Australian Lifeguard Service back for summer

14 December 2020

The familiar red and yellow uniforms of the Australian Lifeguard Service will once again be a fixture on our beaches across the Shire this summer.

Their vital work at eight locations will be complemented by our brilliant volunteers from the Bermagui, Tathra and Pambula Surf Lifesaving Clubs, and the NSW Far South Coast Surf Lifesaving Branch.

On the back of the bushfires last summer and the recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the Shire is gearing up for a busy Christmas/New Year period.

Bega Valley Shire Council’s Leisure and Recreation Manager, John Grady, said that in addition to their usual duties, the contract lifeguards will be implementing COVID-Safe plans.

“While we want everyone to have the most fun possible and enjoy our pristine coastline, it’s vital that beachgoers educate themselves on the latest state government advice and follow all directions given by the lifeguards,” Mr Grady said.

“Along with swimming between the flags, staying hydrated and being sun safe, in the coming months we’ll all need to adapt our summer rituals to include COVID-Safe practices.”  

The Australian Lifeguard Service is set to kick off on 21 December at Horsehoe Bay, Tathra, Pambula and Aslings beaches; with Camel Rock, Short Point, Bar Beach and Merimbula Main beaches to follow on Boxing Day.

Beach

Patrol Dates

Days of Service

Patrol Times

Number of Lifeguards at Location

Bar Beach

26/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

7 days

9am - 5pm

2

Bermagui (Horseshoe Bay)

21/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

5 days**

9am - 5pm

2

Camel Rock

26/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

7 days

9am - 5pm

2

Eden (Aslings)

21/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

7 days

9am - 5pm

2

Merimbula (Main Beach)

26/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

7 days

9am - 5pm

2

Pambula

21/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

5 days**

9am - 5pm

2

Short Point

26/12/2020 to 26/01/2021

7 days

9am - 5pm

2

Tathra

21/12/2020 to 26/02/2021*

5 days**

9am - 5pm

2

*The Tathra Chamber and community fundraise to extend this service through February at Tathra Beach.

**The surf club volunteers are on duty on weekends.

The locations and timing of the Australian Lifeguard Service is based on a risk management approach considering advice and reports from professional lifeguards.  

Head to the Beachsafe website for all the latest information on beach safety and capacity, locations and closures.