Surf Life Saving | Newcastle Permanent

Helping keep beaches safe for our communities

We are a long-term major partner of Surf Life Saving, supporting the six branches and 60 clubs that stretch along the east coast of New South Wales, from the Central Coast all the way to the Queensland border. In 2021, our partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving hit an incredible 40 year milestone!

Our partnerships with Surf Life Saving help provide thousands of junior and volunteer lifesavers with the equipment and training they need to keep more than 1 million people safe at our beaches each year. We also support the recruitment, training and retention of junior surf lifesavers, helping to nurture and ensure a pipeline of volunteers into the future.

So as thousands of surf life saving volunteers give their time to keep our beaches safe, please remember to swim between the flags and stop to say ‘thanks’ for the great work they do.

Safety messages

While spending time at the beach is a way of life for many Australians, it’s important to remember the ocean is unpredictable. By taking the following simple safety measures, you can help to keep you and your family safe this summer:

Always swim between the red and yellow flags
Read and obey safety signs on the beach
Avoid swimming alone – opt to swim with a friend or family member if you can
Never enter the water if you have been drinking alcohol or are under the influence of drugs
Wear sunscreen, seek shade and stay hydrated
If you need help, stay calm and raise your hand high above your head
Ask a lifeguard or lifesaver for safety advice
For boat skippers and rockfishers - always check the local forecast, seek advice from NSW Maritime and wear a lifejacket before setting out for the day

Here is some more information on how to keep safe at the beach.

Community education

Community education is important to ensure future generations and new visitors to our beaches understand how to stay safe on the beach and in the surf.

Some of our Surf Life Saving branches deliver Community Education programs, tailoring these programs to different audiences, including primary and secondary school groups, pre-schoolers, international visitors and special needs groups.

If you’re interested in hosting a Community Education Day, contact your local Surf Life Saving Branch.