On-water deaths have increased by almost 60 per cent in the past decade, sparking warnings from authorities for skippers to take extra care and plan ahead.

According to the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure the number of annual on-water deaths increased to 7.3 across the last 10 years, up from the previous ten-year average of 4.6.

Weather was a significant factor in the rise in deaths, with more skippers heading out when conditions were too rough.

The rise has prompted authorities to launch an awareness campaign on being aware of conditions.

DTMI waterways safety management director Graeme Meinema said skippers should be aware of the conditions before they head out to sea.

“There has been a concerning increase in capsize incidents, growing from 15 in 2022-23 to 31 in 20

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