It’s official; the flags are up and Surf Life Saving volunteers will begin patrolling the Coast’s beaches on September 26 as the 2020/21 beach season gets underway.
Representatives from Central Coast Surf Life Saving (SLSCC) and Newcastle Permanent gathered on September 24 for the ceremonial raising of the flags.
From September 26, 8,682 surf lifesavers will patrol beaches from The Lakes to Umina, as they help protect Central Coast beachgoers this summer.
Last season, volunteers from Central Coast Surf Lifesaving dedicated 96,444 hours overseeing the safety of 1,185,232 community members, performing 496 rescues and tending first aid to 898.
SLSCC CEO Jon Harkness, said despite recent obstacles presented by COVID-19, his team was equipped and ready for the coming summer months.
“Spending time at the beach is a way of life for many locals,” Harkness said.
“Our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to develop the necessary COVID safety plans that will allow our beaches to stay open and safe this summer.
“With the support of our long-term community partner, Newcastle Permanent, we are able to continue to deliver our essential lifesaving services and ensure our volunteers have the equipment, training and skills they need to stay at the top of their game.
Newcastle Permanent Regional Manager, Jessica Burgoyne, said the organisation was proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Central Coast Surf Lifesaving which is now in its 18th year.
“As a customer-owned organisation, we’re passionate about supporting local community groups and organisations that help make our community great,” she said.
“Our ongoing partnership with Central Coast Surf Lifesaving is an integral part of our community sponsorship and one which has been built on a strong foundation of shared values and commitment to the community.”
Newcastle Permanent supports Surf Life Saving from the Central Coast to the Queensland border, investing more than $1.5M through its community partnerships, staff donations, volunteering and fundraising.
Terry Collins