Lifesavers from four surf clubs mounted a joint response to rescue a man at Foresters Beach on the Central Coast this morning.


The State Operations Centre received a request from Police to respond to three people in distress in the water at the unpatrolled, south facing Foresters Beach. One was reported to be an 11-year-old and members of the public or family entered the water to assist.



Despite the terrible conditions, Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB) from Wamberal and Shelly Beach SLSCs were able to launch, along with a jetski from Terrigal. The Entrance SLSC also had a jetski on the way to the scene.



One lifesaver described the water as “like a washing machine” and the Duty Officer who attended the incident said he could not understand why anyone would attempt to swim in those conditions.



When rescuers arrived, the IRB crew from Wamberal found a man being supported by a surfer on his board and transported him into the boat. He was then transferred to the jetski where he was taken to shore to waiting Ambulance personnel and Police.



It’s unclear how the other two swimmers got back to shore but it appears surfers may have assisted.



Central Coast Duty Officer Glenn Clarke said the lifesavers did a fantastic job in very challenging conditions.



“I’m so impressed at the speed our guys responded. The conditions are really terrible and it was a great job by everyone involved,” said Glenn Clarke.



“The decision was made to use the jetski to bring him to shore as it’s easier to maneuver in the shallows than the IRB. Dave Smith from Terrigal did a great job driving the jetski.”



Powerful surf has meant the closure of many beaches today and Surf Life Saving is advising swimmers to observe signs and directions from lifesavers where conditions are considered to be hazardous.



Beach Safety Tips




  • Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website

  • Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information

  • Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water

  • Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs

  • If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm

  • In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police

  • For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.



 



Saturday 10 February 2019


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