During the busy summer season, Shellharbour City Council want to encourage our community and visitors to have a fun time, but also a safe time across the city, beaches, parks and waterways.
Caption: Shellharbour City Council lifeguards will be on high alert this summer. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Remember to Swim Between the Flags
Shellharbour has a number of wonderful local swimming spots that members of the community and tourists alike should take advantage of. However, doing so at patrolled beaches and swimming between the flags is paramount for safety to residents.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer has seen all the dangers of the beach first-hand with his past experience as a lifeguard.
"With approximately 170,000 beach goers visiting our beaches here in Shellharbour last Christmas holidays, lifeguards will be on high alert all summer," Mayor Homer said.
"Swimming between the flags and at patrolled beaches makes it easier to keep everyone safe"
Warilla North, Warilla Central, Warilla South, Blacks Beach, Shellharbour North, and Shellharbour South will be patrolled seven days a week for the Christmas holiday period (21 December 2024 - 31 January 2025) between 9am and 5pm.
"Whilst The Farm, Killalea is in the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) jurisdiction, so please be especially cautious when swimming there as it is not a patrolled beach,' warned Mayor Homer.
Total Fire Ban For public safety, Blackbutt and Bass Point reserves are closed during total fire bans. A total fire ban helps limit the potential of fires developing.
Download the 'Fires Near Me' app to find out more information. Bushfire smoke is also a public health consideration in summer, so it is important to remember to keep cool and hydrated as best as you can.
Bushfire smoke can affect your health. It can also make some people's existing health conditions worse. Learn how to protect yourself from smoke by visiting NSW Health.
Camping and Parking
Council Regulation Officers will be conducting regular patrols across heavy traffic areas including Bass Point Reserve, Shellharbour Village, and Reddall Reserve during the Christmas and holiday period.
Officers will also be ensuring visitors to the city comply with parking regulations. Camping is not permitted, and fines may apply.
Beat the Heat
Stay cool and well hydrated this summer, during extreme heat. With more frequent heat waves, it is important to stay sheltered and protected from risk. Check on loved ones, especially the elderly. Learn how to prepare for hot weather conditions, go to NSW Health.
