Surf lifesaving returns to the beaches

COASTAL lifesaving clubs have made their return ahead of another action-packed summer.

Last Saturday 57 surf lifesaving clubs across the state commenced patrol season for 2020/21.

Two million visitors were estimated to have visited the state’s beaches last season with lifeguards performing a total of 475 rescues.

President of Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club, Tom Cullen is anticipating an even bigger Summer following the easing of restrictions.

“We do anticipate large amount of day visitors especially because people cannot travel internationally and there are some restrictions to the level which they can travel interstate,” he said.

“Particularly over the holiday period we will be busier than ever because there is a pent-up need to get out and explore.”

Despite reports of a drop in state-wide memberships, Anglesea has maintained strong numbers ahead of this summer.

“In terms of club memberships, we are on track for about the same as past years if not potentially a little bit higher,” he said.

“I know us and other clubs close by have actually had a positive if not slight improvement to memberships which is fantastic.”

With some Covid-19 restrictions still looming, surf live saving clubs have had to comply with new training and regulations including smaller patrol teams.

“We still have the capacity to deliver a top service to the same level as previous years,” said Mr Cullen.

“Lifesaving Victoria have done a lot of work to ensure that our members are safe and looked after so I am very confident that as long as we do everything right will be free from illnesses.”

With large numbers of people expected to frequent the coast this season, Mr Cullen says beach goers need to consider the hazards.

“With more people getting down to the beach we need to remind them to swim between the flags and go to that extra effort to find a car park at a patrolled beach,” he said.