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Public rescue equipment stations launched at Venus Bay to prevent drownings and support rescues

Life Saving Victoria and Venus Bay SLSC launched Public Rescue Equipment stations to prevent drownings at high-risk unpatrolled beaches, providing emergency call buttons, rescue tubes, instructional signage, and location markers.

By news@gippsland - 7th January 2025 - Back to News

Life Saving Victoria (LSV) and Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) have officially launched Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) stations at Venus Bay today, a trial initiative aimed at preventing drownings and addressing incidents where bystanders attempting rescue tragically become victims themselves.

The Venus Bay community supports this life-saving trial! Visit the public rescue equipment stations, know their locations, and help save lives. Stay between flags; use rescue tubes only if experienced

Venus Bay safety

Venus Bay, located in South Gippsland, was chosen for this trial due to its status as a high-risk drowning location and was selected following a comprehensive coastal risk assessment and community consultation with both permanent and part-time residents. The trial will see PRE stations installed across Venus Bay beaches No.1 to No.5. Each station includes:

• An emergency call button that connects to Triple Zero (000)
• A rescue tube (flotation device)
• Instructional signage to advise steps to take during emergencies
• An emergency marker for location identification
• A QR code offering language support and further information

LSV Head of Research, Evaluation and Insights, Dr Bernadette Matthews, emphasised the importance of this initiative in addressing preventable drownings. "While we urge everyone to swim between the red and yellow flags, at a patrolled location, we recognise that unpatrolled locations remain popular, and bystanders often feel compelled to assist during emergencies."

"This trial ensures emergency support is just a call away and provides accessible safety equipment for those with the skills to use it, helping to reduce risks for both rescuers and those in trouble," Dr. Matthews said.

Water safety initiative

Dr. Matthews also said, "It is also important to note that you should only use the tube if you are an experienced swimmer in coastal waters, if you are not a strong swimmer, push the call button, quote the emergency marker code, remain on the sand and keep your eyes on the person in trouble in the water."

"The program's goals are clear: To provide vital tools to improve safety at unpatrolled locations, boost community awareness, and evaluate the effectiveness of PRE for potential use in other high-risk drowning areas across Victoria," he said.

The initiative is proudly funded by the Australian Government through Surf Life Saving Australia's Beach Drowning Black Spot Reduction Program and highlights the collective commitment of government, local communities, and lifesaving organisations to prevent drowning fatalities. "The launch of public rescue equipment stations at Venus Bay reinforces the importance of water safety awareness and ensures beachgoers have access to resources that can make a difference," Dr. Matthews added.

Venus Bay initiative

As the summer season heats up, Life Saving Victoria urges everyone to download the Beachsafe App to find the nearest patrolled beach. Venus Bay SLSC and the wider Venus Bay community have all played a critical role in supporting this life-saving initiative.

Former Venus Bay SLSC President Paul Hoffman, who led the project locally, said many in the Venus Bay community had put in an immense effort to make the stations a reality. "It's a huge relief and peace of mind for our lifesaving club and the community."

"It's a big sense of achievement to be able to offer an extra level of comfort and protection to beachgoers," Mr. Hoffman said. Contact LSV media - 03 9676 6970 or media@lsv.com.au for more information.

Pictures from Life Saving Victoria Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com