Surf Safety Expert Demands State Funding to Boost Wollongong Beach Patrols
Australia's leading surf safety expert has issued a compelling call for increased state funding to extend lifeguard patrols on Wollongong's beaches, warning that lives are at stake without immediate action.
Rising Drowning Rates Prompt Urgent Appeal
Professor Rob Brander, widely recognised as 'Dr Rip' for his Science of the Surf beach safety program, has highlighted alarming statistics showing drowning rates at Australian beaches are on the rise. Based in Coalcliff, Professor Brander was motivated to speak out after witnessing a near-drowning incident at Bulli Beach in January.
'The drowning rate at beaches, statistics have shown it's actually rising, and the numbers are far too high anyway,' Professor Brander stated emphatically.
Council Lifeguards Need Financial Support
Professor Brander explained that Wollongong City Council, along with other coastal councils, lacks the necessary funds to expand lifeguard services. He argues this funding must come from the state government to make a meaningful impact.
'If you really want to get serious about reducing drowning, we have to pump money into councils so that they can increase their lifeguard services,' he said.
He emphasised the distinction between volunteer surf lifesavers and council-employed lifeguards, noting that lifeguards perform the majority of patrol hours from Monday to Saturday but receive no state funding.
Critical Gaps in Beach Safety Coverage
Professor Brander identified two major issues:
- Patrolled beaches where lifeguards and lifesavers finish their shifts early in the evening, leaving popular beaches unprotected during peak hours.
- Numerous unpatrolled beaches or sections of beaches that attract large crowds but have no safety presence.
'The minute you put a lifeguard on a beach, you've instantly made that beach a lot safer,' he noted.
Volunteer Limitations Highlight Need for Professional Support
While praising the iconic volunteer surf lifesaving movement, Professor Brander pointed out that volunteers cannot be expected to patrol longer hours, especially as many clubs in the northern Illawarra struggle with membership numbers.
'Lifeguards are your best option, but what's incredible is that lifeguard funding comes purely from the council,' he said, calling for state funding to support both lifeguards and lifesavers.
Sandon Point Beach Incident Illustrates Problem
Professor Brander cited Sandon Point Beach at Bulli as a prime example of the current safety shortfall. Despite being a popular swimming spot with convenient parking and proximity to Bulli High School, the beach has multiple rip currents and only has flags at one end.
He described the January incident where two teenagers were caught in a rip, rescued by surfers, and treated by lifeguards who administered oxygen on the beach.
'I just think it's time we started to get funding to the council lifeguards, not just in Wollongong, but everywhere,' Professor Brander urged.
Timely Opportunity for Community Input
The call for expanded patrols comes as Wollongong City Council seeks public feedback on its beach management strategy for the next two decades, with submissions open until Sunday, February 8.
Professor Brander concluded with a stark warning about the broader implications for coastal communities across Australia.
'There's lots of councils that are cash strapped, with dangerous beaches. They're doing the best they can, but they can't do any more.'
