The countdown to summer is officially on because the flags are officially up on the Central Coast beaches for the 2024-25 patrol season.
The flags officially went up on all 15 of the Central Coast’s patrolled beaches on Saturday, September 28, 2024, giving our strongest indicator yet that summer is nearly here – and a timely reminder about beach safety.
Over the summer period, the following beaches will be patrolled:
• Umina Beach
• Ocean Beach
• Macmasters Beach
• Avoca Beach
• Terrigal Beach
• Shelly Beach
• Toowoon Bay
• The Entrance Beach
• Soldiers Beach
• Grant McBride Baths
• Killcare Beach
• Copacabana Beach
• North Avoca Beach
• Wamberal Beach
• North Entrance Beach
• Lakes Beach
During the busy Christmas holiday period, from December 21, 2024 to January 31, 2025, all locations, including Budgewoi Beach, will be patrolled for an extra hour – from 9am to 6pm.
Council’s Unit Manager Leisure Beach Safety and Community Facilities, Phil Cantillon said the red and yellow flags signify lifeguards and lifesavers returning to patrol our beaches to keep our community safe when enjoying our beautiful coastline.
“Council’s lifeguards and Surf Life Saving volunteers provide search and rescue services for our coastal beaches, as well as emergency medical care when required,” Mr Cantillon said.
“They also play an important role in educating swimmers and visitors on beach and water safety. This is a timely reminder to the community that while we have lifeguards and lifesavers on patrol, it is important to stay up to date with safety messaging so everyone can have a safe and enjoyable season.”
Beach goers are also reminded to follow these other important safety tips:
• Take the time and drive five more minutes to a patrolled beach and swim in between the flags
• If you get into difficulty, stay calm, raise your arm and yell for assistance
• Never run or dive into the water, as the depth can change quickly
• Children should always be supervised by an adult at all aquatic locations
• If you are unsure of the conditions, ask a lifeguard or lifesaver
• Always listen to the lifeguards and lifesavers
• Avoid swimming for at least one day after heavy rain to decrease exposure to stormwater pollution
• Be aware of obvious signs of pollution such as litter, odours and surface scum following heavy rain
• If you’re going rock fishing, be sure to plan ahead – wear appropriate safety equipment, let others know where you are going and carry a charged phone
Central Coast Council’s patrolled beach season will wrap up in Autumn 2025.
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