Baylys Lifeguards Trial Hailed A Success But More Local Input Needed

Swimmers at Baylys Beach are advised to take extra care following the conclusion of three weeks patrolling by professional lifeguards, during which four rescues were made.

The service, which finished yesterday (Sunday 18 January), was a joint venture between Surf Life Saving Northern Region and Kaipara District Council and had lifeguards on duty between 11.00am and 6.00pm.

Up to 300 swimmers a day took to the water with between 50 and 60 swimmers between the flags during peak times.

During the three weeks four rescues were made, including three people on body boards last Wednesday evening. The lifeguards also provided medical attention in five instances and undertook 1,084 ‘preventative actions’.

Lifesavers say their presence was very well received. “The level of community support of the initiative and of the lifeguards at Baylys has been fantastic,” says Surf Life Saving Northern Region Lifesaving Manager Dean Storey who believes the service was very worthwhile and essential to community enjoyment and safety in the area.

“Although a formal review still needs to be undertaken, I would like to see an expanded service to cover more of January and February from next summer.”

Mr Storey says local community training of lifeguards commenced slowly with only a couple of people involved. “The challenge for the community if they wish to establish a long-term community group in Baylys is getting committed people willing to train and become lifeguards”.

Community members wishing to become involved as trainee lifeguards should contact 0800 SAVE LIFE or email experts@lifesaving.org.nz

Kaipara Mayor Neil Tiller says the lifeguards plus the Police presence made a positive impact but any decision concerning repeating or extending the service will be considered during the Annual Plan process. He says formation of a local surf lifesaving club is an essential part of providing a service here.

“The community certainly used and enjoyed the provision of lifeguards but I feel they still have to demonstrate that they are willing to play their part because the small number of locals wanting to train was very disappointing.”

“Council would need a strong argument to increase the $5,000 grant it made to Surf Lifesaving New Zealand this year.”

Baylys Beach Society President, Trish Harding says having lifeguards on duty was marvellous.

“As well as the life saving service the education factor was invaluable, giving advice and pointing out the perils. I commend Kaipara District Council for taking this initiative.”

She too believes Baylys needs a lifesaving service, saying, “the ultimate is to start a club here and be self sufficient with people we can call on.”

Surf Lifesaving Northern Region urges swimmers to take care in the surf and offers the following advice:

Never swim or surf alone
Parents watch over children
If in doubt – stay out
Be aware of rips and currents
Never mix swimming and alcohol/drugs

It says common ways to identify rips and holes include:

Calmer water (with surf breaking either side)
Around rocks
In front of creeks/water outlets

If a swimmer is caught in a rip:

Don’t panic (don’t swim against the rip)
Swim parallel to shore, out of the side of the rip and onto the sandbank/inwards moving surf