Volunteer lifesavers across our region will be better prepared for the upcoming summer season, with a new jet ski and support vehicle being delivered as part of a $1 million NSW Government investment.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said the new assets will enhance the ability of lifesavers to respond to emergencies and save lives.
“The addition of a jet ski and fully kitted out support vehicle will boost the ability of our lifesavers to respond to emergencies in the water and help people when they get into trouble,” Mr Crouch said.
“Jet skis are highly versatile because they are fast and agile, and I know this new equipment will be put to good use by our local lifesavers this summer.”
Across NSW in the past two years, jet skis have been utilised in 704 rescues, answered 271 emergency call outs, and have spent nearly 23,000 hours on the water keeping swimmers, surfers, and boaters safe.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said a total of 11 jet skis and vehicles are being delivered, with one going to each Surf Life Saving Branch in the State.
“These jet skis will give lifesavers the ability to get to people in trouble in the water quickly, and also allow them to reach those in treacherous locations like just off rock platforms,” Ms Cooke said.
Surf Life Saving Central Coast’s CEO Jon Harkness said the fleet of jet skis here on the Central Coast are vital for rescues in many areas both within and outside of patrolled locations.
“They allow our operators to get to unique and sometimes remote locations with agility. The support vehicle and jet ski will enhance the current quality fleet to ensure our local and visiting community remain safe over the entire year,” Mr Harkness said.
Patrolled beach locations, patrol times and live weather updates are available on the BeachSafe app or website.