The young volunteer members of Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) are trained and ready to start the busy surf lifesaving season.
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The sibling teams from the Fallon and Stewart families have been involved in surf lifesaving since Nippers.
They will help out on patrols when the season officially kicks off on Saturday, September 28.
Flags will go up from 9am at Town Beach, Flynns Beach, Rainbow Beach, Lighthouse Beach, Lake Cathie and North Haven after well-earned break since April 28.
Jack Fallon said he enjoys being involved in surf lifesaving because it helps the community.
His sister Klaire said being involved in the club is a great way to meet people and catch up with those she knows.
Sarah Stewart and her brother Hugh Stewart have been members of the Wauchope Bonny Hills SLSC since they were in U6's for Nippers.
All members are expecting this surf season to be a busy one, given the warm and dry weather experienced during winter and spring.
"There were still a lot of people swimming throughout winter too," Sarah said.
The volunteer lifesavers emphasise the importance of people swimming between the flags and making contact with the members on patrols if they need help or advice.
Wauchope Bonny Hills SLSC director of lifesaving Michelle Kirkwood said the club currently has about 100 volunteer members rostered on for patrols, but are always after more people.
Even if people aren't up to the physical task of rescues, they can do training to assist with first aid or become a radio operator.
"There is definitely a job for everyone," Michelle said.
According to Surf Life Saving NSW statistics, between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019 there were 44 coastal drowning deaths recorded in NSW, a 22 percent increase on the previous year.
Australia Surf Life Saving ceo Adam Weir, said Australians visit to the coast for enjoyment and fun, yet over the years too many times have these visits turned into tragedy, despite the significant efforts of surf lifesavers.
"Surf Life Saving's National Coastal Safety Report highlights a continued need for all to adopt a STOP, LOOK, PLAN approach to water safety," he said.
Tips to stay safe this season:
- Supervise children at all times around the water
- Learn swimming and lifesaving skills
- Wear a life jacket when boating, rock fishing or paddling
- Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
- Avoid alcohol and drugs around water.
For more information on how to stay safe during the warmer months at the beach, use the Beach Safe App, or visit Beachsafe.org.au
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