Captain of Urunga Surf Lifesaving Club, Jim McCullagh, says the most important thing for people to remember as they enjoy the beach these summer holidays, is to swim between the flags.
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"We had a fatality at the river mouth in October, which was a case of people taking a dip in an unpatrolled area at the end of the boardwalk," Jim said.
"Hungry Head Beach is a bit away from the heart of Urunga but that is because the beaches in-between are not safe.
"At Hungry Head we have all the equipment - first aid, resuscitation gear, an inflatable rescue boat - plus it's far safer there."
He said the old adage absolutely applies: "If we can't see you, we can't save you".
From this Saturday, the holiday schedule will begin, which is the volunteer lifesavers from the club will be on duty daily from 9am to 1pm, including weekends and public holidays.
Lifeguards will then be on duty from 1pm to 5 o'clock with access to all the Urunga SLSC facilities.
Lifeguards are paid by the Bellingen Shire Council under a contract with the Australian Lifeguard Service.
It's also good to remember, that if you do get into trouble, such as being caught in a rip:
- Relax - stay calm and float to conserve your energy.
- Raise - raise your arm and attract attention from lifeguards or lifesavers.
- Rescue - the lifeguards or lifesavers will be on their way to help you.
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Ute Schulenberg
Journalism was always my plan but plans being what they are, I did not get to realise it until my early 40s ... and have loved every minute since. For me community journalism is the most intimate and honest place to be in this field - telling the stories of people I live with, side-by-side, every day. It is an honour.
Journalism was always my plan but plans being what they are, I did not get to realise it until my early 40s ... and have loved every minute since. For me community journalism is the most intimate and honest place to be in this field - telling the stories of people I live with, side-by-side, every day. It is an honour.
