Surfers on hand to protect beaches this summer

Surfers across Victoria are set to help keep beaches safe this summer with the Surfers Rescue 24/7 Program skilling local surfers up in life-saving techniques.

The program has been running since 2019 and has had over 3000 surfers skill up in life-saving board rescue and CPR techniques.

“Surfers are at the beach all year round and frequent non-patrolled locations such as  Forrest Caves, Cape Woolamai and many other locations across Phillip Island,” said Surfing Victoria CEO Adam Robertson.

“Surf Life Saving Australia noted in their annual coastal safety report that 49 per cent of drownings happen more than five kilometres away from a life-saving service.

“By training up surfers in lifesaving techniques, we are increasing the level of beach users who are able to assist in an emergency situation and ultimately save lives.”

Surfers who complete the course are trained in how to spot a person in trouble in the water, rescue that person using readily available floatation devices such as a surfboard and perform CPR. All courses are led by professional First Aid and Water Safety instructors.

There are two free courses available this February in the Phillip Island area during the Festival of Surfing. Spaces are limited.

Registrations are open via www.surfingvic.com/surfers-rescue-24-7

Surfers Rescue 24/7 is an initiative of Surfing Victoria and is supported by the Victoria Government and Emergency Management Victoria.