Bringing science of the surf to Cape Woolamai

Bass Coast Shire Council is hosting a beach safety day at the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club on March 7 and has invited the community to the free, family-friendly event.

The Beach Smart, Beach Fun: Science of the Surf day will feature one of Australia's leading coastal experts, Professor Rob Brander, widely known as Dr Rip.

The event will combine science, surf safety and hands-on learning to help people better understand how beaches work and how to stay safe in the water.

The centrepiece of the day is Science of the Surf, a powerful educational presentation by Professor Brander that includes a live rip current demonstration, where environmentally safe coloured dye is poured in the water to show where and how rip currents flow, and why they pose a risk to swimmers.

The demonstration will provide a clear and memorable insight into rips, which are the number one hazard for swimmers at Australia's beaches. Phillip Island's beaches are notorious for their rip currents.

"When people see how quickly a rip can move that dye from the shoreline out to the deep water, it really hits home that you need to take care in these coastal environments," Professor Brander said.

"We want everyone to be able to enjoy our beaches and waterways, so we must educate the community how to do so safely. This event is a fantastic opportunity to do that."

Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead, said the event is about empowering everyone who enjoys the coastline with practical, life-saving knowledge.

"Bass Coast is home to some of Victoria's most beautiful beaches, and we love welcoming visitors from near and far, but the ocean can be unpredictable," Cr Halstead said.

"If you don't know how to identify a rip, this event brings world-leading surf science directly to the shoreline.

When people feel confident recognising risks, they're not just keeping themselves safe, they're able to pass that knowledge on. One day, something they learn here might even help save someone's life."

Education

A panel discussion will follow the presentation, exploring water safety from scientific, cultural and local perspectives.

The panel will feature Dr Harpreet Singh, the driving force behind the Safely Engaging with Water program, along with special guests from the local surfing community.

Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club President Jason Close said education plays a vital role in preventing drownings.

"As surf lifesavers, we see the impact of rips and changing conditions every day," Mr Close said.

"Understanding how the surf works can make a real difference. This event gives families the knowledge they need to make safer decisions at the beach."

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet local response and emergency agencies, including Life Saving Victoria, Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria, and learn more about how they work together to keep the community safe.

The event will conclude with lunch and family-friendly beach activities, making it an engaging and informative day out for locals and visitors.

While the event is free, people are encouraged to register their attendance at: www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1527978

Event details:

Beach Smart, Beach Fun: Science of the Surf

Date: Saturday March 7

Time: 11am to 2pm

Location: Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club