Teenagers leap from Wollaston Bridge into the Merri River to escape Monday's extreme heat.
AN age-old combination of hot weather, youthful bravado and the need to cool off is causing ripples with authorities.
Young people jumping off Warrnambool’s Wollaston Bridge and breakwater have again been warned of the dangers of their antics.
A Standard photographer drove past the historic bridge on Monday as a few daring divers were leaping into the Merri River. City mayor Michael Neoh said council did not condone jumping off bridges or the breakwater. He said there were warning signs at both locations and fines of $282 could be imposed.
“There could be hidden hazards in the river and a build-up of sand at the harbour,” Cr Neoh said.
“It’s an important safety issue.”
Earlier this month Cr Peter Hulin said he was worried that teenagers using the roadway to get a run-up for their dives could be hit by a car or possibly strike submerged objects.
He again called for diving boards to be reinstated at the AquaZone swimming complex, saying they would give teenagers somewhere safe and legal to dive.
However, Cr Neoh said yesterday people still jumped off the bridge and breakwater when the diving boards were in use.
“It’s been going on for generations,” he said.
pcollins@fairfaxmedia.com.au
