A fleet of 26 new rescue jet skis will be patrolling beaches across New South Wales this summer, following a record investment from the Minns Labor Government in Surf Life Saving NSW.
With the warmer months approaching, which will see increased swimmers across New South Wales beaches, the Government is delivering on its commitment to boost community safety and surveillance at beaches across the state.
This jet ski boost brings the state’s fleet up to 56, ensuring rapid responses to emergencies across New Sout Wales beaches all year round.
They will be delivered ahead of the volunteer patrol season commencing on 27 September, with communities set to benefit including:
- Illawarra and South Coast: Bulli, Stanwell Park, Kiama/Kiama Downs, Gerringong, Broulee, Batemans Bay, Pambula
- Mid and North Coast: Lennox Head, Kingscliff, Kempsey, Crescent Head, Urunga, Crowdy Head, Fingal Rovers, Sawtell
- Newcastle and Central Coast: Newcastle Harbour, Umina, Mereweather, Toowoon Bay
- Sydney: Newport, Cronulla, Warriewood, Palm Beach, Bilgola, Malabar
Last year jet skis were used in 206 rescues performed by volunteer lifesavers, saving critical time in emergency incidents.
Further, the new Emergency Response Beacons (ERBs) backed up by drones will keep regular patrols across our states beaches no matter the weather.
When the current rollout is complete, there will be 64 ERBs in operation, following recent installations on the South Coast at Racecourse Beach, Tabourie Creek, and The Farm at Killalea State Park. Further units are planned for installation in the Illawarra, Sydney, the Far South Coast, and the North Coast.
The Minns Labor Government is working to build a better New South Wales and is making meaningful investments to boost the capacity of Surf Life Saving NSW, and the safety of our beaches.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“Our investment in jet skis and Emergency Response Beacons means lifesaving services are within reach all year round, including during the cooler winter months when regular patrols wind down.”
“Eagle-eyed beachgoers on the South Coast may notice new beacons at Racecourse Beach, Tabourie Creek and The Farm at Killalea State Park.”
“They are just the latest of the 58 beacons now delivered across NSW, with more due to be installed soon.”
“Jet skis are another critical part of our coastal safety network. Fast, agile and highly effective in surf conditions, they allow lifesavers to get people out of trouble quickly.”
“Our record investment in technology and equipment is a welcome boost for our volunteers who will soon hit the beaches and I would encourage anyone who wants to be involved in surf life saving to contact their closest surf club.”
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said:
”Our volunteers have continued to respond to emergency callouts throughout winter, highlighting the commitment of our members to protecting lives along the coast, whenever and wherever we’re needed.”
“The support of the NSW Government to provide funding for rescue equipment is vital to ensure the safety of both the public and our volunteers.”
Katelin McInernery, Labor Candidate for Kiama:
“As someone who has volunteered for the Kiama Downs Surf Lifesaving Club, and the mum of a little boy learning to swim, I could not be more thrilled about this announcement.
“We are lucky to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world right in our back yard and it is vital that Government’s do everything they can to ensure families and communities can enjoy them safely.
“I am very grateful to our local volunteers who do this important, dangerous work to keep our community safe.”
For beach information, including safety tips, patrolled beaches and the location of ERBs, visit: www.surflifesaving.com.au or download the Beachsafe app.
