wollongong local government area...1.8 investigate the possibility of wollongong city lifeguards...

Funded by the NSW Government under the NSW Water Safety

Black Spots Fund watersafety.nsw.gov.auA NSW Government water safety initiative

Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment Wollongong Local Government Area

June 2013

Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Wollongong Local Government Area

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© Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Belrose, 2013 Disclaimer While Surf Life Saving New South Wales endeavours to provide reliable analysis and believes the contents of this report to be accurate, it will not be liable for any claim by any party acting on such information. All rights are reserved and no part of this publication covered by copyright may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means except with the written permission of Surf Life Saving New South Wales. We accept no duty of care or liability to you or any third party for any loss suffered in connection with the use of this document.


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Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................................................... 5

SUMMARY OF KEY RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................................ 7

1. INTRODUCTION, SCOPE & CONTEXT .......................................................................................................... 13

1.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 13 1.2 SCOPE AND CONTEXT ........................................................................................................................................ 14 1.3 LIMITATIONS ................................................................................................................................................... 15 1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS ...................................................................................................................................... 15 1.5 PROJECT TEAM ................................................................................................................................................ 17

2. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................... 18

2.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................................ 18 2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION ......................................................................................................................................... 18 2.4 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................... 21 2.5 DATA ANALYSIS ............................................................................................................................................... 22 2.6 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW............................................................................................................. 22 2.7 ABSAMP BEACH TYPES AND RATINGS FOR WOLLONGONG LGA BEACHES ................................................................. 23 2.8 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS .......................................................................... 25 2.9 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR) ...................................................................................................................... 28 2.10 FACILITIES ..................................................................................................................................................... 32 2.11 BEACH USAGE AND INCIDENT STATISTICS ............................................................................................................ 33

3. RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS ...................................................................................................................... 44

3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (GROSS RISK) ........................................................................................................... 44 3.1.1 Action Planning Priority Index .............................................................................................................. 44 3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety & Management Program Rating (ABSAMP Rating)...................................... 44 3.1.3 Local Population Rating ....................................................................................................................... 46 3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating ...................................................................................................... 48 3.1.5 Access Rating ....................................................................................................................................... 50 3.1.6 Action Planning Priority Score .............................................................................................................. 52

3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS ......................................................................................................... 57 3.2.1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 57 3.2.2 Hierarchy of Risk Treatments (Controls) .............................................................................................. 57 3.2.3 Education and Inform .......................................................................................................................... 58 3.2.4 Safety Signage ..................................................................................................................................... 63 3.2.5 Emergency Marker System .................................................................................................................. 67 3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programmes .................................. 68 3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment ..................................................................................................................... 71 3.2.8 System of Supervision .......................................................................................................................... 73

4. EMERGENCY RESPONSE ............................................................................................................................. 93

4.1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTING (000) .............................................................................................. 93 4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS ....................................................................................................................... 93 4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE ......................................................................................................................... 95 4.4 WOLLONGONG CITY COUNCIL / SURF LIFE SAVING ILLAWARRA RELATIONS ............................................................... 100 4.5 ILLAWARRA EMERGENCY TASKING DETAILS ......................................................................................................... 101

5. MONITOR AND REVIEW ........................................................................................................................... 102

6. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................. 103


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APPENDIX A: ACCESS AND SIGNAGE SCHEDULE APPENDIX B: RISK REGISTER AND TREATMENT PLAN APPENDIX C: PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT APPENDIX D: COVERAGE MAPS APPENDIX E: SURVEY RESULTS


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Executive Summary This report contains findings and recommendations specific to current International and Australian standards, guidelines and best practice risk management processes. The report contains information specific to locations under the authority of Wollongong City Council & the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) - Office of Environment and Heritage 1 Little Garie 2 North Era 3 South Era 4 Burning Palms 5 Werrong (Hell Hole) 6 Bulgo 7 NSW351 8 Stanwell Park 9 Coalcliff North 10 Coalcliff 11 Scarborough North 12 Scarborough 13 Wombarra 14 Coledale 15 Sharky 16 Brickyard/Long Point 17 Little Austinmer 18 Austinmer 19 Thirroul 20 South Thirroul

21 Sandon Point 22 Bulli 23 Woonona 24 Bellambi 25 Bellambi Point 26 Corrimal 27 Towradgi 28 Fairy Meadow 29 Puckey's Beach 30 North Wollongong 31 Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) 32 Wollongong City 33 Flagstaff Hill 34 Port Kembla Harbour 35 MM 36 Fishermans 37 Hill 60 Rock Platform 38 Port Kembla 39 Windang 40 Windang Island Rock Platform

Activities/Facilities The area is a typical beach fringed local government area bordering a national park. The area is administered by the Wollongong City Council and National Parks & Wildlife Service - Office of Environment and Heritage. There are 36 beaches in the assessment area starting from Little Garie (NSW345) to Windang (NSW379A).There are numerous rock platforms along the coastline that can see high levels of rock platform use (e.g. rock fishing). The area sees year round public usage and recreational activity, namely swimming, surfing, walking, hiking and rock fishing. Specific data relating to total public usage and user trends is relatively good. This data has been obtained through Surf Life Saving & Wollongong City Council beach usage statistics (2.11) A number of facilities support coastal usage and activities including well maintained car parks, key beach access, 5 camping areas, boat ramps, a number of public toilets/changing rooms and BBQ’s and picnic tables. Hazards/Risks Though outlined in more detail within the report and appendices, the Wollongong Local Government Area (LGA) holds a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of the area. Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, these are the hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Wollongong LGA: Strong ocean currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type Strong tidal current/river mouth: As a result of wave action and tidal conditions Waves/waves over washing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells Inshore holes/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type Slippery rocks/surface: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type Submerged rocks: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement Stingers/sharks: As a result of marine life Cliffs: As a result of coastal geography Rock shelves/platforms/reefs: As a result of coastal geography


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Boating traffic/surfing collision: As a result of human interaction Dangerous access/uneven surface: As a result of coastal geography Unsafe structure: As a result of disused infrastructure Vegetation: As a result of overgrown dunes Based on the risk analysis of these hazards, it has been identified that they pose risk to the following types of recreational users: Strong ocean currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Strong tidal current/river mouth: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, break wall users, boaters Waves/waves over washing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks/surface: Fishermen, rock platform users, walkers Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Stingers/sharks: Swimmers, surf craft users Cliffs: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers Rock shelves/platforms/reefs: Surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Boating traffic/surfing collision: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters Dangerous access/uneven surface: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Unsafe structure: Swimmers, surf craft users Vegetation: Swimmers, surf craft users Existing Risk Treatments Wollongong City Council in partnership with a number of other organisations have implemented a number of effectives risk treatment initiatives within the area, these include: o Safety Signage o Public Rescue Equipment o Lifesaving Services o Education Material o School Education


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Summary of Key Recommendations Please note:

o The below recommendations are provided as options for guidance only and will not be binding to the Land Manager

o The below recommendations are in no particular order in regards to prioritisation

o Further explanation to the recommendations should also be referenced and can be found on the corresponding pages

Recommendation 1 The Wollongong City Council should consider implementing the following treatment options Strategic Coordination:

1.1 Beach usage and incident data (drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics)

should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety.(p.39)

1.2 Wollongong City Council & Surf Life Saving Illawarra should continue to hold regularly scheduled surf

liaison meetings as an effective forum to raise safety issues and implement strategies in the Illawarra coastal environment. The committee should have a standing item on all future meeting agendas titled ‘coastal risk management – status and issues’, or similar. Recommendations found in this report can be addressed in this agenda item (p.42)

1.3 Treatment options in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on

evidence.(p.55) Education: 1.4 Existing education and awareness programmes within and around the Wollongong Local Government

Area should continue to be implemented and reviewed. (p.61) 1.5 Education and awareness programmes should include standardised key safety messages which are

recognised by the aquatic safety industry (e.g. Water Safety NSW website, ‘watersafety.nsw.gov.au’). (p.61)

1.6 Display safety information (e.g. posters) which promotes key water safety messages, at amenity blocks

and visitor information displays directly located around coastal beach access. (p.61) 1.7 Peak coastal water safety agencies currently provide surf education to local schools and community

groups. It is recommended that Wollongong City Council work with these agencies to promote these programmes and encourage enhanced participation at a local level. (p.61)

1.8 Investigate the possibility of Wollongong City Lifeguards providing beach safety reports during the WIN

Illawarra Local Evening News.(p.61) 1.9 Continue to promote and encourage rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p.61) Signage: 1.10 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be

implemented by Land Managers at the locations listed in Appendix A. This may include maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs) or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.65)

1.11 In partnership with peak water safety bodies should investigate the use of temporary signage (Appendix

A) at key entry roads into the Wollongong coast to display Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued dangerous surf warnings - warning the public of large/hazardous waves.(p.65)


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Access: 1.12 Formal access tracks identified in Appendix A should continue to be regularly maintained through

ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.(p.69)

1.13 Informal access tracks identified in Appendix A should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in

order to promote/facilitate use of formal access. (p.69) Surveillance and Supervision: 1.14 The level of lifesaving- / lifeguarding service (staffing levels, operational dates, and operational hours)

provided by Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra should be reviewed regularly with a view to providing services that continue to match identified needs. (p.90)

1.15 Wollongong City Council Lifeguards should continue the winter patrol service at North Wollongong into

the future.(p.90) 1.16 Consider the expansion of recorded closed circuit television (CCTV) in accordance with its policies and

PIPPA Legislative requirements at the following locations: o East Corrimal (p.90)

1.17 On completion of the proposed property development at Sandon Point and McCauley’s Beach, a lifeguard

service should be considered to cover the summer school holiday period. (p.90)

1.18 Maintain line of sight, for lifeguards / lifesavers, from observation points. (p.91) Emergency Response: 1.19 In consultation with lifesavers and lifeguards the Wollongong City Council should install Emergency

Response Beacons (mobile) at the following locations. (p.93): South Thirroul (McCauley’s) (NSW364), East Corrimal (NSW369B), Coniston Beach (NSW374).

1.20 Surf emergency response procedures to be further reviewed to promote a faster and more coordinated

response to aquatic emergencies.(p.100) 1.21 Regularly scheduled surf liaison meetings held between Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving

Illawarra should include a SLSI duty officer with operational expertise.(p.100) Monitor & Review: 1.22 In consultation with relevant stakeholders this document should be reviewed annually to measure the

effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented. (p.101)

1.23 All drowning prevention strategies should be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.101)


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Recommendation 2 The National Parks and Wildlife Service - Office of Environment and Heritage should consider implementing the following treatment options Strategic Coordination: 2.1 Beach usage and incident data (drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics)

should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety. (p.39)

2.2 Treatment options in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on

evidence. (p.55) Education:

2.3 Education and awareness programmes should include standardised key safety messages which are

recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. NSW Water Safety website, ‘watersafety.nsw.gov.au’). (p.61) 2.4 Display safety information (e.g. posters) which promotes key water safety messages, at amenity blocks

and visitor information displays directly located around coastal beach access. (p.61)

2.5 Continue to promote and encourage rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p.61) Signage: 2.6 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be

implemented by Land Managers at the locations listed in Appendix A. This may include maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs) or the removal of unnecessary signage.(p.65)

Access: 2.7 Formal access tracks identified in Appendix A should continue to be regularly maintained through

ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.(p.69)

2.8 Informal access tracks identified in Appendix A should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate use of formal access. (p.69)

Emergency Response:

2.9 Throw sticks (inflatable flotation devices) should be carried in NPWS vehicles when conducting scheduled

maintenance within the coastal areas of a National Park. (p.95)

Monitor and Review:

2.10 In consultation with relevant stakeholders this document should be reviewed annually to measure the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented. (p.101)

2.11 All drowning prevention strategies should be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.101)


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Recommendation 3 Australian CoastSafe and Surf Life Saving New South Wales should consider implementing the following treatment options Strategic Coordination: 3.1 Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and Surf

Life Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky coast should be commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related to rocky coasts in this report should be reviewed. (p.23)

3.2 Surf Life Saving New South Wales make the SLSNSW radio network available to Wollongong City Council in

order to reduce duplication and enhance emergency response and coordination of assets. (p.100) Recommendation 4 The Water Safety Advisory Council should consider implementing the following treatment options Strategic Coordination: 4.1 A review be commissioned to analyse the historical environmental conditions at the time of recorded

drowning deaths where the Bureau of Meteorology is able to supply data. Such a report should identify the relevant trends and causal factors. (p.26)

Education: 4.2 Develop relationships with tourism agencies to expand on the coastal accommodation network program

with the aim of distributing standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures, flyers, pamphlets) to all coastal accommodation providers in the Wollongong Local Government Area. (p.61)

4.3 Land managers and water safety stakeholders should identify the relevant user groups and related

resources/websites (including non-English) that promote rock fishing in the Wollongong LGA, and target safety messaging to those groups/resources. This research may also provide the opportunity for targeted education campaigns. (p.61)

Signage: 4.4 In consultation with the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Surf Life Saving New South Wales,

Land Managers should implement a state-aligned emergency marker program at all identified access locations once such a program is established. (p.66)

Public Rescue Equipment:

4.5 The New South Wales Water Safety Advisory Council should explore the means to fund the expansion and

continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW at the locations outlined in Appendix C. Final positioning should be determined by ANSA NSW. (p.71)


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Recommendation 5 Surf Life Saving Illawarra should consider implementing the following treatment options Strategic Coordination: 5.1 Wollongong City Council & Surf Life Saving Illawarra should continue to hold regularly scheduled surf

liaison meetings as an effective forum to raise safety issues and implement strategies in the Illawarra coastal environment. The committee should have a standing item on all future meeting agendas titled ‘coastal risk management – status and issues’, or similar. Recommendations found in this report can be addressed in this agenda item (p.42)

Surveillance & Supervision: 5.2 The level of lifesaving / lifeguarding service (staffing levels, operational dates, and operational hours)

provided by Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra should be reviewed regularly with a view to providing services that continue to match identified needs (p.90)

Emergency Response: 5.3 Surf emergency response procedures to be further reviewed to promote a faster and more coordinated

response to aquatic emergencies.(p.100)

5.4 Regularly scheduled surf liaison meetings held between Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra should include a SLSI duty officer with operational expertise.(p.100)


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1. Introduction, Scope & Context 1.1 Introduction This document is a coastal public safety risk assessment and treatment plan specific to water safety related issues identified at every beach, rock platform and break wall located in the Wollongong Local Government Area. Tragically, New South Wales (NSW) accounts for 50% of the national coastal drowning toll annually. As of 30 June 2013, there have been 338 coastal drowning deaths in NSW since 1 July 2004.

1. The vast majority of these

can be attributed to swimming/rip-currents and rock-fishing, with almost all occurring at unpatrolled locations/times, where no expert assistance is immediately available. Accidental drowning deaths in the coastal aquatic environment can be accounted for through a number of causal factors known as the ‘drowning chain’. These are: o Lack of knowledge, disregard or misunderstanding of the hazard o Uninformed or unrestricted access to the hazard o Lack of supervision or surveillance o An inability to cope once in difficulty The strategies that have been identified to address the drowning chain are: o Education and information o Denial of access, improvement of infrastructure and/or provision of warnings o Provision of supervision o Acquisition of survival skills

Figure 1.1.1: The International Life Saving

Federation Drowning Chain

(Source: ILSF Drowning Prevention

Strategies, 2008)

This report will assist authorities in addressing the coastal drowning issue in NSW both in the short, mid and long term. The report will do this by providing a sustainable and effective drowning prevention strategy with clear evidence/data, engagement of relevant stakeholders and the application of effective risk mitigation and drowning prevention initiatives where and when they are required.

1 Surf Life Saving Incident Reporting Database


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It is acknowledged that land managers have many competing priorities and limited resources. Land managers should balance their water safety land management activities within the context of their broader role to provide services and facilities to meet the current future needs of their local communities as a whole, all within a limited budget. This report recognises that there are many inherent risks associated with the NSW coastline and that in most instances these risks associated with the NSW coastline cannot be eliminated and can only be managed within the operations contexts of the land manager, taking into account all of their responsibilities and available resources. This report also recognises that visitors to these areas also have a personal responsibility for their own safety and those they are responsible for. The recommendations found in the report are representative of Australian CoastSafe’s opinion in relation to risk management at the locations assessed.

1.2 Scope and Context Surf Life Saving New South Wales recently received funding as part of a NSW Government water safety initiative through the Water Safety Black Spot Fund to commence coastal public safety risk assessments on the NSW coastline (every accessible beach and rock platform). The program will be staged over several years with phase one to include the top ten drowning locations by Local Government Area (LGA) in NSW. The report provides risk treatment recommendations about how to improve risk and safety management in line with current industry compliance standards: o AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management – Principles and Guidelines o AS2416 – 2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags o AS 2899(.1&.2) – 1986 Public Information Symbols Part 1 and 2 o ISO 7001:2007 Graphical symbols - Public information symbols o AS2342 – 1992 Development, Testing and Implementing of Information and Safety Symbols and Symbolic

Signs o ISO9001:2000 Quality Management Systems This coastal public safety risk assessment and treatment plan has been prepared following an on-site risk assessment undertaken by Australian CoastSafe of Wollongong which commenced on Tuesday 8

th January

2013 and concluded on Tuesday 28th

January 2013. The assessment covered all beach and rock platform locations (p.18) within the area. In September 2012 a report was issued by Australian CoastSafe relating to ten (10) unpatrolled locations within the Wollongong LGA. The locations addressed in this report have not been reassessed, however the September 2012 report has been taken into consideration in the preparation of this assessment and the data has been used in many of the risk based equations contained within this document. At the locations previously assessed during the 2012 assessment only an audit of current signage has been completed. For further information on these locations refer to “Weir A, 2012, Wollongong City Council, Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment and Treatment Plan”. Aquatic areas which are excluded from this assessment include all bodies of water which are not ‘coastal’ in nature under SLSA definitions, and all hazards not directly associated with the use and immediate access to the coastal aquatic environment. While recreational and commercial boating may occur in these waters the detailed assessment of hazards and their treatments specific to boating activities falls outside the scope of this report. Boat ramps and bars at river mouths that fall within the assessed areas identified in Appendix D have been assessed within the framework of the coastal public safety risk assessment process. Information on boating safety can be found at www.maritime.nsw.gov.au. The engagement of Land Managers and other key local stakeholders was also a vital part of this risk assessment.


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Australian CoastSafe assessed the following in detail: o Access locations, classifying these as formal or informal access tracks and recommending treatment

options. Signage that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current signage Appendix A.

o Hazards, their potential risks, risk groups, risk scores and treatment options Appendix B.

o Public rescue equipment that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current public rescue equipment Appendix C.

Other appendices include: o Coverage maps of assessed locations Appendix D.

o Survey Results Appendix E. At no time during the inspection was the water entered, they were performed from the land, along the edges of the water, along rocky outcrops, headlands, access tracks and car park access points.

1.3 Limitations The following are acknowledged as limitations of this coastal public safety risk assessment. o The absence of an agreed and recognised methodology for rating the hazardousness of rock platforms. o The absence of a consistent methodology for attendance figures from lifesavers and lifeguards. o Difficulty in gaining feedback from all identified stakeholders. o Limited timeframes allowed for stakeholders to provide feedback on consultative draft versions of the

report as a result of the project timeframes. 1.4 Definition of Terms Table 1.4.1: The following is a summary of the definition of key terms used within this report.

ABSAMP Australian Beach Safety And Management Program

Attendance A snapshot of the on-beach and in-water attendance taken every two hours on a daily basis

ATV All Terrain Vehicle used by lifeguards and lifesavers to patrol the beach

Coastal Waterway A coastal body of water e.g. river/creek opening

Consequence Outcome or impact of an event

Control An existing process, policy, device, practice or other action that acts to minimise negative risk or enhance positive opportunities

Emergency Action Plan A plan that outlines the procedures to be used in the event of an emergency

Frequency A measure of the number of occurrences per unit of time

First Aid A lifesaver/lifeguard treating either a minor or major first aid incident, which may require further assistance from NSW Ambulance e.g. broken bones or stings/bites

Formal Access Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer ‘track’, effectively exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quality of signage required and


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enhancing emergency reporting/location identification.

Geomorphology Is the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them

Hazards A source of potential harm

Hazard Symbols A graphical symbol used together with a safety colour and safety shape to form a safety sign

Informal Access Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/sink-holes), may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make emergency location reporting difficult (location awareness).

Inherent Risk The risk that an activity would pose if no controls or other mitigating factors were in place

Lifesaving Service An organised and structured service comprised of paid lifeguards and/or volunteer lifesavers and appropriate rescue and first aid equipment supported by a coordinated backup team

Likelihood Used as a general description of probability or frequency

Modal The conditions that occur most frequently, or more often than other conditions.

Monitor To check, supervise, observe critically or measure the progress of an activity, action or system on a regular basis in order to identify change from the performance level required or expected

Peak Water Safety Agencies

A peak body is defined as a state, territory or national non-profit organisation established to cater for the needs, interests and aspirations of its members. Members may include individuals or organisations, but they will all have a common interest. Peak bodies in the water safety sector may include agencies such as Surf Life Saving, Royal Life Saving, Surf Educators Australia, Austswim, Australian Professional Ocean Lifeguard Association, Surfing NSW and the Office of Boating Safety who represent the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council as a committee member.

PRE Public Rescue Equipment (e.g. life rings)

Prevailing The conditions existing in a particular place or at a particular time

Probability A measure of the chance of occurrence expressed as a number

Preventative Action A lifesaver/lifeguard simply providing proactive direction or advice to beachgoers in a ‘preventative action’ for the beachgoer to avoid finding themselves in a position beyond their capability

Rescue A lifesaver/lifeguard rendering direct assistance to a beachgoer in difficulty in the water

Residual Risk Risk remaining after implementation of risk treatments

Rip Current Channelled currents of water flowing away from shore, typically extending from the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the line of breaking waves


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Risk Standards Australia defines risk as the effect of uncertainty on objects (AS/NZS 31000:2009)

Risk Analysis Systematic process to understand the nature of and to the level of risk

Risk Assessment Standards Australia defines a risk assessment as the overall process of risk identification, risk analysis and risk evaluation (AS/NZS 31000:2009)

Risk Evaluation Process of comparing the level of risk against criteria

Risk Identification The process of determining what, where, when, why and how something should happen

Risk Treatment Process of selection and implementation of measures to modify risk

Risk Management Standards Australia defines risk management as coordinated activities to direct and control and organisation with regard to risk (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Register A table summarising the identified risks, the location, why it has been identified as a risk, and what current treatments are in place to lessen the risk and an overall hazard rating.

Risk Treatment Plan A table summarising how to deal with the identified risks, including a list of potential risk treatments, the risk treatments currently and any residual risk.

RWC Rescue Water Craft used by lifeguards and lifesavers. More commonly known as jet skis

Stakeholders Those people and organisations who may affect, be affected, or perceive themselves to be affected by a decision, activity or risk

1.5 Project Team Adam Weir – Coastal Risk Manager Australian CoastSafe Surf Life Saving New South Wales Ph: 02-9471 8000 | F: 02-9471 8001 | M: 0419 444 003 E: [email protected] W: www.coastsafe.org.au/blueprint Coastal Risk Officers: Stuart Massey, Coastal Risk Officer, 0406 353 344, [email protected] Luke Stigter, Coastal Risk Officer, 0409 075 620, [email protected]


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2. Assessment Methodology

2.1 Introduction The methodology included site identification, site inspection, hazard identification, data analysis, beach hazard ratings, beach identification, facility visitation ratings, facilities, beach usage, incident data, communication and consultation.

2.2 Site Identification

The figure below provides an overview of the locations of beaches and rock platforms within the Wollongong Local Government Area subject to the coastal public safety risk assessment. The specific site locations can be referenced in Appendix D. The area includes locations and/or facilities under the administration of:

o Wollongong City Council o The Office of Environment and Heritage – National Parks and Wildlife Service

Royal National Park o NSW Crown Lands Division

The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment and is not limited to signage, car parks, access tracks, service provision, geographical hazards, geological hazards, user groups, conflicting activities and usage. The report also identifies facilities and activities that encourage people to visit the location.

Areas identified within the scope and context of this assessment and specifically covered within the coverage maps in Appendix D have been included as part of this assessment. All other areas are excluded.


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Figure 2.2.1: Wollongong City Council overview of beach locations


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2.3 Site Inspection

Site visits were completed on the following dates: Table 2.3.1: Assessed locations and the dates of their assessment

Location Land Management Authority Date

Little Garie National Parks and Wildlife Tuesday 22nd January 2013

North Era National Parks and Wildlife Tuesday 22nd January 2013

South Era National Parks and Wildlife Tuesday 22nd January 2013

Burning Palms National Parks and Wildlife Monday 21st January 2013

Werrong (Hell Hole) National Parks and Wildlife Tuesday 22nd January 2013

Bulgo National Parks and Wildlife Tuesday 22nd January 2013

NSW 351 Wollongong City Council Tuesday 22nd January 2013

Stanwell Park Wollongong City Council Monday 21st January 2013

Coalcliff North Wollongong City Council Monday 21st January 2013

Coalcliff Wollongong City Council Monday 21st January 2013

Scarborough North Wollongong City Council Monday 21st January 2013

Scarborough Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Wombarra Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Coledale Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Sharky Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Brickyard/Long Point Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Little Austinmer Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Austinmer Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Thirroul Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

South Thirroul Wollongong City Council Friday 18th January 2013

Sandon Point Wollongong City Council Thursday 17th January 2013

Bulli Wollongong City Council Thursday 17th January 2013

Woonona Wollongong City Council Wednesday 16th January 2013

Bellambi Wollongong City Council Wednesday 16th January 2013

Bellambi Point Wollongong City Council Wednesday 16th January 2013

Corrimal Wollongong City Council Wednesday 16th January 2013

Towradgi Wollongong City Council Tuesday 15th January 2013

Fairy Meadow Wollongong City Council Tuesday 15th January 2013

Puckey's Beach Wollongong City Council Monday 14th January 2013

North Wollongong Wollongong City Council Monday 14th January 2013

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) Wollongong City Council Monday 14th January 2013

Wollongong City Wollongong City Council Friday 11th January 2013

Flagstaff Hill Wollongong City Council Friday 11th January 2013

Port Kembla Harbour Wollongong City Council Thursday 10th January 2013

MM Wollongong City Council Thursday 10th January 2013

Fishermans Wollongong City Council Thursday 10th January 2013

Hill 60 Rock Platform Wollongong City Council Thursday 10th January 2013

Port Kembla Wollongong City Council Wednesday 9th January 2013

Windang Wollongong City Council Tuesday 8th January 2013

Windang Island Rock Platform Wollongong City Council Tuesday 8th January 2013


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2.4 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment During the site inspection hazards were identified within the area inspected and assessed in terms of their individual risk to public safety (extreme, high, medium, low) using a risk assessment matrix (Appendix B). The risk assessment matrix considers both the type of harm that could be sustained as a result of an individual hazard and the likelihood of this harm actually occurring. Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, these are the hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Wollongong LGA: Strong ocean currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type Strong tidal current/river mouth: As a result of wave action and tidal conditions Waves/waves over washing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells Inshore holes/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type Slippery rocks/surface: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type Submerged rocks: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement Stingers/sharks: As a result of marine life Cliffs: As a result of coastal geography Rock shelves/platforms/reefs: As a result of coastal geography Boating traffic/surfing collision: As a result of human interaction Dangerous access/uneven surface: As a result of coastal geography Unsafe structure: As a result of disused infrastructure Vegetation: As a result of overgrown dunes Based on the risk analysis of these hazards, it has been identified that they pose risk to the following types of recreational users: Strong ocean currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Strong tidal current/river mouth: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, break wall users, boaters Waves/waves over washing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks/surface: Fishermen, rock platform users, walkers Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Stingers/sharks: Swimmers, surf craft users Cliffs: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers Rock shelves/platforms/reefs: Surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Boating traffic/surfing collision: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters Dangerous access/uneven surface: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Unsafe structure: Swimmers, surf craft users Vegetation: Swimmers, surf craft users


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2.5 Data Analysis Data relevant to this risk assessment has been considered in the production of the report. These include: o Australian Beach Safety and Management Programme (ABSAMP) o Australian Bureau of Statistics – 2010 Census data o Department of Lands - property development information o National Coronial Information System o Wollongong City Council – Development Application/Approvals o Recreation Fishing Alliance – angel-ring program data and statistics o Rock Fishing Review - Bradstreet et al, (2012) – Research Review of Rock Fishing in New South Wales. Surf

Life Saving Australia: Sydney). o SLSA Incident Reporting Database (IRD) o Surf Guard patrol statistics (lifesaving) o Wollongong City Council Lifeguards – Service Statistics o Wollongong Tourism Figures 2.6 Beach Hazard Ratings and Overview The ABSAMP (Australian Beach Safety and Management Programme) was developed by Professor Andrew Short from the University of Sydney - Coastal Studies Unit in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia. The programme has identified coastal hazards that affect members of the public and rates the safety of the beach on a scale of one to ten, where one (1) is the least hazardous and ten (10) is the most hazardous. The beach hazard ratings and definitions are provided in the following table. Table 2.6.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings

The beach hazard rating is calculated by determining the beach type and wave height. This can be done under either modal (average) or prevailing (current) conditions. The beach hazard rating is then calculated by using the following table: Beach hazard rating calculation matrices for wave dominate beaches.

Hazard Rating Details

1 - 3

Least Hazardous: Low danger posed by water depth and/or weak currents; however, supervision still required, in particular for children and poor swimmers.

4 - 6

Moderately Hazardous: The level of hazard depends on wave and weather conditions, with the possibility of strong rips and currents posing a moderate risk.

7 - 8

Highly Hazardous: Experience in strong surf, rips and currents required, with beaches in this category considered dangerous.

9 - 10

Extremely Hazardous: Identifies beaches that are considered extremely dangerous due to strong rips and currents, and large breakers.


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Table 2.6.2: Beach hazard rating calculation matrices for wave dominated beaches.

Wave Height

Beach Type

< 0.5 (m) 0.5 (m) 1.0 (m) 1.5 (m) 2.0 (m) 2.5 (m) 3.0 (m) > 3.0 (m)

Dissipative 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10

Long Shore Bar Trough

4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10

Rhythmic Bar Beach

4 5 6 6 7 8 9 10

Transverse Bar Rip 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Low Tide Terrace 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

Reflective 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

The beach hazard ratings presented in this report relate to modal beach conditions and as such the hazard rating of a beach may increase when conditions alter e.g. with increasing wave height, winds, strong tides and high tide. Furthermore, a hazard rating is also applied to an average person and therefore depending upon an individual's own skill, understanding and competence in relation to a certain area the hazard may in fact be greater or less. The ABSAMP hazard ratings for the inspected areas of Wollongong LGA are detailed within the next section of the report. 2.7 ABSAMP Beach Types and Ratings for Wollongong LGA Beaches The ABSAMP hazard rating for the assessed beaches is listed in table 2.7.1. The table provides an ABSAMP rating and descriptive label/name type for each specific beach location. Table 2.7.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings – Wollongong LGA

Location Name ABSAMP no. Rating Type

Little Garie nsw345 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

North Era nsw346 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

South Era nsw347 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Burning Palms nsw348 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Werrong (Hell Hole) nsw349 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Bulgo nsw350 4 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

NSW351 nsw351 7 Low Tide Terrace

Stanwell Park nsw352 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Coalcliff North nsw353 8 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Coalcliff nsw354 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Scarborough North nsw355 8 Transverse Bar and Rip

Scarborough nsw356 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Wombarra nsw357 6 Low Tide Terrace

Coledale nsw358 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Sharky nsw359 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Brickyard/Long Point nsw360 3 Reflective

Little Austinmer nsw361 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Austinmer nsw362 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Thirroul nsw363 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

South Thirroul nsw364 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Sandon Point nsw365 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Bulli nsw366 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Woonona nsw367A 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Bellambi nsw367B 5 Transverse Bar and Rip


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Location Name ABSAMP no. Rating Type

Bellambi Point nsw368 5 Reflective + rocks

Corrimal nsw369 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Towradgi nsw370A 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Fairy Meadow nsw370B 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

nsw370C 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

North Wollongong nsw371 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) nsw372 3 Reflective

Wollongong City nsw373 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Flagstaff Hill nsw373RP 6* Rock Platform

Port Kembla Harbour nsw375 3 Reflective

MM nsw377 5 Reflective

Fishermans nsw378 3 Reflective

Hill 60 Rock Platform nsw378RP 5* Rock Platform

Port Kembla nsw379A 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Windang nsw379B 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Windang Island Rock Platform nsw379BRP 7* Rock Platform

* Wollongong Local Government Area Rock Platform Ratings Currently there is no method of rating the hazardousness of the rocky coast, in an equivalent manner to the ABSAMP beach hazard rating system for sandy beaches. Research is currently underway; Dr. David Kennedy has utilised a grant from Melbourne University to pilot the methods for the development of a risk classification study on rocky coasts. This research has now received funding under an Australian Research Council linkage grant. Prof. Colin Woodroffe (University of Wollongong) presented the methodology for this project at the NSW Coastal Conference in Kiama (November, 2012). As an interim method of providing an indication of the hazardousness of rock platforms the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings for the beaches on either side of the each rock platform have been averaged. Since the beaches on either side of a rock platform would be exposed to similar prevailing and modal wind, wave and weather conditions and these sandy beaches have a recognised and accepted method of rating the associated hazardousness taking the average of the beaches bordering a rock platform will provide an indication as to the potential hazard associated with the modal conditions affecting the rock platform. It is a limitation of the report that there is no available method of calculating the specific hazard rating of a rock platform. However, in order to allow the risk calculations used in this report to be processed an interim solution has been applied which takes into account the local conditions and geomorphology. Once the research being conducted by Dr. David Kennedy and Prof. Colin Woodroffe is completed then these calculations should be revisited.

Treatment Option 3.1 Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and Surf Life Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky coast should be commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related to rocky coasts in this report should be reviewed.


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2.8 ABSAMP Beach Type Characteristic Overview and Hazards Each location and their beach characteristics and associated hazards are as follows. Transverse Bar and Rip o Little Garie (+ Rocks) o North Era o South Era o Stanwell Park o Coalcliff o Scarborough North (+ Rocks) o Scarborough o Coledale o Sharky (+ Rocks) o Little Austinmer (+ Rocks) o Austinmer o Thirroul o South Thirroul (McCauley’s)

o Sandon Point o Bulli o Woonona o Bellambi o Corrimal o Towradgi o Fairy Meadow o Puckey's Beach o North Wollongong o Wollongong City o Port Kembla o Windang

Figure 2.8.1: Transverse Bar and Rip

Transverse bar and rip type is the most common and extensive of Australia’s wave-dominated beach types. They occur primarily on beaches composed of fine to medium sand (0.3 mm) and exposed to waves averaging 1.5m. This beach type received its name from the fact that the bars are transverse or perpendicular to and attached to the beach, separated by deeper rip channels. Waves tend to break more on the bars and move shoreward as wave bores. This water flows both directly into the adjacent rip channel and, closer to the beach, into the rip feeder channels located at the base of the beach. The water in the rip feeders converge and

return seaward as a strong rip current. Rhythmic Bar and Beach o Burning Palms (+ Rocks) o Werrong (Hell Hole) (+ Rocks) o Coalcliff North (+ Rocks) Figure 2.8.2: Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Rhythmic bar and beach type commonly occurs around the southern Australian coast. They usually consist of relatively fine-medium (0.3 mm) sand and exposure to waves averaging more than 1.5 m. They are characterised by an outer bar which is separated from the beach by a deep trough, however unlike the longshore bar and trough type, the bar varies in width and elevation alongshore, and it is rhythmic. Waves break more heavily on the shoreward-protruding rhythmic bar sections with the broken wave and white water flowing shoreward as a wave bore. The bore then flows off the bar into the deeper tough,

where it moves shoreward and longshore as a rip feeder current. Part of the wave reforms in the trough and breaks again on the shore. The water from both the wave bore and the swash piles up in the rip feeder channel and moves sideways toward the adjacent rip embayment. The converging feeder currents turn and flow seaward as a rip current through the trough and across the deeper seaward-protruding sections of the rhythmic bar.


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Reflective o Bulgo (+ Rocks) o Brickyard/Long Point (+ rock flats) o Bellambi Point (+ Rocks) o Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) o Port Kembla Harbour o MM (+ rock flats) o Fishermans Figure 2.8.3: Reflective

Reflective sandy beaches lie at the lower energy end of the wave-dominated beach spectrum. They are characterised by relatively steep, narrow beaches usually composed of coarser sand (0.4 mm). On the open Australian coast, sandy beaches require waves to be less than 0.5 m to be reflective. For this reason they are also found inside the entrance to bays, at the lower energy end of some ocean beaches and in lee of the reefs and islets that front many beaches. Reflective beaches are Australia's most common beach type occurring in every state though they are more common around the southern half of the continent. Reflective beach morphology consists of the

steeper, narrow beach and swash zone, with beach cusps commonly present in the upper high tide swash zone. They have no bar or surf zone as waves move unbroken to the shore, where they collapse or surge up the beach face. Low Tide Terrace o Wombarra (+ Rocks) o NSW351 (+Rocks) Figure 2.8.4: Low Tide Terrace

Low tide terrace beaches tend to occur when waves average about 1 m and sand is fine to medium. They are characterised by a moderately steep beach face, which is joined at the low tide level to an attached bar or terrace, hence the name - low tide terrace. The bar usually extends between 20-50 m seaward and continues alongshore, attached to the beach. It may be flat and featureless, have a slight central crest, called a ridge, and may be cut every several tens of metres by small shallow rip channels, called mini rips. At high tide when waves are less than 1 m, they may pass right over the bar and not break until the beach face, which behaves much like a reflective beach. At

spring low tide, however, the entire bar is usually exposed as a ridge or terrace running parallel to the beach and waves break by plunging heavily on the outer edge of the bar. At mid tide, waves usually break right across the shallow bar, when they are most likely to generate rip currents. The water is returned seaward, both by reflection off the beach face, especially at high tide, and via the mini rips, even if no rip channels are present. The rips, however, are usually shallow, ephemeral or transient meaning they will flow strongly for a few minutes then dissipate. Rock Platform o Flagstaff Hill o Hill 60 Rock Platform o Windang Island Rock Platform

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_a-b.jsp#Beach_face

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_s-t.jsp#Spring

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_q-r.jsp#Rip_current

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_q-r.jsp#Rip_channel


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Environmental Risk Factors (Variable) The nature of the coastal environment in the assessment area, combined with recreational activity types and locations has identified specific location ‘black spots’ for emergency incidents and drowning deaths. While data surrounding incident location/time has been referenced, specific environmental conditions at the time of incidents have not been adequately assessed to identify causal factors and specific trends. This information exists and is held in raw format by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), including wave height/direction, tides, wind speed/direction, temperature, and visibility. Review and assessment of this data, may identify environmental trends which may encourage/discourage recreational activities, impact hazard/risk perception and risk taking behaviour, identify higher-risk conditions for types of localities and specific ‘black spot’ locations themselves. Improvements to Dangerous Surf Warnings and education/awareness programs may be improved as a result.

Treatment Option 4.1 A review is commissioned to analyse the historical environmental conditions at the time of recorded drowning deaths where the Bureau of Meteorology is able to supply data. Such a report should identify the relevant trends and causal factors.


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2.9 Facility Visitation Rates (FVR) The Facility Visitation Rate (FVR) is a term, which has been developed to provide a quantitative assessment that can be used to determine the most appropriate signage schedule for a facility (venue or location). The FVR is calculated using data collected during the assessment process and includes site population use and frequency of use. As the FVR calculation is used to determine aquatic recreational warning signage requirements the figures used are those of the peak period of beach usage. Population figures are from Wollongong City Council lifeguard statistics season 2011/12, week 12. The following calculation is derived using: 1. Stakeholder observation, consultation and feedback relative to the table values outlined 2. Historical statistical data, and; 3. Utilisation of the Facility Visitation Rate (FVR) formula, where: Facility Visitation Rate = (Development Rating x Population) + Frequency Facility Visitation Rating (FVR) Reference Tables Table 2.9.1: Typical Development and Natural Hazards Rating for Reserves – non beach environments

Rating Development Natural Hazards

1 Virginal bush, cleared land, no infrastructure No hazardous features

2 Cleared land, static infrastructure e.g. grass area with tables and chairs, toilet block, lookout

Sloping ground; no natural water; walking track around reserve

3 Cleared land with mobile infrastructure e.g. grassed area with play equipment, cycle way, market, leash free

dog areas

Reserve contains natural waterway that runs during wet weather, drops less

than 1 metre

4 Land manager owned infrastructure with no artificial lighting e.g. golf course, football field, recreational

ground, caravan park

Creeks, ponds and ledges between 1 metre and 3 metres

5 Extensively developed infrastructure with artificial lighting e.g. sporting complex, artificially lit courts

Contains rivers, dams and cliffs greater than 3 metres

Table 2.9.2: Typical development ratings for beaches.

Rating Development

1 Beach hazard rating 1 and 2





Table 2.9.3: A typical population use within a facility provided by Council. It is important that Council's table reflects as accurately as possible its actual situation.

Rating Population Use

1 Less than 5 people at a time

2 5 to 50 people at a time



5 Greater than 500 people at a time


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Table 2.9.4: Suggested Frequency of use rating for a Facility

Rating Frequency of Use

1 An annual activity or event in held at the facility

2 An activity event takes place in the facility on a monthly basis

3 An activity event takes place in the facility on a weekly basis

4 An activity event takes place in the facility on a daily basis

5 The facility is in continuous use for the majority of the day

Table 2.9.5: Facility Visitation Rates – assessed locations within Wollongong LGA

Location Name DEVELOPMENT RATING

* POPULATION + FREQUENCY = FVR

Little Garie 3 x 2 + 2 = 8

North Era 3 x 2 + 2 = 8

South Era 3 x 3 + 3 = 12

Burning Palms 4 x 3 + 3 = 15

Werrong (Hell Hole) 4 x 2 + 3 = 11

Bulgo 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

NSW351 4 x 1 1 5

Stanwell Park 4 x 5 + 3 = 23

Coalcliff North 4 x 1 + 2 = 6

Coalcliff 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Scarborough North 4 x 1 + 2 = 6

Scarborough 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Wombarra 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Coledale 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Sharky 4 x 4 + 3 = 19

Brickyard /Long Point 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Little Austinmer 4 x 4 + 3 = 19

Austinmer 4 x 5 + 3 = 23

Thirroul 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

South Thirroul 3 x 3 + 3 = 12

Sandon Point 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Bulli 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

Woonona 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

Bellambi 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Bellambi Point 3 x 2 + 3 = 9

Corrimal 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

Towradgi 3 x 4 + 3 = 15

Fairy Meadow 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

Puckey's Beach 4 x 4 + 3 = 19

North Wollongong 3 x 5 + 4 = 19

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) 2 x 3 + 4 = 10

Wollongong City 3 x 5 + 3 = 18

Flagstaff Hill 3 x 2 + 4 = 10

Port Kembla Harbour 3 x 2 + 3 = 9

MM 2 x 2 + 2 = 6

Fishermans 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Hill 60 Rock Platform 3 x 2 + 3 = 9

Port Kembla 4 x 5 + 3 = 23

Windang 4 x 4 + 3 = 19

Windang Island Rock Platform 4 x 2 + 4 = 12


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FVR Score between 4 and 6 Locations include: o NSW351 o Coalcliff North o Scarborough North o MM This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by land manager have signage and spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o All Council’s Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o Any information symbols relevant to the facility NB: The sign does not require the depiction of warning symbols FVR Score between 7 and 10 Locations include: o Little Garie o North Era o Bulgo o Brickyard /Long Point o Bellambi Point o Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) o Flagstaff Hill o Port Kembla Harbour o Fishermans o Hill 60 Rock Platform This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by council have signage and spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o All Council's Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign

as warning symbols. If no highs then the top hazard should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility FVR Score between 11 and 15 Locations include: o South Era o Werrong (Hell Hole) o Burning Palms o Coalcliff o Scarborough o Wombarra o Coledale o South Thirroul o Sandon Point o Bellambi o Towradgi o Windang Island Rock Platform This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by council have signage and spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following:


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o The name of the beach. o All council ordinances that apply to the venue should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms. o Hazards rated from medium to high should be identified on the sign and listed in order from highest to

lowest hazardous. FVR Score between 16 and 20 Locations include: o Sharky o Thirroul o Bulli o Woonona o Corrimal o Fairy Meadow o Little Austinmer o Puckey's Beach o North Wollongong o Wollongong City o Windang This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by the land manager have signage and spaced no greater than 250 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the beach o All land manager ordinances that apply to the venue should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o Hazards rated from medium to high should be identified on the sign and listed in order from highest to

lowest hazardous Signage should appear at all entrances provided by land manager to the facility. Consideration should be given to placing signs in other areas of high use. FVR Score between 21 and 25 Locations include: o Stanwell Park o Austinmer o Port Kembla This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by the land manager have signage and spaced no greater than 100 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the beach o All land manager ordinances that apply to the venue should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o Hazards rated from medium to high should be identified on the sign and listed in order from highest to

lowest hazardous Signage should appear at all entrances provided by the land manager to the facility. Consideration should be given to placing signs in other areas of high use.


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2.10 Facilities Facilities in the coastal risk management process are any item of infrastructure which is situated close to the beach/access points. These include but are not limited to: o Picnic areas o BBQ’s o Playgrounds o Benches o Showers/water taps o Amenities o Car parks o Caravan parks o Art infrastructure o Rubbish bins Why do we record facilities? Facilities are recorded because it is important for the Land Manager to recognise that by providing the above facilities it is expected that there will be an increase in people visiting these areas. This increase can correlate to the likelihood of a risk occurring in a coastal environment. Treatment plans identified in the report should be implemented in these areas to reduce the risk of a particular event occurring. Facilities as well as other local attractions are included in risk management and while these facilities or local attractions may, in isolation, increase the likelihood of a particular risk occurring, they may be offset by other factors such as the type of visitor who is going to a particular location. All factors relating to a risk are assessed as a whole and not in isolation when determining the level of risk. It is the level of risk and not the type of facilities (in isolation to other factors) that is used when determining if a risk treatment is required A breakdown of facilities at the assessed locations within the Wollongong LGA can be requested by the Land Manager if required.


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2.11 Beach Usage and Incident Statistics Beach Statistics The following statistics have been taken from the lifesaving and lifeguard services operating in the Wollongong LGA. All figures are the combined total statistics over the last 3 seasons (2011/12, 2010/11, 2009/10). Table 2.11.1: Surf Life Saving Club statistics for 2009 to 2012 (SurfGuard, 2013)

Surf Life Saving Clubs Rescues Preventions First Aid

Stanwell Park 174 806 112

Coalcliff 34 59 34

Scarborough / Wombarra 2 28 3

Coledale 87 640 93

Austinmer 115 870 79

Thirroul 116 2007 263

Sandon Point 204 1018 92

Bulli 85 2478 185

Woonona 58 1316 91

Bellambi 31 132 21

Corrimal 62 831 74

Towradgi 5 43 19

Fairy Meadow 3 0 4

Nth Wollongong 200 5241 204

Wollongong City 36 635 60

Port Kembla 50 35 70

Windang 18 28 49

Total 1280 16167 1453

Table 2.11.2: Wollongong City Council Lifeguard Service statistics for 2009 to 2012 (Wollongong City Council, 2013)

Location Rescues Preventions First Aid


Coalcliff 41 6079 77


Coledale 133 23356 166

Austinmer 248 31021 779

Thirroul 361 37613 520


Bulli 111 23102 654

Woonona 187 23972 234

Bellambi 75 6004 48

Corrimal 51 12913 198

Towradgi 62 5306 38

Fairy Meadow 446 10106 93



Port Kembla 51 17991 414

Windang 11 3109 80

Total 2618 319428 4690


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Table 2.11.3: Combined patrolling statistics for 2009 to 2012 (SurfGuard & Wollongong City Council, 2013)

Combined Attendance (Lifesavers & Lifeguards)

Location Attendance Number of Days Average Attendance per Day


Coalcliff 147582 801 184


Coledale 263736 801 329

Austinmer 566760 801 708

Thirroul 466599 801 583


Bulli 393516 801 491

Woonona 267871 801 334

Bellambi 112592 801 141

Corrimal 250785 801 313

Towradgi 143628 801 179

Fairy Meadow 143340 801 179



Port Kembla 275630 801 344

Windang 83048 801 104

Total 5140899 801 6418

The above table is based on the figures supplied by Wollongong City Council and also figures entered into the SLSA SurfGuard system. CoastSafe is not liable for the accuracy of the data entered. CoastSafe also acknowledges that the figures used for calculating attendances will vary based upon the methodology used and the subjective nature of estimating attendances. During consultation Wollongong City Council expressed a lack of confidence in figures for both lifeguards and lifesavers. Similarly, Surf Life Saving New South Wales has made assessors aware that Surf Life Saving Illawarra has a need for accurate and validated figures which may be used to support proposed lifesaving service operational hours. To address this issue a review into beach attendance should take place over the next two seasons to ensure accuracy of beach visitation figures used to determine lifesaving and lifeguarding service levels and hours of operations. Such a review should ensure that the figures collected can be verified with evidence (i.e. photos) at a later date if required. Figures collected should be a snapshot in time and collected at times those fulfil the objectives of the service provider. As a minimum, it is imperative that beach usage is known at the beginning of the patrol, in the middle of the patrol, and at the end of patrol. Beach usage figures should be collected at the same times at each location to ensure that the data is able to be compared across locations. If necessary, lifeguard supervisors, branch duty officers and roving patrols could be used to collect beach usage information at unpatrolled locations.


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Population Statistics This table shows that over a ten year period, population in the Wollongong LGA has grown by 10,806 (5.95%). Population growth in the LGA is expected to continue to increase (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2011). Table 2.11.4: Wollongong population data (ABS, 2011)

Wollongong LGA Population Growth

2001 Census 2011 Census

Total persons

Males Females Persons Males Females Persons

90,213 91,399 181,612 95,249 97,169 192,418

Tourist Information The below information has been sourced from the ‘Destination NSW’ website. All statistics are the average four year totals to September 2011. Destination NSW breaks down the number of visitors into three categories and these include: 1. Domestic overnight travel 2. Domestic day trip travel 3. International overnight travel Domestic Overnight Travel Table 2.11.5: Domestic overnight travel data and visitor information for Wollongong LGA (‘Destination NSW’, 2013)

Top 5 Activates (‘000) % NSW %

Visit friends and relatives 311 59.7 47.0

Eat out at restaurants 262 50.4 56.3

Go to the beach 162 31.1 22.4

Go shopping for pleasure 116 22.3 26.3

General sight seeing 113 21.7 26.6

Origin (‘000) % NSW %

Regional NSW 491 37.0 35.5

Sydney 488 36.8 26.6

Victoria 124 9.3 13.9

Queensland 92 6.9 13.3

ACT 51 3.9 4.2

Other Interstate 81 6.1 6.4

Accommodation (‘000) % NSW %

Friends or relatives 780 59.0 39.1

Hotel, resort, motel 236 17.8 23.4

Caravan Park, Camping 113 8.6 12.4

Rented 52 3.9 9.9

Serviced Apartment 31 2.3 2.6

Age Group (‘000) % NSW %

15 to 24 years 103 19.7 14.5

25 to 34 years 85 16.3 14.0

35 to 44 years 104 19.9 21.5

45 to 54 years 89 17.0 19.0

55 to 64 years 87 16.6 16.6

65 years and over 55 10.5 14.4

In summary, Wollongong beaches are the third most popular attraction for domestic overnight travellers. 25.5% of visitors come from regional NSW and 39.1% are most likely to stay with friends or relatives. Visitors within the 35- 44 year age bracket have the highest percentage of visitors with 22.7%.


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Day Trip Travel Table 2.11.6: Day trip travel data and visitor information for Wollongong LGA (‘Destination NSW’, 2013)

Top 5 Activities (‘000) % NSW %

Eat out at restaurants 986 46.0 43.9

Visit Friends and Family 721 33.6 34.6

Go to the beach 574 26.7 10.2

General sight seeing 499 23.3 16.8

Go Shopping for Pleasure 290 13.5 21.3


15 to 24 years 331 15.4 14.4

25 to 34 years 353 16.4 13.4

35 to 44 years 469 21.8 19.6

45 to 54 years 415 19.4 18.1

55 to 64 years 290 13.5 16.8

65 years and over 288 13.4 17.7

Origin (‘000) % NSW %

Sydney 1,677 78.2 42.0

South Coast 276 12.9 7.8

Capital Country (2) 63 2.9 2.2

Blue Mountains 42 1.9 2.9

Central Coast 15 0.7 5.9

In summary, the majority of day trippers eat out at restaurants and going to the beach was the third most popular activity. The majority of visitors come from the Sydney and the south coast. International Overnight Travel Table 2.11.7: International overnight travel data and visitor information for Wollongong LGA (‘Destination NSW’, 2013)

Top 5 origin markets (‘000) % NSW %

United Kingdom 7 14.9 13.3

New Zealand 5 11.7 13.3

USA 5 10.3 10.6

Mainland China 5 10.2 9.4

Germany 2 5.1 3.8


15 to 24 years 13 29.2 18.8

25 to 34 years 12 25.9 24.8

35 to 44 years 6 12.4 17.4

45 to 54 years 7 15.6 17.2

55 to 64 years 5 11.3 14.8

65 years and over 3 5.6 6.9

Accommodation (‘000) % NSW %

Renting 811 53.7 40.3

Home of Friend or Relative 295 19.5 27.5

Educational Institution 234 15.5 3.6

The highest number of international tourist’s holiday from the United Kingdom and the 25 to 34 years age bracket make up the highest percentage of visitors with 24.8.% . 40.3% of international tourists rent their accommodation whilst in the Wollongong LGA.


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Drowning Incidents Below are the coastal drowning deaths that have occurred in the Wollongong LGA between 1 July 2004 and 31

st May 2013 (SLSNSW Incident Reporting Database).

Table 2.11.8: Drowning incidents within Wollongong LGA from 2004 to 2012 (SLSA Incident Reporting Database, 2013)

Coastal Drowning Incidents – Wollongong LGA

Date Location Time Month Age /

Gender

Ethnicity Residential Status Activity

24/07/2005 Clifton 11:30 July 64 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

4/12/2005 Windang Beach 14:30 December 31 Unknown Australian Resident Swimming

8/04/2006 Port Kembla 16:30 April 44 Vietnamese Australian Resident Rock

Fishing

21/07/06 Port Kembla 14:00 July 50 Laos Australian Resident Rock

Fishing

31/12/2006 Wollongong

City Beach

7:30 December 50 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

5/02/2007 Bulli 16:40 February 67 Germany International Tourist Swimming

29/04/2007 Thirroul 13:20 April 52 Latvia International Tourist Swimming

12/11/2008 Fairy meadow 17:05 November 60 Middle east Australian Resident Swimming

2/03/2009 Port Kembla 23:00 March 71 Chinese Australian Resident Rock

Fishing


City Beach

21:30 March 19 Libya: Africa Australian Resident Swimming


City Beach

2:00 April 22 Saudi Arabia Australian Resident Swimming

5/07/2009 Heritage Park,

Port Kembla

21:20 July 28 Asian Australian Resident Rock

Fishing

1/01/2010 Bellambi Rock

Pool

16:10 January 86 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

3/04/2010 Port Kembla 20:30 April 43 Indonesian Australian Resident Rock

Fishing

23/12/2010 Puckeys Beach, 17:49 December 30 Italian Australian Resident Swimming

21/01/2011 Stanwell Park 16:30 January 63 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

23/03/2011 Fairy Meadow 8:20 March 21 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

4/05/2011 Scarborough 15:00 May 60 Australian Australian Resident Swimming

3/10/2011 Windang Island 14:30 October 19 Mediterranean Australian Resident Rock

Fishing

23/01/2012 Corrimal 18:30 January 8 Congolese Australian Resident Swimming

25/07/2012 Port Kembla 14:52 July 26 Asian Unknown Rock

Fishing

16/02/2013 Port Kembla 7:30 February 50s Vietnamese Australian Resident Boating

22/04/2013

Hill 60, Port

Kembla 7:33 April 45/M Islander Australian Resident

Rock

Fishing

Notes to table: o 61% of drowning deaths were a result of swimming/rip currents. o 35% of drowning deaths were a result of rock fishing o The average age for drowning deaths is 43.5 years. o 100% of the victims were males. o 77% of drowning deaths occurred outside of lifesaving/lifeguard hours. o 23% of drowning deaths occurred within 1km of an on duty lifesaving/lifeguard service.


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Emergency Callouts There have been 91 Emergency callouts through the Surf Emergency Response System since 1 January 2008 – 31

st May 2013. This system involves callout/response teams (lifesavers/lifeguards) responding to emergencies

in the assessment area, at the request and under the direction/control of the NSW Police (SLSNSW State Operations Centre). Note: The data below does not incorporate incidents from other emergency services where the SRERS may not have been

activated e.g. Water Police, Ambulance and Marine Rescue data.

Table 2.11.9: SRERS call outs within Wollongong LGA from 2004 to 2012 (SLSA Incident Reporting Database, 2013)

Emergency Callout System – Wollongong LGA

Date Location Month Season Day Time Activity

18/01/2008 Bulli Beach January Summer Fri 15:43 Swimming

21/12/2008 Corrimal Lakes Caravan Park

December Summer Sun 16:04 Swimming

28/12/2008 North of Woonona Point December Summer Sun 16:30 Craft (non powered)

1/01/2009 Sth Wollongong Beach January Summer Thu 18:44 Swimming

4/01/2009 Sharkeys Beach, Illawarra January Summer Sun 17:54 Vessel

7/01/2009 Entrance to Lake Illawarra January Summer Wed 9:45 Vessel

14/01/2009 Warilla & Windang January Summer Wed 13:15 Shark Sighting

3/02/2009 Corrimal Beach February Summer Tue 18:01 Swimming

8/02/2009 Belmore Basin, Nth W’gong February Summer Sun 6:27 Craft (non powered)

9/03/2009 Wollongong Main Beach March Autumn Mon 21:31 Swimming

28/03/2009 Windang Beach March Autumn Sat 12:51 Shark Sighting

25/04/2009 Greenwall point April Autumn Sat 15:08 Vessel

18/05/2009 Stanwell Park Beach, Illawarra

May Autumn Mon 14:20 Swimming

13/05/2009 Stanwell Park May Autumn Wed 15:42 Rockfishing

11/05/2009 Wollongong Main Beach May Autumn Mon 14:07 Swimming

1/07/2009 Puckeys Beach, Nth Wollongong

July Winter Wed 14:18 Swimming

10/10/2009 Wollongong October Spring Sat 16:03 Debris

24/12/2009 Port Kembla December Summer Thu 18:34 Craft (non powered)

24/01/2010 Port Kembla January Summer Sun 10:56 Vessel

7/02/2010 Sth Beach, Wollongong February Summer Sun 17:26 Craft (non powered)

28/03/2010 Coledale March Autumn Sun 10:56 Swimming

4/04/2010 Hill 60, Port Kembla April Autumn Sun 20:39 Rockfishing

26/04/2010 500m off Thirroul Beach April Autumn Mon 16:19 Vessel

1/05/2010 Bulli Beach May Autumn Sat 11:25 Diving/Snorkeling

14/05/2010 Scarborough May Autumn Fri 14:21 Craft (non powered)

5/06/2010 Sandon Point Illawarra June Winter Sat 9:28 Craft (non powered)

18/09/2010 Bellambi September Spring Sat 14:58 Swimming

18/09/2010 Bellambi September Spring Sat 18:25 Swimming

24/09/2010 City Beach, Wollongong September Spring Fri 12:44 Swimming


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23/12/2010 Puckeys Beach, Nth Wollongong

December Summer Thu 20:00 Swimming

16/01/2011 North Wollongong January Summer Sun 19:30 Swimming

18/01/2011 Towradgi January Summer Tue 10:53 Parachute/parasail

30/01/2011 Corrimal January Summer Sun 17:03 Craft (non powered)

5/03/2011 Wombarra March Autumn Sat 9:11 Rock Related

28/03/2011 Wollongong Harbour March Autumn Mon 13:26 Craft (non powered)

9/05/2010 Windang Island May Autumn Sun 15:59 Rockfishing

12/05/2011 Offshore Coledale May Autumn Thu 10:39 Vessel

28/05/2011 Austinmer May Autumn Sat 20:21 Swimming

8/07/2011 Hill 60, Port Kembla July Winter Fri 13:17 Rockfishing

17/07/2011 Shark Park, Austinmer July Winter Sun 18:19 Craft (non powered)

21/07/2011 Nth Wall Wollongong Harbour

July Winter Thu 11:55 Craft (non powered)

6/08/2011 Stanwell Park August Winter Sat 16:00 Other

3/10/2011 Windang Island October Spring Mon 15:13 Rockfishing

8/10/2011 Bellambi October Spring Sat 4:11 Vessel

29/10/2011 Windang Island October Spring Sat 14:48 Craft (non powered)

28/11/2011 Woonona Beach November Spring Mon 18:39 Swimming

29/12/2011 Sth end Port Kembla December Summer Thu 18:54 Swimming

30/12/2011 Wollongong Main Beach December Summer Fri 19:24 Swimming

31/12/2011 Thirroul December Summer Sat 15:59 Other

1/01/2012 Corrimal January Summer Sun 16:57 Swimming

23/01/2012 Towradgi January Summer Mon 18:39 Swimming

26/01/2012 North Wollongong January Summer Thu 20:00 Vessel

26/01/2012 McCauley’s Beach January Summer Thu 15:19 Swimming

20/02/2012 Port Kembla February Summer Mon 7:00 Vessel

23/02/2012 Windang Island February Summer Thu 16:52 Vessel

24/02/2012 Coledale February Summer Fri 15:04 Environmental

8/03/2012 North Wollongong March Autumn Thu 21:56 Vessel

22/03/2012 Coledale March Autumn Thu 14:45 Light aircraft crash

6/04/2012 Windang Break Wall April Autumn Fri 12:34 Swimming

8/04/2012 Windang April Autumn Sun 14:20 Craft (non powered)

6/04/2012 Bellambi April Autumn Fri 14:02 Vessel

15/04/2012 Austinmer April Autumn Sun 8:16 Swimming

21/04/2012 Stanwell Park April Autumn Sat 17:05 Craft (non powered)

27/04/2012 Belmore Basin, Nth Wollongong

April Autumn Fri 14:35 Diving/Snorkeling

25/07/2012 Port Kembla July Winter Wed 14:52 Rockfishing

5/11/2012 Port Kembla November Summer Mon 10:16 Suicide/Self Harm


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11/11/2012 Wollongong City November Summer Sun 17:55 Vessel

15/11/2012 Bellambi November Summer Thu 18:04 Swimming

4/12/2012 Windang Bridge December Summer Tue 14:24 Other

16/12/2012 Big Island, Port Kembla December Summer Sun 8:16 Vessel

31/12/2012 Lake Illawarra December Summer Mon 15:57 Craft (non powered)

4/01/2013 Lake Illawarra January Summer Fri 12:46 Craft (non powered)

5/01/2013 Little Austinmer January Summer Sat 16:15 Swimming

6/01/2013 Port Kembla January Summer Sun 12:44 Shark Sighting

17/01/2013 Belmore Basin, Nth Wollongong

January Summer Thu 14:49 Craft (non powered)

18/01/2013 Coniston Beach January Summer Fri 19:26 Vessel

26/01/2013 North Wollongong January Summer Sat 15:01 Swimming

31/01/2013 Hill 60 January Summer Thu 8:46 Rockfishing

1/02/2013 Austinmer February Fri 6:21 Swimming

3/02/2013 Coniston Beach, North Port Kembla February Sun Summer 15:17 Swimming

11/02/2013 Puckeys Beach, North Wollongong February Mon Summer 16:55 Swimming

16/02/2013 City Beach February Sat Summer 8:13 Vessel

24/02/2013 Bulli February Sun Summer 18:35 Suicide/Self Harm

2/03/2013 Coledale March Sat Autumn 15:04 Vessel

29/03/2013 Windang March Fri Autumn 17:11 Vessel

29/03/2013 North Beach, Wollongong March Fri Autumn 17:16 Vessel

29/03/2013 North Beach, Wollongong March Fri Autumn 17:56 Swimming

6/04/2013 Thirroul April Sat Autumn 14:48 Swimming

9/04/2013 Bulli April Tue Autumn 18:05 Vessel

19/04/2013 Sandon Point April Fri Autumn 12:16 Surf Craft (non powered)

22/04/2013 Hill 60 April Mon Autumn 7:33 Rockfishing

12/05/2013 Thirroul May Sun Autumn 13:37 Swimming

26/05/2013 Hill 60 May Sun Autumn 16:11 Vessel

Notes to table: o 14% of jobs were located at Port Kembla, 13% at Nth Wollongong, 11% at City Beach and Windang. o 47% of incidents occurred outside of lifesaving/ lifeguard hours. o 50% of all incidents occurred over summer, 31% over autumn, 10% over spring and 9% over winter.

Treatment Options 1.1 & 2.1 Beach usage and incident data (drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguards statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety


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2.12 Communication and Consultation Communicating with stakeholders about risk perception and tolerance plays a central role in the risk management process. During the onsite visit, a number of stakeholder meetings were conducted to outline the risk assessment methodology and approach that would be undertaken. Meetings were held with: o Mark Bond, Recreation Services Manager, Wollongong City Council (9/1/2013) o Jason Foye, Beach Services Coordinator, Wollongong City Council (9/1/2013) o Bruce Mitchell, Marine Rescue (21/2/2013) o Harry Mitchell, Aerial Patrol (21/2/2013) The process of communicating risk estimates from the assessment process to decision-makers and ultimately to the public, sometimes referred to as risk education, is only one part of the communication process. In getting those affected by risk to accept risk mitigation measures, and in providing decision-makers and communities with the information they need to tolerate and deal with risks, there needs to be two-way communications that includes those affected by risk, the public, into the decision-making process. Surf Liaison meetings held between Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra are regularly scheduled to discuss lifesaving issues in the Illawarra. This meeting is an effective working group and includes the following stakeholders: o Mark Bond, Recreation Services Manager, Wollongong City Council o Jason Foye, Beach Services Coordinator, Wollongong City Council o Val Zanotto, President, SLSI o Peter Evert, Deputy President SLSI o Ian Lee, Director of Lifesaving, SLSI

The committee meets on a regularly scheduled basis and reviews recent incidents, issues and opportunities relating to coastal public safety. The consultation process has been aided in the following ways: o Open community forums and workshops o Print, Radio and Television media announcements of workshops and consultation o Written and verbal follow ups post workshops o Use of social media - Twitter o Web based surveys o Web based information submissions o On-site communication and distribution of flyers o On-site one-to-one surveying o Draft reports circulated to the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council Figure 2.12.1: Project Blueprint Flyer


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Consultation Workshop Three public forums were held on Monday 14

th January 2013, Tuesday 15

th January 2013 and Tuesday 2

nd April

2013 at the Continental Pool Community Room to communicate the assessment process and workshop drowning prevention strategies and stakeholder perception. This public forum was advertised in local print media and directly communicated to pre-identified stakeholders via written letters or email. Public forums were open to any member of the public such as surf lifesavers, lifeguards, fishing groups, surfing associations, and emergency services personnel. The public forums were attended by: o Peter Evert, President, Woonona SLSC o Kurt Edwards, ALBAA o Stan Konstantaris, ANSA NSW o Paul Birrento, ALBAA o Luke Arrellano, ALBAA o Robin Bowley, Surf Life Saving o Ken McDougal, Beachcare Illawarra o Michael Zaracostas, Beachcare Illawarra o Michael Jennett, Wollongong City SLSC o Matt Quince, Surf Life Saving Illawarra o Tim Jennett, Wollongong City SLSC Consultation Survey The consultation process has also involved the introduction of an online survey which has been useful to capture input from a wide range of key stakeholders, at local/regional level. Summary results have been published in Appendix E. Survey 1 The first survey was sent to both internal and external stakeholders. Questions focused on drowning identification and prevention. Survey Questions: o In your opinion, what are the (top three) factors contributing to drowning / coastal related incidents at this

location? o In your opinion, are there any particular risk factors at this location which may contribute to drowning at

this location? o If you believe age to be a contributing factor to drowning at this location, which age groups are most at

risk? o If you believe gender to be a contributing factor to drowning at this location, which gender is most at risk? o If you believe socio economic status to be a contributing factor to drowning at this location, which socio

economic groups are most at risk? o If you believe ethnicity to be a contributing factor to drowning at this location, which ethnic groups are

most at risk? o If you believe residency to be a contributing factor to drowning at this location, which residential groups

are most at risk? o Are there particular activities or types of behaviour that people engage in that you think places them at a

greater risk of drowning or other coastal related injury? o Are there any physical attributes or other factors relevant to the area that you think may place people at

greater risk of drowning or water related injury? (e.g. beach characteristics, parking/access points, tourism facilities on beach etc.)

o What are the current key strategies (top three) addressing the issue of drowning prevention / coastal safety? Please evaluate the effectiveness of these current strategies at this location?

o In your opinion, what key strategies (top 3) do you think should be implemented to address the issue of drowning / coastal related incidents at this location?


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Survey 2 The second survey was sent to internal stakeholders only e.g. lifesavers and lifeguards. Questions focused on visitation numbers and incidents. Survey Questions: o To the best of your knowledge, what would be the maximum number of people at the location (on the

beach/rock platform/in water) at any one time o To the best of your knowledge, how often would the visitation numbers identified in the previous question

occur at the location? o In your opinion, which of the following risk groups are present at the location? o To the best of your knowledge is there a lifesaving service at this location (i.e. Council Lifeguards or

Volunteer Surf Life Saving Club) o To the best of your knowledge, how many incidents have occurred at this location in the past 5 years? o To the best of your knowledge, how many incidents have occurred at this location in the past 12 months? o How quickly can an emergency or lifesaving service respond to an emergency incident at this location (in

minutes)?

Treatment Options 1.2 & 5.1 Wollongong City Council & Surf Life Saving Illawarra should continue to hold regularly scheduled surf liaison meetings as an effective forum to raise safety issues and implement strategies in the Illawarra coastal environment. The committee should have a standing item on all future meeting agendas titled ‘coastal risk management – status and issues’, or similar. Recommendations found in this report can be addressed in this agenda item


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3. Risk Assessment Findings 3.1 Action Planning Priority (Gross Risk) 3.1.1 Action Planning Priority Index The action planning priority index can be viewed as the gross risk score for a beach. The index seeks to identify the risks associated with the broader coastal environment under assessment, rather than specific hazards and risks present at a particular location or site. The majority of information detailed in this section of the report will be identified through pre exiting data (where available), with new data sourced where gaps are present or the data is not reliable. The total score for the Action Planning Priority Index, displayed on pages 52, 53 & 54, is intended to be used for the purpose of prioritisation risk mitigation strategies provided for consideration in this report. For the purpose of Section 3 of this report, the individual components of the Action Planning Priority Index should not be considered in isolation from the total score for the Action Planning Priority Index. The information is based on modal data for peak visitation during the busiest season(s). The action planning priority index uses the following risk identification information: 1. Australian Beach Safety & Aquatic Management Program Rating (ABSAMP Rating) 2. Local Population Rating (LPR) 3. Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) 4. Access Rating (AR) 3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety & Management Program Rating (ABSAMP Rating) Table 3.1.2.1: ABSAMP and Indicative ratings applied to assessed locations

Location Name ABSAMP no. ABSAMP Rating ABSAMP type

Little Garie nsw345 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

North Era nsw346 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

South Era nsw347 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Burning Palms nsw348 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Werrong (Hell Hole) nsw349 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Bulgo nsw350 4 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

NSW351 nsw351 7 Low Tide Terrace

Stanwell Park nsw352 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Coalcliff North nsw353 8 Rhythmic Bar and Beach

Coalcliff nsw354 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Scarborough North nsw355 8 Transverse Bar and Rip

Scarborough nsw356 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Wombarra nsw357 6 Low Tide Terrace

Coledale nsw358 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Sharky nsw359 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Brickyard /Long Point nsw360 3 Reflective

Little Austinmer nsw361 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Austinmer nsw362 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Thirroul nsw363 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

South Thirroul nsw364 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Sandon Point nsw365 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Bulli nsw366 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Woonona nsw367A 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Bellambi nsw367B 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Bellambi Point nsw368 5 Reflective + rocks


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Location Name ABSAMP no. ABSAMP Rating ABSAMP type

Corrimal nsw369 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Towradgi nsw370A 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Fairy Meadow nsw370B 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Puckey's Beach nsw370C 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

North Wollongong nsw371 5 Transverse Bar and Rip

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour)

nsw372 3 Reflective

Wollongong City nsw373 6 Transverse Bar and Rip

Flagstaff Hill nsw373RP 6* Rock Platform

Port Kembla Harbour nsw375 3 Reflective

MM nsw377 5 Reflective

Fishermans nsw378 3 Reflective

Hill 60 Rock Platform nsw378RP 5* Rock Platform

Port Kembla nsw379A 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Windang nsw379B 7 Transverse Bar and Rip

Windang Island Rock Platform nsw379BRP 7* Rock Platform

* Wollongong Local Government Area Rock Platform Ratings Currently there is no method of rating the hazardousness of the rocky coast, in an equivalent manner to the ABSAMP beach hazard rating system for sandy beaches. Research is currently underway; Dr. David Kennedy has utilised a grant from Melbourne University to pilot the methods for the development of a risk classification study on rocky coasts. This research has now received funding under an Australian Research Council research grant. Prof. Colin Woodroffe (University of Wollongong) presented the methodology for this project at the NSW Coastal Conference in Kiama (November, 2012). As an interim method of providing an indication of the hazardousness of rock platforms the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings for the beaches on either side of the each rock platform have been averaged. Since the beaches on either side of a rock platform would be exposed to similar prevailing and modal wind, wave and weather conditions and these sandy beaches have a recognised and accepted method of rating the associated hazardousness taking the average of the beaches bordering a rock platform will provide an indication as to the potential hazard associated with the modal conditions affecting the rock platform. It is a limitation of the report that there is no available method of calculating the specific hazard rating of a rock platform. However, in order to allow the risk calculations used in this report to be processed an interim solution has been applied which takes into account the local conditions and geomorphology. Once the research being conducted by Dr. David Kennedy and Prof. Colin Woodroffe is completed then these calculations should be revisited.


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3.1.3 Local Population Rating The Local Population Rating (LPR) expands on the information obtained from the Facility Visitation Rating. This additional population rating identifies the population of residents and/or non-residents located within 2km’s of a coastal location under assessment. The highest figure (resident or non-resident) will be recorded. Table 3.1.3.1: Local population rating descriptors

Table 3.1.3.2: Local population ratings applied to assessed locations

Location LPR Total

Little Garie 1

North Era 1

South Era 1

Burning Palms 2

Werrong (Hell Hole) 1

Bulgo 1

NSW351 3

Stanwell Park 4

Coalcliff North 2

Coalcliff 2

Scarborough North 3

Scarborough 3

Wombarra 3

Coledale 5

Sharky 5

Brickyard/Long Point 5

Little Austinmer 5

Austinmer 5

Thirroul 5

South Thirroul 5

Sandon Point 5

Bulli 5

Woonona 5

Bellambi 5

Bellambi Point 3

Corrimal 5

Towradgi 5

Fairy Meadow 5

Puckey's Beach 5

North Wollongong 5

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) 5

Wollongong City 5

Flagstaff Hill 5

Port Kembla Harbour 5

MM 4

Fishermans 4

Population Rating Qualifying Description (all staying/living within 2km of beach)

1 < 50 residents and/or < 20 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)

2 50 – 250 residents and/or 21 – 100 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)



5 2500 + residents and/or 1000 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)


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Location LPR Total

Hill 60 Rock Platform 5

Port Kembla 5

Windang 5

Windang Island Rock Platform 5


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3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating The Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) identifies any conflicts present in the coastal environment between the number of people and activities taking place. Activities include both those in the water and those on the beach. The HAI total figure is based upon peak figures only. Table 3.1.4.1: Human/Activity Interaction descriptors.

Population (in-water)

Conflicting activities Population (on beach)

Conflicting activities

100+ 5 Persistent and dangerous 5 1000+ 5 Persistent and dangerous

5

75-100 4 Persistent 4 750-1000 4 Persistent 4

50-75 3 Regular 3 500-750 3 Regular 3

25-50 2 Isolated conflicts 2 250-500 2 Isolated conflicts 2

1-25 1 No conflicts reported 1 1-250 1 No conflicts reported 1 Table 3.1.4.2: Human/Activity Interaction ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location Population (in water)

Conflict Population (on beach)

Conflict HAI Total

Little Garie 1 1 1 1 4

North Era 1 1 1 1 4

South Era 3 2 1 2 8

Burning Palms 2 2 1 2 7

Werrong (Hell Hole) 1 1 1 1 4

Bulgo 1 1 1 1 4

NSW351 1 1 1 1 4

Stanwell Park 5 3 3 2 13

Coalcliff North 1 1 1 1 4

Coalcliff 2 2 1 2 7

Scarborough North 1 1 1 1 4

Scarborough 4 3 1 2 10

Wombarra 2 1 1 1 5

Coledale 5 3 2 2 12

Sharky 2 2 1 2 7

Brickyard/Long Point 1 1 1 1 4

Little Austinmer 3 1 1 1 6

Austinmer 5 3 2 2 12

Thirroul 5 3 4 2 14

South Thirroul 2 1 1 1 5

Sandon Point 5 2 2 2 11

Bulli 5 3 2 2 12

Woonona 5 3 3 2 13

Bellambi 3 2 1 2 8

Bellambi Point 1 1 1 1 4

Corrimal 5 3 2 2 12

Towradgi 3 2 1 2 8

Fairy Meadow 3 2 2 2 9

Puckey's Beach 1 2 1 1 5

North Wollongong 5 3 5 2 15

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour)

2 1 1 1 5

Wollongong City 5 3 5 2 15

Flagstaff Hill 1 1 1 1 4


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Location Population (in water)

Conflict Population (on beach)

Conflict HAI Total

Port Kembla Harbour 1 1 1 1 4

MM 2 1 1 1 5

Fishermans 1 1 1 1 4

Hill 60 Rock Platform 1 1 1 1 4

Port Kembla 5 3 5 2 15

Windang 3 2 2 2 9

Windang Island Rock Platform 1 1 1 1 4


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3.1.5 Access Rating Coastal environments that have increased accessibility (i.e. near major roads, cities, public transport, car parks, boat ramps, maintained access paths etc) increase the likelihood of users at that location. This directly increases the level of risk of drowning and or injury. Table 3.1.5.1: Access rating descriptors

Table 3.1.5.2: Access ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location Access Rating

Little Garie 2

North Era 2

South Era 3

Burning Palms 4

Werrong (Hell Hole) 3

Bulgo 2

NSW351 1

Stanwell Park 5

Coalcliff North 2

Coalcliff 5

Scarborough North 2

Scarborough 5

Wombarra 4

Coledale 5

Sharky 4

Brickyard/Long Point 5

Little Austinmer 3

Austinmer 5

Thirroul 5

South Thirroul 4

Sandon Point 5

Bulli 5

Woonona 5

Bellambi 5

Bellambi Point 2

Corrimal 5

Towradgi 5

Fairy Meadow 5

Puckey's Beach 5

North Wollongong 5

Access Rating Qualifying Description

1 No identifiable access via road or track, no facilities, car parking or obvious access points

2 Access via un-maintained track with no facilities and/or via water access

3 Access via any form of track or walkway (either maintained or un-maintained) AND any provision of facilities or services including (but not limited to) public transport, shower,

public toilet, payphone, kiosk, significant roadway, parking

4 Access via maintained tracks with clearly identified parking area AND/OR provision of basic facilities (i.e. public toilets, public shower/ wash down area) AND/OR within 10km

of moderate sized town or city (population greater than 5,000)

5 Clearly evident, marked or signposted and maintained access points AND/OR within 10km of major town or city (population greater than 25,000) AND / OR car parking for 50 or more vehicles/boat trailers. Public transport provided within 250m of a beach access

point


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Location Access Rating

Belmore (Wollongong Harbour) 5

Wollongong City 5

Flagstaff Hill 5

Port Kembla Harbour 5

MM 4

Fishermans 2

Hill 60 Rock Platform 2

Port Kembla 5

Windang 5

Windang Island Rock Platform 5


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3.1.6 Action Planning Priority Score The action planning priority score provides an indicator for the overall level of risk of the location. The scores range from 0 to 60. These scores can be used to prioritise the order in which risk treatments described in the next section of this report are implemented. Table 3.1.6.1: Summary of action planning priority calculations for each assessed location.

Location

AMSAMP

X 2 (Out of 20)

Population Support

X 2 (Out of 10)

Human Activity/

Interaction (Out of 20)

Access

X 2 (Out of 10)

Total Score

(Out of 60)

Little Garie 12 2 4 4 22

North Era 12 2 4 4 22

South Era 12 2 8 6 28

Burning Palms 14 4 7 8 33

Werrong (Hell Hole) 14 2 4 6 26

Bulgo 8 2 4 4 18

NSW351 14 6 4 1 25

Stanwell Park 14 8 13 10 45

Coalcliff North 16 4 4 4 28

Coalcliff 12 4 7 10 33

Scarborough North 16 6 4 4 30

Scarborough 12 6 10 10 38

Wombarra 12 6 5 8 31

Coledale 10 10 12 10 42

Sharky 14 10 7 8 39

Brickyard/Long Point 6 10 4 10 30

Little Austinmer 14 10 6 6 36

Austinmer 14 10 12 10 46

Thirroul 12 10 14 10 46

South Thirroul 12 10 5 8 35

Sandon Point 10 10 11 10 41

Bulli 12 10 12 10 44

Woonona 12 10 13 10 45

Bellambi 10 10 8 10 38

Bellambi Point 10 6 4 4 24

Corrimal 12 10 12 10 44

Towradgi 12 10 8 10 40

Towradgi/Fairy Meadow 12 10 9 10 41

Puckey's Beach 14 10 5 10 39

North Wollongong 10 10 15 10 45

Belmore (W’gong Harbour) 6 10 5 10 31

Wollongong City 12 10 15 10 47

Flagstaff Hill 12 10 4 10 36

Port Kembla Harbour 6 10 4 10 30

MM 10 8 5 8 31

Fishermans 6 8 4 4 22

Hill 60 Rock Platform 10 10 4 4 28

Port Kembla 14 10 15 10 49

Windang 14 10 9 10 43

Windang Is Rock Platform 14 10 4 10 38


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Thirteen beaches have an action planning priority score greater than 40. Scores of 41 or higher indicate a high overall level of risk. Where limited resources prohibit the implementation of all risk treatments recommended in this report, those beaches that have received a high action planning priority score should be treated first, and then beaches with a medium score should be treated and so on (see Table 3.1.6.2). Table 3.1.6.2: Action Planning Priority scores for each location to assist in the prioritisation for risk mitigation strategies identified in this report.

Priority

Priority Location

Priority Action & Total Score

Comments

1 Port Kembla 49 High – this location should be considered as a

priority for implementation of identified risk

treatment options

2 Wollongong City 47 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

3 Austinmer 46 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

4 Thirroul 46 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

5 Stanwell Park 45 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

5 Woonona

45

High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

5 North Wollongong 45 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

8 Bulli 44 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

8 Corrimal 44 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

10 Windang 43 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

11 Coledale 42 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

12 Sandon Point 41 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

12 Fairy Meadow 41 High – this location should be considered as a


treatment options

14 Towradgi 40

Medium – this location should be considered

for implementation of identified risk

treatment options after locations rated as

high or as funding becomes available

15

Sharky

39






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Priority

Priority Location


Comments

15 Puckey's Beach 39





17 Scarborough 38





17 Bellambi 38





17 Windang Island Rock

Platform 38





20 Little Austinmer 36





20 Flagstaff Hill 36





22 South Thirroul 35





23 Burning Palms 33





23 Coalcliff 33





25 Wombarra 31





25 Belmore (Wollongong

Harbour) 31





25 MM 31





28 Scarborough North 30

Low – this location should be considered for

implementation of identified risk treatment

options after locations rated as medium or as

funding becomes available

28 Brickyard/Long Point 30 Low – this location should be considered for



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Priority

Priority Location


Comments



28 Port Kembla Harbour 30





31 South Era 28





31 Coalcliff North 28





31 Hill 60 Rock Platform 28





34 Werrong (Hell Hole) 26





35 NSW351 25





36 Bellambi Point 24





37 Little Garie 22





37 North Era 22





37 Fishermans 22

Very Low – this location should be

considered for implementation of identified

risk treatment options after locations rated

as low or as funding becomes available –

locations rated as very low may be

acceptable without additional risk mitigation.

40 Bulgo 18

Very Low – this location should be

considered for implementation of identified

risk treatment options after locations rated

as low or as funding becomes available –

locations rated as very low may be

acceptable without additional risk mitigation.


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Key to Action

Planning Priority High 41+ Medium 31-40 Low 21-30 Very Low 0-20

Treatment Options 1.3 & 2.2 Treatment options in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence.


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3.2 Overview of Principal Risk Treatments

3.2.1 Introduction There are a range of risk treatment options that can be considered in the context of coastal public safety risk management. The selection of the most appropriate option involves balancing the financial, social and environmental impacts of implementing each against the benefits derived from each. These may include any combination of the following: o Spread (share) risk – insurance o Engineer (structural and technological) risk treatment – include modified practices o Regulatory and institutional – change through revised regulations and planning o Avoid – isolate the risk, move people away o Research to better understand o Educate and inform stakeholders 3.2.2 Hierarchy of Risk Treatments (Controls) In determining the most appropriate and cost effective option, it is important to consider the hierarchy of risk treatments (controls). The hierarchy is a sequence of options which offer a number of ways to approach the hazard control process. o Hard controls deal with the tangible such as:

Eliminate the hazard which in a coastal context is often difficult to achieve Isolate the hazard which in a coastal context can be difficult due to the dynamic nature of

environmental and weather conditions Use engineering controls such as design of access paths, installation of appropriate signage, and

revegetation Use administrative controls such as supervision, emergency action plans, other documented policies,

practices and procedures o Soft controls deal with human behaviour such as:

Use of effective leadership, management, trust, ethics, integrity, and building relationships Education programmes

Outlined below are principal risk treatment solutions that expand upon those listed within the Risk Register and Treatment Plan in Appendix B. The solutions outlined endeavour to provide specific and detailed information relative to the beach locations; however due to the diverse nature of location characteristics, Recommendations are at times mainly generic in nature. Land managers within the Wollongong LGA should endeavour to adopt the most appropriate treatments specific to their organisations capabilities and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. The principal risk treatments expanded on below.


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3.2.3 Education and Inform

Public education and awareness initiatives are a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy, and target both pre-arrival and early arrival periods - before a person/s are exposed to hazards. Key factors pertaining to effective education and awareness initiatives include:

consistency in safety messaging (elimination of confusing/unclear or dissipative information), consistency in the method of provision (ongoing information provided at regular locations/times) and longevity in the provision of information (ongoing, not a one-off).

During the course of the assessment and throughout the consultation process, Australian CoastSafe was made aware of various education and awareness programmes that are currently, or have been previously in place to educate and inform the public at a local level. These programmes as well as any other initiatives within and around the Wollongong LGA should continue to be implemented and reviewed. These initiatives include: o The distribution of surf safety flyers and brochures to coastal accommodation providers such as resorts,

hotels/motels, self-contained apartments and caravan parks. o Nipper/surf groms programmes encouraging local children to be active, providing the fundamentals of surf

safety. o The Wollongong City Council Lifeguard Service provides surf education to schools and through the

University of Wollongong and TAFE. o Local media and promotional opportunities to deliver key safety messages and dangerous surf warnings i.e.

local newspapers, local radio and local television networks. o The University of Wollongong provides commercial education programmes delivered by Surf Educators

Australia for students attending the University of Wollongong, Campus East. o RMS provides boating safety on the water and at boat ramps during interaction with boaters. Public education and safety awareness programmes outlining known and commonly occurring hazards within and around the Wollongong LGA should continue to be developed, implemented and reviewed. Educational Messages Land Managers should continue to provide public education/awareness programmes which include standardised key safety messages and align/reference to peak coastal water safety agency websites such as: NSW Water Safety Advisory Council: http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety/ Together with the following referenced websites of the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council for beach safety:

o BeachSafe: www.beachsafe.org.au o Rip Currents: www.ripcurrents.com.au

Expanding on the distribution of public education resources to coastal accommodation providers, there is an opportunity to display posters which promote water safety at public amenity blocks located at coastal beaches. Similar types of posters have been used in other coastal councils. Local Media Wollongong City Council is in a unique position of having WIN Television HQ located in Wollongong. WIN Television air a local news service 5 nights a week with the opportunity to provide surf safety updates during the news and also dangerous surf safety alerts as required when issued by the BOM. Coastal Accommodation According to Destination NSW the Wollongong region attracted more than 3.8 million visitors over the 2009-2010 financial years. The distribution of surf safety information to coastal accommodation providers should be continued and expanded. School Education Surf safety education is not a core responsibility for land managers, however they are still encouraged to assist with school participation levels. This type of promotion could include joint media releases, website promotion or written communication from council to local schools.

http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety/

http://www.beachsafe.org.au/

http://www.ripcurrents.com.au/


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Surf education (theory and application) can be very beneficial in coastal towns. This type of education can include but is not limited to:

o Class room based surf safety presentations (appropriate for age) o Swim and survive o Surf education programmes at the beach (appropriate for age)

Surf Sense Wollongong City Council Lifeguards conduct class room based surf education programmes in local primary schools. The Surf Sense program is targeted at years 2, 4 & 6 and run in term 3 each year. Last year 66 schools were visited reaching approximately 7300 students. Surf education is also conducted at Wollongong University and Tafe during orientation weeks in February & July. The surf sense program includes class room based learning and on the beach environment. Learn to Swim: Swim and Survive is a comprehensive swimming and water safety initiative of Royal Life Saving that seeks to increase the swimming and water safety skills of all Australian children in order to prevent drowning and increase participation in safe aquatic activity. Learn to swim, swimming lessons and infant aquatics are all terms commonly used across the aquatic industry for programs that seek to build swimming skills. Swim and Survive is all of these, but most importantly it ensures that the essential components of personal survival and water safety are provided, in addition to a process of developing strong and effective swimming technique. Swim and Survive is delivered in pools, schools and other aquatic locations across the country by qualified swimming and water safety instructors. SurfGroms: ‘Vegemite SurfGroms’ is a national junior development program for 5-12yr olds that encourages kids to get involved in surfing all around Australia. The program is available exclusively through licensed Surfing Australia Surf Schools. SurfGroms consists of a series of surf lessons, encompassing 8-12 hours of coaching in total. Surfers Rescue 24/7 Concept Surfing NSW with support of the NSW Government are giving all surfers in NSW the opportunity to do a free CPR and Board Rescue Course - "Surfers Rescue 24/7". The short and to the point course will educate and provide a skill set, that hopefully you will never have to use, but if found in a tough situation, may just save a life. Surfing has been part of the Australian society since the late 50's and during this time, recreational surfers from all walks of life have been instrumental in helping to keep our beaches safe. These board riders have conducted and assisted in thousands of rescues, the majority of which go unheralded. Be it a patrolled or unpatrolled beach across NSW, all recreational Surfers are on the beach from dawn until dusk, 365 days a year. A lot of them are responsible for hundreds of thousands of unsung rescues. In conjunction with pro-surfers who are currently working as lifeguards, Surfing NSW identified board rescue techniques that may prove to be crucial in times of need. Overall Surfing NSW will be rolling out the free course for all surfers educating on certain situations, which could benefit themselves, family, friends and fellow surfers throughout their lifetime. Online During the course of the assessment, Australian CoastSafe were made aware that non English speaking websites (e.g. Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese etc.) exist amongst ethnic groups which promote rock fishing specifically in the Wollongong LGA. Further investigation of these websites could provide an opportunity to engage a targeted educational campaign to specific user groups.


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Centralised coastal safety websites of peak water safety agencies should be utilised and referenced in all relevant resources and initiatives. The SLSA national BeachSafe website, www.beachsafe.org.au is recommended as the optimal portal due to its national coverage, overarching coastal safety focus (rips, rock-fishing etc.), multi-lingual options, rocky-coast hazard rating (in development), real-time daily information provision, smart-phone app options and a direct internal link to the ‘safe-fishing’ website – www.safefishing.com.au. Personal Protective Equipment Water safety agencies actively promote the use of lifejackets for fisherman. Educational and awareness programmes in the Wollongong LGA should continue to be reviewed and developed to promote and encourage fisherman to wear lifejackets. Education Summary The following table provides examples of a range of education and awareness programmes that can be adopted by Land Managers within the Wollongong LGA. Table 3.2.3.1 is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all education and awareness programmes available to Land Managers, it is intended to provide examples of a range of programmes that are available and delivered in within the context of coastal aquatic safety. Land Managers are not limited to the organisations listed in the table below, however they should ensure that any provider engaged to act on their behalf is adequately licensed, qualified and insured. Table 3.2.3.1: Examples of education and awareness programmes

Programme Target audience Location Delivery (Who)

School based water safety programmes

Local primary and high school students

All locations Peak water safety agencies

Coastal Accommodation Network

Tourists, visitors and migrants (TVM)

All locations Peak water safety agencies

Local Media Residents and TVM All locations Local media outlets

Lear to Swim / Swim and Survive

Young Children All locations Royal Life Saving Society Australia

Lean to Swim All ages All Locations AUSTSWIM accredited swim schools

Nippers Local children All locations Surf Life Saving NSW

Surf Sense Years 2,4 & 6 primary school All locations Wollongong City Council

Surf Education All ages All locations Surf Life Saving NSW

Surf Education Uni students UOW Wollongong City Council

Surf Groms Local children All locations Surfing NSW

Surfers Rescue 24/7 Local surfing associations All locations Surfing NSW

Kids Academy of Surf Local children All locations Surf Educate Australia

School surfing and surf education

Local children All locations Surf Educate Australia

Corp Surf 18 years + All locations Surf Educate Australia

Campus East Surf Ed Uni students UOW Surf Educate Australia

Get hooked – it’s fun to fish

Schools All locations NSW DPI (Fisheries)

Rock fishing safety information

Rock fishers

Break wall and rock platforms

Peak water safety agencies

Boating safety information

Boaters Bar crossings Roads & Maritime Services – Maritime Division RMS

QR codes

The use of QR codes on signage and other infrastructure to link to location based beach safety information.

All locations Wollongong City Council

Marine Education Centre Schools All locations Marine Teachers Association

http://www.beachsafe.org.au/


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Examples of education collateral can be found below. Wollongong City Council should be applauded for the collateral it currently produces. Educational material is produced providing a consistent message for water users. Multilingual options are available as well to get the message to many different users. Figure 3.2.3.1: An example of Wollongong City Council education collateral in English

Figure 3.2.3.2: An example of Wollongong City Council education collateral in Chinese

Figure 3.2.3.3: Beach safety for tourists/migrants

Figure 3.2.3.4: Survive a rip current

Figure 3.2.3.5: Don’t put our life on the line

Figure 3.2.3.5: Swim between flags


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Treatment Option 4.2 Develop relationships with tourism agencies to expand on the coastal accommodation network program with the aim of distributing standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures, flyers, pamphlets) to all coastal accommodation providers in the Wollongong Local Government Area.

Treatment Option 1.4 Existing education and awareness programmes within and around the Wollongong Local Government Area should continue to be implemented and reviewed.

Treatment Option 1.5 & 2.3 Education and awareness programmes should include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic safety industry (e.g. Water Safety NSW website, ‘watersafety.nsw.gov.au’).

Treatment Option 1.6 & 2.4 Display safety information (e.g. posters) which promotes key water safety messages, at amenity blocks and visitor information displays directly located around coastal beach access.

Treatment Option 1.7 Peak coastal water safety agencies currently provide surf education to local schools and community groups. It is recommended that Wollongong City Council work with these agencies to promote these programmes and encourage enhanced participation at a local level.

Treatment Option 1.8 Investigate the possibility of Wollongong City Lifeguards providing beach safety reports during the WIN Illawarra Local Evening News.

Treatment Option 4.3 Land managers and water safety stakeholders should identify the relevant user groups and related resources/websites (including non-English) that promote rock fishing in the Wollongong LGA, and target safety messaging to those groups/resources. This research may also provide the opportunity for targeted education campaigns.

Treatment Option 1.9 & 2.5 Continue to promote and encourage rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets.


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3.2.4 Safety Signage Wollongong City Council should be commended for implementing a system of aquatic and recreational safety signage at many of the access points in the assessed area (Appendix A). This was done after Wollongong City Council engaged Australian CoastSafe to conduct a risk assessment on ten unpatrolled locations. Current signage content complies with Australian ANZS 2416:2010 and the style/layout meets the type recommended in the National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, 3rd Edition, July 2006. Table 3.2.4.1 indicates the level of signage currently in place in the Wollongong LGA. Safety Signage is a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy, and targets the in-transit and on-arrival periods pertaining to a person/s arriving at a hazardous location. Key factors relating to effective safety signage includes: o A risk assessment process used in the identification of priority information to display o Alignment to Australian Standards for signage content (ANZS 2416:2010) o Consistency in signage layout/display (National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, 3rd Edition,

July 2006’) o Consistency in the appropriate positioning of signage, to optimise exposure to the members of the public,

prior to arriving in a hazardous location o A consistent process of signage maintenance as part of the land managers annual planning It is important to note that at most locations, an improved safety signage system usually results in an overall reduction in the quantity of signage due to the elimination of duplicate or ineffectual signs and the consolidation of key information into other signs. For land managers this may see a reduction in implementation and maintenance costs related to signage and a reduction in the visual pollution of a site. There is an opportunity to provide further aquatic and recreational safety signage as part of an ongoing management plan at the locations identified in (Appendix A). A staged/prioritisation approach is recommended as 26 additional signs have been proposed throughout the Wollongong LGA. These locations provide a list of associated hazards and the GPS position of where the sign should be placed. Table 3.2.4.1: Summary table of aquatic and recreational signage recommendations for the Wollongong LGA

Combined Beach Locations Existing Signs

Possible Consolidation

Proposed Level 2

Proposed Level 3

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Proposed Signage

Little Garie 5 0 0 0 0 0

North Era 4 1 0 0 0 0

South Era 2 0 0 0 0 0

Burning Palms 7 0 0 1 1 1

Werrong (Hell Hole) 3 0 0 0 0 0

Bulgo 1 0 0 0 0 0

Stanwell Park 44 2 0 0 0 -2

Coalcliff North 0 0 0 0 0 0

Coalcliff 20 1 0 0 0 -1

Scarborough North 0 0 0 0 0 0

Scarborough 11 1 0 1 1 -1

Wombarra 5 1 0 0 0 -1

Coledale 15 0 0 3 3 3

Sharky 8 1 0 0 0 -1

Brickyard/Long Point 9 6 0 1 1 -5

Little Austinmer 2 0 0 0 0 0

Austinmer 22 1 0 1 1 0

Thirroul 30 3 0 0 0 -3

South Thirroul 8 2 0 0 0 -2


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Combined Beach Locations Existing Signs


Proposed Level 2

Proposed Level 3

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Proposed Signage

Sandon Point 18 2 0 3 3 1

Bulli 40 0 0 2 2 2

Woonona 39 8 0 0 0 -8

Bellambi 26 0 0 3 3 3

Bellambi Point 10 0 0 2 2 2

Corrimal 56 3 0 1 1 -2

Towradgi 28 0 0 0 0 0

Fairy Meadow 21 0 0 0 0 0

Puckey's Beach 34 0 0 0 0 0

North Wollongong 20 0 0 3 3 3

Belmore (W’gong Harbour) 22 1 0 0 0 -1

Wollongong City 49 0 0 0 0 0

Flagstaff Hill 8 0 0 0 0 0

Port Kembla Harbour 30 0 0 0 0 0

MM 10 0 0 2 2 2

Fishermans 4 0 0 0 0 0

Hill 60 Rock Platform 0 0 0 1 1 0

Port Kembla 14 0 0 2 2 2

Windang 27 0 0 0 0 0

Windang Is Rock Platform *0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 652 33 0 26 26 -8

*Windang Is Rock Platform access is through Shellharbour City Council. Signage is in place already. Note: Net proposed signage = proposed signage minus consolidated signage. For example, even though 26 signs have been proposed in the Wollongong LGA, 33 existing signs have the opportunity to be consolidated, leaving a net change to overall reduction in signage of 8 signs. When implementing future signage, the following points are recommended: 1. Safety signs as recommended in this report should meet Australian Standard ‘AS 2416 – 2010: Water

Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags’ and align signage style/layout with the ‘National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, 3rd Edition, July 2006’ or the State-wide Mutual guide. It is the recommendation of this report that style is aligned to the former.

2. Signage layout (top-down order) consists of the following: a) Location name and emergency marker (if/when applicable) or street address b) Hazards and warnings within the designated area c) Safety information or general location/area details d) Regulations e) Facility / Land Manager

3. Safety signs should meet the size/height/placement specifications outlined in ‘AS/NZS 2416.3.2010 Water

safety signs and beach safety flags’. 4. ‘Diamond’ hazard symbols should be utilised (not triangle). Context: ASNZ2416 provides for the use of

either ‘diamond’ or ‘triangle’ hazard symbols. For consistency with existing signage and across local government areas the more effective diamond symbols should be utilised.

5. Effective placement of aquatic and recreational safety signage in a public reserve cannot be

underestimated. Location, height and existing visual distractions are major factors which contribute to the effectiveness of a sign when installed.


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6. Signs positioned in car parks should be placed central to the parking area and where parked vehicles will not obscure the sign.

7. Signs that are positioned in relation to open access areas should be spaced at regular intervals, with the

distance between individual signs dependent upon the calculated Facility Visitation Rate (FVR).

8. Signs that are positioned in relation to defined access points should be sited as close as practical to the access point, or other appropriate location, and need to be consistently applied where possible e.g. on the left of the track entrance.

9. To effectively capture the attention of visitors, improve overall visual amenity and avoid confusion as a

result of too many signs. Repetitive and/or unnecessary information and signs should be removed. Further, any non-essential signage (not related to location, safety, hazard, prohibition information) that is present at a location should be considered for removal or re-located as appropriate so as not to impact on the recognition of the safety orientated priority signage.

QR Codes QR codes involve the use of smart phone technology to provide location based safety messaging. The system works by scanning a smart phone over the QR Code. These codes are included on signage (i.e. a sticker) and linked to specific water related safety information, with the potential for multilingual messages. There are numerous online providers that allow for the creation of a QR code. This stage of the process is cost effective and the only expense is printing. Certain online providers also allow customers to be able to track the number of people who have scanned the QR code. Wollongong City Council is currently utilising QR codes on existing signage within the Wollongong LGA. Wollongong City Council should review the data received for effectiveness and possible expansion of the system if appropriate. Temporary Signage Temporary hazard signs may be used where a hazard is localised or where a hazard has been identified that is not permanent in nature. In the context of this assessment temporary hazard signs have been identified as an option when a dangerous surf warning has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The BOM release a dangerous surf warning when the swell reaches a certain height and swell period. Dangerous surf warnings will appear on the official BOM forecast. The most appropriate locations of these signs have been identified as the main vehicle entry points where access to Wollongong LGA is achieved. The locations of these signs have been identified in (Appendix A). In the context of this assessment individual temporary hazard signs have been identified for possible use at locations where the hazards of debris, erosion and dangerous access are at a high risk. These locations should be monitored and necessary appropriate warnings put in place. Temporary warning signage has been recommended for use to address the following hazards: (Appendix A) o Debris o Beach Erosion o Rips o Patrol flags location


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Image 3.2.4.1: Example of debris at Thirroul Beach Image 3.2.4.2: Example of beach erosion at Wollongong City

Image 3.2.4.3: Puckeys - indicating patrol location Image 3.2.4.4: Puckeys – Isolated hazard

Treatment Option 1.10 & 2.6 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be implemented by Land Managers at the locations listed in Appendix A. This may include maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs) or the removal of unnecessary signage.

Treatment Option 1.11 In partnership with peak water safety bodies should investigate the use of temporary signage (Appendix A) at key entry roads into the Wollongong coast to display Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued dangerous surf warnings - warning the public of large/hazardous surf conditions.


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3.2.5 Emergency Marker System

When an incident occurs at a specific street address, it is relatively simple for emergency services to identify the location of the caller/incident. However, when an incident occurs at locations such as open-space parkland, walking trails, beaches or rocks (where no cross-street or other reference point is available) it can delay the identification of a location and the subsequent emergency service response. Emergency location markers enable triple zero call takers to immediately and accurately verify the location of an emergency triple zero call. Below is an example template of an emergency marker sign. Figure 3.2.5.1: An example of an emergency marker sign.

Emergency markers display a unique number to a specific location, most commonly on existing access/safety signage. These emergency marker displays could be a sticker placed over already existing signage. For an optimal emergency marker system to be effective a standardised state-wide program is required that engages Police and other emergency service CAD systems and land management authority signage plans. Currently no such program exists in NSW. Wollongong City Council does not currently have an emergency marker system in place. There is a need for a consistent state wide approach (picture below indicates). Existing signs can be easily modified by placing a sticker over the pre-existing code (as shown in the photo below). Image 3.2.5.2: An example of an interim emergency marker sign in place at Puckey’s Beach, North Wollongong.

Australian CoastSafe is working with key government and emergency service stakeholders in the coming months to develop a best practice approach which can be rolled out on a state wide basis into the various triple zero CAD systems – to improve emergency response.

Treatment Option 4.4 In consultation with the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Land Managers should implement a state-aligned emergency marker program at all identified access locations once such a program is established.


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3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programmes How the coast is accessed is a significant factor in the management of coastal risk. While preventing public access/use to the coastal environment is not desired, a number of options exist to minimise the risks associated with the access way itself and the hazards that may be encountered on the coast (via that access way). In reference to the assessment process, access points have been broken down into formal (defined), and informal (undefined) access. Access issues are interrelated to other risk management initiatives/options such as water safety signage, emergency access numbering/reporting, supervision (lifeguard) information and public rescue equipment. An effective access plan for an area may optimise the effectiveness and efficiency of other initiatives. In the Wollongong LGA the majority of formal access tracks are well maintained. Periodic inspections take place due to vegetation overgrowth, degraded footings and unattached fence posts. A number of informal access tracks also exist. Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer ‘track’, effectively exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quality of signage required and enhancing emergency reporting/location identification. Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/unstable ground), may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make emergency location reporting difficult (location awareness). Options for formalising/redirecting or consolidating informal access use may include man-made barriers, vegetation growth and fencing. It is noted that for some locations/situations it may be difficult to formalise access and/or discourage the use of informal access. Figure 3.2.6.1: Formal access at Corrimal Figure 3.2.6.1: Informal access at Bellambi

The table below shows a summary of access provision within the assessed locations:


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Table 3.2.6.1: The table below shows a summary of access provision within the assessed locations.

Location Open Access Formal Pedestrian

Formal Vehicle

Informal Pedestrian


Net Access

Little Garie 0 1 0 0 0 1

North Era Access from Little Garie 0 0 0 0

South Era Access from Little Garie 0 0 0 0

Burning Palms 0 1 0 0 0 1

Werrong (Hell Hole) 0 1 0 0 0 1

Bulgo 0 1 0 0 0 1

NSW351 0 0 0 0 0 0

Stanwell Park 0 11 0 0 0 11

Coalcliff North 0 0 0 1 0 1

Coalcliff 1 5 1 3 0 10

Scarborough North 0 0 0 1 0 1

Scarborough 0 2 0 1 0 3

Wombarra 0 3 0 1 0 4

Coledale 1 3 0 4 0 8

Sharky* - - - - - -

Brickyard/Long Point 0 2 1 1 0 4

Little Austinmer* 0 0 0 0 0 0

Austinmer 1 2 0 0 0 3

Thirroul 5 0 0 6 0 11

South Thirroul* - - - - - -

Sandon Point 0 7 1 16 16 8

Bulli 0 14 0 0 0 14

Woonona 0 14 0 2 0 16

Bellambi 0 9 2 2 0 13

Bellambi Point 0 1 0 2 0 3

Corrimal* 0 13 0 0 0 13

Towradgi* 0 4 0 1 0 5

Fairy Meadow 0 6 0 0 0 6

Puckey's Beach* - - - - - -

North Wollongong 0 11 0 1 0 12

Belmore (W’gong Harbour)

2 7 1 0 0 10

Wollongong City* 2 10 0 0 0 12

Flagstaff Hill 0 1 0 2 0 3

Port Kembla Harbour 0 1 0 0 0 1

MM* 0 0 0 3 0 3

Fishermans* 0 0 0 1 0 1

Hill 60 Rock Platform 0 0 0 7 0 7

Port Kembla* 0 5 0 2 0 7

Windang* 0 4 0 0 0 4

Windang Is Rock Platform

0 0 0 1 0 1

Total 12 139 6 58 16 199

* Full or partial access audit and assessment completed as part of a prior report issued September 2012 - “Weir A, 2012, Wollongong City Council, Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment and Treatment Plan”. Please refer to this report for further details on these locations.


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Treatment Options 1.12 & 2.7 Formal access tracks identified in Appendix A should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.

Treatment Options 1.13 & 2.8 Informal access tracks identified in Appendix A, that are adjacent/close to formal access ways should be considered for redirection or consolidation by the appropriate Land Manager, in order to promote/facilitate use of formal access.


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3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment The table below provides an overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) currently in or suggested for use in Australia. Table 3.2.7.1: An overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) (Research Review of Rock Fishing Safety in New South Wales, 2012)

PRE Type Morphology of current

installations

Advantages Disadvantages Extensive Training Required

Recommended uses in NSW

Rescue Tube Sandy beaches and rock pools

Can be thrown short distances

Requires the patient to enter the water themselves with swim fins

Yes None

Throw Bag Not in use Distance of deployment

Risk of theft, risk of using the line to return the patient towards the rocks, aren’t strong/tough enough to be resilient from environmental conditions

No May be used on a case by case basis Further effectiveness investigation required

Life Ring Steep rampart rock platforms

Ease of use, rugged design and awareness campaign established

Single use device, distance of deployment, requires rescuer to approach the platform edge

No Steep (>1:1) rampart rock platforms

Silent Sentry Sloping platforms

EPIRB unit immediately alerts emergency services, multiple balls can be rolled down slopes to the patient keeping the rescuer at a safer distance

EPIRB units were vulnerable to vandalism and disabled

No Sloping (<1:1) rampart rock platforms. Recommended redesign to remove EPIRB housing

Life Rings Through the implementation of the ‘Angel Ring Project’™

2, 116 life rings have been installed in NSW and 47

rescues have been confirmed as of August 2012. (Australian National Sports Fishing Association) Life rings are an instantly recognised and international life saving mechanism and are easily understood by the vast majority of people, both as a rescuer and as the casualty. There are numerous life rings in the Wollongong LGA. The locations of life rings and proposed life rings are listed in Appendix C.

2 Angel Ring is a registered trade mark of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.


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The maintenance & checking of the existing life rings is performed by numerous agencies. Wollongong Sports Fishing Club member Gordon Jobson currently looks after the life ring project within the Illawarra. Contact with WSFC was made but CoastSafe was advised that they were under advice from ANSA not to engage with Project Blueprint. The checking of the life rings is performed daily by Marine Rescue around the Hill 60 vicinity. This is a visual check from Hill 60 as the life rings are visible from their vantage point. During regular patrols Australian Aerial Patrol also check life rings are in place. At the time of the assessment life rings were located and recorded at the locations listed in Appendix C. ANSA has a published list of angel rings that have been installed. Not all of the angel rings as per ANSA’s list were located

3.

Table 3.2.7.2: Locations of proposed life rings.

Priority Location Responsible Authority

1 Port Kembla Harbour Break Wall ANSA

According to a document

4 published on the Angel Ring Project

5 website the following sites are currently under

investigation by ANSA NSW for life ring installations. o Bulli Pool (by Gordon Jobson) o Bellambi (by Gordon Jobson) o Lake Illawarra Breakwalls x 2 (by Gordon Jobson) Also published

6 on the Angel Ring Project

7 website the following sites which have been approved for the

installation of life rings: o No life rings approved for installation Life ring positioning should be undertaken in consultation with ANSA (NSW Branch). Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) GPS technology is available to be used within public rescue equipment such as life rings. Recreational fishing bodies have already trialled certain tracking devices in some areas and should be consulted with in relation to this matter. This technology may be beneficial by the way of a daily audit that can record when a life ring has been washed away or stolen as part of an asset management system.

Treatment Option 4.5 The New South Wales Water Safety Advisory Council should explore the means to fund the expansion and continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW at the locations outlined in Appendix C. Final positioning should be determined by ANSA NSW.

3 http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingLocationsUpdateJan2012.pdf

(accessed May, 2013) 4 http:// http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-

content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingLocationsUnderInvestigationJan2012.pdf (accessed May, 2013) 5 Angel Ring is a registered trade mark of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.

6 http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingApprovalsApplicationsJan2012.pdf

(accessed May, 2013) 7 Angel Ring is a registered trade mark of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.

http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingLocationsUpdateJan2012.pdf

http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingLocationsUnderInvestigationJan2012.pdf

http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingLocationsUnderInvestigationJan2012.pdf

http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/AngelRingApprovalsApplicationsJan2012.pdf


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3.2.8 System of Supervision The supervision of aquatic coastal locations by trained lifesavers/lifeguards is often required to manage the risk of the location and is arguably the most effective risk mitigation strategy. The primary decision to be made by the Wollongong City Council before establishing a lifesaving/lifeguard service is to determine which areas will be patrolled or unpatrolled. A patrolled beach is one at which a trained lifesaver and/or lifeguard is stationed during prescribed times and designated by the flying of red and yellow flags. A mobile lifesaver/lifeguard or lifeguard vehicle that periodically visits or checks a location may be effective as a proactive education initiative but should not be considered as providing a patrolled swimming location. The decision whether to provide supervision or not to provide supervision can be difficult to establish because of the following: o The provision of a service may encourage attendance at a non-suitable location, such as when the beach

topography and morphology create a highly hazardous location. This factor would be reflected in the ABSAMP beach hazard rating

o Deemed too cost prohibitive and therefore not provided by the responsible Land Manager o The patronage of the location is too low and the assessed risk level is minimal There are a range of aquatic supervisory services that should be considered, as it is not “one size fits all”. They include: o Full time comprehensive lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, fixed and

portable facilities, equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services. o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, portable facilities,

equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services. o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard Service with trained personnel, portable facilities, some equipment and craft,

and links to a command centre. o A flexible demand based service with trained personnel provision which allocates resources to where they

are most needed. o Surveillance cameras. o No service, but the provision of safety signs and controlled access. Wollongong City Council Lifeguard Service The Wollongong City Council provides a very commendable lifeguard service. The following section examines the lifeguard services at each location within the Wollongong LGA. The recommendations outlined may be useful to council when seeking advice for future lifeguard needs. This table breaks down the dates of the following 2013 combined NSW school holiday periods. Table 3.2.8.1: 2013 combined NSW school holiday periods.

Season Start Finish

Autumn School Holidays Monday, 15 April 2013 Friday, 26 April 2013

Winter School Holidays Monday, 1 July 2013 Friday, 12 July 2013

Spring School Holidays Monday, 23 September 2013 Friday, 07 October 2013

Summer School Holidays Monday, 23 December 2013 Monday, 27 January 2014


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Table 3.2.8.2: Wollongong City Council Beach Lifeguard Staffing Levels

Beach staffing levels

Beach Name Shoulder Season High Season Peak Season Shoulder Season School holidays

St Park 2 3 3 2

Coalcliff 1 1 1 1

Scarborough 1 1 1 1

Coledale 1 1 2 1

Austinmer 2 2 3 2

Thirroul 2 2 3 2

Sandon Point 1 1 1 1

Bulli 2 2 3 2

Woonona 1 1 2 1

Bellambi 1 1 1 1

Corrimal 1 2 3 2

Towradgi 1 1 2 1

Fairy Meadow 2 2 2 2

North Wollongong 3 3 3 2

City 2 2 3 2

Port Kembla 2 2 3 2

Windang 1 1 2 1


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Table 3.2.8.3: 2012/13 Minimum operation hours for Illawarra SLS Clubs (Sunday – Arrangements Only, Saturday are per negotiations with SLSI and SLSNSW)

Beach Shoulder

22/9 to

26/10

Mon to

Sat

Shoulder

22/9 to

26/10

Sun &

Public Hol

High

27/10 to 21/12

Mon to Sat Sun & Public Hol

Peak

22/12 to 25/1

Mon to Sat Sun & Public

Hol

High

26/1 to 30/3

Mon to Sat Sun &Public

Hol

Shoulder

31/3 to

25/4

Mon to Sun

Shoulder

31/3 to

25/4

Sun &

Public Hol

Stanwell

Park

9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

Coalcliff 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10.00- 5pm 10am - 5pm

Scarborough 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Coledale 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Austinmer 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

Thirroul 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Sandon Point 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Bulli 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

Woonona 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Bellambi 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Corrimal 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Towradgi 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Fairy

Meadow

10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

North

Wollongong

8am - 5pm 9am – 5pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 7pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 8am - 5pm 9am – 5pm

City 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm

Port Kembla 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

Windang 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 5pm


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Surf Life Saving Illawarra Branch Table 3.2.8.4: Current volunteer lifesaving service dates and times for season 2012-2013.

Club / Service 2012-13 Sat Sun & PH Minimum Patrol Requirements

Helensburgh Stanwell Park

22/09/2012 - 21/10/2012 No Patrol 9am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB

Crew, 1 x Basic Beach Management

27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

23/03/2013 - 28/04/2013 No Patrol 9am - 5pm Australia Day -

Coalcliff 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB

Crew, 1 x Basic Beach Management (Exemption:

No IRB and BBM awards for 2012-2013 season on

Saturdays)

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 11am - 3pm 10am - 5pm


Scarborough Wombarra



No IRB and BBM awards for 2012-2013 season on

Saturdays)

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 11am - 3pm 10am - 5pm


Coledale 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm


Austinmer 22/09/2012 - 21/10/2012 No Patrol 9am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm


Thirroul 22/09/2012 - 21/10/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 2pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

23/03/2013 - 28/04/2013 No Patrol 10am - 5pm Australia Day

Sandon Point 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x


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22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 11am - 3pm 10am - 5pm Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB



Bulli 22/09/2012 - 21/10/2012 No Patrol 9am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm


Woonona 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm


Bellambi 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


No IRB and BBM, surveillance patrol with 2 x

BM, 1 x Current ARTC awards for 2012-2013 season on Saturdays)

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 2pm 9am - 6pm


Corrimal 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB




22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 2pm 9am - 6pm


Towradgi 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm


Fairy Meadow 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 2pm 9am - 6pm


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North Wollongong



27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm


Wollongong City



27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm


Port Kembla 22/09/2012 - 21/10/2012 No Patrol 9am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


27/10/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 9am - 6pm

22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm

02/02/2013 - 17/03/2013 No Patrol 9am - 6pm


Windang 22/09/2012 - 16/12/2012 No Patrol 10am - 5pm 3 x Bronze Medallion, 1 x Current ARTC, 1 x Current IRB Driver, 1 x Current IRB


22/12/2012 - 28/01/2013 10am - 3pm 9am - 6pm



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International Best Practice The International Life Saving Federation (ILSF) is the peak body for lifeguard and water safety organisations internationally. Lifeguard/lifesaving uniforms: The ILS recommends the colours for uniforms be red & yellow

8. Lifeguards/lifesavers throughout the world are

called upon to provide safety services at a range of water environments that include swimming pools, beaches, lakes, river front and other waterfronts. In providing these aquatic safety services, it is important that the people using these environments for aquatic activity can readily identify the lifeguards for:

o Guidance on safety issues, and o Assistance in times of need

As such the lifeguards should be readily distinguishable against the many people and colours they may be wearing while in, on or around these aquatic environments. The red and yellow colours have been used by a number of International Lifesaving Member Federations for many years to such an extent and with much success that red and yellow has become synonymous with lifesavers and lifeguards in these countries. Red and yellow flags: The use of red & yellow feathered flags is undertaken to provide the maximum visual effect to identify a designated swimming area. Wollongong City Council currently does not use the feathered patrol flag on Wollongong beaches. Although the feathered patrol flag is an optional component of the Australian Standard, Australian CoastSafe would encourage Wollongong City Council to consider adopting the feather flag. Lifesaving Service Level Calculator The lifesaving service level calculator takes into consideration the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings, visitation levels, frequency of use, residency of visitors, incident history and remoteness of location to determine best practice lifesaving service levels. The first decision that needs to be made by a Land Manager is whether or not a location should be patrolled. The Action Planning Priority Index (p.52-54) should be used to guide decision making on which locations are of greater risk and therefore a higher priority for a lifesaving service. The lifesaving service level calculations should not be used in isolation to determine whether or not a lifesaving service should be provided, however once a decision has been made to provide a service the calculations should be referred to for guidance on the minimum service level required. The following lifesaving service level descriptors provide the recommended lifesaving service level for the scores/ratings. The scores are not absolute and are to be used as a guide in determining the actual levels. Table 3.2.8.5: lifesaving service level descriptors provide the recommended lifesaving service level for the scores/rating as calculated in the sections that follow.

Rating Lifesaving Service Level Description

</= 10 Warning signage e.g. Aquatic & Recreational Signage Style Guide

11-14 Emergency beacons and/or camera surveillance or swimming enclosure (where applicable)

Routine monitoring/surveillance patrols (land, sea, air) to also be considered

15-19 Lifesaving service = 1 x Lifeguard personnel during period assessed (refer to note 2)

20-25 Lifesaving service = 2 x Lifeguard personnel during period assessed

26-30 Lifesaving service = 3 x Lifeguard personnel during period assessed

31 and > Lifesaving service = more than 3 Lifeguard personnel during period assessed

8 Lifesaving Position Statement - LPS 05 - Lifesaver And Lifeguard Uniforms


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Notes to table: Note 1: When visitations and frequencies are low yet rating is high, consideration should be given to some form of surveillance patrols or IT solutions to overcome variations of population/visitation numbers. Note 2: The option to have one lifeguard on a beach is only permissible under specific circumstances, these being: o The ABSAMP beach hazard rating is less than 4, or o Access to other rescue services is less than 5 minutes, direct communication with services is in place, and a

Rescue Water Craft is in place. Otherwise the minimum number of lifeguards at a given location would be two.

Where the number of people in the patrolled area is over 1,000 the lifesaving service provider should increase the number of lifesaving personnel in line with the following table. Table 3.2.8.6: Impact of beach attendance on lifesaving service levels

No. of People on Beach No. of additional lifeguards

1,000 - 5,000 2

5,000 - 10,000 4

> 10,000 6

Crowds can become in themselves hazardous as a result of difficulties of surveillance and heightened crowd interaction Reference Tables: The tables below provide definitions for the scores used in the Lifesaving Service Level Calculator. The definitions are range based to allow for a margin of error where detailed recorded data may be lacking. In such cases information has been gathered through consultation with local experts and beach users. Table 3.2.8.7: Visitation Rating - visitation levels can be determined by (but not limited to) SLS patrol log books, tourism visitation statistics, local knowledge of the area (interviews with users and stakeholders)

Rating Description

1 Less than 50 people in the water and on the beach during peak period of day

2 51 to 249 people in the water and on the beach during peak period of day

3 250 to 500 people in water and on the beach during peak period of day

4 500 to 1,000 people in the water and on the beach during peak period of day

5 Greater than 1,000 people in the water and on the beach during peak period of day

Table 3.2.8.8: Frequency Rating – relating to the frequency with which the visitation rating (Table 3.2.8.3) occurs

Rating Description

1 Peak visitation occurs once in a month

2 Peak visitation levels occur once a week

3 Peak visitation levels occur every weekend (Saturday/Sunday)

4 Peak visitation levels occur every day

5 Peak visitation levels continuously every day


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Table 3.2.8.9: Type of User – Residency Rating (>10% of the peak visitation)

Rating Beach visitor residency and assumed level of beach safety knowledge

1 General knowledge of local beaches and related beach safety issues, including awareness of rips and general beach hazards and role of lifesavers/lifeguards.

2 General knowledge of beach safety issues relevant to their state/region, awareness of rips and role of lifesavers/lifeguards, limited or no knowledge of beach in question

3 General knowledge of beach safety issues and role of lifesavers/lifeguards, limited or no knowledge of rips, limited or no knowledge of beaches and issues relating to beaches in state being visited, including biological hazards in northern Australia.

4 Limited or no knowledge of beach safety issues and role of lifeguards. Ability to read signs and converse with lifeguards. No knowledge of Australia beach conditions and general Australian beach hazards, especially rips in south and biological hazards (crocodiles & stingers) in northern Australia.

5 No knowledge of beach safety issues and role of lifeguards. Unable to read beach signage or converse with lifeguards. No knowledge of Australia beach conditions and general Australian beaches hazards, especially rips in south and biological hazards (crocodiles & stingers) in northern Australia.

Table 3.2.8.10: Incident History Rating – for beaches where there is not currently a service. Consideration should be given to incidents occurring over the previous 5 years.

Rating Description

1 Less than 5 minor incidents / first aid treatments reported

2 5 or more minor incidents / first aid treatments reported

3 Less than 3 major incidents/first aid treatments reported

4 Between 4 and 6 major incidents/first aid treatments reported

5 7 or more major incidents/first aid treatments, OR 1 or more preventable fatalities in the previous 5 years

Table 3.2.8.11: Incident History Rating - for beaches where there is currently a service. Consideration should be given to incidents occurring over the previous 12 months / 1 year.

Rating Description

1 1 minor incident or preventative action per day

2 More than 1 minor incident or preventative action per day

3 1-3 major incidents/first aid treatments per month

4 Between 4 and 6 major incidents/first aid treatments per month

5 7 or more major incidents/first aid treatments per month, OR 1 or more fatalities in the previous 12 months

Table 3.2.8.12: Remoteness Rating – an indication of the proximity of support when responding to an incident in the water. This support could be from a neighbouring lifesaving/lifeguard service or a local emergency service such as Police, Fire or Ambulance.

Rating Description

1 Access to other rescue services/or assistance less than 3 minutes

2 Access to other rescue services/or assistance 3-5 minutes



5 Access to other rescue services/or assistance more than 15 minutes


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Lifesaving Service Level Calculations: The tables and information below provide guidance on the appropriate level of lifesaving service required at Wollongong LGA beaches once a decision to provide lifesaving / lifeguarding service has been made. The decision to provide a lifesaving/lifeguarding service is not dependant upon the outcome of the lifesaving service level calculations in the table below. Table 3.2.8.13: Little Garie: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 1 2 2 1 0 1 13

Autumn 6 1 1 2 1 0 1 13

Winter 6 1 1 2 1 0 5 13

Spring 6 1 1 2 1 0 1 13

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location at this point in time. Table 3.2.8.14: North Era: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 1 2 2 1 0 1 13

Autumn 6 1 2 2 1 0 1 13

Winter 6 1 2 2 1 0 5 17

Spring 6 1 2 2 1 0 1 13

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location at this point in time. A score of 17 for winter is due to a high remoteness rating due to the absence of a neighbouring lifesaving service. Table 3.2.8.15: South Era: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 2 2 2 0 4 3 19

Autumn 6 1 2 2 0 3 3 17

Winter 6 1 2 2 0 1 5 17

Spring 6 1 2 2 0 3 3 17

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided during these periods, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.16: Burning Palms: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 2 2 2 0 4 3 20

Autumn 7 1 2 2 0 3 3 18

Winter 7 1 2 2 0 1 5 18

Spring 7 1 2 2 0 3 3 18


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These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided during these periods, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.17: Werrong (Hell Hole): Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 1 2 2 1 0 5 18

Autumn 7 1 2 2 1 0 5 18

Winter 7 1 2 2 1 0 5 18

Spring 7 1 2 2 1 0 5 18

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended due to the visitation levels and frequency of use. Table 3.2.8.18: Bulgo: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 4 1 2 2 1 0 5 15

Autumn 4 1 2 2 1 0 5 15

Winter 4 1 2 2 1 0 5 15

Spring 4 1 2 2 1 0 5 15

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended due to the visitation levels and frequency of use. Table 3.2.8.19: Stanwell Park: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 4 3 1 0 5 2 22

Autumn 7 2 3 1 0 4 2 19

Winter 7 2 2 1 0 1 3 16

Spring 7 2 3 1 0 4 2 19

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history.


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Table 3.2.8.20: Coalcliff: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 2 3 1 0 4 2 18

Autumn 6 2 3 1 0 3 2 17

Winter 6 1 2 1 0 1 3 14

Spring 6 2 3 1 0 3 2 17

These calculations support the current service level provided.

Table 3.2.8.21: Scarborough: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 2 3 1 0 4 2 18

Autumn 6 2 3 1 0 4 2 18

Winter 6 1 2 1 0 1 3 14

Spring 6 2 3 1 0 4 2 18

These calculations support the current service level provided. Table 3.2.8.22: Wombarra: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 2 2 1 1 0 2 14

Autumn 6 1 2 1 1 0 2 13

Winter 6 1 2 1 1 0 3 14

Spring 6 1 2 1 1 0 2 13

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location.

Table 3.2.8.23: Coledale: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 5 2 3 2 0 4 2 18

Autumn 5 3 3 2 0 4 2 19

Winter 5 1 2 2 0 3 3 16

Spring 5 2 3 2 0 4 2 18

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history.


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Table 3.2.8.24: Sharky: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 2 3 1 2 0 2 17

Autumn 7 2 2 1 2 0 2 16

Winter 7 1 2 1 1 0 4 16

Spring 7 2 2 1 1 0 2 15

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards should be considered over summer autumn & spring, if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended based on the provision of roving patrols from Coledale. A service during winter has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers as well as low incident history during winter. Table 3.2.8.25: Brickyard/Long Point: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 3 1 2 1 1 0 2 10

Autumn 3 1 2 1 1 0 2 10

Winter 3 1 2 1 1 0 4 12

Spring 3 1 2 1 1 0 2 10

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location.

Table 3.2.8.26: Little Austinmer: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 3 3 1 2 0 2 18

Autumn 7 2 2 1 2 0 2 16

Winter 7 1 2 1 2 0 3 16

Spring 7 2 2 1 2 0 2 16

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards should be considered for summer, autumn & spring, if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended based on the provision of roving patrols from Austinmer. A service during winter has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers as well as low incident history during winter. Table 3.2.8.27: Austinmer: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 4 3 2 0 5 2 23

Autumn 7 4 3 2 0 4 2 22

Winter 7 2 2 2 0 3 3 19

Spring 7 3 3 2 0 4 2 21



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Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.28: Thirroul: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 4 3 2 0 5 2 22

Autumn 6 4 3 2 0 4 2 21

Winter 6 2 2 1 0 3 3 17

Spring 6 4 3 2 0 4 2 21

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history.

Table 3.2.8.29: South Thirroul: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 2 2 1 2 0 2 15

Autumn 6 1 2 1 1 0 2 13

Winter 6 1 2 1 1 0 3 14

Spring 6 1 2 1 1 0 2 13

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards should be considered over summer, if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended due to the proximity of life saving / lifeguard services at Thirroul. This should be reviewed if residential development proceeds.

Table 3.2.8.30: Sandon Point: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 5 3 3 1 0 4 2 18

Autumn 5 2 3 1 0 3 2 16

Winter 5 1 2 1 0 3 3 15

Spring 5 2 3 1 0 3 2 16



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Table 3.2.8.31: Bulli: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 5 3 2 0 5 2 23

Autumn 6 4 3 2 0 3 2 20

Winter 6 2 2 2 0 3 3 18

Spring 6 3 3 2 0 3 2 19


Table 3.2.8.32: Woonona: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 5 3 1 0 5 2 22

Autumn 6 3 3 1 0 3 2 18

Winter 6 2 2 1 0 3 3 17

Spring 6 3 3 1 0 3 2 18

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.33: Bellambi: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 5 3 3 1 0 4 2 18

Autumn 5 2 3 1 0 3 2 16

Winter 5 1 2 1 0 3 3 15

Spring 5 3 3 1 0 3 2 17

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.34: Corrimal: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 5 3 2 0 5 2 23

Autumn 6 2 3 2 0 3 2 18

Winter 6 1 2 2 0 3 3 17

Spring 6 4 3 2 0 3 2 20


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These calculations support the current service level provided. These calculations support the current service level provided however one additional lifeguard may be considered for the shoulder (spring) season. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.35: Towradgi: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 3 3 1 0 5 2 20

Autumn 6 2 3 1 0 3 2 17

Winter 6 1 2 1 0 3 3 16

Spring 6 3 3 1 0 3 2 18


Table 3.2.8.36: Fairy Meadow: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 4 3 1 0 4 2 20

Autumn 6 2 3 1 0 3 2 17

Winter 6 1 2 1 0 3 3 16

Spring 6 2 3 1 0 3 2 17

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.37: Puckey's Beach: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 3 3 2 5 0 2 22

Autumn 7 2 3 2 5 0 2 21

Winter 7 1 3 2 5 0 3 21

Spring 7 2 3 2 5 0 2 21

Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards all year round should be considered if a lifeguard service were to be provided at this location, a service has not been recommended due to the proximity of life saving / lifeguard services at North Wollongong. Roving patrols and CCTV assist in the patrolling strategy at this location.


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Table 3.2.8.38: North Wollongong: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 5 5 4 1 0 5 2 22

Autumn 5 3 3 1 0 3 2 17

Winter 5 2 2 1 0 3 3 16

Spring 5 4 3 1 0 3 2 18


Table 3.2.8.39: Belmore (Wollongong Harbour): Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 3 3 3 1 0 2 2 14

Autumn 3 2 2 1 0 2 2 12

Winter 3 2 3 1 0 2 2 13

Spring 3 2 3 1 0 2 2 13

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location. Table 3.2.8.40: Wollongong City: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 6 5 3 1 0 5 2 22

Autumn 6 3 3 1 0 3 2 18

Winter 6 2 2 1 0 3 3 17

Spring 6 4 3 1 0 3 2 19

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.41: Port Kembla Harbour: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 3 1 2 2 1 0 2 11

Autumn 3 1 2 2 1 0 2 11

Winter 3 1 2 2 1 0 3 12

Spring 3 1 2 2 1 0 2 11

These calculations support that a service is not required at this location at this point in time.


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Table 3.2.8.42: MM: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 5 2 2 1 1 0 3 14

Autumn 5 1 2 1 1 0 3 13

Winter 5 1 2 1 1 0 3 13

Spring 5 1 2 1 1 0 3 13


Table 3.2.8.43: Fishermans: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 3 2 2 1 1 0 3 12

Autumn 3 1 2 1 1 0 3 11

Winter 3 1 2 1 1 0 3 11

Spring 3 1 2 1 1 0 3 11


Table 3.2.8.44: Port Kembla: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 5 3 1 0 5 2 23

Autumn 7 2 3 1 0 3 2 18

Winter 7 2 2 1 0 2 3 17

Spring 7 3 3 1 0 3 2 19

These calculations support the current service level provided. Even though the lifesaving service level scores in the table above indicate that a service level of 2 lifeguards over winter should be considered, if a lifeguard service were to be provided during this period, a service has not been recommended due to lower visitation numbers and low incident history. Table 3.2.8.45: Windang: Lifesaving Service Level Calculator

Dates ABSAMP

Rating

Visitation

Rating

Frequency

Rating

Residency

Rating

Incident History

Rating

Remoteness

Rating

Total LSSL

Score

New Existing

Summer 7 2 3 2 0 5 2 21

Autumn 7 2 3 2 0 3 2 19

Winter 7 1 2 2 0 3 3 18

Spring 7 2 3 2 0 3 2 19



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After reviewing the service levels provided on existing beaches and also taking into account the lifesaving service level calculator Wollongong City Council is consistent with or exceeds the recommendations of the lifesaving service level calculator. Figures used in these calculations were obtained from Wollongong City Council lifeguard statistics supplied to Australian CoastSafe on 21

st February 2013. (Season 2011/12, summer week 12, autumn week 28, Spring week

4). North Wollongong Wollongong City Council and North Wollongong SLSC have provided a lifeguard / life saving service at North Wollongong Beach providing a supervised swimming location all year round. Wollongong City Council should be commended for providing this service to the bathing public. Over the past 6 years North Wollongong SLSC had been contracted to Wollongong City Council to provide a life saving service throughout the winter months. The club was remunerated by council through Surf Life Saving Illawarra to provide the service. Wollongong City Council Lifeguard Service will continue the winter service into the future.

Treatment Option 1.14 & 5.2 The level of lifesaving / lifeguarding service (staffing levels, operational dates, and operational hours) provided by Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra should be reviewed regularly with a view to providing services that continue to match identified needs.

Treatment Option 1.15 Wollongong City Council should continue the winter patrol service at North Wollongong into the future.

CCTV / Monitored Camera Cameras through closed circuit television (CCTV) can aid supervision through remote monitoring of television screens, however their effectiveness is only as good as the person watching the screen and the appropriateness of the response practices and procedures in place to respond to an alter actioned by that person watching the screen(s). CCTV can be effective for accident investigation.

Treatment Option 1.16 Consider the expansion of recorded closed circuit television (CCTV) in accordance with its policies and PIPPA Legislative requirements at the following locations:

East Corrimal

Property Development Plans for property development are currently underway in some locations in the Wollongong LGA. This development may cause an increase in beach usage at all locations within the area but will have a direct impact on the locations of Sandon Point and McCauley’s Beach. To address this potential increase in beach usage one tool Wollongong City Council should utilise is the ‘Lifesaving Service Level Calculator’. This should be done on a quarterly basis while property development is occurring in these areas to see if beach usage is increasing. Lifeguard services at nearby locations may need to be developed or extended based on the results of the ‘Lifesaving Service Level Calculator’ and other incidents that may be occurring in the area.

Treatment Option 1.17 On completion of the proposed property development at Sandon Point and McCauley’s Beach, a lifeguard service should be considered to cover the summer school holiday period

Line of sight The issue of line of sight was raised many times throughout the assessment period. It was raised by Wollongong City Council, lifeguards on the beaches during consultation and Beachcare Illawarra during public forums.


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Draft Wollongong Dune Management Strategy This report was commissioned by Wollongong City Council, who engaged GHD to prepare a Dune Management Strategy for parts of the 17 patrolled beaches in the Wollongong Local Government Area (LGA), with a focus on the high usage areas in the vicinity of the surf clubs. The main aim of this Strategy was to identify specific management options to address the issues that are outside the scope of the routine maintenance program. The first three issues in the first category (line of sight, recreational amenity, and beach access) relate directly to the usability of a beach, and these were considered to be the key issues for management. The management options assessed for their potential suitability to address one or more of the key and other issues were of a structural nature (such as making adjustments to existing lifeguard/lifesaving infrastructure or building new structures; improving beach access ways), promote ecological improvement (such as removing weeds and vermin, or removing inappropriate plant species and replacing them with other suitable species), or involved dune profile modifications (either just the frontal zone or a more substantial portion of the dune). Combinations of different options were also considered.

Treatment Option 1.18 Wollongong City Council maintain line of sight, for lifeguards / lifesavers, from observation points.

Figure 3.2.8.1: View from Bulli lifeguard tower looking NE

Figure 3.2.8.2: View from Woonona SLSC looking SE


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4. Emergency Response The relatively high rate of critical emergency incidents in the Wollongong LGA in the past 10 years makes ‘emergency response’ considerations very relevant to a drowning prevention strategy for the area. Emergency response considerations include but are not limited to: Emergency communications/reporting (000) Emergency service response Location identification Emergency service site access Emergency service communications (internal and joint service) Wollongong City Council currently has in place formal procedures for lifeguards & staff regarding emergency reporting and response. These should be reviewed and updated to reflect any changes/improvements as a result of this risk assessment. 4.1 Emergency Communications/Reporting (000) The ability of members of the public to request assistance in an emergency is an important component of a drowning prevention strategy. Triple-zero (000) remains and should be promoted as the sole method for reporting an emergency on all relevant signage/safety information and facilitated through any (specific) emergency communication devices. Due to the prevalence of mobile telephones across all demographics of society, additional emergency communications devices (beacons/radio phones/alarms) are less relevant where adequate mobile phone coverage exists.

4.2 Emergency Response Beacons

Emergency response beacons are a mobile or fixed unit capable of providing emergency communications to high risk remote localities where deaths have occurred. In such locations the time taken to raise the alarm and achieve a response of emergency services is a contributing factor to the chance of survival. This unit (pictured below) is capable of communicating over the two way radio network or the mobile telephone network. There are two main types of Emergency Response Beacons: Mobile: A movable unit which is employed for use within a patrolling system. Placed at a designated location during patrol hours and recovered at the end of patrol. They complement an existing on-beach service within that services coverage area. Fixed: A unit which is permanently or semi-permanently positioned at a location, and provides 24/7 capacity. Fits within a coordinated SLS emergency response system, whereby the unit is monitored and complemented with specific procedures for emergencies. Emergency Response Beacons are positioned in high use / high risk areas. They are highly visible and once activated, link via radio to lifesaving services. They aim to improve the response time of SLS services to an incident within their coverage area. Mobile Emergency Response Beacons are positioned at suitable locations within a SLS services coverage area at the start of patrol and are to be used in conjunction with lifeguard and volunteer lifesavers. These will commonly be back-beaches, at adjacent usage/access point on long-stretches of beach, coastal pools. They will be linked via radio to the service patrol (ideally on simplex channel) and/or monitored by Surfcom/Duty Officers. They are removed at the conclusion of patrol and returned to the club/service base for recharge and cleaning. Fixed Emergency Response Beacons which would operate outside of patrol hours should only be considered for use in a high risk location, where no/limited mobile/cell phone coverage exists and where a SLS service can


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ensure, show and maintain 100% coverage/monitoring of the beacon and have in place a consistent process of equipment checking/testing year round. Image 4.2.1: A mobile Emergency Response Beacon in place at a beach.

Treatment Option 1.19 In consultation with lifesavers and lifeguards the Wollongong City Council should install Emergency Response Beacons (mobile) at the following locations:

South Thirroul (McCauley’s) NSW 364 East Corrimal NSW 369B Coniston Beach NSW 374


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4.3 Emergency Service Response

The relatively high rate of coastal emergency incidents in the Wollongong LGA compared with other coastal councils in NSW makes the considerations for ‘emergency response’ very relevant to a drowning prevention strategy for the area. Emergency services and support organisations play a vital role in responding to coastal emergencies within the Wollongong LGA. Resources that may respond include: o Police (including Water Police) o Ambulance (including the CHC Helicopter) o Wollongong City Council Lifeguards o Surf Life Saving Illawarra (Branch Callout Teams & SLSCs) o State Emergency Service (SES) o Rural Fire Service o Marine Rescue NSW o NPWS Rangers The table below outlines the locations of emergency services on the Wollongong coastline. Table 4.3.1: Summary of Emergency services locations in Wollongong LGA

Emergency Services - Wollongong Local Government Area

Emergency Service Street Address Suburb Phone Number

NSW Police Force 35 Moore St Austinmer 4267 1088

NSW Police Force 414-416 Princes Highway Corrimal 4283 0200

NSW Police Force 2 Waratah Street Helensburgh 4294 1013

NSW Police Force Corner of Church and Market Streets Wollongong 4226 7899

NSW Ambulance Station Hospital Rd Bulli 131 233

NSW Ambulance Station 2 Lilyvale St Helensburgh 131 233

NSW Ambulance Station First Ave Warrawong 131 233

NSW Ambulance Station 455 Crown St Wollongong 131 233

NSW Fire Brigade Station 325 Princess Hwy Bulli 4284 3022

NSW Fire Brigade Station 759 Lawrence Hargraves Dr Coledale 4267 1245

NSW Fire Brigade Station 124 Princes Hwy Corrimal 4283 6466

NSW Fire Brigade Station 91 Walker St Helensburgh 4294 1533

NSW Fire Brigade Station Lawrence Hargreave Dr Scarborough 4267 1244

NSW Fire Brigade Station 11 Arthur St Thirroul 4267 2222

NSW Fire Brigade Station King St Warrawong 4274 0210

NSW Fire Brigade Station 32 Denison St Wollongong 4224 2020

State Marine Rescue Unit Robert Cram Drive Bellambi N/A

State Marine Rescue Unit Endeavour Drive Wollongong N/A

State Marine Rescue Unit Foreshore Rd Port Kembla 4274 4455

The majority of emergency services within the Wollongong LGA are located around Wollongong and therefore have quick response times to these locations.


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Throw Sticks The throw stick provides rapid flotation assistance to a person at risk of drowning. The use of the throw stick is a relatively simple process. By removing the device from its waterproof bag and throwing near the person, once contact is made with the water it inflates in seconds to a large horseshoe shape, keeping the victim afloat and their head above the water until further assistance arrives. At only 35cm in length, throw sticks can be easily stored and transported making this a very versatile rescue device. Throw sticks aid the rescuer by enabling them to remain further away from ‘danger areas’ (compared to life rings) but still position a life saving device near a casualty. Due to the variability of conditions on any given day (e.g. wind) a minimum of 2 throw sticks are recommended as optimal to carry, such that the first ‘throw’ of the first device (which can be less accurate) can be followed by a more accurate second device. As NPWS staff work in remote areas within the Royal National Park this device is an option for NPWS staff to carry with them if they by chance happen to see a rock fishermen or swimmer struggling in the water.

Treatment Option 2.9 Throw sticks (inflatable flotation devices) should be carried in NPWS vehicles when conducting scheduled maintenance within the coastal areas of a National Park.


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Figure 4.3.1: Emergency services locations in Wollongong LGA


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Emergency Service Communications (internal / joint) Radio coverage for surf life saving communications is strong within the Wollongong LGA; however there are a few locations where radio coverage is limited/average (maps below). The only area found to be limited in radio strength was around the Coalcliff area. The first map is of Garie to Woonona Beach. The second map is of Bellambi Beach to Windang Island. Whilst coverage in the areas is good further radio tests in these areas should be conducted by surf life saving to analyse the need for upgrades in radio infrastructure. Figure 4.3.2: Coverage for surf life saving communication - Garie to Woonona Beach


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Figure 4.3.3: Coverage for surf life saving communication - Bellambi Beach to Windang Island

Key:

No coverage

(black spot)

Signal strength

(limited)

Signal strength

(average)

Signal strength

(strong)


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4.4 Wollongong City Council / Surf Life Saving Illawarra Relations Surf rescue agencies often need to work together when emergency incidents occur on the coast. There is an opportunity for these agencies to improve relations, especially in relation to information sharing, communication and the formalisation of emergency response procedures. Surf Rescue Emergency Response System The Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (NSW) was established in January 2008 and provides a single point of contact for emergency services when there is a need to utilise surf rescue assets in coastal incidents. The emergency number can be contacted 24/7 and operators (State Duty Officers) can task/notify any surf rescue asset in NSW. The following page lists the notification priority order for the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System for emergency activations within the Wollongong LGA. o WCC lifeguards are notified first Monday – Saturday during patrol hours. o Surfcom notified first on Sundays / Public holidays o Branch Duty Officer notified first at all other times Radio communications Communication between lifeguards and life savers can at times be difficult due to the use of different radio networks. When an aquatic emergency occurs SLSI Duty Officers are only able to contact WCC lifeguards by phone. This is not the case on Sundays and public holidays when a WCC lifeguard supervisor is rostered on as they use the surf life saving radio network. When SLSI Duty Officers are tasked to an emergency they should be able to contact lifeguards directly to request assistance. Surf Life Saving New South Wales should make the SLSNSW radio network available to Wollongong City Council in order to reduce duplication and enhance emergency response and coordination of assets. Emergency Action Plans Coastal emergencies can vary between land and water, and can be the result of natural processes or human action. A well planned and rehearsed emergency action plan (EAP) can greatly minimise the extent of injury and damage if an incident does occur. It was noted the Wollongong City Council has well developed emergency action plans in place for its Lifeguard operations. SLSI should work together with Wollongong City Council lifeguards to further develop procedures for emergencies. By having set protocols and reviewing these on a regular basis an improved response should be achieved by all emergency responders. Wollongong City Council Lifeguards and Surf Life Saving Illawarra have commenced scenario training responding to aquatic emergencies. The most recent at the time of writing occurred on 16

th March 2013. The

continuation of these jointly run scenarios are a very worthwhile exercise between the two parties. The involvement of other agencies has added to the realistic nature. The monthly meeting between WCC and SLSI should consider the inclusion of a frontline responder to be included. An SLSI Duty Officer with operational expertise should be included so as to assist WCC and SLSI in best practice in emergency situations and improve cooperation between SLSI Duty Officers and WCC Lifeguards.


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4.5 Illawarra Emergency Tasking Details

Specific Callout Procedures: o Always call Wollongong Council Lifeguards during Daylight Hours (courtesy call for critical incidents for

other times) o North Wollongong beach is patrolled for 12 months every day and Lifeguards can respond to other nearby

locations

Table 4.5.1: Branch Callout Lists

BRANCH CALLOUT LIST

Priority Call Point of Call Contact Call Sign

1st Call Surfcom Warringah - Surfcom

2nd Call Branch Emergency Phone - Illawarra 10

3rd Call Lachlan Pritchard - Illawarra 11

4th Call Stuart Massey - Illawarra 12

5th Call Ian Lee - Illawarra 13

Table 4.5.2: Lifeguard Contacts

LIFEGUARD CONTACTS

Wollongong City Council – (Stanwell Park to Windang)

Priority Call Point of Call Mobile Call Sign

1st Call Radio Phone - Wollongong 1

2nd Call Recreational on call officer - Wollongong 2

3rd Call Jason Foye - Wollongong 3

4th Call Paul Maidment - Wollongong 4

5th Call Tim Jennett - Wollongong 5

6th Call Keith Miller - Wollongong 6

Table 4.5.3: Support Operations

SUPPORT OPERATIONS

Support Operation Service Contact Call Sign

Westpac Helicopter – Sydney Region - Lifesaver 1

Table 4.5.4: Other Emergency Services

OTHER EMERGENCY SERVICES

VMR Wollongong - Marine Rescue Wollongong

VMR Port Kembla - Marine Rescue Port Kembla

VMR Lake Illawarra - Marine Rescue Lake Illawarra

Port Kembla Water Police - N/A

Note: mobile numbers have been removed from the above tables due to privacy reasons.

Treatment Option 3.2 Surf Life Saving New South Wales make the SLSNSW radio network available to Wollongong City Council in order to reduce duplication and enhance emergency response and coordination of assets.

Treatment Option 1.20 & 5.3 Surf rescue emergency response procedures to be further ironed out to promote a faster and more coordinated response to aquatic emergencies.

Treatment Option 1.21 & 5.4 Regularly scheduled surf liaison meetings held between Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving Illawarra should include a SLSI duty officer with operational expertise.


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5. Monitor and Review The monitor and review process ensures that risk treatment options are meeting their objectives, new hazards and risks are identified in a timely manner and evolving strategies are in line with community expectations. Wollongong City Council and The National Parks and Wildlife Service - Office of Environment and Heritage should ensure that a process of regular review is in place for the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies that have been implemented. This should include the collection of data regarding any incidents affecting public safety at the locations assessed as well as the use of public rescue equipment. The Wollongong City Council and The National Parks and Wildlife Service - Office of Environment and Heritage may determine to further engage service providers such as Australian Coast Safe to assist with or even lead this task. It is acknowledged that the NPWS already have a system of monitor and review built into the ‘NPWS Visitor Safety Regional Risk Register User Guide’. Wollongong City Council also has a comprehensive organisational risk management process and framework which incorporates a system of monitoring and reviewing all identified risks and the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies.

Treatment Option 1.22 & 2.10 In consultation with relevant stakeholders this document should be reviewed annually to measure the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented.

Treatment Option 1.23 & 2.11 All drowning prevention strategies should be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance.


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6. References Angel Ring Project, 2012, ‘NSW Angel Ring Update – 17

th June 2012’, Australian National Sports fishing

Association (NSW Branch)’, Sydney, viewed on 7TH

January, 2013 <http://www.angelrings.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/NewsBulliten17thJune2012.pdf>

Barns, R 2012, ‘NSW Councils Beach Safety Information Signage’, Statewide Mutual, Sydney Bradstreet A, Sherker S, Brighton B, Weir A, Thompson, M 2012, ‘Research Review of Rock Fishing in New South Wales’, Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney. Census Data, 2011, ‘Quick Stats – Wollongong Local Government Area’, Australian Bureau of Statistics, Canberra, viewed on 4 February, 2013, Destination NSW, 2011, ‘Travel to Wollongong Local Government Area’, Tourism Research Australia, Canberra, viewed on 4 February, 2013. Life Saving Victoria, 2006, ‘National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual’, 3rd edition, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne McCarthey, A 2012, ‘Advice – Liability of Council when installing Water Safety Signage & Personal Rescue Equipment’, State of New South Wales (Crown Solicitor’s Office), Sydney NSW Division of Local Government, 2012, ‘Practice Note No. 15 – Water Safety’, Department of Premier and Cabinet, Nowra Short, A 2006, ‘Australian Beach Safety Management Program’, Coastal Studies Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney Standards Australia, 2009, ‘AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines’, 4th edition, Standards Australia, Sydney Standards Australia, 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 1: Specifications for water safety signs used in workplaces and public areas’, Standards Australia, Sydney Standards Australia, 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 2: Specifications for beach safety flags – “colour, shape, meaning and performance’, Standards Australia, Sydney Standards Australia, 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 3: Guidance for use’, Standards Australia, Sydney Statewide Mutual, 2007, ‘Best Practice Manual, Signs As Remote Supervision’, V.3, Statewide Mutual, Sydney Surf Life Saving Australia, 2010, ‘The Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines’, 2nd edition, Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney Surf Life Saving Australia, 2011, ‘Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessor Learner Guide’, V.3, Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney Weir A, 2012, Wollongong City Council, Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment and Treatment Plan Wollongong Dune Management Strategy (Draft), 2013 http://www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/council/meetings/BusinessPapers/Draft%20Wollongong%20Dun e%20Management%20Strategy%20for%20Patrolled%20Swimming%20Areas%20of%2017%20Beaches .pdf

http://www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/council/meetings/BusinessPapers/Draft%20Wollongong%20Dun%09e%20Management%20Strategy%20for%20Patrolled%20Swimming%20Areas%20of%2017%20Beaches%09.pdf



wollongong local government area...1.8 investigate the possibility of wollongong city lifeguards...

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