Benneth’s beach in Hawks Nest will be patrolled seven days a week during the busy holiday season.
Lifeguards from the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) will be patrolling the popular beach Monday to Friday throughout January.
In addition, around 60 volunteer lifesavers from Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Lifesaving Club will continue to patrol on weekends and public holidays.
Club Patrol Captain Craig Young said the best part of being involved with the Surf Lifesaving Club was the camaraderie which exists between the volunteer members.
“You get to work outdoors at the best beach with a great group of people,” he said.
“And it’s just a really good thing to be able give back to the community.”
ALS has also provided a qualified lifeguard to attend Tea Gardens Pool seven-days-a-week which will continue throughout the summer.
ALS NSW Manager Brent Manieri said this year, lifeguards will be continuing to emphasise preventative actions.
“This will ensure that potentially dangerous situations are dealt with before they escalate,” he said.
“This could include such actions as encouraging swimmers to swim between the flags and identifying hazards that could impact on beachgoers’ safety.”
ALS lifeguards are also stationed at other beaches throughout the MidCoast Council region including Old Bar, Diamond Beach, Forster, One Mile and Elizabeth Beach at Pacific Palms.
This ensures total coverage for an area that is fast emerging as a premium destination for New South Wales families.
Mr Manieri praised MidCoast Council for their commitment to the safety of all beach goers in the area.
“We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Council and delivering a high level of service to the people of the Lower North Coast,” he said.
The ALS service will continue until 27 January at Bennett’s beach and 25 April at Tea Gardens pool.
The weekend patrols operated by volunteer lifesavers will continue through to the end of the season.
By Daniel SAHYOUN
