Residents and visitors can breathe a sigh of relief as professional lifeguards gear up for the upcoming patrol season at popular beaches throughout the Kempsey Shire.
With the 2021-22 season commencing in line with the spring school holidays on Monday 20 September, professional eyes will be scanning the water as Surf Life Saving NSW lifeguards keep a close watch on swimmers and beaches along the Macleay Valley coast.
Kempsey Shire Council Manager Infrastructure Delivery, Dylan Reeves, said the need to provide professional lifeguards during peak periods is an important part of keeping residents and visitors to the region safe and informed in water safety.
"Lifeguards who are on duty are well-trained and versed in reading beach conditions and local hazards including identifying the safest areas at beaches to swim."
"Swimmers should always remain between the red and yellow flags to help them stay out of harm's way and if you get in trouble, raise your hand and call for help."
Council is urging beachgoers to make the most of having professional lifeguards on hand at local beaches.
"If beachgoers are unsure about the conditions when arriving at the beach, please speak to one of the friendly lifeguards before entering the water," said Mr Reeves.
"Know your beaches and your limitations, download Surf Life Saving Australia's free Beachsafe app to keep up to date with all the information on patrols, surf conditions and hazards across the shire's beaches."
Council is also encouraging beachgoers to follow COVID rules that are in place, avoiding grouping with others and maintaining social distancing.
"COVID rules still apply in a beach setting, so we ask that people continue to comply with restrictions this coming season."
Grassy Head, Horseshoe Bay South West Rocks, Main Beach South West Rocks, Hat Head and Crescent Head beaches will be patrolled by lifeguards this season.
The lifeguard patrol calendar can be viewed at ksc.pub/lifeguards
Local surf life saving clubs provide additional volunteer surf life saving services on weekends and public holidays at South West Rocks Main Beach as well as Hat Head and Crescent Head beaches.
