Shellharbour lifeguard patrols start this weekend
Shellharbour's aquatic season officially kicks off this Saturday, 28 September, with safety top of mind for the 2024 - 2025 summer.
Mayor Chris Homer said, "Council's aquatics team have been working hard to prepare the city's local beaches and pools for what is expected to be a hot summer."
Shellharbour's aquatic season will begin with patrols 7 days a week at Shellharbour North and Warilla Central beaches, from 9:30am to 5:00pm. The Beverley Whitfield Pool will be patrolled on weekends from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and will increase to daily operations during the Spring and Summer school holidays.
Caption: Marc Andrews & Sean Ritter, Lifeguards on patrol at Warilla North Beach. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Beach patrols and pool hours will increase during the busy summer period, including across the Christmas school holidays. The community is encouraged to check Council's website or follow social media for updates.
Oak Flats Pool will open 7 days a week from Saturday, 28 September. As in previous years, Albion Park and Warilla swimming pools will open in late October.
Mayor Homer, an avid surfer and beachgoer, is looking forward to the warmer days ahead. "With a hot summer coming, we expect to see large crowds headed to the water. Even experienced swimmers need to be cautious. I encourage everyone to read safety signs, swim between the red and yellow flags, and stay sun safe."
Extensive preparation has been done to ensure a smooth season. Last year, lifeguards supervised 411,200 beachgoers and 238,403 pool visitors, performing 77 rescues, a decrease from 117 the previous season.
Council lifeguards were also involved in 14 emergency incidents coordinated by the State Operations Centre alongside other emergency services.
"We have a dedicated team of Council lifeguards and weekend volunteer lifesavers who will be keeping our beaches and pools safe." said Mayor Homer. "We've focused on prevention this year to continue reducing the number of rescues, so everyone can enjoy the water safely."
