, we want safety to be front and centre in everyone’s minds.
“If you’re planning to drink, don’t get behind the wheel. We all know how devastating the consequences can be.”