Record number of drownings reported across the state

ADDITONAL funding has been designated to Life Saving Victoria as a record number of drownings is reported across the state.

Last week Life Saving Victoria announced that between July and December 28, Victoria reported the highest number of fatal drownings ever recorded between these months.

The concerning statistics shows that the six-month period exceeded the 10-year average by as many as 17 fatalities over the same period.

A total of 35 people tragically lost their lives across the state, surpassing 2019’s tally of 34.

The report comes after LSV expressed concerns the summer period would exceed previous statistics as swimmers went without practice during COVID-19 restrictions.

Dr Bernadette Matthews, principal research associate at LSV, said the drownings come as a sad reminder for everyone to be careful this summer.

“Sadly, Victoria has recorded the worst six months from July to December since record taking began and it’s a reminder for everyone to be vigilant around water,” she said.

“Our thoughts go out to all of the families and friends following these tragic incidents.”

A $1.7 million boost has been provided by the state government in order to overcome additional pressure placed on patrols during peak season.

Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club president Tom Cullen welcomed the second helicopter provided by the funding boost.

“Two helicopters instead of one provides a greater capacity across Victoria that will mean life savers will have another tool they can call upon in case of emergency,” he said.

The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service patrols between Wilson’s Prom to Apollo Bay, as well as providing support to search and rescues operations across Victoria.

On ground Mr Cullen says it is not about lifeguards doing anything different but rather ensuring effective communication with the public.

“We need to continue to educate and communicate with people the need to be safe by not swimming alone and always swimming between the red and yellow flags,” he said.

“From the stats that came through from LSV, it is important for us to educate others against mixing alcohol and water.”

The report from LSV showed 30 per cent of drownings among those aged 15 and above involved drugs and alcohol.

Mr Cullen wanted to remind the public that it is not just beaches where people need to be vigilante when it comes to water safety.

The LSV report showed the majority of state drownings occurred at inland waterways followed by at home, making up for 40 and 34 per cent of deaths respectively.

Despite recent statistics Mr Cullen said there was still plenty of supervised fun to be had in state waterways.

“It is really about reinforcing the need to be careful around the water while still enjoying yourself and having fun with friends and family,” he said said.