JANUARY CEO UPDATE
Summer is in full swing, bringing with it, a variety of conditions including extreme heat, with temperatures climbing above 40 degrees in parts of the state. We’ve also seen the impacts of both fire and flooding across Victoria, highlighting the importance of staying alert, prepared and safe during the peak season.
On behalf of the entire LSV Team, I thank and commend our members, staff and all of our emergency services colleagues who have supported our community during these recent extreme weather events.
Your contribution and effort have been immense. When our fellow Victorians have been in their greatest hour of need, even at times when you, yourselves, were directly impacted, you stepped up and served with distinction. The entire emergency services sector acknowledges life saving’s contributions, and we are incredibly proud of all that our colleagues have achieved.
January has also seen hundreds of thousands of people flocking to our beaches, pools and waterways for the summer holidays and to beat the heat.
That means it’s all hands-on deck within LSV, the lifesaving movement and the aquatic industry.
Education in Action
Drowning prevention and water safety efforts take many forms, and it’s vital we all play our part to ensure this summer is a safe and enjoyable one for everyone.
Preparedness is key, and water safety education plays a critical role, and year-round efforts to empower our community with the knowledge they need really pays dividends over the summer holiday period.
I applaud all our educators and those who support them across the aquatic industry, the lifesaving movement, and the LSV Education Team for the important work they undertake every day.
Our lifesaving clubs and the LSV team have been out in force with Nipper sessions and Lifesaving Education Programs running across the state.
A record 14,383 young people were registered for Nippers this season, the highest number since the pandemic, with all 57 of our clubs running programs this summer.
Our nippers were able to put their skills to the test at our largest nipper sport carnival for the season, Nipper Fest at Torquay. Around 1,000 young members taking part in an epic day on the beach, making it the biggest carnival since the Covid pandemic!
Our Bush Nippers programs have continued to go from strength to strength, this year expanding into Yarrawonga and selling out sessions at inland waterways across Victoria.
Swimming Safely
In the meantime, our aquatic industry colleagues have continued their ongoing efforts to empower our community to enjoy the water safely, both through their education efforts and providing safe and accessible aquatic environments for our community.
It’s important to note that our public pools are among the safest places to swim, with lifeguards always on duty. They’re a great place to cool off when the weather heats up, particularly if you or your loved ones aren’t confident in the water.
Signage has also played an increased and vital role in keeping beachgoers safe. Our Research team has been working closely with partners to trial new high-impact signs at some of Victoria’s highest-risk beaches, helping to better inform and protect the public.
These signs carry explicit images and messaging, developed in consultation with the community, that highlight beaches containing life-threatening hazards, and if people have drowned at particular locations.
Drowning Toll
Our volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards, as always, have worked extraordinarily hard to keep our beaches and waterways safe.
Volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards have performed a total of 401 rescues and 879 first aid interventions since the beginning of the summer patrol season in November, an incredible achievement.
Despite everyone’s best efforts, we’ve had a total of 21 fatal drownings so far this financial year. While this is down on five and ten-year averages, summer is by far the deadliest time of year for drowning.
We know rescues and emergency response are vital, but preparedness is key. I implore everyone to remain vigilant to ensure we all stay safe in the water. Swim between the red and yellow flags, supervise children at all times, avoid alcohol before going in the water.
LSV Sport Shines
Lifesaving sport is integral to our rescue-readiness, and our members have continued to build and showcase their incredible skills throughout this month. Victoria finished fourth in the Surf Life Saving Australia Interstates, with our teams acquitted themselves well in the Super Surf Teams League, coming fourth in the Youth division and 10th and 11th in the Open division.
A range of sporting and development events have also been running across Gippsland with the support of the Victorian Government’s Strengthening Regional Community Sport Program; and it has been wonderful to see such high participation, with local communities being provided with fun and engaging events.
Congratulations to all competitors and thank you to those who tirelessly fill vital supporting roles. Without you, these events don’t happen!
This is a challenging time of year for all of us involved in water safety and emergency response. To our members, partners, stakeholders and supporters – thank you. Your dedication makes a real and lasting difference in the lives of Victorians. Stay strong and know your efforts are truly valued.
Yours in lifesaving,
Cath