Don't forget your hat and get ready to slip, slop, slap! Shellharbour aquatics season officially kicks off this weekend and everyone is encouraged to make use of the range of aquatic options the city has to offer.
Council's lifeguards must demonstrate outstanding stamina and strength to prepare for the upcoming swim season, as well as show competence in use of rescue and emergency care equipment. They are required to swim a collective total of 66km, run 128km and paddle 24km during fitness and skill assessments to be ready for the summer start.
The official swim season continues through to the end of April 2020.
Beaches
Shellharbour North and Warilla Central Beach will be patrolled 9.30am to 5pm, with volunteer lifesavers patrolling Saturday and Sundays, and Council lifeguards Monday to Friday.
Patrols will change slightly during and after the Christmas school holidays, so be sure to follow Council's social media and check the website for details as the year progresses.
Adding to Council's rescue capabilities is the new Warilla lifeguard tower. The new tower will support 40 lifeguards across six patrol locations with increased foreshore visibility.
Pools
Oak Flats pool is open every day between 6am to 7pm, from 28 September, and 10am to 6pm on public holidays.
Albion Park pool will be open every day between 6am and 6pm from 26 October, and 10am to 6pm on public holidays.
Warilla pool is also open every day from 6am to 6pm from 26 October, and 10am to 6pm on public holidays.
Beverly Whitfield Ocean Pools are open all year round.
Water safety message - Mayor Marianne Saliba
"This year Council's aquatics team will be working with our Community Safety Officer to deliver pop-up days throughout the region," Cr Saliba said.
"The focus will be on beach and summer holiday safety, and Council lifeguards will also be on hand to answer questions about staying safe while enjoying Shellharbour City's beautiful pools, beaches and natural areas," she said.
"In any aquatic environment - regardless of your age - make sure you read safety signs, ask a lifeguard for safety advice, swim between the red and yellow flags at the beach, swim with a friend, and if you need help stay calm and attract attention."
