Noosa lifesavers are in full battle mode, ready for the Christmas and New Year population surge.
About 20 lifeguards will be on duty across the main beaches including at Noosa Heads, Sunshine, Sunrise, North Peregian and Peregian.
Apart from their normal lifesaving equipment, the team also utilises jet skis and drone technology to help patrol the beaches.
Noosa’s Lifeguard Supervisor, Rowan Simpson, told Noosa Today all lifeguards were well prepared for the summer surge.
“All our beaches are fully staffed. The Christmas, New Year holiday period is definitely our busiest.”
He said over the last few years, lifeguards had performed more than 50 rescues annually.
“Even in smaller surf there seems to be more rescues. I think that’s because people tend to think they have it under control, but suddenly they can be caught off-guard.”
He said the most concerning time for lifeguards is when the beaches fill up with people, and and swimmers venture into the water outside the red and yellow flags.
“People need to respect the ocean, particularly if you’re not used to it.”
“Come and talk to a lifeguard, they’ll explain the conditions to you.”
“They’re always up for a chat and happy to give you advice.”
The drones are used to patrol Noosa Heads’ main beach and particularly the river mouth. “We’ve had a few sightings, particularly when you see large bait balls.”
Mr Simpson, who has been a lifeguard for 16 years and Supervisor for four, said all lifeguards were well trained and their extended hours patrols were now operational.
The teams will be on duty from 7am to 6pm every day.
