As summer kicks off with plenty of sun, surf and outdoor fun, Shellharbour City Council is reminding everyone to stay safe and prepared across beaches, parks, reserves, and waterways.
Caption: Mayor Chris Homer and Santa are urging the community to follow safety advice at Shellharbour's beaches during the holiday period. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
Swim between the flags
Shellharbour is home to a wide range of popular swimming spots. Always choose a patrolled beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. Mayor Chris Homer has witnessed beach dangers first-hand from his time as a lifeguard.
"Summer is the best time to enjoy our beaches, but we all need to stay alert, look out for each other and take simple steps to stay safe," he said.
"Our incredible lifeguards are on high alert all summer. To help them do their job and to keep everyone safe, it's vital to follow their advice."
Lifeguards are on duty seven days a week at Warilla North,Central and South, Shellharbour North and South, and Blacks Beach from 21 December 2025 - 31 January 2026 between 9am - 5pm.
Council would like to remind beachgoers that The Farm, Killalea is managed by National Parks and Wildlife Service and is not a patrolled beach.
Daily patrols at the newly upgraded Beverley Whitfield Ocean Pool start Saturday 20 December.
Camping and parking
Camping is not permitted at Bass Point or Blackbutt reserves. Parking spots fill up quickly in popular areas and rules are checked regularly. Fines may apply for cars left after the gates close or parked on road shoulders.
These reserves close on total fire ban days. Download the Fires Near Me app to stay updated.
Bushfire smoke can harm your health and make existing conditions worse. NSW Health has useful advice on how to protect yourself from smoke.
Beat the heat
Stay cool and well hydrated this summer. Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day and keep out of the sun.
Check on vulnerable loved ones and neighbours, including older people, young children and pets during heatwaves or smoke events.
