Marchant encourages patience at St Leonards Boat Ramp

BELLARINE MP Alison Marchant is asking St Leonards boat ramp users to exhibit tolerance and patience amid reports of “undesirable behaviour” at the popular site.

People are allegedly getting too close to seals resting on the boat ramp jetty.

According to regulations, people should always maintain a minimum distance on land of 30 metres between them and a seal, 50 metres if you are walking dogs, and 5 metres on a jetty or pier.

Local authorities have moved to rope off the area where the seal is resting and are urging people to keep their distance.

Ms Marchant said everyone must respect wildlife rules and show patience until the seal moves on and returns to the bay.

“Many people have enjoyed seeing our wildlife on our shores, but as a reminder to locals and visitors, there is legislation and protection around seals.

“As protected wildlife, it is an offence to willfully injure, disturb, chase or herd seals, or to feed any marine mammal, and carries a fine of up to $3,846.

“I acknowledge that this ramp is exposed to all weather conditions and things can change quickly, so as boaters prepare to go out, they must put safety first.”

Seals are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Wildlife (Marine Mammal) Regulations 2019.

I urge boaters to be safe, so everyone can enjoy the water and fishing on the Bellarine,” Ms Marchant said.

Witnesses to people or their dogs getting too close to seals can phone Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.

Those worried about a seal’s condition can contact the Marine Response Unit on 1300 245 678.