New life rings installed following recommendation by coroner

It is hoped two new lifebuoys installed at one of Tasmania’s drowning black spots – in line with a coronial recommendation – will save lives.

Mersey Bluff in Devonport

NEW life rings have been installed at one of Tasmania’s drowning black spots – nine months after a coroner recommended water safety upgrades.

The two Angel Rings – lifebuoys which can be thrown to people in distress – were installed at the Mersey Bluff by the Devonport City Council with the support of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.

In her findings into the drowning death of Devonport teenager Georgia Lewtas in 2017, Coroner Olivia McTaggart recommended the council and Surf Life Saving Tasmania update the Coastal Risk Assessment and Treatment Plan for the headland to determine, prioritise and implement strategies to prevent injury and death.

She said that plan needed to include safety warning upgrades, controlling or defining access to the area, enhanced lifeguard services and consider the installation of life rings.

The rough waters around the rocks have claimed other lives, including drownings in 2003 and 2010 when 27-year-old Luke Jacobs died saving the life of his mate.

One Angel Ring will be located opposite The Bluff Lighthouse car park and the other near a popular rock fishing area about 250m north of the old sound shell.

Mayor Annette Rockliff, said the rings had the potential to save lives.

“While we obviously hope they will never be needed their presence is an important safety measure,” she said.

Council worked with the Devonport Surf Life Saving Club to determine the most

appropriate locations for the rings.

DSLSC vice president said the rings were great lifesaving aids which to help those in the water until rescuers can be contacted/ to provide assistance,” Mr

Emmett said.

He encouraged anyone who used a ring to also call triple-0 for assistance.