NSW BEACHES are being hammered by strong surf and wild weather, with volunteer surf lifesavers and lifeguards hoping that rock fishers heed their warnings and take extreme caution if planning to visit the coastline this week.
At the time of writing, a Hazardous Surf Warning is currently in place for the state’s northernmost border all the way down to Sydney, and is expected to remain in place for several days.
It comes as areas of the Hunter and Mid North Coast regions are experiencing flash flooding and heavy rainfall.
Surf Life Saving assets including flood rescue equipment and trained volunteers are ready to deploy to support the NSW SES and the community in key locations across NSW.
Widespread coastal erosion as a result of the swells will likely delay the launch of rescue craft if it is required.
As the volunteer lifesaving patrol season finished at the end of April, and only some NSW locations are patrolled by Australian Lifeguard Service lifeguards over winter, the message is clear – if a beach is closed or the conditions appear treacherous, stay out of the water.
This safety message is also imperative for rock fishers, with rock platforms of particular concern while the swell is large.
Since 1 July 2024 in NSW, there have been 49 coastal drownings.
“What we’re seeing across many of our beaches is really quite dangerous surf conditions that have the potential to cause the public harm if they’re not cautious,” SLSNSW CEO Steve Pearce said.
“Almost exactly a month ago over the Easter long weekend we had a horror few days where six coastal drownings were all a result of people being washed off rock platforms.
“Please, whatever you do, follow the advice of our lifesavers and lifeguards this week if you’re planning a trip to the beach.
“Check BeachSafe before you visit the coastline and do not go in the water if the beach is closed. If you’re planning to rock fish, do your research prior to leaving and always wear a lifejacket.”
