More patrols this summer at Kennett River

LIFE SAVING patrols will be extended at Kennett River this summer, ensuring more people stay safe by the water.

Life Saving Victoria and the Colac Otway Shire has invested more than $28,000 to provide patrol services at the beach during the summer months.

These services will operate on weekdays and Saturday mornings from December 21 to February 2, 2025.

The increased funding follows long-term advocacy from the Kennett River Association and Kennett River SLSC.

The added patrols will build on the capacity of local volunteers who patrol the beach on Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays over summer.

Life Saving Victoria lifesaving services general manager Liam Krige expressed his gratitude to the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, Colac Otway Shire and key stakeholders on their investment.

“Together, we are dedicated to safeguarding our regions’ waterways for both present and future generations,” he said.

“We deeply appreciate the community’s recognition of LSV as an indispensable service and thank them for their ongoing support.

“Their contributions are crucial as we continue to provide essential services and ensure a safe beach environment for the thousands who visit the coast each year.”

The authority’s director of environment and coastal operations Dr Lisa Mills said the organisation was proud to be helping to safeguard beachgoers.

“Thousands of people will flock to beaches along the Great Ocean Road beach this summer – we want them to enjoy the water and come home safe at the end of the day.

“The Great Ocean Road has some of the best beaches in the world and we’re incredibly fortunate to have dedicated volunteer lifesavers and professional lifeguards on duty this summer.”

Kennett River SLSC president Jason Menz said the club was thrilled with the funding investment.

“The Kennett River Surf Life Saving Club would like to thank all parties for the return of the lifeguarding services to Kennett River this coming season.”

Colac Otway mayor Marg White said the shire was proud to support the service.

“With the number of visitors to our region continuing to increase, professional services to assist and ensure safety at our beaches is of utmost importance.

“In preparing our 2024-25 budget we received strong feedback from our community toward the necessity to allocate funds toward lifesaving services at Kennett River, we’ve listened and responded to that feedback with this funding.”