For more than 51 years, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service has been keeping Australians safe along our coastlines, waterways, mountain and alpine regions through to the bush. Ahead of another unpredictable summer season, Westpac and the Service are encouraging Aussies to plan ahead and put safety first when enjoying the great Australian outdoors.
Westpac and the Service are teaming up with Penrith local and NRL star Jarome Luai to help spread this important message. Luai experienced first-hand how quickly things can go wrong in the water - even for elite athletes - in an incident in Western Sydney earlier in 2024.
Jarome Luai said, "My experience earlier this year is a reminder of the dangers around water, no matter who you are. It was eye-opening and I'm so grateful to the team who stepped in to help. I hope no one has to go through an experience like that, especially if you're at the beach or in a river where a lifesaver might not be around.
"Young people and families sometimes think it might never happen to us, but things in the water can be unpredictable no matter where you are, and especially if you're not familiar with the water like me. I just want anyone heading out on the water to think safety first. Hopefully you never have to see the Westpac Chopper but it's great to know they're there when you need them", continued Luai.
Recent statistics from the National Drowning Report1 show people aged 15-24 years reported a drowning rate last year which was at a 16% increase compared to the 10 year average, and 25% were born overseas.
And while 46% of drownings occurred in coastal locations, 34% were at inland waterways - showing that the need for water safety education is important no matter where you live and recreate.
Shane Daw, General Manager Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service, Southern NSW said, "We're lucky to live in Sydney - the best city in the world for access to waterways and beaches. But sadly, every year we see too many people getting into trouble in the water because they haven't considered their safety.
"Unfortunately, we're also seeing an increase in the numbers of drowning fatalities in younger age groups, people who were born overseas, and those who live in suburbs some distance away from water. Confidence is no replacement for safety, and we want to get that message out to everyone ahead of what will be another busy season," continued Mr Daw.
Diana Diab, State General Manager at Westpac said, "We're incredibly proud of our partnership with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Services across the country. They're a symbol of hope and safety in the sky, with more than 100,000 missions performed, and thanks to our support of the Services, no one has ever had to pay to be rescued.
"Ultimately, we'd love it if no one ever needed to be rescued full stop, and we can all play a role in staying as safe as possible by always thinking ahead before we enter the water, particularly if you're enjoying the beach with your kids this summer," continued Diana Diab.
Surf Life Saving Australia advises people heading to the water this summer:
- Always supervise children in, or around water
- Learn swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills
- Wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing or paddling
- Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
- Avoid alcohol and drugs around water
- Check the conditions, including weather forecasts
- Know your limits
More water safety tips and information can be found at https://beachsafe.org.au/surf-safety
1. National Drowning Report: Royal Life Saving Society - Australia & Surf Life Saving Australia 2024
