Rock Fishing Safety Strategy for Western Australia

Transcription

Rock Fishing Safety Strategy for
Western Australia
Updated Version_ June 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
BACKGROUND …………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3
SCOPE……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
CURRENT ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGIES IMPLEMENTED IN WESTERN
AUSTRALIA………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4
3.1
Public Awareness…………………………………………………………………………………… 4
3.2
Provision of Safety Equipment………………………………………………………………. 5
3.3
Emergency Response Procedures…………………………………………………………… 7
AVAILABLE ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGIES NOT CURRENTLY IMPLEMENTED IN
WESTERN AUSTRALIA……………………………………………………………………………………….. 7
4.1
Public Awareness………………………………………………………………………………….. 7
4.2
Provision of Safety Equipment……………………………………………………………… 10
ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGY…………………………………………………………………….. 10
5.1
Public Awareness Strategies…………………………………………………………………. 10
5.2
Survival Strategies………………………………………………………………………………… 14
5.3
Stakeholder Survey………………………………………………………………………………. 15
ROCK FISHING SAFETY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS………………………………………… 15
PROPOSED ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ………….. 16
REFERENCES……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 18
APPENDIX………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
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1.0 BACKGROUND
Every year an estimated 700,000 Western Australians take part in recreational fishing. Of these,
many are casual, infrequent fishers who are unaware of the dangers associated with particular types
of fishing. Other, experienced fishers are indifferent to the apparent risks.
Rock fishing is among the most dangerous of fishing activities. Since 2002 there have been 30
recreational rock fishing related drowning deaths recorded in Western Australia (RLSWA, 2014), of
these, 16 have occurred since 2007. In addition to fatalities, anecdotal evidence from local fishers
has also pointed to very high rates of rock fishing injuries and incidents. Despite these risks, rock
fishing is a popular activity in Western Australia, with many fishers willing to face these risks for the
opportunity to fish from rocks which allow access to deep water and the possibility of avoiding
unfavourable wind conditions and beach currents.
Of all the regions in Western Australia in which rock fishing occurs, the South Coast has claimed
more lives than any other region. This area is considered a black spot; “locations of increased risk,
increased mortality or increased morbidity” (Bradstreet, 2012, pp25) for rock fishing. Table 1 refers
to all rock fishing deaths and their locations that have occurred in WA since 2007. Henceforth any
injury or fatality resulting from rock fishing will be referred to as a rock fishing-related incident.
Table 1: Rock fishing deaths in Western Australia since 2007.
#
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Location
Garth’s Rock, Carnarvon
Contos Beach, Margaret River
Contos Beach, Margaret River
Caves Point, Albany
Salmon Holes, Albany
Elephant Rock, Hamelin Bay
Cape Clairault, Yallingup
Twilight Beach, Esperance
Quagi Beach, Esperance
Thistle Cove, Esperance
Steep Point, Shark Bay
Salmon Holes Albany
Nanarup Beach, Albany
Date
16/07/2007
30/08/2007
30/08/2007
22/03/2008
08/05/2010
02/04/2011
19/07/2011
31/12/2011
07/01/2012
12/05/2012
02/09/2012
27/09/2012
06/01/2012
06/05/2013
27/05/2013
23/12/2013
Local Land Manager
Shire of Carnarvon
Shire of Augusta-Margaret River
City of Albany
Department of Parks and Wildlife
Shire of Busselton
Shire of Esperance
Shire of Esperance
Shire of Esperance
Shire of Shark Bay
Shire of Esperance
Shire of Esperance
City of Albany
Sex
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Female
Male
Accident data show that many of the incidents involve local residents who often have considerable
prior experience of the coastline. Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) staff have previously
witnessed a trend towards a greater proportion of rock fishers being of Asian background and
visitors to the region, unaware of the risks or unable to read the signage (Phillips, 2011).
Recfishwest has also obtained anecdotal evidence from local fishers in rock fishing high-risk areas,
suggesting that many of the individuals involved in rock fishing incidents along the South coast
during the salmon season are visitors from the mid-West, of varying ethnic backgrounds.
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2.0 SCOPE
Following the high number of rock fishing-related fatalities in Western Australia over the past 12
months, particularly on the south coast, Recfishwest has identified the need to develop a
coordinated state-wide strategy to reduce the occurrence of rock fishing-related incidents.
The scope of this strategic plan is to:
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Assess the strengths and weaknesses of current rock fishing safety strategies in Western
Australia (Section 3.0).
Assess the strengths and weaknesses of available rock fishing safety strategies that are not
currently implemented in Western Australia (Section 4.0).
Develop a strategic plan for minimising the risks associated with rock fishing and in
particular for high-risk areas (Section 5.0).
Determine the time frame and milestones for implementation of the strategy (Section 7.0).
Note: The recommendations in this strategy have been completed or are being completed. This
strategy acts as a reporting mechanism against the original strategy and proposal submitted to the
Department of Premier and Cabinet.
3.0 CURRENT ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGIES IMPLEMENTED IN
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
3.1 Public awareness
3.1.1 Signage
The DPaW manages coastal risk signage on the south coast of Western Australia. DPaW uses risk
signage which meets the Australian Standards for Risk Signage in that they:
 Have the internationally-recognised danger triangle prominently displayed;
 Advise people what the danger is;
 Advise people of what the danger is and details of the risk;
 Provide advice on how to avoid the danger;
Despite recommendations to implement standardised beach hazard signs Australia-wide, this has
not occurred and within Western Australia the format of signage differs depending on the
management region.
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DPaW (in conjunction with other land managers and members of the Rock Fishing Safety Steering
Committee), are working toward standardising safety signs in all regions, in particular those signs to
be installed for Rock Fishing Safety purposes.
3.1.2 Informative materials
In 2006, Recfishwest, in partnership with SunSmart and the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia,
released a brochure containing general fishing safety information and included advice on rock fishing
safety. Since then, Recfishwest as part of the Rock Fishing Safety Steering Committee, have
produced approximately 20 000 rock fishing safety brochures. Of the 20 000 brochures produced,
approximately 5000 were produced in 10 different languages to target the wide demographic of
migrants to Western Australia.
The Department of Fisheries has also produced some fishing safety information, which is included in
their Recreational Fishing Guides. However this information is not consistent and the amount of
detail given varies.
The Department of Fisheries is working with Recfishwest to amend the Recreational Fishing Guide to
include consistent messaging on rock fishing safety.
3.1.3 Safety awareness
Key personal safety messages
As part of the NSW Rock Fishing Safety Awareness Program, which has similar goals to those of this
Rock Fishing Safety Strategy, the following key messages were used (Gibson, 2011; Bradstreet et al.,
2012);
Under the campaign phrase ‘Don’t put your life on the line’ the following safety advice was
endorsed:
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Never fish by yourself; stay in sight of another person fishing.
Inform others of your plans and carry a mobile phone.
Wear light clothing; it will allow you to swim easily if you are washed in.
Check tides and weather; avoid fishing in dangerous conditions and observe tide changes.
Wear appropriate footwear; with non-slip soles – and avoid the water’s edge.
Wear a life jacket or PFD and carry safety equipment in case someone should fall in.
Observe first, fish later; spend time watching the fishing spot before actually fishing.
Plan an escape route; if washed in, stay calm and swim AWAY from the rocks to look for a
safe place to come ashore or stay afloat and wait for help.
Don’t ever turn your back on the sea.
Ask for advice from locals.
If it’s too rough, go home.
Websites
Recfishwest’s website provides a synthesis of personal fishing safety information and includes a
detailed section on rock fishing safety (http://www.recfishwest.org.au/fishing-in-wa/general-fishingsafety.html).
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Recfishwest, as part of the Rock Fishing Safety Steering Committee, makes available rock fishing
safety information on its’ website to inform fishers, of all ethnic backgrounds, about fishing safety.
Parts of the site can be translated into several different languages; it also includes rock fishing safety
tips, access to media material, safe fishing videos and links to other rock fishing safety sites.
A review of drowning-related fatalities by the Royal Life Saving Society of NSW found that the
internet was a source of water safety information for 55% of respondents, indicating that there is
significant potential for public rock fishing safety information to be disseminated on the internet
(Bradstreet et al., 2012, pp65).
Public information evenings or workshops
A series of workshops in 2010 and 2011 were run by the Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA) in
collaboration with Australian National Sport fishing Association (ANSA), Surf Life Saving Australia
(SLSA), NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure (NSWDPI) and other organisations to
educate rock fishers, especially those of culturally and linguistically diverse background, with simple
safety messages (Bradstreet et al., 2012). Feedback from these workshops suggested that attendees
wanted a formalised structure to the workshops and for them to cover topics such as:
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How to interpret rock fishing safety signage;
How to use publicly available safety equipment;
How to use lifejackets;
Basic aquatic survival skills; and,
Basic first aid and CPR techniques.
(Bradstreet et al., 2012, pp67).
A rock fishing stakeholder survey conducted in NSW by TARS found that 96% of respondents
believed workshops had the potential to be very effective or somewhat effective in decreasing the
risk of rock fishing-related incidents (Bradstreet et al., 2012, pp66).
Recfishwest, along with a number of emergency services agencies, conducted a public information
session (September 2013) for the migrant community (Chinese) on the topic of rock fishing safety,
involving qualified interpreters. The session was well received and Recfishwest, along with partners,
endeavour to continue delivering these safety messages to the community.
Multi-lingual material and advertising
A key issue that has been identified by DPaW is that increasingly, fishers that are involved in rock
fishing incidents are of an Asian background (Phillips, 2011). Therefore, disseminating information in
languages other than English is a high priority. In an effort to meet this goal, the Asian Awareness
Project was undertaken in 2009 by ANSA and the RFA in collaboration with Surf Life Saving Australia
and involved a series of rock fishing safety advertisements in a range of Asian newspapers.
The TARS stakeholder survey found that the majority of individuals of ethnic backgrounds received
their safety information from ethnic newspapers and publications. English publications and
publically available materials were also significant sources of safety information (Bradstreet, 2012,
pp65; Mitchell et al., 2012). Therefore, any multi-lingual material or advertising must be done
through appropriate channels for this target audience, namely through foreign newspapers.
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Recfishwest as part of the Rock Fishing Safety Steering Committee, have produced approximately 20
000 rock fishing safety brochures. Of the 20 000 brochures produced, approximately 5000 were
produced in 11 different languages to target a wide demographic of migrants to Western Australia.
Multilingual advertising was also placed in a number of ethnic newspapers, including the Australian
Chinese Times.
DVDs and videos
As part of the NSW Rock Fishing Safety Awareness Program a free DVD was made available to
fishers. DVDs were also translated into Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese, and distributed free of
charge to anglers. These videos are also available online at the Safe Fishing website
http://www.safefishing.com.au/ (Bradstreet et al., 2012). However, these DVDs rated as low priority
by stakeholders in the TARS survey (Bradstreet, 2012, pp60).
Recfishwest has also facilitated a more comprehensive and up-to-date rock fishing safety video;
available mid-2014.
3.2 Provision of safety equipment
3.2.1 Anchor points
Anchor points are eye bolts which have been secured into the rock shelf (figure 2), that allow anglers
to tether themselves using their own rope and harness (Bradstreet et al., 2012). In 2003 DPaW
(then Department of Environment and Conservation; DEC) commenced a trial of anchor points in
Western Australia, which have been installed at selected rock fishing locations in the Leeuwin Naturalise National Park including: Rocky Point, Cape Naturaliste, Sugarloaf Rock, Torpedo Rocks,
Wyadup, Contos, Boranup (North-Point) and Skippy Rock.
Figure 2: Anchor point using an eye bolt and appropriate
tie-off method.
The selection of locations was determined through consultation between local fishermen and DEC
staff. The need for anchor points at a location was determined based on the following criteria:

History of drowning and wash off incidents;
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To determine which were the popular locations people fished from on the rocks;
To develop an understanding of why these sites were used;
The fishers behaviour and use of the site;
The wave action at these spots and its potential impact on the fisher;
The important physical features of the site e.g. slope, black algae;
Type of visitors fishing at such sites e.g. inexperienced fishers; and,
Accessibility of the rock; e.g. road access, walking trials to rock platforms etc. (Bradstreet et
al., 2012).
The towns of Albany and Esperance both have rock anchor points installed at high risk locations.
These locations have been identified by local fisherman, local governments and DPaW. As of June
2014, Esperance and Ravensthorpe received approval to install 28 new rock anchor points, which
have been endorsed by the Minister for Fisheries, Ken Baston, during his regional community
cabinet trip (June 9th). For more details, please see the Strategy’s timeline provided in this
document.
3.2.2 Silent Sentries
Silent Sentries are emergency response systems designed to provide rock fishers with safety
equipment that will increase the chance of survival if washed off the rocks (figure 3). The Silent
Sentry system contains three ball floats surrounded by rope netting and a handle to hold on to. The
floats can be accessed by pushing the retaining lever to one side.
The Nathan Drew Memorial Trust (NDMT) has installed
Silent Sentry systems at six high-risk locations which
include Salmon Holes near Albany, Lowlands Beach east,
Lowlands Beach west, Bum Rock and The Deep in the
Lowlands Reserve (NDMT, 2012).
Figure 3: Silent Sentry device at a popular
fishing location.
One criticism of the Silent Sentry system is that its
operation requires another person to activate and use
the system. Silent Sentries have also been the target of
vandalism and theft and consequently the Trust has
removed the EPIRB component of the device (Bradstreet
et al., 2012, pp50-52). Despite these limitations, since
the installation of the first Silent Sentry system in 2004,
they have helped to save the lives of three rock fishers in
the south west.
3.2.3 Angel rings
The Angel Ring Project is implemented by ANSA and has
so far involved the installation of more than 110 life buoys at popular rock fishing locations along the
NSW coast. The program began in 1994 and is now being expanded into other states. The program
is ongoing and there are plans to install more Angel Rings in the future. The program has also
included fisher safety signage and a trial of Angel Ring GPS trackers (Bradstreet et al., 2012).
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Bradstreet et al. (2012) identified several strengths and limitations of Angel Rings. The TARS
stakeholder survey identified Angel Rings as one of the most potentially successful rock fishing safety
initiatives (Mitchell et al., 2012).
The Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RFAC)
recommended in its 2011 report: “Recreational Fishing in Australia – 2011 and Beyond: a National
Industry Development Strategy” that a priority project was the development of a national program
for the roll out of Angel Rings (ANSA, 2012, pp28).
Angel Rings have also received some criticism. They weigh about 5kg each and can only be tossed 510 meters by the average person (Bradstreet et al., 2012, pp54). Angel Rings also offer no benefit to
people who are swept in and knocked unconscious or are seriously injured. Despite this,
stakeholders have identified that Angel Rings are preferable over alternative similar equipment
because of their reusability, durability and lack of theft/ vandalism (Mitchell et al., 2012).
Angel Rings have been installed at high risk locations in WA. As part of this strategy, Angel Ring
installation, along with other safety equipment, is considered when identifying the need for rock
fishing safety infrastructure. The more recent Angel Ring installations include GPS tracking devices
imbedded in the Angel Ring which sends out a signal alerting key stakeholders of the rings’ position –
for security purposes. For more details, please see the strategy’s timeline provided in this
document.
3.2.3 Satellite-based emergency phones
There is currently only one satellite emergency phone in Western Australia. It is installed at
Turquoise Bay in Cape Range National Park (Phillips, 2011). These systems work by allowing a
person seeking urgent assistance to press one button in order to get assistance. The system directs
calls for assistance to the Exmouth Police Station who then coordinate rescue efforts.
3.2.4 Public Rescue Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and appropriate non-slip footwear were identified by stakeholders
in the Department of Transport and Road Safety (TARS) survey as the second most potentially
successful intervention (Bradstreet et al., 2012). There are however many different types of PFDs
that are accepted under the new Australian Standard, AS 4758. These include:
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Level 150 - a new level of PFD and suitable for offshore use
Level 100 - similar to PFD Type 1 and the minimum requirement for offshore use. Typically
worn for general boating in all waters.
Level 50 - similar to PFD Type 2. Typically worn for sailing, water-skiing, kayaking, canoeing,
wind surfing and on personal watercraft
Level 50S (Special Purpose) - similar to PFD Type 3. Typically used by water skiers, wake
boarders, kayakers and canoers.
(National Maritime Safety Committee, 2012)
Bradstreet et al. (2012) highlight that there is much debate amongst rock fishing stakeholders as to
which type of PFD is the most effective for use while rock fishing. Regardless of the type of PFD the
fact is that chances of survival dramatically increase with the use of PDFs.
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The Trust purchased 75 Australian Standard approved automatic inflating life jackets which are
available for hire for free from locations along the South Coast (NDMT, 2012).
As part of this strategy, a Free Life Jacket Loan Scheme was established in 2013. This scheme
allowed recreational fishers to have free access to life jackets in Albany, Esperance, Carnarvon,
Augusta, Margaret River, Bremer Bay, Quobba Station, shark Bay and Steep Point. These were made
available in regional tackle outlets and advertised in each store. The scheme was an expansion of
the work undertaken by the Nathan Drew Memorial Trust, where life jackets were available for free
loan in the Albany area for recreational fishing for many years prior.
3.3 Emergency Response Procedures
The West Australian Police co-ordinate local search and rescue between various state agencies (such
as the Department of Transport, Fisheries and Water Police) and Volunteer Sea Rescue Groups can
also be involved in rescue procedures. The emergency satellite phones and silent sentries both send
alerts to the local Police when activated.
Major search and rescue operations cost tax payers on average between $60,000 and $100,000 per
rescue depending on its scale, remoteness and duration.
4.0 ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGY
The implementation of a rock fishing safety strategy for Western Australia requires the prioritisation
of strategies that have been identified as having a high potential to reduce the risk of rock fishingrelated incidents. These proposed strategies fall into two main categories: firstly, public awareness
strategies that aim to inform individuals of how to reduce the risk of being involved in an incident
and secondly, those that seek to improve the chance of survival (or reduce harm) once an individual
has been involved in a rock fishing-related incident.
4.1 Public awareness strategies
Underpinning all efforts for the promotion and education of rock fishing safety should lay a number
of key messages that remain consistent across the campaign. These messages should be simple
strategies that individuals can utilise in order to reduce the risk of an incident when rock fishing.
These messages should be promoted in any public awareness campaign as they represent practical
ways that individuals can reduce their risk of being involved in a rock fishing-related incident.
4.1.1 Key personal safety messages
Through each of the public awareness strategies, Recfishwest suggests the promotion of key
personal safety messages that will help individuals to significantly reduce the risk of being involved
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in a rock fishing-related incident. These key messages will relate to ways to reduce the risks before
fishing, while fishing and how to increase the chance of survival if someone is washed in.
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Tell someone; Always let friends of family know where you are going, when you’ll be back
and if your plans change.
Never fish alone; always fish with a buddy, if you get into any trouble, they can help. If
you’re new to rock fishing, go with an experienced fisher.
Know the area, know the conditions; Read all safety signage – it’s been placed there for a
reason. Check swell, tide and wind conditions before your trip.
Wear appropriate clothing; light clothing such as short and a spray jacket will allow you to
swim more freely if you are washed in. Wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles or
cleats suited to the surface you plan to fish from.
Wear a PFD; wear a life jacket of buoyancy vest at all times.
Observe first, fish later; spend some time (at least 20 minutes) watching your intended
fishing spot to get an idea of the conditions over a full swell/wave cycle.
Plan your escape; Scan the area and look for the safest place to come ashore should you be
swept in. Decide on a quick getaway route from your fishing spot, well above the high tide
line should you see a large wave coming.
Use appropriate public safety equipment; know how to correctly utilise rock anchor points if
they are in place at your fishing location. Know where the nearest public safety equipment
is – and know how to use it.
Stay alert; don’t ever turn your back on the ocean. If the waves, weather or swell threaten
your fishing spot then leave immediately.
If you go in; stay calm, swim away from the rocks and remove any heavy or waterlogged
clothing. Float on your back and await rescue, or if you’re capable, swim ashore to the safe
area you identified from your initial observations.
If someone is washed in; do not jump in if someone is washed into the water. Use your rope
or something that floats to help rescue the person. If there's public safety equipment
nearby, know how to use it. Dial 000 (valid across all networks within range) on your mobile
phone to get help.
4.1.2 Print and Electronic Media
Recfishwest proposes that a clear, concise brochure covering the key personal rock fishing safety
messages (as outlined in section 4.1.1) be produced. These brochures would then be made available
in local tackle and boating stores. ANSA, who have produced such a brochure as part of a highly
successful rock fishing safety campaign in NSW, have given permission for this content to be used in
other states. Utilising material from a successful campaign will help ensure the success of the
proposed campaign here in WA and will also help to reduce the costs of developing this material.
Recfishwest also recommends that this brochure be produced in languages other than English and
that these brochures be distributed via appropriate local channels that will provide the best point of
contact with non-English speaking rock fishers.
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While this brochure should contain information on rock fishing safety that will be applicable at a
state-wide level, the distribution of this material will vary depending on the location and the
language the brochure is printed in.
Electronic media would serve as an effective information dissemination platform but also as a means
of delivering up-to-date dangerous condition warnings. Social media is one of the most
instantaneous methods to deliver up-to-date information to a wide audience. Recfishwest has the
opportunity to form a partnership with the safefishing.com.au website, through which the site
would host information relevant to rock fishing safety in WA, as well as linking to Facebook and
Twitter feeds. This partnership would be advantageous as the Safefishing website already carries
the key personal safety messages outlined in section 4.1.1 and has the infrastructure to support
information specific to WA rock fishing safety at a low additional cost.
The website would be able to host interactive material such as media interviews and YouTube
videos. This website would also be capable of providing dangerous condition warnings, which it
already does for fishers in NSW. Recfishwest also recommends the creation of a Facebook page and
Twitter account specific to rock fishing safety in WA that could also disseminate dangerous condition
warnings to rock fishers in WA. The Facebook page and Twitter account could also be promoted in
the rock fishing safety brochure and on the Safefishing website.
Recfishwest also proposes to facilitate the implementation of an early warning ‘Fishing Safety Alert’
email and SMS notification to complement the information that would be provided through the
website, Facebook and Twitter. This notification would be available free to interested parties simply
by subscribing online via the Safefishing website or Recfishwest website. A successful model of a
rock fishing safety alert system has been developed in NSW and this could serve as a template for
the system in WA.
Recfishwest has made all of its rock fishing safety material online (on the recfishwest.org.au website)
with regular safety updates made available on Social media channels Facebook and YouTube.
4.1.3 Television marketing
Recfishwest proposes to create a documentary on rock fishing safety in WA. This documentary
would be aired on regional television and highlight the risks of rock fishing and educate rock fishers
on ways to reduce these risks, by following the key personal safety messages outlined in 4.1.1. The
footage from this documentary could then be used to create television advertisements and Youtube
videos that would complement the documentary content, at little additional cost.
Recfishwest proposes to run this documentary and the complimentary television advertisements
during suitable timeslots throughout appropriate regional areas. In order to reach the target
audience of rock fishers in WA, discussions with marketing experts would be necessary. These
discussions would seek to identify the best times to air the documentary and accompanying
advertisements to target males aged 15-29 as this demographic is the most likely to take part in rock
fishing (Phillips, 2011).
Recfishwest helped deliver a television advertisement campaign with national fishing icon Rex Hunt.
This campaign ran from November 2013 to May 2014 and again in December/ January 2014/2015
and rehashed the importance of Rock Fishing Safety. The key messages in the campaign were
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consistent with this strategy. A YouTube video has also been produced and is due for release in June
2014.
4.1.4 Signage
A co‐ordinated approach to signage with strategically placed signs and content which are clearly
visible is a very important part of aquatic risk management. Despite rock fishing being one of the
greatest aquatic risks in many locations in Western Australia, signage does not give information
specific to rock fishing safety. In light of this, Recfishwest proposes that a template for rock fishing
safety signs be designed and implemented in black spot rock fishing locations. The template should
follow a consistent format state-wide, and therefore be easily recognisable as a rock fishing safety
sign. Additional to general rock fishing safety information that will appear on signs across the state;
these signs will provide site-specific rock fishing safety information.
Dependent on participation from local officials, a dangerous condition rating system (figure 4) could
be used at black-spot areas, and changed daily to give rock fishers an idea of the risk on any given
day.
Figure 4: Rock fishing condition rating sign
These rock fishing safety signs would include information on:
 Key personal safety messages (section 4.1.1) related to ways to reduce the risks while fishing
and how to increase the chance of survival if someone is washed in.
 Local risks, related to the key safety messages. For example, a typical sign should include
information such as:
o This is a black spot area for rock fishing which has publicly available safety
equipment installed. Take note of the location of Angel Rings and Silent Sentries
before commencing fishing (diagram of equipment locations).
o Avoid areas of black, slippery rock, where appropriate non-slip footwear and use
rope to tie up to one of the anchor points located at this site (diagram of how to tie
up to anchor point).
o This beach has steep rocky cliffs, when planning an escape route look for areas with
moderate swell, current and a lower cliff gradient.
 Rock fishing condition rating dial (as per figure 4).
DPaW (in conjunction with other land managers and members of the Rock Fishing Safety
Steering Committee), are working toward standardising safety signs in all regions, in particular
those signs to be installed for Rock Fishing Safety purposes.
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4.1.5 Rock fishing safety workshops
The TARS rock fishing stakeholder survey revealed that point-of-contact information dissemination
through workshops was believed to be one of the most effective methods of decreasing the risk of
rock fishing-related incidents. This strategy is one that Recfishwest recommends being adopted
here in WA, however would be a costly and timely procedure and is outside the budget of this
proposal.
Free public workshops would be held in towns in areas identified as having a significant number of
rock fishers. Recfishwest has obtained anecdotal evidence from local fishers in rock fishing high-risk
locations that many of the individuals involved in rock fishing incidents are visiting anglers. The
areas targeted would therefore need to be adjacent to high-risk rock fishing areas, but also at
locations from which visiting anglers are likely to originate. These information evenings should be
timed to coincide with major fishing seasons such as the salmon fishing season over the Easter
break.
Based on participant responses from similar initiatives in NSW, the workshops would be based upon
the following structure:
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Introduction to the risks associated with rock fishing.
Informal question and answer session, gathering of qualitative information.
How to interpret rock fishing safety signage in the local area.
How to use publicly available safety equipment such as anchor points, Angel Rings and
Silent Sentries.
How to use personal safety equipment (which equipment to use, using PFDs).
Basic aquatic survival skills.
Emergency response procedures.
Basic first aid and CPR techniques.
In order to attract rock fishers to these workshops, Recfishwest recommends advertising in local
print media, in lunch breaks at work places, producing promotional material to be placed in tackle
and boating stores in the local area with the added enticement of giveaways for local business
vouchers and personal safety equipment. It is hoped that by establishing partnerships with local
governments and local fishing businesses that the costs of this promotional material can be
minimised.
4.2 Survival strategies
Strategies which aim to reduce the harm done and increase the chance of survival once an incident
occurs will be delivered as part of the key messages. These survival strategies and how to use them
will feature in all public awareness strategies, as outlined in the key personal safety messages
(section 5.1.1).
Coastal risk assessments will need to be undertaken to determine the level of risk associated with
different rock fishing areas and therefore the priority for each area and the necessity for
implementing particular survival strategies.
14
4.2.1 Angel Rings
Recfishwest proposes that Western Australia adopt the Angel Ring rock fishing safety strategy, which
has already been successfully implemented in the eastern states. ANSA, in partnership with the
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the Department of Fisheries and Forestry is
commencing a trial of Angel Rings around Australia.
Recfishwest proposes the use of the strategy developed in the eastern states and its application to
black spot rock fishing areas in Western Australia, as determined by the coastal risk assessment.
These installations could be coupled with demonstrations in rock fishing safety workshops on how to
use the Angel Rings in an emergency situation.
Angel Rings have been installed at high risk locations in WA. As part of this strategy, Angel Ring
installation, along with other safety equipment, is considered when identifying the need for rock
fishing safety infrastructure. The more recent Angel Ring installations include GPS tracking devices
imbedded in the Angel Ring which sends out a signal alerting key stakeholders of the rings’ position –
for security purposes. For more details, please see the strategy’s timeline provided in this
document.
4.2.2 Anchor points
Rock Anchor Points are currently installed in the Cape Leeuwin to Cape Naturaliste region, as well as
the Esperance region. Anchor points have the potential to prevent entry into the water, thus
reducing the amount of search and rescue operations required, and also to reduce the risk for injury
from slips and falls. Therefore, Recfishwest proposes that additional anchor points be installed at
suitable locations throughout WA, as determined by the coastal risk assessment. Additionally,
television advertising will seek to demonstrate the best-practice method to tying off to anchor
points when rock fishing.
The towns of Albany and Esperance have both had additional Rock Anchor Points installed at highrisk locations. These locations have been identified by local fisherman, local governments and
DPaW. As of June 2014, Esperance and Ravensthorpe received approval to install 28 new rock
anchor points, which has been endorsed by the Minister for Fisheries, Ken Baston, during his
regional community cabinet trip (June 9th). For more details, please see the strategy’s timeline
provided in this document.
4.2.3 Publically available safety devices
After entering the water, PFDs have the greatest potential to increase the chance of survival. The
Nathan Drew Memorial Trust runs a program which provides PFDs for loan, free of charge, at
selected locations on the south coast, including Albany, Bremer Bay and Esperance. Recfishwest
supports this program and proposes the promotion and expansion of the program. Recfishwest
proposes the purchase of additional PFDs for the program and the distribution to additional
locations including accommodation providers and tackle stores. The availability of these PFDs will be
promoted at workshops, on the website, in television advertising and print materials. PFDs will also
be given away as prizes at workshops and giveaway competitions will be run on the safefishing
website.
15
As part of this strategy, a Free Life Jacket Loan Scheme was established in 2013. This scheme
allowed recreational fishers to have free access to life jackets in Albany, Esperance, Carnarvon,
Augusta, Margaret River, Bremer Bay and Quobba. These were made available in regional tackle
outlets and advertised in each store. This scheme was an expansion of the Nathan Drew Memorial
Trust, where life jackets were available for free loan in the Albany area for recreational fishing for
many years prior.
4.3 Stakeholder survey
In order to assist in the evaluation of the potential effectiveness of the strategies described in this
strategic plan, Recfishwest will conduct a stakeholder survey. This survey will follow the format used
by Mitchell et al. (2012), who asked stakeholders to give their opinions on the potential
effectiveness of each proposed strategy, any improvements that could be made to these strategies
and their strengths and weaknesses. Key stakeholders from academic institutions, angler
organisations, government organisations, manufacturers of safety equipment and rescue
organisations will be contacted via email and asked to participate in an online survey (see Appendix
1). They will also be provided with a copy of this strategic plan. The survey will be conducted both
before and after the roll-out of advertisements and key safety messages.
Recfishwest conducted an online survey which was used to determine the current level of
awareness, incidents and education related to rock fishing safety. The survey had 329 respondents
and provided valuable baseline data for Recfishwest in progressing the Rock Fishing Safety Strategy.
6.0 ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
The Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) uses surveys of individual’s exposure to risks, their attitude
towards these risks and the actions they take in relation to these risks to determine the risk of
fishing-related drowning fatalities (Bradstreet et al., 2012, 14).
In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the rock fishing safety measures proposed in this strategy,
ongoing surveys with recreational fishers and any associated party involved (tackle stores, fishing
clubs etc.) in regional areas will prove important in providing consistent ongoing safety awareness.
7.0 PROPOSED ROCK FISHING SAFETY STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION
PLAN
16
Implementation of the Rock Fishing Safety Strategy will require the funding and coordination of a
variety of stakeholders. This will be undertaken in two phases. Given the time of year and
associated high frequency of fishing, it is paramount that Phase 1 is rolled out immediately for
instantaneous dissemination to the wider public. Phase 2 will involve the roll out of on-ground
support and follow up.
Phase 1: Immediate campaign to disseminate key messages to the wider community with the use of
mainstream media such as YouTube, television and radio. The development and implementation of
a stakeholder survey to determine trending attitudes towards rock fishing safety and awareness; this
will guide the Phase 2 strategy. A coastal risk assessment to determine black spots and prioritise
areas for the Phase 2 roll-out of survival strategies and on-ground support.
Phase 2: Installation of survival strategies such as rock bolts, angel rings, signage and Silent Sentries.
Undertake a review of the Phase 2 strategy based on outcomes of the stakeholder survey. Printed
materials to accompany advertising are to be produced, containing key messages. A follow-up
survey will be conducted to assess the success of the strategy, delivered to the initial respondents to
determine any change in attitudes.
Table 1 Rock Fishing Safety Strategy Timeline to date
Date
March 2013
Activity
State Government commitment
to $300,000 over 3 years toward
Rock Fishing Safety
Service Level Agreement
established between Dept.
Fisheries and Recfishwest
Recfishwest convened a project
Steering Committee
Who is Involved
Western Australian
Government
May 2013
Rock fishing safety survey
opened online for general public
input
Recfishwest
May 2013
Discussions with safety
representatives from NSW on a
variety of measures including
incorporating WA into
nationwide Angel Ring Program
Recfishwest;
Australian National
Sports Fishing
Association (ANSA)Nationwide leaders in
rock fishing safety
initiatives
April 2013
April 2013
Angel Rings to be fitted with GPS
Recfishwest;
Department of
Fisheries
Department of:
Fisheries;
Parks and Wildlife;
Sport and Recreation;
Fire and Emergency
Services;
Surf Lifesaving WA;
Royal Lifesaving
Society WA;
Recfishwest
Additional Comments
Ongoing meetings
and working
relationships to
implement the
strategy
329 respondents
providing valuable
information on
current awareness of
rock fishing safety
Continuous
communications
between ANSA and
Recfishwest to
improve public safety
for rock fishers
17
Date
May 2013
June 2013
June 2013
July 2013
July 2013
August 2013
August 2013
Activity
tracking systems enabling Land
Managers to confirm their
location remotely and ensure
public safety equipment is always
available at high risk sites
9 key messages endorsed by
Steering Committee – based on
NSW key messages. Tag Line
“Don’t Put Your Life on the Line”
Who is Involved
Rock Fishing Safety
Steering Committee
Free Life Jacket Loan Scheme (at
tackle and general stores)
implemented across WA at High
Risk locations including
Esperance, Albany, Bremer Bay,
Augusta, Margaret River,
Carnarvon, Quobba.
(Note: Albany has had free life
jacket loans for several years
through the Nathan Drew
Memorial Trust)
Multilingual advertisement
published in The Australian
Chinese Times as part of a
seasonal awareness campaign.
18,000 Rock Fishing Safety
brochures printed in English,
4,500 brochures printed in 10
different languages. – All
distributed through tackle
outlets, public amenities, tourist
centres and partner agencies
Rock fishing Safety flyer sent to
Narrikup (Albany) abattoir for
distribution to staff prior to four
week shut down (approximately
400 workers, large proportion
Filipino)
Meetings with DPaW staff and
local fishers in Albany to analyse
high risk rock fishing locations
Regional Tackle
stores;
Regional
Communities
Recfishwest rock fishing safety
presentation at Surf Lifesaving
State Conference.
Recfishwest;
SLSWA
Additional Comments
The tag line and key
messages to be used
consistently as many
promotional
communications
where possible
Review the ongoing
success of this
scheme
Recfishwest
Recfishwest; Steering
Committee;
Regional Community
Centres
Continuous review of
the effectiveness of
the materials and
update where
necessary
Recfishwest &
abattoirs
Recfishwest, Albany
DPaW; local fishers
Use local knowledge
to identify High Risk
locations and
facilitate relationships
between Land
Managers and local
fishers/ community
champions
A large number of
volunteer patrol
captains from around
18
Date
Activity
Who is Involved
September
2013
Recfishwest presentation to
migrant (Chinese) community re
Rock Fishing Safety (with
Interpreters)
Recfishwest;
Department of
Fisheries; SLSWA
October 2013
6 Rock Anchor Points and Rock
Anchor safety signs installed at
high risk fishing location - Salmon
Holes, Albany
DPaW, local
community
champions,
contracted 3rd party
for installation
Recfishwest, local TV
stations – targeted at
fishers and people
accessing high risk
fishing locations
Esperance Senior
High School;
Emergency Response
Agencies;
Recfishwest
November2013 Commencement of TV
advertising, utilising high profile
fisher Rex Hunt as the face of
advertising campaign
December
2013
January 2014
January 2014
February 2014
February 2014
April 2014
Esperance Senior High School
delivered a very successful
program on rock fishing safety
which saw students learning
about the dangers and
appropriate measures to take to
mitigate the risks. The students
work also met a range of
Australian Curriculum
assessment requirements
through the production of a
safety poster and YouTube
advertisement
DPaW and Recfishwest approved
installation of Angel Rings at
Shark Bay
DPaW;
Recfishwest
The Nationals Party initiated
Telstra mobile tower feasibility
trial upon Recfishwest
recommendation
Angel Rings (x2) Installed at
Royalties for Regions
Recfishwest
DPaW Shark Bay approved
proposal to install 7 Angel Rings
and provide free-loan life jackets
in the national park
Minister Ken Baston visit to
Salmon Holes, Albany to promote
Rock Fishing Safety especially
Free Life Jacket Loan Scheme
DPaW; local
community;
Recfishwest
DPaW; local
community
champions
Albany Boating and
Offshore Fishing
Club; Minister for
Fisheries
Additional Comments
the state attended.
Continue working
with migrant groups
and partner
organisation to widen
the target audience
and raise awareness
Adapt learnings from
this exercise for
further installations
elsewhere
Adverts run statewide from Nov-May
Planned ongoing and
targeted school
education programs
to raise awareness of
rock fishing safety
Continue working
toward the
installation of these
Angel Rings
Results of trial are
pending to determine
likelihood of
improved reception
Adapt learnings from
this exercise for
further installations
elsewhere
Memorandum of
Understanding
currently being
drafted
Continue boosting the
profile of media
campaigns to raise
awareness of rock
19
Date
April 2014
April 2014
May 2014
May 2014
June 2014
Activity
Albany Boating and Offshore
Fishing Club volunteers loaned
out life jackets at Salmon Holes,
Albany, and collected important
statistics
Recfishwest employed a Fishing
Safety and Community
Engagement Officer
Albany Boating and
Offshore Fishing
Club; Recfishwest
Over the 3 day Easter weekend –
All Free Life Jacket Loan
Locations loaned out a combined
total 66
Recfishwest received
confirmation from land managers
in Esperance and Ravensthorpe
area to undertake installation of
Angel Rings, Safety Signage and
Rock Anchor Points as per the
recommendations of the South
East Coast Fishing Council (in
conjunction with Recfishwest)
Regional Tackle
stores;
Regional
Communities
Shire of Esperance;
Shire of
Ravensthorpe; DPaW;
South East Coast
Fishing Council
Recfishwest received Highly
Commended Award at
Recfishwest and
Community Partners
& Steering
Committee
ICCWA (Injury Control Council of
WA) awards
June 2014
June 2014
June 2014
September
Who is Involved
Minister for Fisheries along with
the South East Coast Fishing
Council announced 28 additional
Rock Anchor Points and 10 Angel
Rings in Esperance and
Ravensthorpe areas
Recfishwest ordered the new
Angel Rings from NSW to be
freighted to Esperance for
installation
Recfishwest will acquire a new
Rock Fishing Safety video – this
will be available on our digital
outlets (Recfishwest website,
YouTube and Facebook).
Life Jacket loans and Angel rings
Recfishwest
Additional Comments
fishing safety
Valuable data
collected on ethnicity
and number of people
fishing from the
beach and rocks
Employed to help
meet implement the
Rock Fishing Safety
Strategy, raise public
awareness. Funded
by Dept. of Fisheries
through recreational
fishing licence money
Valuable data that
may show a
behavioural change
Great relationships
built in this region to
for rock fishers
Recognition of
Community Partners
help promote rock
fishing safety state
wide
Shire of Esperance;
Great relationships
Shire of
Ravensthorpe; DPaW; improve public safety
South East Coast
for rock fishers
Fishing Council;
DPaW
Shire of Esperance;
Shire of
Ravensthorpe; DPaW;
South East Coast
Fishing Council;
DPaW; Recfishwest
Recfishwest
This will aid in
communicating rock
fishing safety
messages with the
public
Recfishwest, DPAW,
Great relationships
20
Date
Activity
sent to Shark Bay (waiting
installation of Angel Rings)
Who is Involved
Steep Point Ranger
September/
October 2014
Promoted Rock Fishing Safety
Messages during our Southern
Community Fishing Clinic Tour
Recfishwest and
Community and kids
November/
December
2014
Promoted Rock Fishing Safety
Messages through Esperance,
Ravensthorpe Primary Schools
via South East Coast Recreational
Fishing Council
South East Coast
Recreational Fishing
Council, Recfishwest,
local primary schools
December
2014
Help promote Rock Fishing Safety
in Esperance High Schools – apart
of term 4 curriculum
Recfishwest,
Esperance High
School
December
2014
Esperance installation of 30 rock
anchor points and Angel rings at
high risk location
December
2014
3 weeks of Rex Hunt TV AD
Promo (Regional areas)
Recfishwest, Shires of
Esperance,
Ravensthorpe,
DPAW, South East
Coast Recreational
Fishing Council
Recfishwest,
Community tv
stations
December
2014/ January
2015
Digital Christmas ad campaign
launched for 4 weeks
Recfishwest
January 2015
Don’t Put Your Life on the Line
flyer printed in Karen language
and sent to Albany Fisheries and
Albany Migrant Resource Centre
Recfishwest, Albany
Fisheries and Albany
Migrant Resource
Centre
January 2015
Esperance Family Fun and Safety
Weekend – promoted RFS
messages with live
demonstrations/ video/ printed
material and rock anchor point
installation equipment on display
Easter Campaign in Albany,
Denmark
Recfishwest,
Esperance Deep Sea
and Angling Club,
South East Coast
Recreational Fishing
Council
Recfishwest, Albany
Fishing Club, Dept. of
Fisheries, DPAW, City
of Albany, Shire of
Denmark, Albany
2014
April 2015
(Easter)
Additional Comments
for rock fishers
Great relationships
for rock fishers
Great relationships
for rock fishers –
targeting school
students
Great relationships
for rock fishers –
targeting school
students
Great relationships
for rock fishers
Great relationships
for rock fishers
Increase target
audience to promote
Free Life Jacket Loan
Scheme (including
locations)
This will aid in
communicating rock
fishing safety
messages with the
public
Great relationships
for rock fishers
Engaged target
audience to promote
Free Life Jacket Loan
Scheme (including
locations), Multi
21
Date
April 2015
April 2015
Future
Future
Future
Future
Future
Activity
Development of another
television advertisement as a
means of wide-spread education
– Destinations WA tv episode
nationwide
(https://youtu.be/lLgWoiS668w )
Trialled waist belt life jacket
Who is Involved
Police
Recfishwest,
Destinations WA
Recfishwest
Additional Comments
lingual flyers handed
out, alternative safe
beach fishing maps
given to fishers, 3
traffic message signs
ran 24/7 in Albany
and Denmark over 4
days with rock fishing
safety messages
displayed.
36 life jackets loaned
out (Salmon Holes) –
no fatalities over
Easter, 17 media hits
over the 4 day
weekend
Increase public
awareness of rock
fishing safety
Consulted Rec fishing
Alliance NSW re
jacket types and
trialled targeting rec
fishers with
comfortable waist life
jackets. Trialled in
Albany
Work with tourism providers to
develop maps with fishing
locations and safety advice for
tourism nodes
Installation of Angel Rings in
Kalbarri
Installation of Angel Rings in
Shark Bay (Steep Point)
Campaign for waist belt life
jackets
Life Jacket loan jackets to be
serviced 2015
22
23
8.0 REFERENCES
Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA). (2012). National Angel Ring Project Strategy
2012‐2013. Sydney: Angel Rings.
Bradstreet A., S. Sherker, B. Brighton, A. Weir and M. Thompson (2012). Research Review of Rock
Fishing In New South Wales. Sydney: Surf Life Saving Australia.
Gibson, P. (2011). Rock fishing safety tips. Sydney: Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW Inc.
Retrieved from http://www.safefishing.com.au/Rock%20fishing.html
Mitchell, R., L. Ware and M. Bambach. (2012). Research Review of Rock Fishing in NSW: A TARS
Report for Surf Life Saving Australia. Sydney: University of New South Wales, Transport and
Road Safety Research.
Nathan Drew Memorial Trust (NDMT). (2012). NDMT for Coastal Safety. Albany: NDMT. Retrieved
from http://www.coastalsafety.com.au/
National Maritime Safety Committee (NMSC). (2012). Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs). Canberra:
NMSC. Retrieved from
http://www.nmsc.gov.au/recreational_boating/index.php?MID=82&COMID=1&CID=77
Phillips, M. (2011). Review of Coastal Rock Fishing Safety Endorsed Report. Perth: Department of
Environment and Conservation.
Royal Life Saving WA (RLSWA). (2012). Fishing safety. Perth: RLSWA. Retrieved from
http://www.lifesavingwa.com.au/community/fishing-safety/
Surf Life Saving Western Australia (SLSWA). (2012). Fishermen urged to take care in the wake of
another drowning. Perth: SLSWA. Retrieved from http://www.mybeach.com.au/node/1412
24
9.0 APPENDIX
Appendix 1: Stakeholder Survey
Key personal safety messages
1. Rate what you perceive to be the effectiveness of this rock fishing safety strategy.
2. What improvements do you believe could be made to this strategy?
3. What do you believe are the strengths of this strategy?
4. What do you believe are the limitations of this strategy?
Website
Public information evenings or workshops
Multilingual material and advertising
Brochures
17. Rate what you perceive to be the effectiveness of this rock fishing safety strategy?
DVDs and videos
Dangerous conditions alert system
Angel rings
Anchor points
25
Silent sentries
Publicly available equipment
26

Rock Fishing Safety Strategy for Western Australia

Transcription

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