Pilbara Ports 2025 Recreational Vessel Safety Campaign launches to inform recreational vessel users on safe practices around the ports of Ashburton, Dampier and Port Hedland.
Campaign features new mural in Karratha highlighting dangers of blind spots and exclusion zones.
Skippers reminded to avoid restricted areas and follow safe navigation practices.
Boaters in the Pilbara have been reminded to take responsibility for safety when navigating the Pilbara’s busy commercial ports with the launch of the 2025 Pilbara Ports Recreational Vessel Safety Campaign.
Highlighting the key message “Remember, you’re the skipper and you’re responsible”, the campaign is part of Pilbara Ports commitment to prevent incidents involving small vessels near the ports of Ashburton, Dampier and Port Hedland.
Now in its 11th year, the campaign raises awareness of the risks posed by recreational boaters anchoring in shipping channels, fishing in restricted zones, and coming dangerously close to large commercial vessels.
This year’s campaign showcases a new mural in Karratha, illustrating the dangers of a large vessel’s limited visibility and the importance of keeping clear of exclusion zones.
With the region experiencing increased recreational boating activity during Pilbara’s dry season, the campaign reinforces key safety messages to prevent incidents in shared waters.
Skippers are urged to:
Breaches of maritime safety laws carry serious consequences, including fines of up to $20,000 or imprisonment. All incidents are reported to Western Australian Police.
For more information, visit pilbaraports.com.au/safety-and-security/recreational-vessel-safety.
Comments attributed to Ports Minister Stephen Dawson:
“The State Government is committed to improving safety across our ports, and this campaign plays a vital role in that mission.
“It’s about ensuring recreational boaters understand the risks and their responsibilities when navigating near commercial vessels.
“Raising awareness saves lives - and this campaign helps do exactly that.”
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
“With more than 7,700 vessel movements a year at the ports of Ashburton, Dampier and Port Hedland, our ports are among the busiest in the country.
“It is important that all recreational skippers know the rules, respect exclusion zones and remain aware of their surroundings at all times.
“This campaign is a timely reminder that safety on the water is a shared responsibility.”
For media queries, please email media@pilbaraports.com.au or contact us at 0447 072 294.