Old4New Lifejacket Upgrade now available for Geraldton boaties

Geraldton boaters can now upgrade their old lifejackets to a modern self-inflating lifejacket after a new pick-up location for Royal Life Saving WA's Old4New program was established at the Geraldton Yacht Club.

The Old4New lifejacket upgrade program encourages boaters to make the move to a safer lifejacket through a trade-in scheme allowing people to surrender their old or damaged lifejacket for a new 'Crewsaver' self-inflating, slim-fitting version at a discounted price.

The Mid West region has the highest rate of drowning in Western Australia with half of drowning deaths occurring while fishing and/or boating. In the majority of incidents, people were not wearing a lifejacket at the time.

It is hoped that by offering access to affordable modern lifejackets, boaters will be more likely to wear them while on the water to prevent drowning tragedies from occurring.

Jen Mickle, Program Coordinator at Royal Life Saving WA says “Many people are out on boats off the WA coastline every weekend. However, too many boaters are not wearing lifejackets placing them at higher risk of drowning. We have seen several boaters rescued off our coastline over the past few months so the time to act is now.”

Commodore John Gunnery from the Geraldton Yacht Club Committee is looking forward to working with Royal Life Saving WA to introduce the Old4New program into Geraldton to improve safety for local boaters.

“Geraldton Yacht Club is proud to be working with Royal Life Saving WA on the Old4New Lifejacket exchange. I believe this is a brilliant incentive to promote the importance of always wearing lifejackets while boating. The new self-inflating, slim-fitting life jacket will be safer and easier for people to use.”

The Old4New program was first launched in 2016 and since then has upgraded almost 3,000 lifejackets, making boaters and fishers safer when out on the water.

Upgrades are offered by appointment only. If you are interested in upgrading your lifejacket, get in touch with our team on 9383 8200 or via old4new@royallifesavingwa.com.au to book an appointment.

More information about the Old4New program can be found at the link below.