Key Takeaways:
- Most beaches in New South Wales are expected to be open for the Australia Day long weekend despite recent shark attacks and poor conditions
- Authorities will be working hard to keep beachgoers safe, with 1,000 volunteers and numerous resources deployed across the state
- Swimmers are advised to swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled locations and to be aware of their surroundings
- Shark monitoring efforts will include jet ski patrols, drones, and inflatable rubber boats
- Harbour swimming is not advised due to the presence of bull sharks and the complexity of shutting swimming spots
Introduction to Beach Safety
The Australia Day long weekend is expected to be a busy time for beaches in New South Wales, with many people flocking to the coast to enjoy the warm weather. However, the recent spate of shark attacks and poor conditions has raised concerns about beach safety. Despite these concerns, authorities expect most beaches to be open for the long weekend, with measures in place to ensure the safety of beachgoers. The New South Wales coast has been experiencing brackish water conditions following recent storms, which have hampered shark monitoring efforts and increased marine activity close to shore. With temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius forecast for parts of Sydney, the conditions are expected to be ideal for beachgoers, but also pose a risk of shark activity.
Beach Closures and Shark Sightings
Many beaches in New South Wales have been closed in recent days due to hazardous surf and poor visibility, including all 21 northern beaches. However, most of these beaches are expected to reopen for the long weekend. Shark sightings have been reported at several locations, including Manly Beach, which was closed on Saturday morning but has since reopened. Three sharks were also spotted at Garie Beach at the Royal National Park, south of Sydney, on Saturday morning, with the site evacuated and closed. The recent shark attacks, including one that left a 12-year-old boy with critical injuries, have highlighted the need for beachgoers to be aware of their surroundings and to take necessary precautions.
Measures to Ensure Beach Safety
Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steven Pearce has said that authorities will be working hard to keep beachgoers safe over the long weekend. All 129 surf clubs across the NSW coast will be open and heavily resourced, with 1,000 volunteers deployed across the state. Jet ski patrols, inflatable rubber boats, and drones will be used to monitor for shark activity, and the two Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopters will be flying the coast. Swimmers are advised to swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled locations, and to be aware of their surroundings. The use of drones will be particularly important, as they will be able to fly in winds of up to 50 kilometres per hour and in rain, providing an added layer of protection for beachgoers.
Swimming Safety Tips
Swimmers are three times more likely to drown on a public holiday than any other day of the year, making it essential to take necessary precautions. Mr. Pearce has advised beachgoers to swim between the red and yellow flags, and to stay within sight of lifesavers or lifeguards if they cannot get in the flags. He has also warned that the beach may have rips on either side, so it is essential to keep the flags tight. Additionally, swimmers are advised to exit the water if they hear drone sirens sound, as this will indicate the presence of a shark. By following these simple tips, beachgoers can minimize their risk of injury and enjoy a safe and enjoyable day at the beach.
Harbour Swimming Not Advised
Local government has the authority to shut a beach on the advice of the Department of Primary Industries and Regulation. However, it is much more difficult to shut swimming spots across the Sydney Harbour, where one of the recent shark attacks occurred. NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty has said that the harbour is a working harbour, and it is complex to provide assessments. Additionally, there are rules from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority that prevent drones from being flown over the harbour, making it difficult to monitor for shark activity. As a result, harbour beaches are unpatrolled by Surf Life Saving NSW, and Mr. Pearce has advised against entering the water. Instead, he recommends finding a netted location, as shark activity in the harbour is quite prolific.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while the recent shark attacks and poor conditions have raised concerns about beach safety, authorities are working hard to ensure that beachgoers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable day at the beach. By taking necessary precautions, such as swimming between the red and yellow flags and being aware of their surroundings, beachgoers can minimize their risk of injury. The use of drones, jet ski patrols, and inflatable rubber boats will provide an added layer of protection, and the advice of local authorities should be heeded. As the long weekend approaches, it is essential to prioritize beach safety and to take the necessary steps to ensure a fun and safe day at the beach. With the right precautions and awareness, beachgoers can enjoy the beautiful beaches of New South Wales while minimizing their risk of injury.
