Fears ‘swim between the flags’ messaging falling short as more people swim at dangerous unpatrolled beaches

Many northern NSW beaches are not patrolled, meaning flags can't always be relied on. It’s prompted calls for better safety messaging after a spate of drownings and near-drownings.

On the back of eight drownings in NSW waters since December 1, some are concerned the ‘swim between the flags’ message needs an update.

In the wake of eight drownings in NSW waters since December 1, including one in the Byron Shire, some are calling for a change to standard “swim between the flags” message.

The concerns have surfaced after studies revealed more swimmers are opting to visit quieter beaches, which are often not patrolled by surf lifesavers.

Northern NSW beaches are a hot spot for tourists, particularly those from overseas who may not be educated on beach safety.

University of NSW surf scientist professor Rob Brander said warnings to swim between the flags did not work on unpatrolled beaches.

“There’s no doubt the message is effective on patrolled beaches,” he said.

Mr Brander said beachgoers should be taught about the many dangers associated with the ocean and not rely on the “safety net” of the flags.

“If you go to a beach whether it’s patrolled or not – you need to stop and think about safety,” he said.

Professor Rob Brander.

Mr Brander said many beaches on the North Coast were not patrolled, but he urged beachgoers to visit those with lifesavers on hand.

In 2021, 145 people drowned on Australian beaches, meaning it was the deadliest summer in more than 20 years.

NSW Surf Life Saving director Joel Wiseman said people should swim at patrolled beaches whenever possible.

“If we can’t see you, we can’t save you,” he said.

Mr Wiseman agreed taking note of beach conditions and safety warnings was important.

“The ocean can be treacherous, so it’s important to take stock of the safety warnings of volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards on the beach,” he said.

Surf Life Saving NSW director of lifesaving, Joel Wiseman, says where possible, people should seek patrolled beaches.

Nineteen lives have been lost in NSW coast waters since July 1 of last year, and 1660 swimmers have needed rescue since December.

Rip currents are considered the most common hazard and account for about 21 drowning deaths in Australia each year, according to Beach Safe.

Experts suggest scanning for rips before entering the ocean and paying particular attention to:

• darker waters
• fewer breaking waves
• sandy coloured water extending beyond the surf zone and;
• debris or seaweed and significant water movement.

Grant Lawler, lifeguard and CEO of Aquatic Tutoring Australia, said swimming between the flags alone would not safeguard the public.

“They provide an option to swim safely but they can’t solely be relied on,” he said.

Following eight tragedies in NSW waters since December 1, some are concerned the ‘swim between the flags’ message may not be sufficient.

He said beachgoers were often rescued after overestimating their capability, or underestimating potential hazards .

“It doesn't matter how good you are – when you go into the ocean you take a risk,” he said.

Mr Lawler said the Covid pandemic resulted in a 30 per cent drop in swim class participants.

“It’s concerning as many children were unable to acquire basic swimming lessons,” he said.

Grant Lawler, lifeguard and CEO of Aquatic Tutoring Australia, said the ocean should never be underestimated.

“There’s no substitute for swimming lessons in a pool – it’s a gateway into the beach.”

Mr Lawler said the Aussie culture of summer barbecues and heavy alcohol consumption served as a deadly cocktail when combined with swimming.

“Impaired judgment and physical capacity from alcohol can get anyone into trouble,” he said.

Swimmers have been encouraged use the BeachSafe smartphone app before swimming, which locates the nearest patrolled beach and details surf conditions.