Flags went up last Saturday for the start of the 2020/21 patrolling season at beaches across the coast.
Clubs have been busy during the off season preparing for patrols in a new Covid safe environment. Our 8378 volunteer members have been working hard to ensure clubs can continue to provide the vigilant lifesaving service on the Central Coast, protecting community members visiting the beach.
To mark the official launch of the season, SLSCC held a small Covid safe event last week, inviting partners and sponsors to a ceremony at Wamberal beach.
Junior Lifesavers of the Year, Cale Puata and Brooke Gillett had the honour of officially putting the flags up, with the SLSCC Lifesaver of the Year Paul Dowdell assisting with the event.
Local federal members Lucy Wickes MP and Emma Mcbride MP gave an address, along with the Mayor of the Central Coast Council Lisa Matthews.
Newcastle Permanent’s Judy Arms also gave a speech, celebrating the important partnership the organisation has with Surf Life Saving Central Coast.
Other sponsors in attendance were Fortunity, Freemasons, Central Coast Leagues, Mingara Recreation Club, Streets, Good Gear, Hit 101.3 and Triple M.
“We are expecting a busy season with the current border restrictions in place and urge beach goers to follow the current social distancing guidelines of keeping 1.5m apart from non-household members and keeping group gatherings to 20.” said SLSCC President Stuart Harvey.
“Its great to see the start of the patrolling season happen.” he said. “Last year’s season was cut short due to Covid lockdowns and our members are keen to get back onto the beach, serving the community and doing what they love.”
Clubs across the coast are bracing themselves for a busy season. As the flags went up on Saturday morning, members were active and rescue ready.
“Our equipment has been serviced and maintained over the winter months. All our gear inspections are completed, with each club ready to go with a full roster of patrols for the next 6 months.” said Simon Cusack, Director of Lifesaving SLSCC.
“Our members have been training and preparing and our clubs education teams are already carrying out requals and proficiencies up and down the coast.”
Clubs are still accepting registrations of new and renewing members from nippers through to patrolling members. Club education teams are busy starting bronze medallion courses for anyone interested in gaining their surf lifesaving qualifications.
“Its great to see the red and yellow flags go up,’ said Stuart Harvey. ” Our messaging is simple. Always swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags and if you need assistance in the water, stay calm, float and raise your arm.”