Boat and jet ski operators will be tested for drugs across Victoria in a major trial this summer.
The trial will see tests conducted at boat ramps statewide. Key locations include Patterson River, Williamstown, St Kilda and Lake Eildon. It will be the first time members of the Water Police Squad have conducted drug testing.
Tests will be conducted between November and March, with the first operation scheduled for 20 November.
Operators found with illicit drugs such as methamphetamines, MDMA or cannabis in their system will have their marine licence cancelled for three months and face a fine of up to $2180. Water police can also ban them from driving a motor vehicle for up to 24 hours.
The drug testing trial is the result of more than a year’s planning involving Victoria Police’s Water Police Squad and Road Policing Command. Victoria was one of the first jurisdictions in the world to introduce roadside drug testing, with the trial a major step towards greater safety on waterways. An evaluation will be completed mid next year. Testing could become permanent if the trial is successful.
Police have had power to drug test boat and jet ski operators for several years however it is the first time water police have conducted testing. A preliminary oral fluid test will be conducted with a secondary sample sent to a lab for analysis, mirroring the existing system for roadside drug tests.
Water police already test vessel operators for alcohol.
Quotes attributable to Inspector Greg Barras, Water Police Squad:
“Boat and jet ski operators with illicit drugs in their system are not only a risk to themselves but to all water users.
“This trial sends a clear message – this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.
“Water police will be out at boat ramps across the state this summer testing for drugs so there’s a high chance we’ll be at one near you.
“The penalties for anyone caught are severe and you may well find your ability to drive a motor vehicle sunk too.”
Quotes attributable to Inspector Brenda Bagally, Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section:
“Drugs are a huge problem on Victoria’s roads and it’s a sad reality there will also be use among boat and jet ski operators.
“Road police provided their expertise in this trial because we know the trauma drugs cause on our roads and we don’t want the same tragedies playing out on our waterways.
“Be it on land or water, drugs impair judgement, slow reaction times and increase risk-taking behaviour. That’s why this trial is so important.”
