Warnings remain at beaches around the region

LIFEGUARDS are urging the public to take extreme care on severely eroded beaches across the region.

Surf Life Saving NSW warned that rescue craft may still be difficult to launch in many areas, and hazardous surf conditions have carved away large sections of the coastline.

Poor water quality and debris from river systems are also complicating rescue efforts.

Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Richmond, and Clarence LGAs are the worst affected, though patrols and rescue operations could also be impacted as far south as Port Macquarie.

Rocks now cover key beach access points at Sharpes Beach in Ballina, with many shorelines left unrecognisable after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steve Pearce urged people to avoid exposed areas and rock platforms.

“In many locations where the beaches have been washed away by damaging surf, we simply will not be able to launch rescue watercraft as easily or as quickly in the event of an emergency,” he said.

“Check BeachSafe (website and app) before you visit the coastline and do not go in the water unless you are at a patrolled location between the red and yellow flags.”

Surf Life Saving NSW is working with the state government and coastal councils to ensure volunteers are prepared for rescue operations in affected areas.

Volunteer strike teams assisted in flood relief across the Northern Rivers, with the Tweed team helping Meals on Wheels deliver over 600 meals to evacuation centres.

Nearly 100 flood-trained lifesavers, equipped with vessels, drones, and specialist gear, were deployed to support the SES.

“Our thoughts remain with our members and clubs in the north and everyone experiencing the brunt of this significant event,” Surf Life Saving NSW deputy president Joel Wiseman said.