A fleet of new rescue jet skis will be patrolling eight beaches on the South Coast this summer following a record investment from the Minns Labor Government in Surf Life Saving NSW.
With the warmer months approaching, which will see an increase in swimmers visiting the Illawarra and Southern NSW coast, the Government is delivering on its commitment to boost community safety and surveillance at beaches.
These jet ski’s will be delivered ahead of the volunteer patrol season commencing on 27 September, with beaches preparing for their arrival including Bulli, Stanwell Park, Kiama, Kiama Downs, Gerringong, Broulee, Batemans Bay and Pambula.
This jet ski boost brings the states fleet up to 56, ensuring rapid responses to emergencies across New South Wales beaches all year round. Last year jet skis were used in 260 rescues performed by volunteer lifesavers, saving critical time in emergency incidents.
Supporting the jet skis, three new Emergency Response Beacons (ERBs) are keeping an eye across South Coast beaches. The beacons are installed on beaches and are used at unpatrolled locations for emergency services to be called during emergencies.
When the current rollout is complete, there will be 64 ERBs in operation across NSW, following recent installations on the South Coast at Racecourse Beach, Tabourie Creek and The Farm at Killalea State Park.
