Independent investigators in New South Wales have recommended a permanent ban on high-speed waterski racing on river courses and a speed limit for other courses, following a safety review initiated after multiple fatalities in 2024. Concurrently, Ski Racing Australia (SRA), the national governing body, has suspended all its racing events and is addressing an unsanctioned event proposed in South Australia, which has raised further safety and regulatory concerns.
New South Wales Investigation Findings
New South Wales Maritime initiated a safety investigation after four waterskiing deaths occurred in 2024. Two independent investigators have since submitted eight recommendations to Transport for NSW concerning the future of competitive waterskiing.
The investigation reviewed all waterskiing incidents on NSW waters, including the Murray River, since 2006. Key data from the report includes:
- 13 deaths and 116 serious injuries recorded since 2006.
- 12 of the 13 fatalities occurred on rivers during point-to-point races.
- Each fatal fall happened at speeds of 125 km/h or higher; top competitors can reach speeds up to 190 km/h. The report noted that the odds of a skier being fatally injured were "thirteen times greater than not being fatally injured" at speeds exceeding 125km/h.
The investigation's scope covered factors such as speed, waterway and course types, race classes, injury types, and the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE). Key findings included:
- Significant under-reporting of serious injury incidents to the regulator.
- Traumatic brain injuries, cervical spine injuries, and head injuries were identified as primary causes of waterskier deaths.
- Proposed improvements to personal protective equipment were deemed unlikely to significantly minimize fatal and serious injuries.
- Life jackets used in the sport were found not fit for purpose.
- Waterskier helmets were not designed to any specific standard.
Investigators identified a link between river courses and fatalities, noting that rivers present additional hazards such as debris and riverbanks, which were not considered mitigable by speed reduction alone. The report recommends a speed limit of 110 km/h for lake or circuit courses and a ban on ski races on river courses.
National Sport Suspension and Future Measures
Ski Racing Australia (SRA) suspended all its racing events nationwide in June 2024, following four participant deaths within a 12-month period. Geoff Thomson, a consultant for Ski Racing Australia, described the safety review's findings as "reasonably fair" and emphasized the sport's responsibility to enhance safety. SRA plans to hold member forums to discuss the sport's future in light of the recommendations and ongoing safety concerns.
Unsanctioned Event in South Australia
Amidst the national suspension, an event proposed by Riverland Water Ski Racing SA at Lake Bonney in South Australia's Riverland region has drawn scrutiny. The event, promoted on Facebook in early December, includes 17 races, with some classes potentially reaching speeds of up to 144 km/h.
Graeme Stegmeyer, SRA's SA branch chair, stated that the Riverland event has no affiliation with SRA and has not been sanctioned. He requested that organizers remove any reference to Ski Racing SA.
Regulatory bodies have also raised concerns:
- The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) SA reported no contact from the event organizers and confirmed no approval for an aquatic activity licence has been provided. DIT requires such a licence for exclusive waterway use, with applications needed at least four weeks prior.
- Berri Barmera Council chief executive Tim Pfeiffer indicated that while the land-based portion of the event might align with council plans, the council is not responsible for on-water safety or granting an aquatic activity licence.
Riverland Water Ski Racing SA's participation declaration noted "limited insurances in place for both personal injury and public liability," further stating, "These insurances WILL NOT provide full indemnity and MAY NOT provide partial indemnity." Riverland Water Ski Racing SA did not respond to requests for comment regarding DIT's claims and event approvals.
Industry and Community Reactions
The recommendations have elicited varied responses from the waterskiing community.
- Former competitive waterskier Leo Welch, whose son died in a 2015 waterskiing fall, expressed disappointment at a blanket ban, advocating for river racing to continue and highlighting the economic impact on river communities that host popular events.
- Moama Water Sports Club president Steve Shipp stated that keeping competitive skiers off the water during the investigation has resulted in significant financial losses for communities. He also raised concerns that investigators did not directly consult with clubs regarding fatalities.
- Mildura Ski Club president Brandan McGlynn indicated that the club is exploring options to remain viable while adhering to the recommendations.