Beach safety reminder

Published on 26 March 2024

As Easter and the Autumn School Holidays approach, Kiama Council’s lifeguards have reminded beachgoers to use patrolled beaches, swim between the flags and follow water safety advice.

Council lifeguards and volunteer surf life savers will be on duty over the Easter long weekend and school holidays at:

• Jones Beach (Kiama Downs)
• Surf Beach (Kiama)
• Werri Beach (Gerringong)

Head lifeguard Craig Bowley has urged swimmers to avoid unpatrolled beaches, particularly the southern end of Bombo Beach.

“It's an appealing stretch of water, right next to the highway as you drive into Kiama. But the warning signs are there for a reason: South Bombo is one of the most dangerous stretches of coastline in our region.”

Mr Bowley also asked beachgoers avoid swimming in rough conditions and watch out for rips and strong currents.

“If you do get caught in a rip, the best thing to do is try not to panic, float and conserve your energy, rather than fighting against it."

"A rip will often take you out but then bring you back around to a sandbar or shallow area, from which you can return to shore or wait to be rescued."

If you see someone who is in distress, alert a lifeguard or volunteer life saver, or use an Emergency Relay Beacon.

Emergency Relay Beacons are installed at drowning black spots: South Bombo Beach, Kendalls Beach and Blowhole Point.

Activating the beacon connects you to the Surf Lifesaving NSW Operations Centre. A text message is also sent to the nearest lifesaver or lifeguard.