The Northern Beaches now leads the State in coastal drownings at unpatrolled beaches—a statistic we are determined to reduce this summer.
According to the Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) National Coastal Safety Report 2024 of the 61 drownings in New South Wales between 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, 9 were on the Northern Beaches from activities including swimming and surfing, boating and other coastal recreation activities.
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said we need to ensure no more lives are needlessly lost along our coastline.
“Our beautiful coast and beaches are part of everyday life for many, with 85% of the Australian population living withing 50km of the coast.
“People should be able to go to the beach have a great day and return safely to their families.
“Unfortunately, the statistics don’t lie. The Northern Beaches has one of the largest numbers of beaches patrolled in NSW and therefore the highest visitation rates; however, one in three Australians visit unpatrolled beaches where hazardous conditions and lower perceived risk increase the chances of drowning. These number could have been much higher without the enormous effort of surf lifesavers and lifeguards.
“Surf Life Saving Australia volunteers and Council lifeguards are dedicated to creating a safe environment for beachgoers and are critical first responders in emergencies; however, people need to be aware of the inherent risks associated with water and know their capability.
“At all times, both locals and visitors need to listen to the directions of lifeguards, swim at patrolled beaches between the flags, read safety signs or simply ask a lifeguard if you’re not sure about anything.” Mayor Heins said.
From picturesque Palm Beach to busy and beautiful Manly, Northern Beaches has 24 incredible ocean beaches of which Council’s professional lifeguards share the immense responsibility of keeping our beaches safe with volunteers from 21 Surf Life Saving Clubs.
Last year over 13 million people visited our stunning local beaches. Lifeguards and lifesavers carried out over 2,000 rescues and attended to 7,364 first aid cases.
Northern Beaches Council also has 90 rescue tubes or flotation devices and 12 rescue boards which are available for community use – never go to anyone’s aid unless you’re a confident swimmer and have a flotation device.
This year, 7 Emergency Response Beacons were also installed at know black spots across the Beaches. Installed and operated by Surf Life Saving New South Wales (SLSNSW), the solar powered beacons work by using the latest mobile technology so anyone can contact emergency services if there is an incident at the beach.
Our top beach safe tips:
- Swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach, and if you are unsure, ask a lifesaver or lifeguard
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
Visit our website for more information on beach safety.