Police were out in force during an operation targeting water safety and anti-social behaviour in Altona on Friday 21 November.
Operation Horizon saw the Water Police Squad and Transit police team up with officers from the Public Order Response Team, Air Wing, Mounted Branch, Dog Squad and Road Policing to patrol the Altona area and ensure the community enjoyed the warmer weather safely.
Parks Victoria, the Victorian Fisheries Authority, Sheriff's Office and Safe Transport Victoria joined the operation.
Overall, police were pleased with the public's behaviour issuing 11 penalty infringement notices.
One vehicle driver returned a blood alcohol content above the legal limit while another tested positive for drugs.
Three people were caught without licences, two of them driving vehicles and the other a boat.
Three notices were issued for defective vehicles.
Police also conducted 541 preliminary breath tests and 163 preliminary oral fluid tests during the operation.
The Sherriff's Office collected more than $92,000 in outstanding fine payments.
Police will continue to have a significant presence around waterways as summer heats up.
For more information about staying safe around water, visit https://www.police.vic.gov.au/water-safety
Quotes Attributable to Water Police Squad Acting Sergeant Lauren Foley:
"The operation was all about ensuring anyone heading out on the water did so safely.
"With summer around the corner and boating season upon us, we wanted to get on the front foot of marine safety.
"The waterways are a shared space.
"Be aware of those around you, respect their safety and adhere to restrictions such as no boating zones and speed restrictions.
"We will continue to have a highly visible presence across summer, but we cannot be everywhere at once.
"That's why we're asking vessel operators to take responsibility for their own behaviour and safety.
"It's important to let someone know when you're heading out on the water and when you've returned.
"The last thing we want to see is a fun day out on the water ending in tragedy.
"All it takes is a split second.
