Pambula Surf Life Saving Club volunteer dies after stairwell fall, SafeWork NSW probe complete

A south coast surf lifesaving community has been deeply saddened after a long-term volunteer died in a tragic fall at the club’s headquarters.

The tragic incident occurred at Pambula Surf Life Saving Club.

A south coast surf lifesaving community has been deeply saddened after a long-term volunteer died in a tragic fall at the club’s headquarters.

SafeWork NSW has concluded an initial investigation after a 66-year-old female volunteer suffered fatal injuries during a fall at the Pambula Surf Life Saving Club on May 13.

A SafeWork spokesman said the investigation into the incident had determined there were no breaches of relevant work, health or safety laws.

The investigation included inspections of the location of the fall.

Club vice president Steve Hodgson said the incident had been deeply felt by members of the tight knit surf living saving community.

A photo showing were the incident occurred. Picture: SafeWork NSW.

“We all knew (the volunteer) very well – she was a life member and was always there to help and support the club,” she said. “I’ve been a member of the club for 20 years and she was a part of the club for all that time.

“Members (of the club) are very close and have been deeply saddened. We’ve offered 100 per cent support to the family and to assist in any way we can.”

The incident occurred at Pambula Surf Life Saving Club

SafeWork NSW found the staircase in the surf club was compliant with safety standards but has recommended improvements to highlight the risks of the stairwell.

Mr Hodgson said the club was now in the process of implementing the improvements, including installing tactile aids for people with visual improvements.

It is understood the staircase was primarily used as a secondary staircase for club members.

The incident comes as SafeWork figures show more than 13,000 injuries from slips, trips and falls were recorded in NSW across the past year.

SafeWork, in a statement, said falls were among the most common causes of serious injuries in NSW workplaces.

“To manage the risks associated with slips, trips and falls, consider reasonably practicable control measures, especially in areas with hard flooring and wet foot traffic, such as public pools and surf clubs.”