Free clinics to help boaters with reversing

LOCAL recreational boaters are invited to brush up on their boat trailer reversing skills at a series of free clinics this spring.

Experts from the Victorian Fisheries Authority will be hosting reversing clinics at Geelong’s Limeburners Creek tomorrow (Saturday, August 10) and at Point Richards on October 13.

Tomorrow’s clinic will be held in conjunction with the Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating (WIRFAB) Network and is for women only.

The Point Richards session, however, will be open to all boaters.

Victorian Fisheries Authority chief executive officer Travis Dowling said the sessions would give boaters of all experience levels the chance to practise their skills.

“Backing down the ramp can be a challenge for boaters of all experience levels, so these clinics provide hands-on experience under the watchful eyes of experts,” Mr Dowling said.

“You’ll leave with practical tips and tricks to put into practice next time you hit the water so you can make a great start to a day fishing or boating.”

WIRFAB Network leader Amanda Keilar said the clinics had value for even the most experienced of boaters.

“I’ve been to a few of these sessions and I learn something new every time,” she said. “It’s a great way to build your confidence in reversing at the ramp so when it’s busy and you’ve got family and friends waiting to head out, you can launch quickly and safely, find a park and enjoy the day in the great outdoors.”

Booking for the sessions is essential.

To register, head to betterboating.vic.gov.au