Stinger nets mark start of stinger season
Date published: 28 October 2015
Stinger nets were installed on The Strand and Pallarenda today, marking the start of stinger season and a quarter of a century of professional lifeguard patrols in Townsville.
The installation of the nets coincides with the 25th anniversary of the City Council’s service arrangement with Surf Lifesaving Queensland.
Healthy and Safe City Committee chair Cr Gary Eddiehausen said the work of surf lifesavers was invaluable to the city and its residents.
"The Townsville City Council is extremely proud of the partnership with SLSQ and the way the lifeguard service has protected residents and saved lives in Townsville since 1990," Cr Eddiehausen said.
"Providing professional life guard services at our main swimming areas is absolutely vital in safeguarding the public, but can easily be taken for granted.
"It’s the presence and actions of professionally trained lifeguards that provide all of us with the peace of mind and reassurance when we go for a day out at the Strand and Riverway."
SLSQ Lifeguard Supervisor Russell Blanchard said that over the past five years lifeguards in Townsville had responded to 413 major incidents including a successful resuscitation.
"SLSQ’s partnership with Council has grown from very humble origins 25 years ago to a 365-day a year service at The Strand, Magnetic Island and Riverway that we believe is one of the best in the State," Mr Blanchard said.
"SLSQ is proud to be associated with Townsville City Council and applaud their common sense, pro-active approach to safety at aquatic locations. Council and SLSQ also work closely to evaluate service levels, both physical and material, to ensure the most effective and efficient Lifeguard service is being delivered to patrons. We look forward to a continued close relationship in the future" Russell, said.
The SLQ lifeguards also provide call out assistance to Queensland Water Police for searches on jetskis, and regularly support patient transfers on Magnetic Island.
Council provides $1 million in funding for professional lifeguard services each year.
The year round services at Magnetic Island, the Strand and Riverway include extended patrols and coverage during stinger season and school holidays as well as holiday services at Pallarenda and Balgal Beach.
Stinger nets were installed on Magnetic Island yesterday. Balgal Beach is scheduled for this week.
