Ominous water warning ahead of hot Aus day weekend

A desperate plea has been issued to Victorians heading to the beach this long weekend amid a spate of tragic drownings.

Liam Maric is one of many lifeguards who risk their lives to keep Victorians safe in the water.

The deadly danger of rip currents has been simulated to show beachgoers how to survive this summer.

The controlled demonstration — at surf park URBNSURF Melbourne — comes amid Victoria’s worst drowning spate on record.

Several of the 40 people to drown since July 1 last year were caught in rips, which are often difficult for swimmers to spot.

The Australia Day break looms as a key danger period on the water.

Life Saving Victoria general manager of lifesaving services Liam Krige said knowing what to do in a rip was crucial.

“Tragically, a number of drowning deaths due to people being caught in rip currents have already occurred this summer,” Mr Krige said.

“Rip currents are the number one hazard at Australian beaches.

Trained lifeguards join forces with Life Saving Victoria to demonstrate rip current safety in a controlled, simulated rip.

Victoria has already experienced a number of drownings this season.

“Inland waterways, such as rivers and lakes, can also have strong rip currents and caution should be taken whenever you are in, on or around water this summer.”

A rip was produced in URBNSURF’s hi-tech 2-hectare lagoon as part of Friday’s simulation, conducted under the watch of trained lifeguards.

It included showing how to escape a rip current – raising an arm and calling for help, swimming parallel to the shore or floating on your back with the current until it releases you, and, crucially, remaining calm.

Mr Krige said after months in lockdown it was prudent for swimmers to build up their experience at aquatic centres before taking to the open water.

“Every drowning is preventable and tragic,” Mr Krige said.

General Manager Lifesaving Operations at LSV Liam Krige urged Victorians to be vigilant this weekend.

“We want everyone to come home safely from a day at the beach.”

URBNSURF group chief executive officer Damon Tudor, whose centre will next month host Surfing Victoria sessions which teach surfers rescue techniques and CPR in case they come across a drowning event, said: “Whether you’re surfing or swimming in the ocean, or in the controlled environment of our lagoon at URBNSURF Melbourne, it’s extremely important for everyone to be aware of water hazards and take care when in the water.”

Surfing Victoria chief executive officer Adam Robertson said more than 1000 surfers had completed its safety program, which could ultimately safe a life.

“Surfers are at the beach all year round and are a critical part of water safety in Victoria alongside LSV’s services,’’ Mr Robertson said.

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