Kempsey Shire Council takes immense pride in funding the Australian Lifeguard Service to ensure the safety and well-being of locals and visitors on our beautiful Macleay Valley Coast beaches.
Our beaches, a major natural attraction, witnessed a surge in attendance this swim season, underscoring their significance to our community and visitors alike.
During the 2023-2024 swim season, our beaches saw close to 200,000 beachgoers across the three key patrol periods—Spring, Summer, and Autumn.
The patrolled service locations included Grassy Head, Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks, Hat Head, and Crescent Head.
Season Highlights
- 195,998 Beach Visitors: The influx of nearly 200,000 people to our beaches highlights the region’s popularity and the need for robust lifesaving services.
- 18,011 Preventative Actions: Our lifeguards were proactive in preventing potential incidents, ensuring that safety measures were adhered to and risks minimised.
- 32 Rescues Performed: Thanks to the swift actions of our lifeguards, 32 lives were saved. These rescues underscore the critical role that lifesaving services play in our community.
- 201 First Aid Treatments: Lifeguards provided immediate medical attention to 201 individuals, addressing minor injuries and ensuring prompt care.
- 1,382 Law Enforcement Actions: Our lifeguards, in coordination with law enforcement, handled various situations to maintain order and safety on the beaches.
- 18,605 Cases of Providing Information and Advice: Lifeguards offered valuable information and advice to beachgoers, helping them make informed decisions and stay safe.
While Council is focused on financial sustainability, it is important to emphasise the invaluable return on investment in lifesaving services. The presence of trained lifeguards not only enhances the safety of our beaches but also contributes to the overall positive experience of our residents and visitors.
By supporting these services, we ensure that our beaches remain a safe and enjoyable destination for everyone. Kempsey Shire Council is committed to maintaining this high standard of safety and service, recognising that every dollar spent contributes to the well-being and security of our community.
