Free first aid course for local surfers returns

Back by popular demand, surfers living the Shire of Augusta Margaret River are invited to enrol for a free, half-day board rescue, CPR and first aid training course in Gnarabup this November.

The Surfers Rescue 365 course, which is delivered by Surfing WA and provided funding support by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, aims to upskill members of the community to perform initial rescue and medical response in a coastal environment.

Shire Recreation Operations Manager Dylan Brown said while the highly-valued beach lifeguard service would continue at Rivermouth in Margaret River this summer, the Surfers Rescue 365 program will help to provide opportunity for year-round first response at unmonitored beaches.

“We are fortunate to live in a place where we have access to beautiful and vast stretches of coastline, but unfortunately accidents and injuries can happen at these locations,” he said.

“We know that first few minutes of response are the most critical in ensuring favourable outcomes for people who experience trauma or illness.

“This program will provide some of the most frequent water users with the skills to save lives and minimise impact for patients until further emergency response help can get there.”

Program details are: Date: Saturday 23 November 2019 Time: 9am – 12pm Place: Gnarabup Beach Register: surfersrescue365.com.au/register/  until places book out

“I encourage all local surfers to make the most of this free opportunity,” Mr Brown said.

“As well as positioning you to help our community members and our visitors, it helps protect yourself in the event you are faced with a precarious circumstances to which you may need to respond.”