We, the undersigned, respectfully call on local councils and relevant authorities to impose an immediate ban on jet skis at Bumbora Point, Molineaux Point Beach (commonly known as Dog Beach), and Yarra Bay Beach. These areas are unsuitable for jet ski use due to safety concerns, environmental impact, and the unique nature of these small shorelines.

 

Reasons for the Ban

 1. Safety Risks to Swimmers, Children, and Divers

These beaches are popular with families, dog walkers, and divers who rely on the calm and safe environment to enjoy recreational activities. The small and shallow shorelines at Bumbora Point, Dog Beach, and Yarra Bay cannot safely accommodate high-speed jet skis alongside swimmers, children, and divers.

Divers, in particular, are at great risk as they are often underwater and cannot easily see or avoid jet skis. The unpredictable speeds and erratic movements of jet skis pose a significant danger, creating an unsafe environment for everyone using the water.

 2. Unsuitable for Shared Use

The limited shoreline and compact water space at these beaches make them inappropriate for motorized watercraft. Allowing jet skis in these areas forces non-motorized water users—including swimmers, children, and divers—to share the space with powerful, fast-moving machines, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

 3. Plenty of Alternative Areas for Jet Ski Use

There are numerous designated areas along the coast where jet skis can operate freely without interfering with other beachgoers, including Brighton-Le-Sands and other larger stretches of coastline. These areas are better suited for high-speed recreational activities like jet skiing and provide ample space for these vehicles to operate safely.

The unique and family-friendly nature of Bumbora Point, Dog Beach, and Yarra Bay Beach makes them inappropriate for jet ski activity, especially when there are more suitable locations available for this purpose.

 4. Existing Precedent: Yarra Bay Jet Ski Ban

Yarra Bay has already recognized the dangers posed by jet skis, and a ban has been successfully implemented to protect its users and environment. Extending this ban across neighboring beaches such as Bumbora Point and Dog Beach is a logical and consistent step to ensure a safer experience for all beachgoers.

 5. Environmental and Noise Pollution

Jet skis disrupt the tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere of these beaches with loud noise that affects local residents and visitors alike. They also harm marine ecosystems, particularly in shallow waters, by stirring up sediment and threatening local wildlife. Protecting these natural environments is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and serenity of the area.

 

Proposed Solution

 

We call on the relevant authorities to:

 1. Enforce a complete ban on jet skis at Bumbora Point, Dog Beach, and Yarra Bay Beach.

 2. Redirect jet ski users to alternative areas such as Brighton-Le-Sands and other suitable stretches of coastline that are better equipped to handle motorized watercraft.

 

Conclusion

 

The use of jet skis at Bumbora Point, Dog Beach, and Yarra Bay Beach creates an unsafe and unsuitable environment for families, children, divers, and other recreational users. These areas are cherished for their calm and peaceful nature, and allowing high-speed jet skis threatens their integrity and safety.

 

With plenty of designated areas for jet ski use elsewhere along the coast, including Brighton-Le-Sands, it is clear that these small beaches are not appropriate for this type of activity. A ban on jet skis will protect lives, preserve the environment, and maintain the peaceful character of these community spaces for generations to come.

 

Sign this petition to make a difference and protect our beaches!