Avoca Beach will once again have a set of eyes in the sky this summer thanks to a drone, provided in partnership by the NSW Government, Surf Life Saving NSW, Surf Life Saving Central Coast and Avoca Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC).
Equipping lifesavers with accurate aerial vision and surveillance technology, a drone can be rapidly deployed and relay vision with pin-point accuracy to spot rips, distressed swimmers, and marine life. Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch, said he had fought to ensure a drone service would remain at Avoca Beach over the 2019/20 summer season.
“I’m delighted that Surf Life Saving NSW has responded to my request to ensure a drone is positioned at Avoca Beach for another year,” Crouch said. “Footage of sharks and other marine life at Avoca Beach regularly does the rounds on local Facebook pages, so it’s a relief to know swimmers and surfers will have an extra layer of protection this summer.
“Drones are eyes in the sky that allow lifesavers to spot potential risks faster, which is a potentially life-saving advantage.” Surf Life Saving Central Coast President, Stuart Harvey, said the resource would be a welcome addition to Avoca’s patrolling capability through the busy summer season. “This technology gives surf lifesavers more eyes in the sky to spot rips and distressed swimmers and respond to those in need sooner,” Harvey said.
“This provides vital support for our surf lifesavers who are tirelessly dedicated to ensuring the safety of others.” Surf Life Saving NSW UAV Operations Coordinator, Paul Hardy, said there are 30 separate drone locations across NSW. “I want to acknowledge the willingness and efforts of Surf Life Saving Central Coast and Avoca Beach SLSC in taking on this added responsibility for the 2019/20 season,” he said.
Surf Life Saving Central Coast CEO, Narelle Duggan, said locals and visitors should prioritise safety when visiting beaches this summer. “I would encourage everyone to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags, obey safety signs and if you need assistance, stay calm and raise your arm,” she said.
Source: Media release, Dec 20 Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch