Call to keep jet skis away from Inverloch Esplanade

BASS Coast Shire Council candidate and Greens representative Mat Morgan expressed his support for a ban on jet skis from the Inverloch Esplanade.

While stating that safeguarding the coastal environment is a key priority for the local community, Mat also highlighted the risk jet skis pose to others in the water.

“Families should be able to enjoy the beach and swim without worrying about jet skis; they’re dangerous, noisy and pollute the water running into Screw Creek,” he said.

Mat stressed he is not proposing a complete ban on jet skis on the Bass Coast, suggesting using the new boat ramp at Mahers Landing instead.

“It’s clearly more appropriate for jet skis to operate at Mahers Landing, away from the swimming areas,” he said.

The candidate, who has previously run for the Federal seat of Monash and for a State seat in the Eastern Victoria Region, plans to visit 5000 homes in the Bunurong Ward before October’s council election.

During his engagement so far with Inverloch residents, Mat has heard concerns about coastal erosion, tourists damaging delicate sand dunes, and dog owners allowing their pets off leash near hooded plover nests.

As for the jet skis, he recalls multiple accounts of near misses between jet skis and swimmers and doesn’t want to see anyone hurt this summer.