It doesn’t look like much – just a yellow box attached to a sign on the beach.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But it’s what this new technology can do that’s set to help – authorities hope – draw a line in the sand when it comes to drowning deaths at unpatrolled beaches.
East Corrimal has become the third beach in the Wollongong City Council area to have an emergency rescue beacon (ERB) installed.
With the press of a button, a camera on the device begins rolling – allowing the Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) state operations centre to immediately see what’s unfolding on the beach in an emergency.
An intercom provides communication between those on the sand and authorities.
Text message alerts are also sent to lifeguards and/or lifesavers. Other emergency resources – including a rescue helicopter – could then be activated, if required.
“It allows us to have some eyes on parts of the beach that we would not normally have with patrols,” SLSNSW chief executive Steven Pearce said.
“It gives us that instantaneous notification from the public back to us, and to the lifeguards and lifesavers, for a really ... rapid response to someone that’s in distress in the water.”
Other ERBs are located at Coniston and Puckeys beaches. The unit at Coniston has already been activated a number of times, resulting in several successful rescues, Mr Pearce said.
The section of East Corrimal beach with the ERB, about 800 metres north of the flagged area at Corrimal beach, has been identified as a drowning black spot.
Wollongong lord mayor Gordon Bradbery said the council spent about $5.5 million on lifeguard services annually.
“This is just one more piece of equipment that we add to the range of opportunities we have to make sure our beaches are safe and there are rescue opportunities if anyone gets themselves into strife,” Cr Bradbery said.
Despite the ERB’s presence, swimmers are reminded to always swim between the flags.
“Nothing replaces personal responsibility,” Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant said.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
