Emergency radio network bolstered ahead of boating season

Sunday 4 October 2026

A $1 million upgrade of the Very High Frequency (VHF) radio repeater network is now complete, improving critical distress and communications coverage for South Australian recreational and commercial operators alike.

The network serves as the primary distress and safety communications system for boaties and plays a critical role in supporting emergency responses when assistance is needed on the water.

Hardware has been upgraded at key VHF monitoring locations, with new equipment installed at Outer Harbor, Semaphore and West Beach.

This investment comes as authorities prepare for activity on South Australian waterways to increase in the build up to summer, with the recreational boating season officially launching this weekend.

While the upgraded network provides an important safety net for those on the water, boaties are reminded that technology alone cannot prevent life-threatening or fatal incidents.

Marine Safety Officers are urging people to carry all required safety equipment including compliant and serviced lifejackets. Flares, torches, fire extinguishers and other safety gear should also be checked before heading out this summer.

More than 2,200 vessels have been inspected by Marine Safety Officers in the past 12 months, either at boat ramps or on the water.

Failing to carry of wear a lifejacket accounted for 21 per cent of expiations issued during this period, while more than a third of inspected vessels were non-compliant.

Failing to carry or wear a lifejacket carries a maximum penalty of $1,250.

Twenty-one people have tragically drowned while boating on South Australian waters in the past five years.

Channels 16 and 67 provide a 24-hour safety net, using now-upgraded radio equipment located at 14 South Australian Government Radio Network, Telstra and Ampitel sites across the state.

For more information on marine radio visit: marinesafety.sa.gov.au/your-safety-and-operations/marine-radio.

For more information on lifejackets visit: marinesafety.sa.gov.au/which_lifejacket_do_you_need.