warringah local government area...coastal public safety risk assessment warringah local government...

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 Warringah Local Government Area

March 2014

Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Warringah Local Government Area

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© Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Belrose 2013 All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer This work is copyright. However, material form this publication may be copied or published by State Government agencies without the permission of SLSNSW on the condition that the meaning of the material is not altered and SLSNSW is acknowledged as the source of the material. Any other persons or bodies wishing to use the material must seek permission. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................................. VII

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................................. IX

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

1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 CONTEXT AND SCOPE ................................................................................................................................... 3 1.3 LIMITATIONS ............................................................................................................................................... 4 1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS .................................................................................................................................. 5 1.5 PROJECT TEAM / AUTHORS ............................................................................................................................ 7

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................. 8

2.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 8 2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 8 2.3 SITE INSPECTION ........................................................................................................................................ 10 2.4 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................. 11 2.5 DATA ANALYSIS ......................................................................................................................................... 12 2.6 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................... 13 2.7 ABSAMP TYPES AND RATINGS .................................................................................................................... 14 2.8 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS .................................................................... 16

2.8.1 Rhythmic Bar and Beach ............................................................................................................... 16 2.8.2 Transverse Bar and Rip ................................................................................................................. 16 2.8.3 Low Tide Terrace ........................................................................................................................... 17 2.8.4 Reflective....................................................................................................................................... 17 2.8.5 Rock Platforms and Rocky Coasts ................................................................................................. 18

2.9 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR) ................................................................................................................ 19 2.9.1 Facility Visitation Rating (FVR) Reference Tables ......................................................................... 19

2.10 FACILITIES AUDIT ....................................................................................................................................... 23 2.11 POPULATION, DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM................................................................................................... 24

2.11.1 Population Statistics ..................................................................................................................... 24 2.11.2 Development Plans in Warringah ................................................................................................. 24 2.11.3 Tourism Information ..................................................................................................................... 25

2.12 BEACH USAGE AND INCIDENT STATISTICS ........................................................................................................ 26 2.12.1 Beach Usage Statistics .................................................................................................................. 26 2.12.2 Drowning Incidents ....................................................................................................................... 33 2.12.3 Emergency Callouts ....................................................................................................................... 35

2.13 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION ......................................................................................................... 39

3 RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS .................................................................................................................. 41

3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (INHERENT GROSS RISK) ...................................................................................... 41 3.1.1 Action Planning Priority Index ....................................................................................................... 41 3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety and Management Program ................................................................... 41 3.1.3 Local Population Rating ................................................................................................................ 42 3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating ............................................................................................... 43 3.1.5 Access Rating ................................................................................................................................ 44 3.1.6 Action Planning Priority Score ....................................................................................................... 45

3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS ................................................................................................... 48 3.2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 48 3.2.2 Hierarchy of Risk Treatments (Controls) ....................................................................................... 48 3.2.3 Education and Awareness Programs ............................................................................................ 49 3.2.4 Safety Signage .............................................................................................................................. 55 3.2.5 Emergency Marker System ........................................................................................................... 59 3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programs ................................ 60 3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment .............................................................................................................. 63 3.2.8 System of Supervision ................................................................................................................... 67


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4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ......................................................................................................................... 74

4.1 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ALARM .................................................................................................................... 74 4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS ................................................................................................................. 75 4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE ................................................................................................................... 76 4.4 RADIO COVERAGE ...................................................................................................................................... 78 4.5 JOINT EMERGENCY RESPONSE (LIFESAVERS AND LIFEGUARDS) ............................................................................ 79

5 MONITOR AND REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 80

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................... 81

APPENDICES APPENDIX A - Access and Signage Schedule APPENDIX B - Risk Register and Treatment Plan APPENDIX C - Public Rescue Equipment APPENDIX D - Facilities Audit APPENDIX E - Coverage Maps APPENDIX F - Stakeholder Engagement APPENDIX G - Life Saving Service Level Calculator APPENDIX F - Data Collection


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LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1.1.1 THE DROWNING CHAIN (INTERNATIONAL LIFE SAVING FEDERATION, 2008) ........................................................ 2 FIGURE 2.2.1 OVERVIEW OF WARRINGAH LGA COASTAL LOCATIONS ASSESSED BY AUSTRALIAN COASTSAFE ................................ 9 FIGURE 2.4.1 RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS (ADAPTED FROM ISO 31000:2009, STANDARDS AUSTRALIA, 2009) ..................... 12 FIGURE 2.8.1 ILLUSTRATION OF A RHYTHMIC BAR & BEACH BEACH ..................................................................................... 16 FIGURE 2.8.2 ILLUSTRATION OF A TRANSVERSE BAR AND RIP BEACH ................................................................................... 16 FIGURE 2.8.3 ILLUSTRATION OF A LOW TIDE TERRACE BEACH............................................................................................. 17 FIGURE 2.8.4 ILLUSTRATION OF A REFLECTIVE BEACH ....................................................................................................... 17 FIGURE 2.11.1 ARTISTS IMPRESSION OF THE HARBORD DIGGERS (DAILY TELEGRAPH, 2013) .................................................. 25 FIGURE 2.12.1 SLS ATTENDANCE STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 ...................................................................................... 26 FIGURE 2.12.2 COUNCIL LIFEGUARD ATTENDANCE STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 ................................................................ 27 FIGURE 2.12.3 SLS RESCUE STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 .............................................................................................. 28 FIGURE 2.12.4 COUNCIL LIFEGUARD RESCUE STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 ....................................................................... 29 FIGURE 2.12.5 SLS FIRST AID AND PREVENTION STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 (SURFGUARD, 2013) ..................................... 30 FIGURE 2.12.6 COUNCIL LIFEGUARD FIRST AID AND PREVENTION STATISTICS FOR 2008 TO 2013 ............................................. 31 FIGURE 2.12.7 LOCATION AND DISTANCE OF DROWNING CASUALTY’S RESIDENCE (POSTCODE) TO PLACE OF OCCURRENCE ............. 34 FIGURE 2.12.8 SURF RESCUE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BY LOCATION (SLSNSW, 2013).......................................................... 35 FIGURE 2.12.9 SURF RESCUE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BY SEASON AND DAY (SLSNSW, 2013) ............................................... 36 FIGURE 2.12.10 SURF RESCUE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BY ACTIVITY (SLSNSW, 2013) ......................................................... 37 FIGURE 2.12.11 SURF RESCUE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BY PATROL SEASON/HOURS (SLSNSW, 2013) .................................... 38 FIGURE 2.13.1 PROJECT BLUEPRINT FLYER ..................................................................................................................... 39 FIGURE 3.2.1 SURF SAFETY PRESENTATION ON THE NORTHERN BEACHES .............................................................................. 50 FIGURE 3.2.2 RECREATIONAL FISHING ALLIANCE ROCK FISHING SCHOOL ............................................................................... 51 FIGURE 3.2.3 INFORMATION BOX AT BONDI THAT COULD BE IMPLEMENTED IN WARRINGAH .................................................... 51 FIGURE 3.2.4: EXAMPLE OF A SURF SAFETY POSTER IN THE BEGA VALLEY LGA ...................................................................... 52 FIGURE 3.2.5: KOREAN WEBSITE PROMOTING ROCK FISHING (WAVE ROCK, 2006)................................................................ 53 FIGURE 3.2.6 DON’T PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE™ .......................................................................................................... 54 FIGURE 3.2.7 SURVIVE A RIP CURRENT........................................................................................................................... 54 FIGURE 3.2.8 BEACH SAFETY FOR TOURISTS/MIGRANTS .................................................................................................... 54 FIGURE 3.2.9 SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS ...................................................................................................................... 54 FIGURE 3.2.10 ROCK FISHING WARNING SIGNAGE AT DEE WHY.......................................................................................... 55 FIGURE 3.2.11 ROCK FISHING WARNING SIGNAGE AT DEE WHY.......................................................................................... 55 FIGURE 3.2.12 CLIFF EDGE WARNING SIGNAGE AT DEE WHY HEADLAND ............................................................................. 55 FIGURE 3.2.13 SAFETY WARNING SIGNAGE AT COLLAROY ROCK POOL .................................................................................. 56 FIGURE 3.2.14 TEMPORARY WARRINGAH LIFEGUARD SIGN AT LONG REEF BEACH ................................................................. 56 FIGURE 3.2.15 EXAMPLE SIGNAGE AT A BEACH ACCESS POINT IN BYRON BAY ........................................................................ 56 FIGURE 3.2.16 EXAMPLE LEVEL TWO CAR PARK/LEVEL THREE OPEN ACCESS SIGN IN WOLLONGONG .......................................... 56 FIGURE 3.2.17 EXAMPLE OF TEMPORARY SAFETY WARNING .............................................................................................. 58 FIGURE 3.2.18 EXAMPLE OF TEMPORARY BEACH EROSION SIGNAGE AT NORTH NARRABEEN .................................................... 58 FIGURE 3.2.19 EXAMPLE EMERGENCY MARKER SIGN ........................................................................................................ 59 FIGURE 3.2.20 EXISTING EMERGENCY MARKER SIGN AT KINGSCLIFF, FAR NORTH COAST ......................................................... 59 FIGURE 3.2.21 FORMAL ACCESS AT NORTH NARRABEEN ................................................................................................... 60 FIGURE 3.2.22 INFORMAL ACCESS AT FRESHWATER POINT ................................................................................................ 60 FIGURE 3.2.23 EMERGENCY VEHICLE ACCESS AT SOUTH NARRABEEN .................................................................................. 61 FIGURE 3.2.24 PRIVATE ACCESS FROM AN APARTMENT BLOCK AT SOUTH NARRABEEN............................................................ 61 FIGURE 3.2.25 RESTRICTED ACCESS DUE TO BEACH EROSION AT NORTH NARRABEEN ............................................................. 61 FIGURE 3.2.26 LARGE SWELL AND BREAKING WAVES AT NORTH CURL CURL ROCK POOL (THE AUSTRALIAN, 2013) ..................... 61 FIGURE 3.2.27 RESCUE TUBE WITH FADED TEXT AT DEE WHY ............................................................................................ 64 FIGURE 3.2.28 PUBLIC RESCUE TUBE AT DEE WHY .......................................................................................................... 64 FIGURE 3.2.29 EXAMPLE GRAPHIC OF WHAT THE RESCUE TUBE BOXES COULD LOOK LIKE ......................................................... 65 FIGURE 3.2.30 BEACH VISITORS AT NARRABEEN DURING THE SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 11AM, MONDAY 30 SEPTEMBER, 2013. . 72 FIGURE 4.1.1 EMERGENCY ALARM LOCATED AT FRESHWATER ROCK POOL ........................................................................... 74 FIGURE 4.2.1 EXAMPLE OF A MOBILE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACON ON A BEACH ................................................................ 75 FIGURE 4.3.1 EMERGENCY SERVICE LOCATIONS WITHIN THE WARRINGAH LGA ..................................................................... 76 FIGURE 4.4.1 UHF RADIO SIGNAL STRENGTH ON THE WARRINGAH COASTLINE ...................................................................... 78


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LIST OF TABLES TABLE 2.3.1 ASSESSED LOCATIONS AND ASSESSMENT DATES .............................................................................................. 10 TABLE 2.6.1 ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS............................................................................................................ 13 TABLE 2.6.2 BEACH HAZARD RATING CALCULATION MATRICES FOR WAVE DOMINATE BEACHES ................................................. 13 TABLE 2.7.1 ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS – WARRINGAH LGA ............................................................................... 14 TABLE 2.9.1 TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT AND NATURAL HAZARDS RATING FOR RESERVES – NON BEACH ENVIRONMENTS .................. 19 TABLE 2.9.2 TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT RATINGS FOR BEACHES .............................................................................................. 20 TABLE 2.9.3 TYPICAL POPULATION USE RATING FOR A FACILITY ........................................................................................... 20 TABLE 2.9.4 SUGGESTED FREQUENCY USE RATING FOR A FACILITY ...................................................................................... 20 TABLE 2.9.5 FACILITY VISITATION RATES – FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS .................................................................................. 20 TABLE 2.11.1 WARRINGAH POPULATION DATA (ABS, 2013) ............................................................................................ 24 TABLE 2.11.2 ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS IN THE WARRINGAH LGA .............................................................................. 25 TABLE 2.12.1 VOLUNTEER SURF LIFE SAVING TOTAL PREVENTIONS AND RESCUES FOR BEACHES IN WARRINGAH .......................... 32 TABLE 2.12.2 WARRINGAH LIFEGUARD SERVICE TOTAL PREVENTIONS AND RESCUES FOR BEACHES IN WARRINGAH ...................... 32 TABLE 2.12.3 DROWNING INCIDENTS WITHIN WARRINGAH LGA (SLSA, 2013) ................................................................... 33 TABLE 3.1.1 ABSAMP AND INDICATIVE RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS ............................................................... 41 TABLE 3.1.2 LOCAL POPULATION RATING DESCRIPTORS ..................................................................................................... 42 TABLE 3.1.3 LOCAL POPULATION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS ......................................................................... 42 TABLE 3.1.4 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION DESCRIPTORS .............................................................................................. 43 TABLE 3.1.5 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS ........................................................ 43 TABLE 3.1.6 ACCESS RATING DESCRIPTORS ..................................................................................................................... 44 TABLE 3.1.7 ACCESS RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS ......................................................................................... 44 TABLE 3.1.8 SUMMARY OF ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY CALCULATIONS FOR EACH ASSESSED LOCATION ...................................... 45 TABLE 3.1.9 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY SCORES FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS ........................................................................ 46 TABLE 3.2.1 EXAMPLES OF EDUCATION AND AWARENESS PROGRAMS .................................................................................. 53 TABLE 3.2.2 SUMMARY TABLE OF AQUATIC AND RECREATIONAL SIGNAGE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE WARRINGAH LGA ........... 57 TABLE 3.2.3 ACCESS PROVISION WITHIN ASSESSED LOCATIONS IN WARRINGAH ..................................................................... 62 TABLE 3.2.4 AN OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT (PRE) (BRADSTREET, ET AL., 2012) ............................................. 63 TABLE 3.2.5 PROPOSED LIFE RING LOCATIONS ................................................................................................................. 64 TABLE 3.2.6 VOLUNTEER LIFESAVING SERVICES IN THE WARRINGAH LGA ............................................................................ 69 TABLE 3.2.7 PAID LIFEGUARD SERVICES IN THE WARRINGAH LGA ...................................................................................... 71 TABLE 4.3.1 COASTAL EMERGENCY SERVICE LOCATIONS FOR WARRINGAH LGA. .................................................................. 77


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Executive Summary This report contains findings and treatment options which align with current International and Australian standards, guidelines and best practice risk management processes. The report contains information specific to locations under the authority of Warringah Council. These locations include (north to south):

1. North Narrabeen 10. Dee Why Headland 2. Narrabeen 11. North Curl Curl Point 3. South Narrabeen 12. North Curl Curl 4. Collaroy 13. South Curl Curl 5. Collaroy Point 14. Flat Rock 6. Fisherman’s Beach 15. Freshwater Point 7. Long Reef Point 16. Freshwater 8. Long Reef 17. Queenscliff Head 9. Dee Why

Activities/Facilities The Warringah Local Government Area (LGA) is a popular destination which sees year round public usage and recreational activity, including swimming, surfing (including. all surfcraft), fishing, snorkelling/diving, boating, and walking. A number of facilities support coastal usage and activities including well maintained car parks and beach access, lifeguard and lifesaving supervision, coastal walks, a number of public toilets/changing rooms, BBQ’s, playgrounds and picnic tables. Hazards/Risks The Warringah LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of the area. These are outlined in detail in the report body and Appendix B. Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, the following hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Warringah LGA:

Strong ocean currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type Waves/waves overwashing: 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: 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 Cliffs/Dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography Boating traffic: As a result of human interaction It has been identified that the above listed hazards pose risk to the following types of recreational users:

Strong ocean currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Waves/waves overwashing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks: Fishermen, rock platform users Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Cliffs/dangerous access: Surfcraft users, fishermen, walkers, sight seers Boating traffic: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters


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Existing Risk Treatments Land Managers in partnership with a number of other organisations have implemented the following risk treatment initiatives within the Warringah LGA: o System of supervision (p.67) o Education and awareness programs (p.49) o Safety signage (p.55) o Public rescue equipment (p.63)


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Summary of 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 Warringah Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options: Strategic Coordination: 1.1 Existing and future coastal development plans (government and private) scheduled for the Warringah

LGA, should continue to consider the impact of increased beach usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, beach access and supervision. (p. 25)

1.2 Beach usage and incident data (drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics) should continue to be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety. (p. 38)

1.3 Warringah Council should continue to meet regularly with Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches as an

effective meeting which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies in the Warringah Local Government Area. It is recommended that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of these meetings. (p. 40)

1.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using a

staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence. (p. 47) Education: 1.5 Education and awareness programs within the Warringah Local Government Area should continue to be

implemented, reviewed and supported. (p. 54) 1.6 Education and awareness programs developed by Warringah Council should include standardised key

safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic industry (NSW Water Safety website – http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/). (p. 54)

1.7 Strategically placed surf safety information (e.g. posters) or similar should be displayed at pre-determined

beach locations around coastal access such as amenity blocks or visitor information displays. Consideration should be given to the content and style of this information. (p. 54)

1.8 In conjunction with peak water safety organisations, Warringah Council should continue to promote and

encourage rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p. 54) Safety Signage: 1.9 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be

implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the 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. 58)

1.10 Temporary signage should continue to be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised swimming area and where there is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as dangerous access, beach erosion, strong currents and creek openings. (p. 58)

http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/


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Access: 1.11 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through

ongoing infrastructure and capital works programs. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed. (p. 62)

1.12 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access. (p. 62)

1.13 When surf conditions warrant the closing of beaches, access to rock pools that are also impacted by the conditions should be restricted by the use of temporary signage (pool closed) as well as the preventative actions of lifeguards/lifesavers when on duty. (p.62)

Public Rescue Equipment: 1.14 All rescue tube boxes should be clearly identified with the following text. “Emergency Rescue Equipment

– Dial Triple Zero (000)”. (p. 66) Supervision and Surveillance: 1.15 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Narrabeen to cover the spring and autumn school

holiday period. (p. 73)

1.16 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Dee Why to cover weekends during the months of June, July and August as well as patrolling every day during the winter school holidays. (p. 73)

1.17 Explore the means to fund an extension of the lifeguard service at Dee Why and Freshwater for patrols to

finish at 7pm during the summer school holiday period. During inclement weather and under the discretion of the Lifeguard Supervisor on duty, patrols can cease at 6pm. (p. 73)

Emergency Response: 1.18 A debrief session should continue to be held after any critical incidents that occur through the Surf

Rescue Emergency Response System where there is a joint response from lifesavers and lifeguards within the Warringah Local Government Area. These sessions should investigate where opportunities may exist at a local level to improve emergency response (e.g. information sharing, communication and the formalisation of emergency response procedures). (p. 79)

1.19 Through the Local Emergency Management Committee, an emergency response training scenario should be conducted with Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers/Support Operations, Warringah Lifeguard Supervisors and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p. 79)

Monitor and Review: 1.20 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. 80)

1.21 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. 80)


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Recommendation 2 The Water Safety Advisory Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options: Education: 2.1 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 and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers in the Warringah Local Government Area. (p. 54)

2.2 Identify the relevant user groups and related resources/websites (including multilingual) that promote rock fishing in the Warringah Local Government, and target safety messaging to those groups/resources. This research may also provide the opportunity for targeted education campaigns. (p. 54)

Emergency Marker Signage: 2.3 With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property Information, a

state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be considered. (p. 59) Public Rescue Equipment: 2.4 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 these fishing associations. (p. 66)

Recommendation 3 Australian CoastSafe should consider implementing the following risk 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. 15)

Recommendation 4 Surf Life Saving (State, Branch & Club) should consider implementing the following risk treatment options: Strategic Coordination: 4.1 Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches should continue to meet with Warringah Council as an effective

meeting which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies in the Warringah Local Government Area. It is recommended that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of these meetings. (p. 40)

Supervision and Surveillance: 4.2 Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular

basis to cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled. (p. 73)

4.3 Surf Life Saving Support Operations e.g. RWC (jet-ski) could formally monitor and record usage patterns on rock fishing locations as part of standard surveillance patrols and report the information back to Surf Life Saving SurfCom or the local lifeguards/lifesavers to improve the knowledge and data quality for coastal usage patterns. This information could also be used to advise available rescue operators of locations at higher risk of an incident occurring. (p. 73)


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Emergency Response: 4.4 A debrief session should continue to be held after any critical incidents that occur through the Surf Rescue

Emergency Response System where there is a joint response from lifesavers and lifeguards within the Warringah Local Government Area. These sessions should investigate where opportunities may exist at a local level to improve emergency response (e.g. information sharing, communication and the formalisation of emergency response procedures). (p. 79)

4.5 Through the Local Emergency Management Committee, an emergency response training scenario should be conducted with Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers/Support Operations, Warringah Lifeguard Supervisors and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p. 79)


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1 Introduction, Scope & Context

1.1 Introduction Project Background Surf Life Saving New South Wales is undertaking a significant state-wide drowning prevention project, known as Project Blueprint. As a core component of the project, every accessible coastal beach and rock platform in New South Wales are being assessed using industry leading systems and processes. The outcomes will include evidence based drowning prevention treatment options to stakeholders and government, both at a local, regional and state level. Project Blueprint is being delivered by Australian CoastSafe, as the leading coastal public safety risk management authority in Australia. Australian CoastSafe is the strategic and intelligence beach safety unit of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) – visit www.coastsafe.org.au for more information. This document is a coastal public safety risk assessment and treatment plan specific to water safety related issues identified at every beach/rock platform located on the coast of the Warringah LGA. The Land Managers of this area include Warringah Council. The Drowning Issue Tragically, 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 factors known as the ‘drowning chain’ (Figure 1.1.1). 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

1 Surf Life Saving Incident Reporting Database

http://www.coastsafe.org.au/


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Treatment Options This report will be fundamental 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 supporting evidence/data, engagement of relevant stakeholders, and the application of effective risk mitigation and drowning prevention initiatives where and when they are required. It is acknowledged that land managers have many competing priorities and limited resources. Land managers should balance 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 treatment options found in the report are representative of Australian CoastSafe’s opinion in relation to risk management at the locations assessed. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.

Figure 1.1.1 The Drowning Chain (International Life Saving Federation, 2008)


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1.2 Context and Scope 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 (beaches and rock platforms). The program will be staged over several years with phase two to include the Pittwater, Warringah, Manly, Shoalhaven and Bega LGAs. The report provides risk treatment recommendations about how to improve risk and safety management in line with current industry standards: o AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management – Principles and Guidelines o AS/NZS2416(.1,.2 & .3):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 Scope This coastal risk assessment and treatment plan has been prepared following an on-site risk assessment undertaken by Australian CoastSafe of the Warringah LGA which commenced on Monday 30

th September and

concluded on Friday 4th

October, 2013. The assessment covered all coastal locations within the area. The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment, including but 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. The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined by the northern and southern boundaries of the Warringah LGA. All accessible coastal environments within these boundaries have been included in this report. 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. 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. 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. o Facilities and points of interest that may attract members of the public to coastal locations Appendix D. Other appendices include: o Coverage maps of assessed locations Appendix E o Stakeholder Engagement Appendix F o Life Saving Service Level Calculator Appendix G o Data Collection Appendix H


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At no time during the inspection was the water entered. The assessments 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 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.


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1.4 Definition of Terms Definitions of the key terms used within this report are provided below.

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

CALD Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities

Coastal The foreshore, seabed, coastal water, and airspace above a large body of water (marine), including areas up to 2NM offshore and of which the landward boundary is the line of mean high water. Coastal beaches are all marine beaches listed in ABSAMP, which exclude harbours, inlets and bays

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

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 enhancing emergency reporting/location identification.

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

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

Hazard 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

IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat


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LGA Local Government Area – for the purposes of this report this area is used to determine the scope of the assessment (i.e. the coastal boundary of the Local Government Area). This may include lands managed by Councils, Crown and National Parks and Wildlife Service.

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.

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

Preventative Action / Prevention

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

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

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

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


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Risk Management Standards Australia defines risk management as coordinated activities to direct and control an 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 Process of selection and implementation of measures to modify risk

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 (jet ski)

SLS Branch Surf Life Saving Branch, a regional body of Surf Life Saving formed to further the objects of surf lifesaving in a particular geographic area.

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 / Authors Project Team: Adam Weir, Coastal Risk Manager, [email protected] Camilla Green, Coastal Risk Officer, [email protected] Luke Stigter, Coastal Risk Officer, [email protected] Chris Twine, Coastal Administration Officer, [email protected] Australian CoastSafe Surf Life Saving New South Wales Ph: 02-9471 8000| F: 02-9471 8001 W: www.coastsafe.org.au/blueprint


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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 map in Figure 2.2.1 provides an overview of the locations of beaches and rock platforms within the Warringah LGA subject to the coastal risk assessment. The specific locations can be referenced in Appendix E All together the Australian CoastSafe team assessed approximately 14km of coastline in the Warringah LGA. The area includes locations and/or facilities under the administration of: o Warringah Council o Crown Lands 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. The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined by the northern and southern boundaries of the Warringah LGA. All accessible coastal environments within these boundaries have been included in this report. 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.


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Figure 2.2.1 Overview of Warringah LGA coastal locations assessed by Australian CoastSafe


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2.3 Site Inspection Table 2.3.1 Assessed locations and assessment dates

Location Land Management Authority Date

North Narrabeen Warringah Council Monday 30th

September, 2013

Narrabeen Warringah Council Monday 30th

September, 2013

South Narrabeen Warringah Council Monday 30th

September, 2013

Collaroy Warringah Council Monday 30th

September, 2013

Collaroy Point Warringah Council Tuesday 1st

October, 2013

Fisherman’s Beach Warringah Council Tuesday 1st

October, 2013

Long Reef Point Warringah Council Tuesday 1st

October, 2013

Long Reef Warringah Council Tuesday 1st

October, 2013

Dee Why Warringah Council Wednesday 2nd

October, 2013

Dee Why Headland Warringah Council Wednesday 2nd

October, 2013

North Curl Curl Point Warringah Council Wednesday 2nd

October, 2013

North Curl Curl Warringah Council Friday 4th

October, 2013

South Curl Curl Warringah Council Friday 4th

October, 2013

Flat Rock Warringah Council Wednesday 2nd

October, 2013

Freshwater Point Warringah Council Wednesday 2nd

October, 2013

Freshwater Warringah Council Friday 4th

October, 2013

Queenscliff Head Warringah Council Friday 4th

October, 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. Hazards/Risks The Warringah LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of the beaches in the area. Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, the following hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Warringah LGA: Strong ocean currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type 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: 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 Cliffs/dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography Boating traffic: As a result of human interaction It has been identified that the above listed hazards pose risk to the following types of recreational users: Strong ocean currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Waves/waves over washing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks: Fishermen, rock platform users Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Dangerous marine life: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters, fishermen Cliffs/dangerous access: Surf craft users, fishermen, walkers, sight seers Boating traffic: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters This coastal public safety risk assessment aligns with the international standard of risk management ‘AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines’ (Standards Australia, 2009).


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Figure 2.4.1 Risk Management Process (adapted from ISO 31000:2009, Standards Australia, 2009)

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 Program (ABSAMP) o Australian Bureau of Statistics – 2011 Census data o Warringah Council Lifeguard Service Statistics o BeachSafe (2013) http://beachsafe.org.au/ o NSW Tourism 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)

http://beachsafe.org.au/


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2.6 Beach Hazard Ratings and Overview The ABSAMP (Australian Beach Safety and Management Program) was developed by Professor Andrew Short from the University of Sydney Coastal Studies Unit in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia. The program has identified coastal hazards that affect bathers 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 Table 2.6.1. 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. Table 2.6.2 Beach hazard rating calculation matrices for wave dominate 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 the hazard may in fact be greater or less, depending upon an individual's own skill, and understanding and competence in relation to a certain area. The ABSAMP hazard ratings for the inspected areas of the Warringah LGA are detailed within the next section of the report.

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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2.7 ABSAMP Types and Ratings The ABSAMP Hazard Rating for the assessed locations listed in Table 2.7.1 below. The table provides both a modal and a prevailing ABSAMP rating. The modal ABSAMP rating represents the average conditions for each location, which has been extracted from the Australian Beach Safety and Management Program. The prevailing ABSAMP rating represents the conditions observed by Australian CoastSafe on the day each audit took place. Table 2.7.1 ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings – Warringah LGA

Location Name ABSAMP No.

ABSAMP Rating

(Modal)

ABSAMP Type (Modal)

ABSAMP Rating

(Prevailing)

ABSAMP Type (Prevailing)

North Narrabeen nsw310A 6 Transverse Bar &

Rip 5 Transverse Bar &

Rip

Narrabeen nsw310B 6 Transverse Bar &


Rip

South Narrabeen nsw310C 6 Transverse Bar &


Rip

Collaroy nsw310D 5 Low Tide Terrace 4 Low Tide Terrace

Collaroy Point nsw310dRPd 4* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Fisherman’s Beach nsw311 2 Reflective 3 Reflective

Long Reef Point nsw312 5* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Long Reef nsw314A 7 Rhythmic Bar &

Beach 5 Transverse Bar &

Rip

Dee Why nsw314B 7 Rhythmic Bar &


Rip

Dee Why Headland nsw314bRPb 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

North Curl Curl Point nsw315aRPa 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

North Curl Curl nsw315A 6 Rhythmic Bar &

Beach 6 Rhythmic Bar &

Beach

South Curl Curl nsw315B 7 Rhythmic Bar &

Beach 7 Rhythmic Bar &

Beach

Flat Rock nsw315bRPb 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

Freshwater Point nsw316RPa 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

Freshwater nsw316 7 Rhythmic Bar &


Rip

Queenscliff Head nsw317aRPa 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

* Warringah LGA 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 (Kennedy, et al., 2013). 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.


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It is a limitation of the report that there is no available method of calculating the specific hazard rating of a rock platform. In order to allow the risk calculations used in this report to be processed the interim solution, which takes into account the local conditions and geomorphology detailed above, has been applied. 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 The modal beach characteristics and associated hazards for each location are as follows:

2.8.1 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. The following beaches within the Warringah LGA are classified as Rhythmic Bar and Beach: o Long Reef o Dee Why o North Curl Curl o South Curl Curl o Freshwater

2.8.2 Transverse Bar and Rip

Transverse bar and rip (TBR) 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 1.5 m. 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. The bars and rips are usually regularly spaced and range from 150 m on the lower energy sea-dominated northern Australian beaches to 250 m along the higher energy southeast coast and 350 m along the exposed southern coast. Waves break heavily on the shallower bars and less in the deeper rip channels resulting in lower energy swash in lee of the bars and higher energy swash/shore break in lee of the rips. The shoreline is rhythmic building a few metres seaward behind the attached bars as deposition

Figure 2.8.2 Illustration of a Transverse Bar and Rip beach

Figure 2.8.1 Illustration of a Rhythmic Bar & Beach beach


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occurs forming the mega cusp horns and being scoured out and often scarped in lee of the rips forming the embayments. The surf zone has a cellular circulation pattern. 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. The following beaches within the Warringah LGA are classified as Transverse Bar and Rip: o North Narrabeen o Narrabeen o South Narrabeen

2.8.3 Low Tide Terrace

Low tide terrace beaches tend to occur when waves average about 1m 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 20-50m 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 1m, 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. The following beach within the Warringah LGA is classified as Low Tide Terrace: o Collaroy

2.8.4 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 Figure 2.8.4 Illustration of a Reflective beach

Figure 2.8.3 Illustration of a Low Tide Terrace beach

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_current

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


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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. The following beach within the Warringah LGA is classified as Reflective: o Fisherman’s Beach

2.8.5 Rock Platforms and Rocky Coasts

Rock platforms and rocky coasts are wave eroded regions that exist at the base of rocky cliffs and headlands. They are typically influenced by tides and waves. For coastal hazards, rocky coasts can therefore be considered static features unable to adjust their morphology during storms unlike sandy beaches (Kennedy, et al., 2013). According to Kennedy (2013) waves are the main hazard faced by people on shore platforms, “specifically rock fishers being washed into the sea”. The following regions within the Warringah LGA are classified as Rock Platforms or Rocky Coast: o Collaroy Point o Long Reef Point o Dee Why Headland o North Curl Curl Point o Flat Rock o Freshwater Point o Queenscliff Head


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2.9 Facility Visitation Rates (FVR) The Facility Visitation Rate (FVR) is a quantitative assessment system developed by Statewide Mutual as ‘Best Practice’ for Signage As Remote Supervision (2007). The FVR can be used by NSW Local Government 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. Since the FVR calculation is used to determine aquatic recreational warning signage requirements, the figures used are those of the peak period of beach usage. The following information is used to calculate the FVR: 1. Observational data collected during the site assessment; 2. Stakeholder observation, consultation and feedback; and, 3. Historical statistical data The Facility Visitation Rate is calculated using the following formula: FVR = (Development x Population) + Frequency Where: Development* = The level of facilities and infrastructure that exist within or about the facility Population = The average number of people that use the facility at any point in time Frequency = The number of times that the facility is used by patrons

* Note: Only beach environments were assessed so the ABSAMP hazard rating for each location was used to determine the

Development rating

2.9.1 Facility Visitation Rating (FVR) Reference Tables

Table 2.9.1 provides the Development ratings that apply to a reserve or other non-beach environment provided by council. Table 2.9.2 provides the equivalent AMSAMP hazard rating for each Development rating. The Population and Frequency rating classifications are provided in table 2.9.3 and table 2.9.4 respectively.

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


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Table 2.9.2 Typical development ratings for beaches

Rating ABSAMP Beach Rating

1 Beach hazard rating 1 and 2





Table 2.9.3 Typical population use rating for a facility

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

Table 2.9.4 Suggested Frequency use rating for a Facility

Rating Frequency of Use

1 An annual activity or event is 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

The FVR values for assessed locations in the Warringah LGA are provided in Table 2.9.5. Since only beach environments were assessed, the ABSAMP hazard rating for each location was converted to a Development rating using table 2.9.2 Table 2.9.5 Facility Visitation Rates – for assessed locations

LOCATION NAME DEVELOPMENT RATING

* POPULATION + FREQUENCY = FVR

North Narrabeen 3 * 5 + 3 = 18

Narrabeen 3 * 5 + 3 = 18

South Narrabeen 3 * 4 + 3 = 15

Collaroy 3 * 5 + 3 = 18

Collaroy Point 2 * 2 + 3 = 7

Fisherman’s Beach 1 * 4 + 2 = 6

Long Reef Point 3 * 4 + 3 = 15

Long Reef 4 * 5 + 3 = 23

Dee Why 4 * 5 + 5 = 25

Dee Why Headland 4 * 3 + 3 = 15

North Curl Curl Point 4 * 3 + 3 = 15

North Curl Curl 3 * 5 + 3 = 18

South Curl Curl 4 * 5 + 3 = 23

Flat Rock 4 * 3 + 3 = 15

Freshwater Point 4 * 2 + 4 = 12

Freshwater 4 * 5 + 5 = 25

Queenscliff Head 4 * 3 + 3 = 15


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Given the FVR scores listed in Table 2.9.5, the most appropriate signage characteristics for each location are listed below.

FVR Score between 7 and 10

o Collaroy Point o Fisherman’s Beach This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are 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 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 o South Narrabeen o Long Reef Point o Dee Why Headland o North Curl Curl Point o Flat Rock o Freshwater Pont o Queenscliff Head This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are 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 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 two hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility FVR Score between 16 and 20 o North Narrabeen o Narrabeen o Collaroy o North Curl Curl This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 250 metres apart around the beach perimeter. o The name of the facility o A general warning message o 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 three hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility


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FVR Score between 21 and 26 o Long Reef o Dee Why o South Curl Curl o Freshwater This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 100 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 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 four hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility


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2.10 Facilities Audit Facilities in the coastal risk management process are any item of infrastructure which is situated close to the beach/access. 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 o Boat Ramps Why do we record facilities? It is important for the Land Manager to recognise that by providing facilities to the public, it is likely that there will be increase in people visiting these areas. This increase in human visitation can correlate to the likelihood of a risk occurring in a coastal environment. Implementation of the treatment plans identified in this report may reduce the risk of a particular event occurring. Refer to Appendix D for a breakdown of facilities at the assessed locations within the Warringah LGA.


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2.11 Population, Development and Tourism Population growth is an important consideration when evaluating and predicting beach usage trends. Increasing beach usage due to population growth relates to an increase in the probability of an event occurring. Tourism operations and development proposals are also associated with population growth, and these should also be considered when determining suitable risk treatment options.

2.11.1 Population Statistics

The 2011 census recorded that a population count of 140,741 in the Warringah LGA. Population over the last 10 years has increased steadily by approximately 13,128 people (10.3% growth). Table 2.11.1 lists the male, female and total population in the Warringah LGA for the last three Census counts. Table 2.11.1 Warringah population data (ABS, 2013)

2.11.2 Development Plans in Warringah

Existing and future coastal development plans (government and private) scheduled for the Warringah LGA, should continue to consider the impact of increased beach usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, beach access and supervision. Consideration should be given to the placement of facilities with respect to identified hazards and risks and lifesaving services. Foreshore BBQ, playground/s, car parks and service amenities, all subsequently attract large numbers of people (residents and tourists) including young children. Several major development plans scheduled for coastal locations in Warringah Council are described below. Collaroy Accessibility Precinct Project: Collaroy Beach Reserve is currently undergoing redevelopment to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility. The Masterplan includes an all-abilities playground designed for children with limited mobility and vision. Landscaping, a new car park, and barbeque and picnic facilities are also included in the precinct upgrade (Warringah Council, 2013). Dee Why Town Centre Masterplan: Warringah Council has revealed a draft Masterplan for the Dee Why town centre. The plan includes a “Community Hub”, plazas, an amphitheatre, green spaces, more parking and road upgrades to make the area the area an attractive place to live and work. In addition to desirable seaside location and strategic positioning of the area, the Dee Why Masterplan is set to see the area become the northern beaches premier commercial and residential district (Warringah Council, 2013). Harbord Growers Redevelopment Harbord Growers Market will be upgraded to a $16 million commercial and residential complex which will comprise two floors of 23 apartments, ground floor retail, and two underground floors of parking. This will significantly increase the population density of Freshwater Village (Daily Telegraph, 2012). Harbord Diggers Upgrade: Harbord Diggers has received approval for a $106m upgrade to include 125 senior units, childcare and fitness facilities. This upgrade may significantly increase the use of nearby locations such as Freshwater, Freshwater Point, Flat Rock and South Curl Curl (Daily Telegraph, 2013).

Warringah Local Government Area – Population

Year Males Females Total

2011 69,112 71,629 140,741

2006 65,643 68,194 133,837

2001 62,556 65,057 127,613


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Treatment Option 1.1 Existing and future coastal development plans (government and private) scheduled for the Warringah LGA, should continue to consider the impact of increased beach usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, beach access and supervision

2.11.3 Tourism Information

Local accommodation providers also attract beach users to the coast especially during school holiday periods. The beachside suburbs of the Warringah LGA are largely occupied with residential housing, however a small number of holiday lodging options are available. The major accommodation providers are listed in the following table.Table 2.11.2 Accommodation Providers in the Warringah LGA Table 2.11.2 Accommodation Providers in the Warringah LGA

Venue Location No. rooms/Sites Max Capacity

Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park* North Narrabeen 300 powered sites 78 cabins 98 permanent units

3000

Quality Hotel Sands Narrabeen 46 150

Bellagio by the Sea Collaroy 63 157

Sydney Beachouse YHA Collaroy 56 220

The Collaroy Centre

Collaroy 30 hotel rooms 5 cabin blocks (sleeps a combined total of 380)

440

Travelodge Manly-Warringah Brookvale 120 360

Checkers Resort and Conference Centre Terry Hills 42 108

Terry Hills Motel and Caravan Park Terry Hills 23 50

*Although located in North Narrabeen (Pittwater LGA), guests predominantly visit beaches in the Warringah LGA (including North

Narrabeen)

Figure 2.11.1 Artists Impression of the Harbord Diggers (Daily Telegraph, 2013)


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2.12 Beach Usage and Incident Statistics

2.12.1 Beach Usage Statistics

The following statistics have been recorded by the lifesaving (volunteers) and lifeguard services (paid) operating within the Warringah LGA over the last five patrolling seasons (2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12, 2012/13). Statistics for lifesavers have been sourced from the Surf Life Saving internal management database known as ‘SurfGuard’. Lifeguard statistics have been sourced from Warringah Council. Warringah Council lifeguards patrol Dee Why and Freshwater 9 months of the year from the first weekend in September until the last weekend in May. The remaining seven beaches are patrolled from the beginning of the September school holidays to the Anzac Day weekend. All beaches in Warringah are guarded seven days a week by council lifeguards during the patrol season, with the exception of Narrabeen and South Narrabeen, which are patrolled on weekends, public holidays and during the December/January School holidays. Attendances: The two graphs below provide an average daily attendance for lifesavers (weekends and public holidays - Figure 2.12.1) and lifeguards (Figure 2.12.2).

*Please note that the stats for South Narrabeen, Collaroy and South Curl Curl recordings are incomplete

Notes to graph: o Dee Why has the highest recorded average daily attendance followed by Freshwater o South Narrabeen recorded the lowest average daily attendance

Figure 2.12.1 SLS attendance statistics for 2008 to 2013


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Notes to graph: o Dee Why recorded the highest average daily attendance, followed by Freshwater o Collaroy and North Curl Curl recorded the equal third highest average daily attendance o South Narrabeen recorded the lowest average daily attendance o The data presented in this graph indicates overall lower average daily attendances when compared to the

SLS statistics. This is because lifeguards patrol on weekdays (as well as weekends) where attendances are generally significantly lower than weekends and holidays, bringing the average attendances down.

o There is a correlation between the visitation data represented in both the surf life saving and council lifeguard average daily attendance graphs

Figure 2.12.2 Council Lifeguard attendance statistics for 2008 to 2013


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Rescues: The two graphs below provide the rescue statistics for lifesavers (weekends and public holidays - Figure 2.12.3) and lifeguards (weekdays - Figure 2.12.4).


Notes to graph: o In conjunction with attendance, Dee Why recorded the highest amount of rescues followed by Freshwater o Rescues for North Narrabeen, Long Reef, North Curl Curl and South Curl Curl are relatively consistent o South Narrabeen and Collaroy recorded the lowest number of rescues

Figure 2.12.3 SLS rescue statistics for 2008 to 2013


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Notes to graph: o Dee Why recorded the highest amount of rescues followed closely by Freshwater o North Curl Curl, South Curl Curl and North Narrabeen also had a high number of rescues o South Narrabeen and Collaroy recorded the lowest number of rescues o Council Lifeguards recorded a higher number of rescues than SLS at North Narrabeen, Collaroy, North &

South Curl Curl, and Freshwater. o There is a correlation between the annual rescue data represented in both the surf life saving and council

lifeguard rescue graphs for Warringah beaches.

Figure 2.12.4 Council Lifeguard rescue statistics for 2008 to 2013


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Preventions/First Aid: The two graphs below provide the preventions and first aid statistics for lifesavers (weekends and public holidays - Figure 2.12.5) and lifeguards (Figure 2.12.6). Preventions may include: o Swimmers advised/warned o Craft users advised/warned o Beach users advised/warned o Warning signs erected o Shark alarm o Searches/lost children

First Aid cases may include: o Minor injuries/first aid o Major injures/hospitalisation o Marine stings o Spinal injuries o Shock


Notes to graph: o Dee Why and Freshwater recorded the highest number of first aid cases and preventions o Collaroy recorded a high number of first aid cases o Long Reef and North Curl Curl recorded a high number of preventions o SLS recorded more preventions than first aid cases at every beach, with the best ratio at Long Reef.

Figure 2.12.5 SLS first aid and prevention statistics for 2008 to 2013 (SurfGuard, 2013)


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Notes to graph: o Long Reef recorded the highest first aid cases followed closely by Collaroy, Dee Why, North Curl Curl and

Freshwater o Freshwater recorded the highest number of preventions followed by Dee Why and South Curl Curl o Council Lifeguards recorded more first aid cases and preventions than SLS at every beach o Council lifeguards record substantially more preventions than first aid cases at every beach.

Figure 2.12.6 Council Lifeguard first aid and prevention statistics for 2008 to 2013


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Rescues/Preventions: The following tables show the cumulative statistics for both preventions and rescues which are then used to determine the preventions: rescues ratio. In theory, the more preventions a club/service makes, the number of rescues that are required to be conducted will decrease e.g. South Narrabeen makes 28 preventions before having to conduct a single rescue. These statistics may highlight which clubs/services have the opportunity to be more proactive in making preventions with the aim of reducing the amount of rescues that need to be performed. Table 2.12.1 Volunteer Surf Life Saving total preventions and rescues for beaches in Warringah

North

Narrabeen Narrabeen South

Narrabeen Collaroy Long Reef

Dee Why

North Curl Curl

South Curl Curl Freshwater

Total Preventions 5309 3060 2014 1217 11600 19133 12470 6450 16881

Total Rescues 217 117 71 80 217 1410 137 171 784

Ratio Preventions:

Rescues 24:1 26:1 28:1 15:1 53:1 14:1 91:1 38:1 22:1

*Please note that the South Narrabeen, Collaroy and South Curl Curl recordings are incomplete Notes to table: o North Curl Curl recorded the highest ratio of preventions / rescues, o This ratio is more than double that of the second highest at South Curl Curl o Dee Why recorded the lowest ratio of preventions / rescues followed closely by Collaroy Table 2.12.2 Warringah Lifeguard Service total preventions and rescues for beaches in Warringah

North

Narrabeen Narrabeen South

Narrabeen Collaroy Long Reef

Dee Why

North Curl Curl

South Curl Curl Freshwater

Total Preventions 37140 25400 20482 59168 48436 182507 55325 105102 239179

Total Rescues 320 114 69 103 139 1028 264 386 964

Ratio Preventions:

Rescues 116:1 223:1 297:1 574:1 348:1 178:1 210:1 272:1 248:1

Notes to table: o Collaroy recorded the highest ratio of preventions / rescues followed by Long Reef o All locations have a strong prevention to rescue ratio


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2.12.2 Drowning Incidents

The drowning incidents that have occurred in the Warringah LGA between the 1st of July 2004 and the 30th of June 2013 are provided in Table 2.12.3. The location and distance of the residence of each of the drowning casualties to the place of occurrence is further illustrated in Figure 2.12.7. Table 2.12.3 Drowning incidents within Warringah LGA (SLSA, 2013)

Coastal Drowning Incidents – Warringah Local Government Area

Date Location Time Month Age / Gender

Ethnicity Residential Status

Activity Residents Postcode

08/01/05 Dee Why 15:00 Jan 23 / M Australian Aus Resident Swimming 2077

25/06/05 Dee Why Headland n/a Jun 47 / M Unknown Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2118

16/07/05 North Curl Curl Point 16:25 Jul 49 / M Taiwanese Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2067

20/08/05 Freshwater Point 17:00 Aug 47 / M Hong Kong Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2121

27/08/07 Dee Why Headland 7:00 Aug 59 / M Chinese Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2132

13/12/07 Dee Why Headland 15:40 Dec 34 / M Chinese Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2099

12/10/08 North Narrabeen 18:00 Oct 45 / M Australian Aus Resident Unknown 2101

09/08/09 Fisherman's Beach 11:00 Aug 31 / M Chinese Aus Resident Snorkelling 2221

14/10/09 Narrabeen Lakes n/a Oct 44 / M Unknown Aus Resident Swimming 2170

09/05/10 Dee Why 15:00 May 42 / M Unknown Aus Resident Swimming 2075

26/06/11 Collaroy (Offshore) 13:00 Jun 57 / M German Int. Tourist Boating n/a

02/09/11 North Curl Curl 10:15 Sep 40's / M Australian Aus Resident Plane Crash 2226

13/09/11 Flat Rock 15:30 Sep 50 / M Asian Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2194

23/03/12 Narrabeen 18:00 Mar 53 / M Australian Aus Resident Swimming 2101

01/11/12 North Curl Curl Point 8:20 Nov 71 / M Australian Aus Resident Rock Fishing 2085

16/03/13 North Curl Curl 13:15 Mar 23 / M Australian Aus Resident Swimming 2095

Notes to table: o All 16 people who have drowned in Warringah between the 1st of July 2004 and the 30th of June 2013

were male; o One of these men was a German tourist, while the rest were all Australian residents; o The nationality of 3 of these people is unknown. Six people (37.5%) were of Asian descent, while another

six were of Australian nationality; o More than 56% (9) of the drowning incidents in the Warringah LGA occurred at Dee Why and North Curl

Curl beaches and rocky coast o More than 43% (7) of the incidents were rock fishing related, while 25% were attributed to swimming


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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. The Bureau of Meteorology and Surf Life Saving Australia are currently undertaking a retrospective analysis of meteorological and oceanographic conditions prevalent at the time of drowning cases between 2003 and 2013 to identify trends and inform the refinement of the hazardous surf warning system. 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. Dangerous surf warnings and education/awareness programs may be improved as a result.

Figure 2.12.7 Location and distance of drowning casualty’s residence (postcode) to place of occurrence


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2.12.3 Emergency Callouts

There have been 88 emergency callouts through the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (SRERS) from 1st January 2008 to 30th September 2013 in the Warringah LGA. The SRERS involves callout teams (lifesavers/lifeguards), including ‘after hours’ responding to emergencies that have been tasked by the Police. Of the 88 callouts, 35 successful rescues (including found persons) have been conducted. The majority of callouts resulted in ‘no further action’, meaning resources responded to the incident however the subject managed to self rescue or was rescued by a member of the public. Through the SRES, emergency services were called to six drowning incidents in the Warringah LGA. Note: The data below does not incorporate incidents from other emergency services where the SRERS may not have been

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

Notes to graph: o South Curl Curl has the highest number of emergency callouts closely followed by Collaroy o Freshwater Point, North Narrabeen and Collaroy Point all recorded the least number of callouts o Emergency Callouts cover the majority of assessed locations within the Warringah LGA

Figure 2.12.8 Surf Rescue Emergency Response by Location (SLSNSW, 2013)


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Surf Rescue Emergency Response by Season and Day Warringah (2008 – 2013)

Figure 2.12.9 Surf Rescue Emergency Response by Season and Day (SLSNSW, 2013)

Notes to graph: o 28% of callouts occurred during winter, representing the highest proportion in comparison to the other

seasons. This shows that lifesavers and lifeguards respond to incidents all year round, even during the non-patrolling season. This increase could also be the result of rescues which would normally be conducted by a lifeguard being tasked through the SRES due to lifeguard services being unavailable during winter.

o Sundays record the greatest percentage of callouts at 22% followed by Wednesdays at 20%, while the least have occurred on Monday 8%.


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Notes to graph: o Surf craft related activities have instigated the greatest number of emergency responses having been

recorded in Warringah o The second highest activity resulting in an emergency response callout is vessel incidents then swimming

Figure 2.12.10 Surf Rescue Emergency Response by Activity (SLSNSW, 2013)


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Notes to graph: o 53% of emergency callouts occurred during the patrol season and within patrol hours where lifeguards and

lifesavers were able to respond o 47% of emergency callouts occurred outside of the patrol season and outside patrol hours where Branch

Duty Officers and Club Callout Teams were able to respond

Treatment Option 1.2 Beach usage and incident data (drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics) should continue to be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety.

Figure 2.12.11 Surf Rescue Emergency Response by Patrol Season/Hours (SLSNSW, 2013)


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2.13 Communication and Consultation Communicating with stakeholders about risk perception and tolerance is a core component of the risk assessment and management process. Stakeholder Consultation Consultation with a number of stakeholders was formally undertaken to ensure Land Managers and other key stakeholders were given the opportunity to provide local input and knowledge i.e. validation of strategies in place, risk management issues and opportunities that may exist. Local stakeholder meetings were conducted with: o Clinton Rose, Beach Services Coordinator, Warringah Council o Steve Downman, Lifeguard Supervisor, Warringah Council o Tim Donkin, Lifeguard Supervisor, Warringah Council o Members and Directors of Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches o Stan Konstantaras, President, Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) o Alex Bellissimo, Bellissimo Rock and Beach Charters o Joel Cox and Greg Mannah, Department of Primary Industries – NSW Fisheries 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 2.13.1 Project Blueprint Flyer


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Consultation Workshop A public forum was held on Tuesday 8

th October 2013 at the Collaroy Surf Life Saving Club to discuss Project

Blueprint and drowning prevention. This public forum was advertised in local print media and more than 100 pre-identified stakeholders were notified via email. Public forums were open to any member of the public including surf lifesavers, lifeguards, fishing groups, surfing associations, emergency services personnel, Warringah residents, etc. The Warringah public forum was attended by: o Janice Wordley o Beatrice John o Steve Faddy

President – North Narrabeen SLSC Vice Club Captain – Freshwater SLSC Previous Director – SLS Sydney Northern Beaches

Consultation Survey The consultation process has also involved the introduction of two online surveys which has been useful to capture input from a wide range of key stakeholders, at local/regional level. The first survey was sent to both internal and external stakeholders. Questions focused on drowning identification and prevention. The second survey was sent to internal stakeholders only e.g. lifesavers and lifeguards. Questions focused on visitation numbers and incidents. Specific questions and answers can be referenced in Appendix F and will be included within the final report. Stakeholder communication 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. It is acknowledged that Warringah Council meets with the Sydney Northern Beaches branch of Surf Life Saving on a regular basis throughout the year. It is recommended that the treatment options found in this report are addressed as part of these meetings. Warringah Lifeguard Supervisors also meet with the Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Director of Lifesaving on a monthly basis or as required throughout the patrol season. The Local Emergency Management Committee is an effective group on the Northern Beaches to discuss emergency management processes, opportunities and issues (including coastal). The group is made up of representatives from NSW Police, NSW Marine Area Command, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance Service, State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue, Pittwater/Warringah/Manly Councils, National Parks and Wildlife, Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches, Australian Lifeguard Service, Transport Groups, Local Government Departments (Education, Communication Services), Roads and Maritime Services, Sydney Water, Telstra, Jemina (Gas) and the Animal Emergency Committee. Australian CoastSafe presented Project Blueprint at the last Local Emergency Management Committee meeting on 7 November 2013.

Treatment Options 1.3 & 4.1 Warringah Council should continue to meet regularly with Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches as an effective meeting which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies in the Warringah Local Government Area. It is recommended that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of these meetings.


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3 Risk Assessment Findings

3.1 Action Planning Priority (Inherent 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 46 & 47 is intended to be used for the purpose of prioritising risk mitigation strategies provided for consideration in this report. The individual components of the Action Planning Priority Index should not be considered in isolation from the total scores outlined in table 3.1.8 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 & Management Program (ABSAMP) Rating (Table 3.1.1) 2. Local Population Rating (LPR) (Table 3.1.3) 3. Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) (Table 3.1.5) 4. Access Rating (AR) (Table 3.1.7)

3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety and Management Program

Table 3.1.1 ABSAMP and Indicative ratings applied to assessed locations

Location Name ABSAMP No. ABSAMP Rating ABSAMP Type

North Narrabeen nsw310A 6 Transverse Bar & Rip

Narrabeen nsw310B 6 Transverse Bar & Rip

South Narrabeen nsw310C 6 Transverse Bar & Rip

Collaroy nsw310D 5 Low Tide Terrace

Collaroy Point nsw310dRPd 4* Rock Platform

Fisherman’s Beach nsw311 2 Reflective

Long Reef Point nsw312 5* Rock Platform

Long Reef nsw314A 7 Rhythmic Bar & Beach

Dee Why nsw314B 7 Rhythmic Bar & Beach

Dee Why Headland nsw314bRPb 7* Rock Platform

North Curl Curl Point nsw315aRPa 7* Rock Platform

North Curl Curl nsw315A 6 Rhythmic Bar & Beach

South Curl Curl nsw315B 7 Rhythmic Bar & Beach

Flat Rock nsw315bRPb 7* Rock Platform

Freshwater Point nsw316RPa 7* Rock Platform

Freshwater nsw316 7 Rhythmic Bar & Beach

Queenscliff Head nsw317aRPa 7* Rock Platform


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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 3.1.2 Local population rating descriptors

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)

Table 3.1.3 Local population ratings applied to assessed locations

Location LPR Total

North Narrabeen 5

Narrabeen 5

South Narrabeen 5

Collaroy 5

Collaroy Point 5

Fisherman’s Beach 5

Long Reef Point 5

Long Reef 5

Dee Why 5

Dee Why Headland 5

North Curl Curl Point 5

North Curl Curl 5

South Curl Curl 5

Flat Rock 5

Freshwater Point 5

Freshwater 5

Queenscliff Head 5


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3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating

The Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) identifies any conflicts present at the coastal environment between the number of people and activities taking place. Activities include both those in the water and those on the beach. Table 3.1.4 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 3.1.5 Human/Activity Interaction ratings applied to assessed locations

Location Population (in water)

Conflict Population (on beach)

Conflict HAI Total

North Narrabeen 5 3 4 2 14

Narrabeen 5 2 3 2 12

South Narrabeen 5 2 2 2 11

Collaroy 5 2 4 2 13

Collaroy Point 1 2 1 1 5

Fisherman’s Beach 2 3 1 2 8

Long Reef Point 2 2 1 2 7

Long Reef 5 2 4 2 13

Dee Why 5 3 5 3 16

Dee Why Headland 1 1 1 2 5

North Curl Curl Point 2 2 1 2 7

North Curl Curl 5 2 4 2 13

South Curl Curl 5 2 4 2 13

Flat Rock 1 2 1 2 6

Freshwater Point 1 1 1 2 5

Freshwater 5 3 5 3 16

Queenscliff Head 2 2 1 2 7


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3.1.5 Access Rating

Beaches or 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 beach. This directly increases the level of risk of drowning and or injury. Table 3.1.6 Access rating descriptors

Table 3.1.7 Access ratings applied to assessed locations

Location Access Rating

North Narrabeen 5

Narrabeen 5

South Narrabeen 5

Collaroy 5

Collaroy Point 3

Fisherman’s Beach 3

Long Reef Point 3

Long Reef 5

Dee Why 5

Dee Why Headland 3

North Curl Curl Point 3

North Curl Curl 5

South Curl Curl 5

Flat Rock 3

Freshwater Point 3

Freshwater 5

Queenscliff Head 3

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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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 3.1.8 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)

North Narrabeen 12 10 14 10 46

Narrabeen 12 10 12 10 44

South Narrabeen 12 10 11 10 43

Collaroy 10 10 13 10 43

Collaroy Point 8 10 5 6 29

Fisherman’s Beach 4 10 8 6 28

Long Reef Point 10 10 7 6 33

Long Reef 14 10 13 10 47

Dee Why 14 10 16 10 50

Dee Why Headland 14 10 5 6 35

North Curl Curl Point 14 10 7 6 37

North Curl Curl 12 10 13 10 45

South Curl Curl 14 10 13 10 47

Flat Rock 14 10 6 6 36

Freshwater Point 14 10 5 6 35

Freshwater 14 10 16 10 50

Queenscliff Head 14 10 7 6 37

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, then beaches with a medium and low score.


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Table 3.1.9 Action Planning Priority scores for assessed locations

Priority

Priority location

Priority Action & Total Score

Comments

1

Dee Why

50

High – this location should be considered as

a priority for implementation of identified

risk treatment options

2

Freshwater

50




3

South Curl Curl

47




3

Long Reef

47




5

North Narrabeen

46




5

North Curl Curl

45




7

Narrabeen

44




8

Collaroy

43




8

South Narrabeen

43




10

North Curl Curl Point

37

Medium – this location should be

considered for implementation of identified

risk treatment options after locations rated

as high or as funding becomes available

10

Queenscliff Head

37





12

Flat Rock

36





13

Dee Why Headland

35





13

Freshwater Point

35





15

Long Reef Point

33






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Priority

Priority location

Priority Action & Total Score

Comments

16

Collaroy Point

29

Low – this location should be considered for

implementation of identified risk treatment

options after locations rated as medium or

as funding becomes available

17

Fisherman’s Beach

28

Low – this location should be considered for

implementation of identified risk treatment

options after locations rated as medium or

as funding becomes available

Key to Action

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

Treatment Option 1.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined 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 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

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 should plan to adopt the most appropriate treatments specific to their organisations capabilities and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. The principal risk treatments are outlined on the following pages.


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3.2.3 Education and Awareness Programs

Public education and awareness programs are a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy, and target both the pre-arrival and early arrival periods (prior to hazard exposure). Key factors pertaining to effective education and awareness programs include: o Consistency in safety messaging (elimination of confusing/unclear or dissipative information) o Consistency in the method of provision (ongoing information provided at regular locations/times) o Longevity in the provision of information (ongoing, not a one-off)

Existing Controls:

During the course of the assessment and throughout the consultation process, Australian CoastSafe were made aware of various beach safety information sources, education and awareness programs that are currently in place to educate and inform the public at a local level. These programs, as well as any other initiatives within and around the Warringah LGA should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported by Warringah Council and key stakeholder groups. Information sources and initiatives include: Warringah Council Website: The Warringah Council website provides information on safety at the beach, including general tips for swimmers as well as facts about aquatic hazards such as rips and waves (Warringah Council, 2013). Lifeguard and life saving patrol dates and locations are also provided. Community Education Beach Awareness Safety Education (B.A.S.E) Program: The B.A.S.E. Program provides introductory beach awareness and safety lectures to children in years 3 and 4 with more advanced presentations delivered to years 5 and 6. While the main theme focuses on beach and water safety the sessions also cover a range of other issues such as the dangers of rock shelves, stormwater pollution and the need to protect the beach habitats. All sessions involve a slide presentation, practical demonstrations and discussion on beach and water related dangers. The presentation to years 5 & 6 also includes a component related to spinal injuries. Both presentations have an emphasis on local beaches to which the children can directly relate. The duration of the presentations is 45 minutes to an hour depending upon how the children react. An information package and teachers kit is also available with vocabulary lists, exercises and worksheets for use by teachers prior to the lectures being presented. For years 5 & 6 a follow up session at a local beach so that the children can have a first-hand revision session covering the principles discussed at the lectures. Students will witness the beach conditions; watch demonstrations rescues and get to see what rips and currents look like. During the demonstrations a Lifeguard allows themselves to be swept out to sea by a rip and then rescued. This way the students can see and understand the concepts of rips and currents as well as their life threatening potential. The B.A.S.E Program is also delivered to CALD groups working closely with teachers from Northern Area TAFE. The program is provided to lower, intermediate and more advanced classes of English for Speakers of Other Languages. The program is delivered in co-operation with the teacher who over a period of time introduces a theme of beach culture and awareness of the hazards related to swimming in our oceans and waterways. At the end of this initial teaching period a presentation is given by Council’s Beach Services staff, relying heavily on clear simple explanations, pictures and props to communicate with the students. While the main theme focuses on beach and water safety the course covers a range of other issues such as the dangers of rock shelves, stormwater pollution and the need to protect the beach habitats.


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Surf Educate Australia (SEA): SEA is a provider of surf education and surfing programs for schools and the general community. All programs include important surf education and water safety messages that help save lives and provide a healthy and active learning experience. These programs are held at Dee Why within the Warringah LGA. (Surf Education Australia, 2013). Manly Surf School: Manly Surf School offers a range of surf safety, surf education, surfboard riding, body surfing and body board programs for tourists, school groups, corporate groups and any member of the public. In relation to the Manly LGA these programs are organised along the Queenscliff to Manly stretch (Manly Surf School, 2013). Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches: The Sydney Northern Beaches branch of Surf Life Saving (SLSSNB) conducts a Surf Life Saving School aimed at educating school aged children about surf safety and survival through a series of water based and classroom programs (SLSSNB, 2013). Within the Northern Beaches 15,159 students participated in beach programs and presentations last financial year (2012/13). Programs are also held every Wednesday at South Curl Curl beach specifically for children staying at Stewart House in Curl Curl. Bush to Beach Program: This annual program organised by South Narrabeen SLSC is run for indigenous children who live in rural communities. Attendees update their knowledge on water safety, surfing and basic first aid. They also work alongside volunteer member to learn how a surf club is run. Media: Throughout the surf life saving season, the Manly Daily play a key role in delivering key safety messages as well as informing the public when dangerous surf warnings are in place. There are also various television (news) and radio stations that inform the public of dangerous surf warnings. School Programs – Western Sydney One of the key target groups for surf safety education includes people residing in western Sydney. Through the Water Safety Black Spot Fund Wollongong Council and Surf Life Saving NSW are currently delivering surf education to schools in south west Sydney. To date this program has received positive feedback and will aim to educate key target groups so they are informed about the hazards and risks when using the coastline. This program will be expanded next year to include schools in the areas of north west Sydney. Recreational Fishing Alliance: The Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW has produced the Safe Fishing website, which also provides multilingual information and resources to promote safer recreational rock fishing (Recreational Fishing Alliance, 2011). Part of this initiative has been the provision of multilingual flyers and DVDs to promote rock fishing safety. Education days are also organised for rock fishers to provide educational learning and fishing

Figure 3.2.1 surf safety presentation on the Northern Beaches (Photo courtesy of Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches)


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techniques that will provide rock fishers with more information to make an informed decision about where they decide to fish as well as communicating key safety messages.

Recommended Controls:

Educational Messages: Land Managers should continue to provide public education/awareness programs 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 Safe Fishing: www.safefishing.com.au/ o Boating: www.lifejacketwearit.com.au

The NSW Water Safety Advisory Council has recently established the Consistent Messaging Sub Group with the aim of standardising key safety messages for water safety. Education Collateral: Surf safety information, for example, rip education should be strategically placed in visual form at various locations. Examples or options include the following: o Information Boxes o Posters At Bondi, in front of the Pavilion, there is an information box that includes information about services, location maps and surf safety. Warringah Council has the opportunity to implement an information box similar to the one below at the main access at Dee Why or Freshwater. Figure 3.2.3 Information box at Bondi that could be implemented in Warringah

Displaying posters which promote water safety at public amenity blocks, at Surf Life Saving Clubs and visitor information displays could be implemented.

Figure 3.2.2 Recreational Fishing Alliance rock fishing school (Photo courtesy of NSW Recreational Fishing Alliance)

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

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

http://www.safefishing.com.au/

http://www.lifejacketwearit.com.au/


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Figure 3.2.4: Example of a surf safety poster in the Bega Valley LGA

Educational posters, signage and information boards should not be placed in positions where they would compete with formal aquatic and recreational safety signage which is usually placed around formal access points and high traffic areas (see Section 3.2.4, Safety Signage). The Warringah LGA is a popular destination for day trippers and overnight visitors, especially through the school holiday periods. The distribution of surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers in the Warringah LGA should be implemented. Personal Protective Equipment: Water safety agencies actively promote the use of lifejackets for fisherman. Educational and awareness programs in the Warringah LGA should also promote and encourage fisherman and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. This could also be included in school based education programs, reinforcing the message in children. The NSW Ministry for Police and Emergency Services have released a discussion paper titled Wearing of Lifejackets by Rock Fishers (2013). This paper has proposed six options for the wearing of lifejackets in NSW: Option One Major coordinated education campaigns Option Two Maintain voluntary wearing of lifejackets Option Three Mandatory wearing of lifejackets in high risk locations or high risk conditions Option Four Wearing of lifejackets in certain situations Option Five Trial mandatory wearing of lifejackets for a certain time period in a certain location Option Six Mandatory wearing of lifejackets


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Rockfishing Websites 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 Warringah LGA. Further investigation of these websites could provide an opportunity to engage a targeted educational campaign to specific user groups. Examples include: o http://waverockfishing.com/about.htm

o http://ameblo.jp/japanese-fishing-sydney/

Figure 3.2.5: Korean website promoting rock fishing (Wave Rock, 2006)

Education Summary: The following table outlines a range of education and awareness programs that can be adopted by Land Managers within the Warringah LGA. Table 3.2.1 is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all education and awareness programs available to land managers, it is intended to provide examples of a range of programs that are available and delivered 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 3.2.1 Examples of education and awareness programs

Program Target audience Location Delivery (Who)

School based water safety programs

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

Learn to Swim / Swim and Survive

Young Children All locations Royal Life Saving Society Australia

Learn to Swim All ages All Locations AustSwim accredited swim schools

Nippers Local children All locations Surf Life Saving NSW

Surf Ed. All ages All locations Surf Life Saving NSW

Surf Groms Local children All locations Surfing NSW

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

Kids Academy of Surf (KAOS)

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

Get hooked – it’s fun to fish

Schools All locations NSW DPI (Fisheries)

Rock fishing safety information

Rock fishers

Rock platforms

Peak water safety agencies

http://waverockfishing.com/about.htm

http://ameblo.jp/japanese-fishing-sydney/


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Program Target audience Location Delivery (Who)

Boating safety information

Boaters Warringah RMS

QR codes

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

All locations Warringah Council

The figures below are not intended as a comprehensive display of all education and awareness collateral available to land managers, rather to provide examples of a range of collateral that are available and can be provided to land managers upon request. Land managers are not limited to the education collateral shown in the figures below, however they should ensure that any education collateral distributed or displayed is aligned to the key water safety messages promoted by the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council.

Treatment Options 1.5 Education and awareness programs within the Warringah Local Government Area should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported.

Treatment Options 1.6 Education and awareness programs developed by Warringah Council should include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic industry (NSW Water Safety website – http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/)

Treatment Option 1.7 Strategically placed surf safety information (e.g. posters) or similar should be displayed at pre-determined beach locations around coastal access such as amenity blocks or visitor information displays. Consideration should be given to the content and style of this information.

Treatment Options 1.8 In conjunction with peak water safety organisations, Warringah Council should continue to promote and encourage rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets.

Treatment Options 2.1 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 and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers in the Warringah Local Government Area. (p. 54)

Treatment Option 2.2 Identify the relevant user groups and related resources/websites (including multilingual) that promote rock fishing in the Warringah Local Government, and target safety messaging to those groups/resources. This research may also provide the opportunity for targeted education campaigns.

Figure 3.2.6 Don’t put your life on the line™

Figure 3.2.7 Survive a rip current

Figure 3.2.8 Beach safety for tourists/migrants

Figure 3.2.9 Swim between the flags

http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/


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3.2.4 Safety Signage

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 include: o a risk assessment process used in the identification of priority information to display o alignment to Australian Standards for signage content (AS/NZS2416:2010) o consistency in signage layout/display (Australian Water Safety Council, 2013) o consistency in the appropriate positioning of signage, to maximise exposure to the public prior to arriving

in a hazardous location, with the minimum number of signs 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 the implementation and maintenance costs related to signage and a reduction in the visual pollution of a site.

Existing Controls:

Existing safety signage within the Warringah LGA includes: o warning signage at popular rock shelf fishing locations o warning signage at cliff edge locations o warning signage at rock pools o warning signage at rock fall locations Existing safety signage (temporary) is also in place when lifesavers and lifeguards are on duty. These signs are placed in the general vicinity of the flagged area.

Figure 3.2.11 rock fishing warning signage at Dee Why

Figure 3.2.10 rock fishing warning signage at Dee Why

Figure 3.2.12 Cliff edge warning signage at Dee Why Headland


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Recommended Controls:

As an option for improvement, Warringah Council could implement a strategy of consistent aquatic and recreational safety signage at all formalised access points Appendix A. These recommended locations will be considered as part of Warringah Council’s current signage review project. Level 2 Car Park Signs (Primary access sign) Land Managers have the option to place this type of signage at the main entrance/car park to an aquatic environment. The recommended content includes location name, emergency contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information. See Figure 3.2.16 for an example. Level 3 Access Signs (Secondary access sign) Land managers can place this type of sign at access points or pathways that lead to the aquatic environment (beach, rock pool or rock platform). Level 3 access signs follow the same principles as those of Level 2 car park signs and typically display the location name, emergency contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information. Figure 3.2.15 is an example sign from at an access point in the Byron Bay LGA.

Figure 3.2.15 example signage at a beach access point in Byron Bay

Figure 3.2.16 Example level two car park/level three open access sign in Wollongong

Figure 3.2.14 Temporary Warringah Lifeguard Sign at Long Reef beach

Figure 3.2.13 Safety warning signage at Collaroy rock pool


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Table 3.2.2 Summary table of aquatic and recreational signage recommendations for the Warringah LGA

Combined Beach Locations

Existing Signs

Possible Consolidation/

Remove

Proposed Level 2

Proposed Level 3

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Signage

North Narrabeen 21 10 2 4 6 -4

Narrabeen 20 10 0 12 12 2

South Narrabeen 11 6 1 8 9 3

Collaroy 25 4 4 5 9 5

Collaroy Point 5 2 0 1 1 -1

Fisherman’s Beach 23 7 3 3 6 -1

Long Reef Point 30 9 1 1 2 -7

Long Reef 36 14 1 6 7 -7

Dee Why 45 17 4 5 9 -8

Dee Why Headland 30 1 0 0 0 -1

North Curl Curl Point 14 1 0 0 0 -1

North Curl Curl 24 9 2 4 6 -3

South Curl Curl 33 14 0 10 10 -4

Flat Rock 15 0 0 2 2 2

Freshwater Point 7 1 0 1 1 0

Freshwater 40 9 1 8 9 0

Queenscliff Head 27 0 0 2 2 2

Totals 406 114 19 72 91 -23

Note: Net signage = proposed signage minus consolidated signage. For example 91 signs have been proposed in the Warringah LGA however 114 existing signs have the opportunity to be consolidated and/or removed, leaving a net reduction in overall signage of 23 signs. When implementing future signage, the following points are recommended: 1. Safety signs as recommended in this report should meet Australian Standard ‘AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 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: AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 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.

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


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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 could be included on signage (e.g. 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. Temporary Signage Temporary individual hazard signs should be used where a hazard is localised, has been identified at a level of risk that warrants a sign posting and is not permanent in nature. Temporary hazards have been utilised in the following ways in the Warringah LGA: 1. Where there is a higher risk of injury from temporary hazards such as dangerous access and strong currents 2. Where a hazard may exist at a patrolled beach either side of the flags

Treatment Option 1.9 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the 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 1.10 Temporary signage should continue to be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised swimming area and where there is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as dangerous access, beach erosion, strong currents and creek openings.

Figure 3.2.17 Example of temporary safety warning signage at Narrabeen

Figure 3.2.18 Example of temporary beach erosion signage at North Narrabeen


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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 rock platforms (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. Figure 3.2.19 provides an example of how an emergency marker sign might look.

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 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. No current program exists in NSW. Some locations in NSW have local emergency marker systems in place, where current signage displays a numbering code at some locations (see Figure 3.2.20). This system is outlined in local emergency procedures however does not include a formal numbering system that links back to NSW emergency services (Police, Ambulance and Fire). Following on from recent meetings, Australian CoastSafe will be supplying the Emergency Information Coordination Unit (EICU) (NSW LPI) with the locations and numbers of these signs so there is a greater chance that a ‘000’ operator will recognise these numbers.

Australian CoastSafe is currently working with key government departments and emergency services to develop a best practice emergency marker system which can be rolled out on a state-wide basis in the near future.

Treatment Option 2.3 With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property Information, a state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be considered. (p. 59)

Figure 3.2.19 example emergency marker sign

Figure 3.2.20 existing emergency marker sign at Kingscliff, Far North Coast


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3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programs

The way 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. Formal Access The majority of formal access tracks in the Warringah LGA are well maintained. Periodic inspections take place due to vegetation overgrowth, degraded footings and unattached fence posts. Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer ‘track’, exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quantity of signage required and enhancing emergency access, reporting and location identification. Informal Access A number of informal access tracks also exist. Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/unstable and uneven surfaces), 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 and situations it may be difficult to formalise access and/or restrict the use of informal access. Private Access There are a number of private access points in the Warringah LGA where residents have direct coastal access. This mainly occurs on the North Narrabeen to Collaroy stretch, where the majority of access points lead to unpatrolled sections of the coastline. Private access can be monitored by recording the number of rescues, preventions and major incidents that may occur at these locations.

Figure 3.2.21 Formal access at North Narrabeen

Figure 3.2.22 Informal access at Freshwater Point


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Emergency Vehicle Access Access for emergency vehicles is of vital importance during emergency incidents for ease of access and quick response. These locations have been included in Appendix A. Closed Access Beach Erosion: Warringah Council have acted proactively to address the beach erosion issues currently occurring at North Narrabeen. Safety signage has been put in place and one access path has currently been closed, restricting the use of this access until further improvement. Dangerous Locations: Due to exposure, the ocean rock pools within the Warringah LGA can be highly hazardous locations during dangerous swell. The North Curl Curl rock pool, for example has recorded a high number of emergency incidents. There is the opportunity to restrict access to rock pool locations via temporary signage (pool closed) as well as the preventative actions of lifesavers/lifeguards when on duty.

Figure 3.2.24 Private access from an apartment block at South Narrabeen

Figure 3.2.23 Emergency Vehicle access at South Narrabeen

Figure 3.2.25 Restricted access due to beach erosion at North Narrabeen

Figure 3.2.26 Large swell and breaking waves at North Curl Curl Rock Pool (The Australian, 2013)


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Table 3.2.3 Access provision within assessed locations in Warringah

Location Open

Access

Formal

Pedestrian

Vehicle

Access

Informal

Pedestrian

Private

Access

Total

Access

Possible

Redirection

Net

Access

North Narrabeen

0 12 1 0 5 19 0 19

Narrabeen 0 11 2 0 3 16 0 16

South Narrabeen

1 4 4 0 6 15 0 15

Collaroy 4 6 0 0 0 10 0 10

Collaroy Point 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1

Fisherman’s Beach

2 5 1 0 3 11 0 11

Long Reef Point 0 1 2 2 1 6 0 6

Long Reef 0 10 1 4 0 15 4 11

Dee Why 2 8 4 1 0 15 1 14

Dee Why Headland

0 4 0 2 1 7 1 6

North Curl Curl Point

0 2 0 1 0 3 0 3

North Curl Curl 1 5 3 0 0 9 0 9

South Curl Curl 0 9 1 0 0 10 0 10

Flat Rock 0 5 0 0 0 5 0 5

Freshwater Point

0 1 0 3 0 4 2 2

Freshwater 0 9 2 0 4 15 0 15

Queenscliff Head

0 2 0 1 1 4 1 3

Totals 10 95 21 14 24 165 9 156

Note: Net Access = the total of all access types minus consolidated/redirected access. For example, 165 access points have been located in the Warringah LGA, however 9 of these access points have the opportunity to be redirected or consolidated, leaving a net access of 156.

Treatment Option 1.11 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing infrastructure and capital works programs. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.

Treatment Option 1.12 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access.

Treatment Option Error! Reference source not found. When surf conditions warrant the closing of beaches, access to rock pools that are also impacted by the conditions should be restricted by the use of temporary signage (pool closed) as well as the preventative actions of lifeguards/lifesavers when on duty. (p.62)


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3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment

The table below provides an overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) currently in or available for use in Australia. Table 3.2.4 An overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) (Bradstreet, et al., 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 rescuer to enter the water

themselves

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, not strong/tough

enough to be resilient from

environmental conditions

No May be used on a case by case basis.

Further

effectiveness investigation

required.

Throw Sticks (Stormy

grenades)

Personal device

(mobile)

Mobility – easily deployed to

incident locations

Effective mid-range (thrown)

Requires 2 to off-set ‘miss-throw’ of the

first

No Yes. Relevant personnel /staff

(emergency services/SLS

/rangers)

Life Ring (Angel ring)

Steep rampart rock

platforms

Ease of use. Rugged design.

Awareness campaign

established.

Single use device. Distance of

deployment. Requires rescuer to

approach the platform edge.

Weight.

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 (Angel Rings™

2)

Life rings are an instantly recognised lifesaving mechanism and their functionality is easily understood by both a rescuer and the casualty. The national ‘Angel Ring ™ Project’ has seen the installation of 116 rings in NSW with 47 confirmed rescues involving their use (ANSA, 2013).

“ANSA NSW will maintain contact with the local clubs, NSW Government agencies and individuals who have installed or agreed to manage the angel rings and continue communication to ensure that management targets are met. As a minimum ANSA NSW or its nominated management team must complete a visual check at least every 2 months to determine the rings status.” (ANSA, 2013)

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


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The Australian National Sportsfishing Association recently received additional funding for the expansion and maintenance of the Angel Ring Project through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust. There are currently 4 life rings situated in the Warringah LGA and it is currently the responsibility of the Manly Sports Fishing Club who are aligned to the Australian National Sportsfishing Association to regularly check and maintain these life rings. Proposed life ring locations are provided in Table 3.2.5 and further information can be found in Appendix C. Table 3.2.5 Proposed life ring locations

Priority Location

1 Dee Why Headland

2 North Curl Curl Point

3 Freshwater Point

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. Rescue Tubes The Warringah LGA also has in place public rescue tubes along the coastline. During the course of the assessment, Australian CoastSafe were made aware that on numerous occasions the public rescue tubes have been used to conduct rescues when lifesavers and lifeguards are not on duty, although no recorded data exists. The rescue tubes are continually checked and maintained by the Warringah Lifeguard Supervisor. Existing rescue tube locations can be found in Appendix C.

In 2012, the NSW Department of Primary Industries commissioned a report titled a Research Review of Rock Fishing Safety in New South Wales (Bradstreet et al., 2012). The extract below is taken from pages 48 – 49 of this report and relates to the use of rescue tubes as items of public rescue equipment.

Rescue tubes are presently used in a small number of coastal council areas in NSW, generally around sandy beaches and rock pools. Their use is currently limited to sandy beaches and rock pools. The use of a rescue tube as public rescue equipment is considered inappropriate for four reasons: 1. The use of the equipment could not be adequately taught to the rescuer in under 10 seconds preferably in

pictures; 2. There is significant aquatic ability and skill required to use a rescue tube effectively; and 3. The effective use of the equipment requires the rescuer to enter the water, assuming a degree of aquatic

skill and exposing the rescuer to further risk 4. The use of swimming fins is highly recommended with a rescue tube.

Figure 3.2.28 Public rescue tube at Dee Why Figure 3.2.27 Rescue tube with faded text at Dee Why


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An argument for the use of rescue tubes is related to human nature, and that loved ones will enter the water to conduct a rescue, and any flotation that can be provided is beneficial. This topic, for the case of the child drowning victim, is discussed in a paper by Pearn and Franklin, who term the process of the rescuer drowning following a rescue as aquatic victim-instead-of-rescuer (AVIR) syndrome. The results of this study advocate both an increase in basic rescue skills (aquatic skill development) and use of non-contact rescues. The Royal National Lifeboat Association (RNLI) also uses rescue tubes for trained lifeguards, but the equipment is not recommended for use on beaches, rocky coasts, tidal inlets, estuaries, or man-made coasts. The descriptions of the geomorphology included in the RNLI guide are consistent with the descriptions included in the SLSA Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue Manual learners guide, therefore the guideline has been considered transferrable to the Australian environment. Training provided to lifesavers and lifeguards in the use of rescue tubes strongly recommends the use of swim fins (flippers) to aid the effectiveness and speed with of aided and unaided rescues. This has also been displayed through scientific research. It has been noted by stakeholders that storage of swim fins in situ as a piece of public rescue equipment would be impossible due to theft, and inability to provide a variety of sizes to suit different rescuer sizes. The RNLI guide also states that “PRE is not generally suitable for shallow shelving beaches (...) PRE has proven to be ineffective in areas where an adult is able to stand at any point within 25m of the shoreline and the gradient of the seabed or the beach is low and gentle”. In the case where PRE is going to be installed, RNLI recommend small-medium life rings are used. Action Item 1.17: Based on the available evidence, rescue tubes are not recommended for use as PRE.

However, local lifeguards provided anecdotal evidence of rescue tubes being used to conduct a number of rescues within the Warringah LGA and were not aware of any incidents in which the use of rescue tubes by members of the public to perform a rescue resulted in the rescuer requiring assistance or suffering injury as a result of attempting the rescue. Rescue Tube Messaging: The Australian Government, through the Attorney-General’s Department are currently running a national Triple Zero (000) campaign which aims to build awareness of the Triple Zero (000) number and educate the community about when to use the number. The campaign serves to reinforce to members of the public their responsibilities when calling the Triple Zero (000) emergency number both in nominating the required emergency service and identifying the location they are calling from. The campaign uses the internet, newspapers, radio and television to promote messages of Triple Zero (000). In addition, elements of the campaign have been translated to reach culturally and linguistically diverse communities throughout Australia. “Triple Zero (000) should not be referred to as 'Triple Oh', as this can cause confusion and could result in people incorrectly dialing 666 on some alpha-numeric keypads. If dialed within Australia, emergency calls to 666 will not be re-routed to Triple Zero (000)” (Australian Government, Attorney's-General Department, 2012). Therefore, all rescue tube boxes should reflect this advice and an example graphic is one option for implementation.

Figure 3.2.29 Example graphic of what the rescue tube boxes could look like


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First Aid Defibrillator Long Reef SLSC has a public first aid defibrillator for use during an emergency out of supervision hours. A sign placed above the defibrillator has the following information: “Long Reef SLSC is the first club on the Sydney Northern Beaches that has decided to place a public access defibrillator in case of an ‘after hours’ emergency. This machine is only any good if the public respect it and don’t vandalise or steal it. Those that do are risking a person’s life! Medical research has found that the use of a defibrillator will double the chance of the patient’s survival until Ambulance personnel arrive”. There may be the opportunity for first aid defibrillators to be located at all surf club locations in the Warringah LGA.

Treatment Option 1.14 All rescue tube boxes should be clearly identified with the following text. “Emergency Rescue Equipment – Dial Triple Zero (000)”

Treatment Option 2.4 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 these fishing associations.

Figure 3.2-27 Public access defibrillator located at Long Reef Beach


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3.2.8 System of Supervision

The supervision of aquatic coastal locations is often required to manage the risk of the location, whether due to prevailing weather and beach conditions, the proximity to large population bases, or the attendance of the beach/coastal area due to its location or attractiveness. The primary decision to be made by land managers 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. Uncertainties may exist when deciding whether supervision at a given location is appropriate, since: 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 Such services may be deemed too expensive and therefore not provided by the responsible land manager; o The patronage of the location is 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. 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 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. Calculations for all beaches can be found in Appendix G. International Best Practice The International Life Saving Federation (ILSF) is the peak body for lifeguard and water safety organisations internationally. Lifeguard/lifesaving uniforms The ILSF recommends the colours for uniforms be red & yellow

3. 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/lifesavers for: o Guidance on safety issues, and o Assistance in times of need

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


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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 (including Australia) 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. The flags used in the Warringah LGA comply with (AS/NZS 2416.2:2010). Training of Water Safety Personnel: Warringah Council lifeguards and volunteer surf lifesavers comply with the minimum qualifications for beaches as outlined in ‘Practice Note No. 15 – Water Safety’ (Division of Local Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet, 2012). The recommended minimum standards for the qualifications of water safety personnel at beach environments are based on nationally accredited vocational competencies for the public safety industry, including competencies for PUA21010 Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue) and PUA31310 Certificate III in Public Safety (Aquatic Search and Rescue). Higher standards for council employed lifeguards have been adopted, such as requiring personnel to undertake ongoing practical industry placement and more frequent assessment, registration and re-assessment. This may also include frequent opportunities to practise emergency management, physical fitness and other skills. All beach services staff in Warringah Council must meet the selection criteria for their respective positions and hold the following certification or licences or equivalent: o Senior First Aid Certificate from a registered training organisation o Advanced Resuscitation Certificate or equivalent with accreditation to use Intermittent Positive Pressure

Ventilation and Demand Valve o Drivers Licence Class C o NSW Waterways Authority Personal Water Craft Licence o Suitable level of Lifeguard award from a registered training organisation.

Other Selection Criteria – Physical Standards: o Swim 800 metres in a pool within 14 minutes o Run 1600 metres on a beach within 7 minutes o Paddle 800 metres on a rescue board, negotiating the surf break on an “M” shaped course. o Swim with a torpedo tube and carry out a simulated rescue/resuscitation o Perform a rescue on a rescue board of an unconscious patient Extra training provided: o Advanced Spinal Management o Defibrillator o Analgesic Gases (Green Stick pen) o Conflict Resolution o Operational guidelines (Ops Manuals) o Code of Conduct, EEO and WHS


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Volunteer Lifesaving Service Below are the patrol dates and hours that will be covered during the 2013/2014 season over weekends and public holidays. Table 3.2.6 Volunteer Lifesaving Services in the Warringah LGA

Club Patrol Dates Saturdays Sundays / Public

Holidays

North Narrabeen

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

07/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

01/03/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

Narrabeen

21/09/2013 to 07/10/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

12/10/2013 to 15/12/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

21/12/2013 to 27/01/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

01/02/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

South Narrabeen

21/09/2013 to 07/10/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

12/10/2013 to 15/12/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

21/12/2013 to 27/01/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

01/02/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

Collaroy

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

07/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

01/03/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

Long Reef 21/09/2013 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

Dee Why

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

07/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

01/03/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

North Curl Curl

21/09/2013 to 27/10/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

02/11/2013 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

South Curl Curl

21/09/2013 to 27/10/2013 9am - 4pm 9am - 4pm

02/11/2013 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm

Freshwater

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

07/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 9am - 6pm 9am - 6pm

01/03/2014 to 30/03/2014 9am - 5pm 9am - 5pm

05/04/2014 to 27/04/2014 9am - 4:30pm 9am - 4:30pm


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Regular roving patrols are also encouraged as part of SLSNSW Standard Operating Procedures and are incorporated into a Clubs Patrol Operation Manual. Roving patrols can be conducted by ATV, IRB/RWC or walking and should continue to be conducted at the following locations throughout a patrol. o North Narrabeen SLSC: Narrabeen Lakes to Loftus Street o Narrabeen SLSC: Loftus Street to Devitt Street o South Narrabeen SLSC: Ramsay Street to Devitt Street o Collaroy SLSC: Ramsay Street to Collaroy pool o Long Reef SLSC: Long Reef Point to ‘The Pole’ o Dee Why SLSC: ‘The Pole’ to Dee Why pool o North Curl Curl SLSC: North Curl Curl Point to the mid car park o South Curl Curl SLSC: Mid car park to South Curl Curl pool o Freshwater SLSC: Freshwater pool to southern end of beach It is also acknowledged that the Surf Life Saving Northern Beaches Branch through its support services already conducts roving patrols at unpatrolled locations (weekends and public holidays). The Branch has 1 RWC that operates in the Warringah LGA and is stationed at Freshwater. As part of this roving patrol there is the opportunity to formally monitor and provide preventative education to rock fishers who may be fishing in dangerous conditions. RWC operators can also record rock fisher numbers at rock platforms and report this information back to Surf Life Saving SurfCom and/or the local lifesavers at the nearest patrolled location. These statistics will be beneficial as there is currently no formal methodology to record rock fisher numbers along the coast of Warringah LGA. These statistics can then provide evidence for future drowning prevention treatments. The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter is also a vital service that operates along the coastline of the Warringah LGA. For emergency response, this service is activated through the surf rescue emergency response system, mostly outside of patrol hours. The service also conducts regular roving patrols on weekends, looking out for swimmers, surfcraft users, rockfishermen and boaters who may be in need of assistance as well as scanning for dangerous marine life that may be around patrolled locations.


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Paid Lifeguard Service - Existing The Warringah Council lifeguard patrol dates and hours for the 2013/2014 season are provided in Table 3.2.7. Table 3.2.7 Paid Lifeguard Services in the Warringah LGA

Beach Patrol Dates Days of Service Patrol Times

North Narrabeen

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

Narrabeen

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 2 days (weekend) 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm


South Narrabeen


02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm


Collaroy

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

Long Reef

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

Dee Why

31/08/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

28/04/2014 to 25/05/2014 7 days 8:30am - 4:30pm

North Curl Curl

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

South Curl Curl

21/09/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

Freshwater

31/08/2013 to 01/12/2013 7 days 9am - 5pm

02/12/2013 to 23/02/2014 7 days 9am - 6pm

24/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 7 days 9am - 5pm

28/04/2014 to 25/05/2014 7 days 8:30am - 4:30pm

Roving patrols can also be conducted by RWC around Dee Why and Freshwater.


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Paid Lifeguard Service - Proposed Narrabeen: Narrabeen Beach is currently patrolled by lifeguards and lifesavers on weekends during the spring and autumn school holiday period. There is the opportunity to expand the lifeguard service at Narrabeen to cover patrols every day during the spring and autumn school holiday period. On the day of the risk assessment Narrabeen Beach had more patrons on the beach than North Narrabeen. As highlighted in Appendix A, there are many formal and private access paths to Narrabeen Beach and the presence of a patrolled area in the middle of the North Narrabeen to Collaroy stretch during these busy periods may attract these swimmers to ‘swim between the flags’. Dee Why: Over the last 10 years or so, the popularity and use of Dee Why beach has increased, largely due to the redevelopment of the beach front and the provision of cafes and restaurants. The beach is used year round and in relatively large numbers for numerous activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, walking, picnicking etc. Warringah Council has increased lifeguard patrols to cover May through to September over the last two years (July 2011 – present). As funding becomes available there is an opportunity for lifeguard patrols to cover weekends during June, July and August as well as patrolling every day during the winter school holidays in the coming years. If Dee Why is patrolled over this period, positive public relations and media, as well as local educational campaigns may be able to attract visitors (domestic and international) to Dee Why. In addition to the provision of a year round supervised place for recreational activities in the coastal zone, the local economy may benefit due to the potential increase in patronage of local businesses by beachgoers. Lifeguards at Dee Why may also be able to assist in responding to other coastal emergencies that occur around Long Reef to Dee Why Headland, as 28% of all coastal emergency callouts tasked by police occur during winter.

Figure 3.2.30 Beach visitors at Narrabeen during the spring school holidays 11am, Monday 30 September, 2013.


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Patrol Finish Times: In certain circumstances, when beach attendance is still high after 6pm, volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards will continue to patrol for a longer period of time than set out in their patrol service agreements. Information gained from Lifesavers and lifeguards during the course of the assessment indicated that some patrol services, such as Dee Why and Freshwater, have remained after 7pm, especially during occasions such as New Year’s Eve and ‘Christmas by the Beach’, which attract thousands of people to the foreshore. Close to 30% of all emergency incidents through the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System in the Warringah LGA occur between 5pm and 9pm. As outlined in section 2.12.1 (Beach Usage Statistics), Dee Why and Freshwater both have extremely high attendance figures. There is the opportunity for the lifeguards at Dee Why and Freshwater to patrol until 7pm during the summer school holidays. Other popular beaches in Sydney and surrounding areas such as Terrigal, Avoca, Manly, Bondi, Tamarama, Coogee, Maroubra, Cronulla and North Wollongong all finish patrolling at 7pm. During inclement weather and under the discretion of the Lifeguard Supervisor on duty, patrols could cease at 6pm.

Treatment Option 1.15 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Narrabeen to cover the spring and autumn school holiday period.

Treatment Option 1.16 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Dee Why to cover weekends during the months of June, July and August as well as patrolling every day during the winter school holidays. (p. 73)

Treatment Option 1.17 Explore the means to fund an extension of the lifeguard service at Dee Why and Freshwater for patrols to finish at 7pm during the summer school holiday period. During inclement weather and under the discretion of the Lifeguard Supervisor on duty, patrols can cease at 6pm.

Treatment Option 4.2 Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular basis to cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled.

Treatment Option 4.3 Surf Life Saving Support Operations e.g. RWC (jet-ski) could formally monitor and record usage patterns on rock fishing locations as part of standard surveillance patrols and report the information back to Surf Life Saving SurfCom or the local lifeguards/lifesavers to improve the knowledge and data quality for coastal usage patterns. This information could also be used to advise available rescue operators of locations at higher risk of an incident occurring.


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4 Emergency Response

The relatively high rate of emergency incidents in the Warringah LGA in previous years makes consideration of

issues in relation to emergency response extremely relevant to a drowning prevention strategy for the area.

Emergency response considerations include but are not limited to:

o Emergency communications/reporting Triple Zero (000)

o Emergency phones/alarms

o Emergency response beacons

o Emergency service response

o Radio coverage

o Emergency service communications (internal and joint service)

4.1 Emergency Response Alarm

Emergency alarms are an effective way of informing lifesavers and lifeguards of an emergency and reducing

first-response time, before emergency services arrive. Appropriate locations for these emergency alarms are

around coastal rock pools where a lifesaving or lifeguard patrol is nearby.

Once activated, these alarms send a text message to radio communications base, informing them that the alarm has been pressed. The radio base then informs local lifeguards to respond. Warringah council have implemented these alarms at high visitation rock pool locations, which have assisted in efficient emergency response on numerous occasions.

Warringah Council have installed three emergency response alarms, located at the rock pools at Collaroy, Dee Why and Freshwater. Below is an example of an emergency alarm stationed at Freshwater Pool in the Warringah LGA.

Figure 4.1.1 Emergency alarm located at Freshwater Rock Pool


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4.2 Emergency Response Beacons Emergency Response Beacons can be positioned in high use/risk areas. They are highly visible and once activated, link via radio to lifesaving/lifeguard services. The two main types of ERB are: Mobile: A movable unit which can be placed at a designated location for a limited period (usually daylight hours) before being removed for security/monitoring reasons. They usually complement an existing on-beach lifesaving service (nearby) or on-duty staff hours (non lifesaving). Fixed/permanent: A unit which is permanently or semi-permanently positioned (secured) at a location, and provides 24/7 capacity. Such an ERB should fit within a coordinated emergency communications system, whereby the unit is monitored 24/7 and complemented with specific procedures for emergencies by those monitoring the ERB. Fixed ERBs are generally only considered for use in high risk locations, where:

Limited or no mobile phone coverage exists,

A service can consistently monitor the beacon, and

A daily process of equipment checking/testing is in place. More information about ERB can be provided by Surf Life Saving New South Wales.

Figure 4.2.1 Example of a mobile emergency response beacon on a beach


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4.3 Emergency Service Response Emergency services and support organisations play a vital role in responding to coastal emergencies within the Warringah LGA (see Figure 4.3.1 for locations). Resources that may respond include: o Police (including Water Police) o Ambulance (including the Westpac Helicopter) o NSW Fire and Rescue o Warringah Council Lifeguards o Surf Life Saving Sydney (Branch and Club Callout Teams) o State Emergency Service (SES) o Rural Fire Service o Marine Rescue NSW Figure 4.3.1 Emergency Service locations within the Warringah LGA


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Table 4.3.1 outlines the locations of emergency services on the Warringah coastline. Table 4.3.1 Coastal Emergency Service locations for Warringah LGA.

Emergency Services – Warringah Local Government Area

Emergency Service Street Address Suburb

NSW Police Corner Fisher Road and St David Ave Dee Why

NSW Police Frenchs Forest Road West Frenchs Forest

NSW Ambulance Service Pittwater Road North Narrabeen

NSW Ambulance Service Corner Forest Way and Wearden Road Belrose

NSW Fire & Rescue Corner Ocean Street and Pittwater Road Narrabeen

NSW Fire & Rescue Corner Fisher Road and Francis Street Dee Why

NSW Fire & Rescue Cook Street Forestville

NSW Rural Fire Service Regional Headquarters, Thompson Drive Terrey Hills

NSW Rural Fire Service Corner Forest Way and Walden Road Belrose

NSW Rural Fire Service Borgnis Street Davidson

NSW Rural Fire Service Willandra Road Beacon Hill

NSW Rural Fire Service Yulong Avenue Terrey Hills

NSW Rural Fire Service 301a McCarrs Creek Road Terrey Hills

NSW Rural Fire Service Anembo Road Duffys Forest

State Emergency Service Thompson Drive (Off Kamber Rd) Terrey Hills

Note: There are also numerous Community Fire Units within the Warringah LGA


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4.4 Radio Coverage Radio coverage throughout the Warringah LGA is strong. The Surfcom base at Fisherman’s Beach and the State Operations Centre in Belrose assist lifeguards and lifesavers during emergency incidents via UHF radio communication. Figure 4.4.1 shows the UHF radio signal strength on the Warringah coastline. Key:

Surf Life Saving NSW is currently in the process of planning to improve signal strength along the Manly to Curl Curl stretch. A back-to-back repeater site is currently being investigated for the North Head area that will improve radio signal strength in this area. When conducting cross border emergencies, lifeguards and lifesavers from Pittwater, Warringah and Manly Councils have the ability to communicate via radio communication.

No coverage

(black spot)

Signal strength

(limited)

Signal strength

(average)

Signal strength

(strong)

Figure 4.4.1 UHF radio signal strength on the Warringah coastline

Queenscliff Head

Warringah Surfcom base

North Narrabeen


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4.5 Joint Emergency Response (Lifesavers and Lifeguards) 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.

Through the growth of this system the Sydney Northern Beaches Branch have an effective Branch Duty Officer

system and dedicated Club Callout Teams (capable of night operations) that can respond to incidents outside

of patrolled locations/after hours.

The following tables list the notification priority order for the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System for

emergency activations within the Warringah LGA. These include:

o Warringah lifeguards are notified first on weekdays during operational hours

o Surfcom Sydney Northern Beaches is notified first on weekends and public holidays during operational

hours

o Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers are notified first outside of operational hours

o Warringah lifeguards are notified second outside of operational hours

Lifeguards and lifesavers do an outstanding job responding to emergency incidents (many of which occur at unpatrolled locations and/or after hours). The Surf Rescue Emergency Response System should be a topic of discussion to review recent major incidents and to investigate where opportunities may exist at a local level to improve emergency response (e.g. information sharing, communication and the formalisation of emergency response procedures). There is also the opportunity for joint emergency response exercises before the start of the surf life saving season.

Treatment Options 1.18 & 4.4 A debrief session should continue to be held after any critical incidents that occur through the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System where there is a joint response from lifesavers and lifeguards within the Warringah Local Government Area. These sessions should investigate where opportunities may exist at a local level to improve emergency response (e.g. information sharing, communication and the formalisation of emergency response procedures).

Treatment Options 1.19 & Error! Reference source not found. Through the Local Emergency Management Committee, an emergency response training scenario should be conducted with Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers/Support Operations, Warringah Lifeguard Supervisors and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season.


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5 Monitor and Review The process of monitor and review 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. Land managers should ensure that a there is a process of regular review of the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies that have been implemented. This should include a process for the collection of data regarding any incidents affecting public safety at the locations assessed as well as the use of public rescue equipment and emergency response phones. Land managers may determine to further engage peak water safety organisations to assist with this task. The process should include the review of all incident data, access points, signage and public rescue equipment.

Treatment Option 1.20 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 1.21 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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