Flags fly as Surf Life Saving patrols begin
The red and yellow is back on NSW beaches with more than 20,000 surf life saving volunteers ready to welcome beachgoers as the official patrol season begins.
Nationals Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke has joined Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) President George Shales and volunteer lifesavers at Bondi Beach to raise the red and yellow flags for the first time this season.
Ms Cooke said $1 million worth of SLSNSW jet skis and support operations vehicles will be rolled out across the state to better support the work of volunteers.
“The addition of 11 jet skis and 11 fully kitted out support vehicles will further enhance the ability of our lifesavers to respond to emergencies in the water and help people when they get into trouble,” Ms Cooke said.
“Our lifesavers from the 129 clubs up and down the NSW coastline are looking forward to being on patrol every weekend and public holiday between now and Anzac Day in April.”
Mr Shales said despite a third consecutive La Nina being declared, large crowds are expected at beaches throughout spring and summer.
“We had a very wet year last season but beachgoers need to remain vigilant after a record 55 lives were lost in the 12 months to June 2022,” Mr Shales said.
“We’re ready to help if you get into trouble but we need to work together to keep our beaches and coastal waterways safe for all to enjoy.”
Patrolled beach locations, patrol times and live weather updates are available on the BeachSafe app or www.beachsafe.org.au
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