Did you know that proper care of your lifejacket can make all the difference in an emergency? That’s why TfNSW Boating Education Officers are hosting free lifejacket care and self-service workshops across NSW.
These hands-on sessions are the perfect opportunity to learn how to keep your lifejacket ready, ensuring it’s good to go when you need it most.
What You’ll Learn in the Workshops to Boost Safety
The workshops are designed for all boaters, whether you’re new to the water or a seasoned sailor. Topics covered include:
- Maintenance tips for all types of lifejackets
- How to self-service inflatable lifejackets
- Identifying and addressing common issues
You’ll leave with practical skills and a greater understanding of how to prolong the life of your lifejacket.
Updated Schedule Online
The schedule of workshop dates, times, and locations has been updated. To find a session near you, visit Lifejacket Care and Service Program.
Or scroll down for the 2025 schedule.
Top Tips for Maintaining Your Lifejacket
Here are five essential tips to ensure your lifejacket stays in excellent condition:
- Rinse After Use: Saltwater and dirt can degrade your lifejacket over time. Rinse it thoroughly with fresh water after every use and let it dry completely before storing it out of the sun.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for wear and tear, such as frayed straps or broken buckles. For inflatable lifejackets, inspect the inflation mechanism and replace any expired components.
- Store Properly: Keep your lifejacket in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and chemicals. Avoid compressing it, as this can damage its buoyancy.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Every lifejacket is different. Follow the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer, especially for inflatable jackets.
- Attend a Workshop: Learning from the experts is the best way to ensure your lifejacket is always ready. Take your jacke to one of the workshops for a personalised assessment and hands-on guidance.
Stay Safe on the Water
A well-maintained lifejacket is an essential part of your safety gear. Whether you’re cruising, fishing, or sailing, taking care of your lifejacket ensures it will take care of you in return.
Don’t miss this chance to learn valuable skills and keep your safety gear in top shape. Find a workshop near you and make your next trip on the water even safer!
| January, 2025 | |||
| Wednesday 8 January, 2025 | 10am – 2pm | Lake Glenbawn | Near the Kiosk, Lake Glenbawn, 2337 |
| Saturday 11 January, 2025 | 8am – 12pm | Lake Keepit | Lake Keepit Family Fishing Club, Keepit Dam Road, 2340 |
| Sunday 12 January, 2025 | 8am – 12pm | Copeton Dam | Copeton Waters Holiday and Caravan Park, 353 Copeton Dam Road, Copeton, 2360 |
| Sunday 12 January 2025 | 7am – 1pm | Roseville | Davidson Park Boat Ramp, off Warringah Road, Forestville, 2087 |
| Sunday 12 January, 2025 | 12pm – 3pm | Greenwell Point | Greenwell Point Boat Ramp, Adelaide Road, Greenwell Point, 2540 |
| Thursday 16 January, 2025 | 11am – 3pm | South West Rocks | Matty’s Flat Boat Ramp, Lot 303, New Entrance Road, South West Rocks, 2431 |
| Friday 17 January, 2025 |
11am – 3pm | Port Kembla | Port Kembla Boat Ramp Wash Down Area, Foreshore Road, Port Kembla, 2505 |
| Friday 17 January, 2025 | 9am – 11am | Bermagui | Bermagui Boat Launching Facility, Posidonia Esplanade, Bermagui, 2546 |
| Saturday 18 January, 2025 | 8am – 12pm | Port Macquarie | Wesport Boat Ramp, Park Street, Port Macquarie, 2444 |
| Saturday 18 January, 2025 | 9am – 1pm | Windsor | Governor Phillip Park Boat Ramp, George Street, Windsor, 2756 |
| Saturday 18 January, 2025 | 9am – 11am | Tathra | Kianinny Boat Ramp, Kianinny Street, Tathra, 2550 |
| Sunday 19 January, 2025 | 8am – 11am | Jamisontown | Tench Reserve Boat Ramp, Tench Reserve, Tench Avenue, Jamisontown, 2750 |
| Friday 24 January, 2025 | 2pm-5pm | Forster | Forster Harbour Boat Ramp, Dolphin Drive, Forster, 2428 |
| Saturday 25 January, 2025 | 10am – 2pm | Blacksmiths | Blacksmiths Boat Ramp, Ungala Road, Blacksmiths, 2281 |
| February, 2025 | |||
| Saturday 1 February 2025 | 9am – 11am | Tuross Head | Tuross Head Boat Ramp, Foam Street, Tuross Head, 2537 |
| Sunday 2 February, 2025 | 10am – 12pm | Eden | Quarantine Bay Boat Ramp, Quarantine Bay Road, Eden, 2551 |