From the calmer bay to wild back beaches, the Mornington Peninsula is one of Victoria's most loved coastal playgrounds - but every beautiful stretch of water comes with risk.
That is why the Mornington Peninsula Shire is using World Drowning Prevention Day on Saturday 25 July, to put a spotlight on lifesaving actions that can help residents and visitors return home safely after a day by the water.
Drowning can happen quickly, silently and in places people know well. On the Peninsula, where swimming, paddling, boating, rock fishing and coastal walks are activities all year round, water safety is not just a summer message - it's always a priority.
The Shire is working with Life Saving Victoria, emergency services, neighbouring councils, tourism partners and local community groups to strengthen drowning prevention across beaches, bays and inland waterways.
This work includes community education sessions, free swim lessons for seniors, multilingual water safety resources, culturally and linguistically diverse community programs, local awareness campaigns, improved beach safety signage and a virtual reality water safety signage trial
Mayor Stephen Batty said World Drowning Prevention Day is a powerful reminder that prevention starts before people enter the water.
"Our beaches and waterways are part of what makes the Mornington Peninsula so special, but they can also be unpredictable," Cr Batty said.
"What looks calm from the shore can change in minutes. A quick check of the conditions, choosing a patrolled beach, swimming between the flags and keeping children within arm's reach can make an enormous difference.
"Council is proud to be part of a regional effort with Life Saving Victoria, emergency services, neighbouring councils and community partners to help people enjoy the water safely."
The Shire is encouraging everyone heading to the water to pause, check the conditions and make safety part of the plan.
Before you head to the water:
- Choose a patrolled beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
- Check weather, tide and surf conditions before entering the water.
- Keep children within arm's reach around water.
- Never swim alone.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs when swimming, boating or supervising others near water.
- Wear a lifejacket when boating, paddling or rock fishing.
- If in doubt, stay out.
See video Turning the tide on drowning
For more ways to stay safe visit Mornington Peninsula Water Safety.
