Paid lifeguards set to cast a keen eye over Port Phillip beaches after horror season of drownings

PAID lifeguards will patrol Port Phillip Bay beaches seven days a week for the first time this season. They will deployed at five bayside hot spots in a bold move to keep swimmers safe.

PAID lifeguards will patrol Port Phillip Bay beaches seven days a week for the first time this season.

They will deployed at five bayside hot spots in a bold move to keep swimmers safe.

It follows Victoria’s worst summer drowning toll since records started 20 years ago.

In total there were 23 drownings between the start of December and mid February this year.

Life Saving Victoria club development general manager Andrew Foran told the Sunday Herald Sun the rollout of paid positions was a vital step forward.

“As the city fringe is developed and populations increase around Port Phillip Bay, it’s inevitable that an increase in lifesaving services has become essential and we welcome the chance to establish these additional sites in time for another busy summer season,” he said.

The guards will also be deployed to Victoria’s southwest coast.

Surf lifesavers Alex Schwarcz [rear] and Jess Sincock [front] with kids Archie and Sophie Calder, 4 and 3. Picture: Alex Coppel

Until now only popular holiday surf beaches have been staffed with paid guards.

The paid staff will patrol five high-risk beaches which are yet to be revealed.

Volunteer lifesaving services will continue as part of the effort, as will jet ski lifeguard patrols.

Prospective lifeguards must pass a fitness test in surf conditions that involves a 400m swim, 800m run, 400m board paddle and 800m run in 25 minutes or less. Candidates also need to be able to navigate through complex drowning and first aid scenarios.

“There are also prerequisite awards that include skills such as first aid, advanced resuscitation, spinal management and beach management,” Lorne Surf Life Saving Club member Jess Sincock said.

“It’s a really rewarding role — you get to share your passion for lifesaving, be at beautiful locations and help people to stay safe over summer.”

The rollout is being paid for through a two-year funding arrangement from the State Government.

Emergency Services Minister Mr James Merlino said: “Life Saving Victoria plays a crucial role in keeping the community safe on our beaches.”

“That is why we provided $540,000 in funding to support these new lifeguard sites with the aim to lower the drowning toll,’’ he said.

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