Become a Nipper, save your life

I will never forget the day one of our international students at high school went for a solo swim at “the bays” in Coolum, a notoriously “rippy” and unpatrolled surf beach.

He was swept off his feet in seconds and tragically drowned at 15 years old with no one around to help.

It has been a sombre start to September holidays with another tragic drowning occurring at the same location.

This is a reminder to please swim between the flags and if you’re unsure please feel free to ask a friendly Lifeguard or Lifesaver about the conditions.

When I was six years old, I was lucky enough to have my parents sign my brothers and I up to the Nippers program at our local Surf Club in Caloundra.

Reflecting on it now, Nippers was an integral part of learning to become comfortable and confident in and out of the water, making friends and being a part of a healthy competitive environment.

As a Lifeguard our philosophy is to work toward “zero preventable drownings in Queensland public waters”.

So, take my advice and get those kids caps tied on and hit the beach every Sunday, it might just end up saving theirs or someone else’s life!

And never forget you’re never too young to give it a crack, if you’re keen to join an active patrol and learn some skills and make some friends, Rainbow Beach SLSC will welcome you with open arms.

The Lifeguard service has resumed its roving patrol up at Double Island Point. Reckless/stupid behaviour seems to be just as frequent as ever. We were able to get the number plate of the prime suspect who graffitied the rocks on the headland at Teewah Beach for everyone to see, have fun scrubbing that off mate.

With the majority of people fed up with these sorts of behaviours and with social media at the ready, be prepared to be accountable for your actions.

Stay safe and swim between the flags.

This is our last report by Liam and we wish he and his family all the very best in their next adventure!