Shellharbour City Council is reflecting on a busy and high-demand Ocean Lifeguard season, with more than 316,000 beach visits recorded across the 2025/26 patrol period.
While the season brought challenges, it also highlights the critical role lifeguards play in protecting the community, with more than 1,100 incidents managed and hundreds of proactive interventions carried out to help keep beachgoers safe.
Caption: Shellharbour Ocean Lifeguards on patrol, helping keep more than 316,000 visitors safer across the 2025/26 season. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council
Importantly, the majority of lifeguard work focused on prevention, with 799 preventative actions and more than 5,700 direct safety interactions helping beachgoers avoid danger before incidents occurred.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the results highlight the critical role lifeguards play in protecting both residents and visitors.
"As a former lifeguard myself, I know just how important prevention is on the beach. Most of the work happens before an incident even occurs," Mayor Homer said.
"These results show the incredible professionalism and vigilance of our lifeguard team, who are constantly monitoring conditions, educating the public, and stepping in when it matters most."
"More than 300,000 people enjoyed our beaches this season, and it's reassuring to know they were supported by such a skilled and dedicated team."
Council's lifeguards were active across all patrolled beaches, with the highest attendance and demand recorded at Warilla Central, Shellharbour North and Shellharbour South beaches.
Common rescue factors included rip currents, poor swimming ability and changing surf conditions, all highlighting the importance of swimming between the flags and following lifeguard advice.
Mayor Homer said the data reinforces the importance of beach safety awareness.
"Our beaches are one of Shellharbour's greatest assets, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely," Mayor Homer said.
"Simple actions like swimming between the flags and listening to lifeguards can make a real difference."
Council thanks its Ocean Lifeguards for their dedication and commitment to keeping Shellharbour's coastline safe throughout the season.
KEY MESSAGES:
• More than 316,000 people visited Shellharbour's beaches during the 2025/26 season, highlighting strong community use and the importance of lifeguard services.
• Shellharbour Lifeguards carried out 799 preventative actions and thousands of safety interactions, helping stop incidents before they occurred.
• The team responded to over 1,100 incidents, including 46 rescues and 42 first aid cases, demonstrating a high level of preparedness and professionalism.
