Lifesaving President joins Eurobodalla campaign

28.07.2010

Surf lifesaving New South Wales has continued its campaign for the retention of a paid lifeguard service in the Eurobodalla on the Far South Coast of New South Wales.

 

The State President of the organisation, Tony Haven, attended a council meeting yesterday, after it was announced that the service would be cut due to the State Government's rejection of a special rate variation.

A new rescue watercraft was also unveiled outside the Council chambers, which will service the region from its base at Broulee.

Mr Haven says he is confident the issue will be resolved.

"I think during the discussions we had with them, they were very positive about continuing the lifeguard service," he said.

"We are certainly looking at the way our volunteers patrol the beach so we can work towards a united solution."

Mr Haven says volunteers are likely to pick up the Saturday morning patrol shift at some beaches.

He says surf lifesaving is exploring its options.

"We're looking at when our volunteers start the patrols and how we'll be able to supplement some of the patrols on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays over the Christmas period," he said.

"And we're looking at what will happen in the early part of the year when we don't get the crowds on the beaches."

The Mayor of the Eurobodalla Shire, Fergus Thomson, says the Council is working hard to address the problem.

But he says paying for the service has been ruled out.

"We identified that area as one that we could no longer fund, that $150 000," he said.

"It doesn't mean that we walk away from trying to find other solutions, but Council will not be funding lifeguards."

Surf Life Saving officials will meet with Eurobodalla Councillors and the National Parks and Wildlife Service on Tuesday.