Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) has launched its ‘Be a Lifesaver' campaign as the school holiday and festive season kicks off for the summer.
Surf lifesavers are urging beachgoers to make water safety a priority, not just for themselves but for their friends and families.
According to the organisation, all drownings across Queensland last year occurred outside of the red and yellow flags, sometimes as little as 200 metres from the patrolled location.
The launch of ‘Be a Lifesaver' comes after some busy weekends along the state’s coastline, with surf lifesavers and lifeguards urging beachgoers not to be complacent when it comes to beach safety.
SLSQ General Manager of Lifesaving and Education Peta Lawlor said they needed to reinforce the importance of staying safe during these busy periods.
“[We’re] going to experience great beachgoing weather which we want everyone to enjoy,” Peta said.
“But we also want everyone to do it safely by following basic beach safety tips and listening to the advice of lifeguards and surf lifesavers.”
Summer safety messages
- Swim only at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.
- Don’t take risks and look out for friends and family.
- Always supervise children in, on and around water.
- 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.
Bundaberg lifeguard services over the Christmas holidays
Moore Park
Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 9 am to 1 pm
Oaks Beach
Monday to Sunday 9 am to 5 pm
Nielsen Park Beach
Monday to Sunday 9 am to 5 pm
Kellys Beach
Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am to 6 pm
Elliott Heads
Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 9 am to 1 pm
Bundaberg Roving Service
Monday to Sunday 8.30 am to 6 pm
Bundaberg Surf Club Services
Moore Park Surf Life Saving Club
Saturday 1 pm to 5 pm
Sunday 8 am to 5 pm
Public holidays 8 am to 5 pm
Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club
Saturday 1 pm to 6 pm
Sunday 8 am to 5 pm
Public holidays 8 am to 5 pm
Elliott Heads Surf Life Saving Club
Saturday 1 pm to 5 pm
Sunday 8 am to 5 pm
Public holidays 8 am to 5 pm
