Just got a kite?
The first thing you must do is get a lesson from a qualified instructor. There are things you must know and safety, weather, and right of way rules. If you have not had lessons and you try kitesurfing on your own you are putting yourself and others at great risk. Look at our map of Shops & Schools to find where lessons are available near you.
Kiteboarding NSW has partnered with Roads & Maritime to put together a safety campaign for all kitesurfers. Watch the video below and learn more on www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/safety-rules/campaigns/be-in-the-clear.html.
Conditions
Check the wind, currents, waves and tides
- Never kiteboard in offshore winds
- Keep the downwind area well clear
- Stay alert – conditions change quickly on the water.
Look
Look before you launch, land, jump or change direction
- Prevent risks to yourself and others by continuously observing:
- What other people are doing
- Where you are in relation to objects, structures and the land
- How these factors will affect your movements
- Avoid potential collisions in all circumstances.
Equipment
Use the right equipment and check it every time
- Wear an appropriate lifejacket:
- On open waters when more than 400 m from shore and kiteboarding alone a level 100+, 50 or 50s
- On alpine waters at all times level 100+, 50 or 50s
- On open waters and more than 400 m from shore when kiteboarding in company of another kiteboarder or support vessel a purpose designed kiteboard harness which has inherent floatation equivalent to a lifejacket level 50 or 50s lifejacket
- On enclosed waters when more than 400 m from shore a purpose designed kiteboard harness which has inherent floatation equivalent of a level 50 or 50s lifejacket
- For more information on lifejackets visit the Lifejacket – Wear it website.
- Use a kite leash and make sure anything you hook into is quick release
- The kite you are using must suit the conditions, your size and ability. If it is too large to launch safely, don’t
- Make sure the lines are uncrossed before you launch or you will have no control over your kite
- Always check your equipment before setting out
- Never exceed manufacturers’ specifications
- Practise safety systems so they become instinctive.
Attitude
Seek and listen to local advice
- Use your judgment to avoid dangerous situations; don’t rely on skill to try to get out of them
- Don’t exceed your limits
- Safety should be your first and utmost priority
- Never go out unprepared.
Respect
Respect people, the law and the environment
- Use care, courtesy and common sense when you interact with fellow kiteboarders and other beach and water users:
- Avoid irregular riding around other vessels
- When heading into shore, keep your lines clear of others and avoid sweeping your kite over the shoreline.
- Be aware of your legal safety requirements. This includes regulations on lifejackets, distance off and avoiding collisions
- Respect the beach and aquatic environment. Don’t litter. Leave the environment as you found it.
