Funded by the NSW Government under the NSW Water Safety watersafety.nsw.gov.au Black Spots Fund A NSW Government water safety initiative Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment Kiama Local Government Area

June 2015 Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Kiama Local Government Area

Funded by the NSW Government under the NSW Water Safety Black Spots Fund

© Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Belrose 2015

All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer This work is copyright. However, material form this publication may be copied or published by State Government agencies without the permission of SLSNSW on the condition that the meaning of the material is not altered and SLSNSW is acknowledged as the source of the material. Any other persons or bodies wishing to use the material must seek permission. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... VII

1 INTRODUCTION, SCOPE & CONTEXT ...... 1 1.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.2 CONTEXT AND SCOPE ...... 3 1.3 LIMITATIONS ...... 4 1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS ...... 5 1.5 PROJECT TEAM / AUTHORS ...... 7

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ...... 8 2.1 INTRODUCTION ...... 8 2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION ...... 8 2.3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT ...... 11 2.4 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW ...... 13 2.5 ABSAMP TYPES AND RATINGS ...... 14 2.6 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS ...... 16 2.6.1 Transverse Bar and Rip ...... 16 2.6.2 Low Tide Terrace ...... 17 2.6.3 Rock Platforms and Rocky Coasts ...... 18 2.7 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR) ...... 19 2.7.1 Facility Visitation Rating (FVR) Reference Tables ...... 20 2.8 FACILITIES AUDIT ...... 24 2.9 POPULATION, DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM...... 25 2.9.1 Population Statistics ...... 25 2.9.2 Development Plans in Kiama ...... 26 2.9.3 Tourism Information ...... 26 2.10 BEACH USAGE AND INCIDENT STATISTICS ...... 29 2.10.1 Beach Usage Statistics ...... 29 2.10.2 Drowning Incidents ...... 35 2.10.3 Emergency Callouts ...... 38 2.11 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION ...... 41

3 RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS ...... 44 3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (INHERENT GROSS RISK) ...... 44 3.1.1 Action Planning Priority Index ...... 44 3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety and Management Program ...... 45 3.1.3 Local Population Rating ...... 46 3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating ...... 47 3.1.5 Access Rating ...... 48 3.1.6 Action Planning Priority Score ...... 49 3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS ...... 53 3.2.1 Introduction ...... 53 3.2.2 Hierarchy of Risk Treatments (Controls) ...... 53 3.2.3 Education and Awareness Programmes ...... 54 3.2.4 Safety Signage ...... 62 3.2.5 Emergency Marker System ...... 69 3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programmes ...... 70 3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment ...... 74 3.2.8 System of Supervision ...... 78

4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ...... 83 4.1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTING - TRIPLE ZERO (000) ...... 83 4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS ...... 85

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4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE ...... 86 4.4 RADIO COVERAGE ...... 88 4.5 JOINT EMERGENCY RESPONSE (LIFESAVERS AND LIFEGUARDS) ...... 89

5 MONITOR AND REVIEW ...... 90

6 REFERENCES ...... 91

APPENDICES APPENDIX A - Access and Signage Schedule APPENDIX B - Risk Register and Treatment Plan APPENDIX C - Public Rescue Equipment APPENDIX D - Facilities Audit APPENDIX E - Coverage Maps APPENDIX F - Stakeholder Engagement APPENDIX G - Life Saving Service Level Calculator

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LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1.1.1 THE INTERNATIONAL LIFE SAVING FEDERATION DROWNING CHAIN...... 2 FIGURE 2.2.1: KIAMA LGA – ASSESSED LOCATIONS SITE INSPECTION...... 9 FIGURE 2.3.1: RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS ...... 12 FIGURE 2.6.1ILLUSTRATION OF A RHYTHMIC BAR & BEACH...... 16 FIGURE 2.6.2: ILLUSTRATION OF A TRANSVERSE BAR AND RIP...... 16 FIGURE 2.6.3: ILLUSTRATION OF A LOW TIDE TERRACE...... 17 FIGURE 2.6.4: ILLUSTRATION OF A REFLECTIVE BEACH...... 18 FIGURE 2.10.1 AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE KIAMA ...... 29 FIGURE 2.10.2 AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 30 FIGURE 2.10.3 PREVENTATIVE ACTION STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 31 FIGURE 2.10.4 FIRST AID STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 32 FIGURE 2.10.5 ATTENDANCE STATISTICS RECORDED BY PAID LIFEGUARDS IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 32 FIGURE 2.10.6 RESCUE STATISTICS RECORDED BY PAID LIFEGUARDS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 33 FIGURE 2.10.7 PREVENTION STATISTICS RECORDED BY PAID LIFEGUARDS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 33 FIGURE 2.10.8 FIRST AID STATISTICS RECORDED BY PAID LIFEGUARDS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 34 FIGURE 2.10.9 KIAMA DROWNING AND VICTIM POSTCODE ...... 37 FIGURE 2.11.1: PROJECT BLUEPRINT FLYER...... 42 FIGURE 3.2.1: DAILY BEACH CONDITION REPORT ...... 54 FIGURE 3.2.2: EXAMPLE OF A LIFEJACKET CAMPAIGN ...... 56 FIGURE 3.2.3: WEAR IT AUSTRALIA ...... 56 FIGURE 3.2.4: EXAMPLE OF A SURF SAFETY INFORMATION POSTER AT TATHRA BEACH...... 57 FIGURE 3.2.5: EXAMPLE OF A NATIONAL PARKS VISITOR INFORMATION BOARD WHERE WATER SAFETY INFORMATION COULD BE DISPLAYED. 57 FIGURE 3.2.6 RECREATIONAL FISHING ALLIANCE ROCK FISHING SCHOOL...... 59 FIGURE 3.2.7: DON’T PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE™...... 60 FIGURE 3.2.8: SURVIVE A RIP CURRENT...... 60 FIGURE 3.2.9: BEACH SAFETY FOR TOURISTS / MIGRANTS...... 60 FIGURE 3.2.10: SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS...... 60 FIGURE 3.2.11: RISK WARNING SIGNAGE...... 62 FIGURE 3.2.12: CLIFF EDGE WARNING...... 62 FIGURE 3.2.13: BEWARE OF STRONG RIPS / UNDERCURRENT...... 62 FIGURE 3.2.14: DANGEROUS CLIFFS, FALLING ROCKS AND DEBRIS...... 62 FIGURE 3.2.15: BEWARE OF FALLING ROCKS...... 63 FIGURE 3.2.16: BEWARE OF SHARED BEACH (SWIMMING & BOATING)...... 63 FIGURE 3.2.17: SAFETY WARNING SIGNAGE...... 63 FIGURE 3.2.18: UNPATROLLED BEACH – SUPERVISE CHILDREN...... 63 FIGURE 3.2.19: BREAKWATER SAFETY SIGNAGE...... 63 FIGURE 3.2.20: EXISTING RISK WARNING SIGNAGE THAT COULD BE REPLACED WITH THE...... 65 FIGURE 3.2.21: ACCESS SIGNAGE WITHIN THE WOLLONGONG LGA...... 65 FIGURE 3.2.22: SIGNAGE THAT HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE CONSOLIDATED...... 66 FIGURE 3.2.23: ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNAGE THAT CAN BE RELOCATED ...... 66 FIGURE 3.2.24 BOATING SAFETY INFORMATION...... 67 FIGURE 3.2.25 EXAMPLE OF TEMPORARY WARNING SIGNAGE AT NARRABEEN...... 67 FIGURE 3.2.26: EXAMPLE OF EMERGENCY MARKER SIGN...... 69 FIGURE 3.2.27: FORMAL ACCESS AT JONES/BOYDS...... 70 FIGURE 3.2.28: INFORMAL ACCESS AT STORM BAY...... 70 FIGURE 3.2.29: OVERVIEW OF THE COASTAL WALK ...... 71 FIGURE 3.2.30: AN EXISTING LIFE RING LOCATED AT KIAMA BLOWHOLE...... 75 FIGURE 3.2.31: AN EXISTING RESCUE TUBE LOCATED AT THE NORTHERN END OF SURF BEACH...... 76 FIGURE 4.1.1: SUGGESTED EMERGENCY 'TRIPLE ZERO' INFORMATION FOR SIGNAGE...... 83 FIGURE 4.1.2: ‘EMERGENCY +’ APPLICATION ...... 84 FIGURE 4.2.1: EXAMPLE OF A MOBILE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACON ON A BEACH...... 85 FIGURE 4.3.1: EMERGENCY SERVICES WITHIN 20KM OF THE COAST IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 87 FIGURE 4.4.1: SIGNAL STRENGTH OF THE SADDLEBACK MOUNTAIN REPEATER...... 88

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LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1.4.1: DEFINITIONS OF KEY TERMS...... 5 TABLE 2.2.1: ASSESSED LOCATIONS AND ASSESSMENT DATES...... 10 TABLE 2.4.1: ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS...... 13 TABLE 2.4.2: BEACH HAZARD RATING CALCULATION MATRICES FOR WAVE DOMINATE BEACHES...... 13 TABLE 2.5.1: ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS – KIAMA LGA...... 14 TABLE 2.7.1: TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT AND NATURAL HAZARDS RATING FOR RESERVES – NON BEACH ENVIRONMENTS...... 20 TABLE 2.7.2: TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT RATINGS FOR BEACHES...... 20 TABLE 2.7.3: TYPICAL POPULATION USE RATING FOR A FACILITY...... 20 TABLE 2.7.4: SUGGESTED FREQUENCY USE RATING FOR A FACILITY...... 20 TABLE 2.7.5: FACILITY VISITATION RATES – FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 21 TABLE 2.8.1: THE 10 MOST COMMON FACILITIES ALONG THE KIAMA LGA COASTLINE...... 24 TABLE 2.8.2: THE TOP LOCATIONS FOR FACILITIES WITHIN THE KIAMA LGA...... 24 TABLE 2.9.1 KIAMA POPULATION DATA ...... 25 TABLE 2.9.2 POPULATION COUNT OF COASTAL STATE SUBURBS IN THE KIAMA LGA ...... 25 TABLE 2.9.3 TOURISM DATA AND VISITOR INFORMATION FOR KIAMA LGA...... 26 TABLE 2.9.4 DOMESTIC OVERNIGHT TRAVEL DATA AND VISITOR INFORMATION FOR KIAMA LGA...... 27 TABLE 2.9.5 DOMESTIC DAY TRIP VISITOR INFORMATION FOR KIAMA LGA...... 27 TABLE 2.9.6 ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS WITH DIRECT COASTAL ACCESS IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 28 TABLE 2.10.1 VOLUNTEER SURF LIFE SAVING TOTAL PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS AND RESCUES FOR BEACHES IN KIAMA LGA ...... 34 TABLE 2.10.2 VOLUNTEER SURF LIFE SAVING TOTAL PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS AND RESCUES FOR BEACHES IN KIAMA LGA...... 35 TABLE 2.10.3 DROWNING INCIDENTS FROM 01/07/04 TO 30/06/14 IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 35 TABLE 2.10.4 EMERGENCY CALLOUTS THROUGH THE SRES FROM 01/01/08 TO 31/12/14 IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 38 TABLE 3.1.1 ABSAMP AND INDICATIVE RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 45 TABLE 3.1.2 LOCAL POPULATION RATING DESCRIPTORS...... 46 TABLE. 3.1.3 LOCAL POPULATION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 46 TABLE 3.1.4 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION DESCRIPTORS...... 47 TABLE 3.1.5 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 47 TABLE 3.1.6 ACCESS RATING DESCRIPTORS...... 48 TABLE 3.1.7 ACCESS RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 48 TABLE 3.1.8 SUMMARY OF ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY CALCULATIONS FOR EACH ASSESSED LOCATION...... 49 TABLE 3.1.9 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY SCORES FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS...... 50 TABLE 3.2.1 EXAMPLES OF EDUCATION AND AWARENESS PROGRAMMES...... 60 TABLE 3.2.2 SUMMARY TABLE OF AQUATIC AND RECREATIONAL SIGNAGE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE KIAMA LGA...... 68 TABLE 3.2.3 ACCESS PROVISION WITHIN ASSESSED LOCATIONS IN KIAMA LGA...... 72 TABLE 3.2.4 AN OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT (PRE) ...... 74 TABLE 3.2.5 PRIORITY ORDER FOR LIFE RINGS...... 75 TABLE 3.2.5 VOLUNTEER LIFESAVING SERVICES IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 79 TABLE 3.2.6 PAID LIFEGUARD SERVICES IN THE KIAMA LGA...... 80 TABLE 4.3.1 COASTAL EMERGENCY SERVICE LOCATIONS FOR KIAMA LGA (<10KM FROM THE COAST)...... 86

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report contains findings and treatment options which align with current International and Australian standards, guidelines and best practice risk management processes. The report contains information specific to locations under the authority of Kiama Municipal Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Crown Lands.

These locations include (north to south):

1. Minnamurra Point 2. Jones/Boyds 3. Cathedral Rocks 4. Boneyards 5. Bombo Quarry 6. Bombo 8. Pheasant Point 9. Blacks 10. Robertson Basin 11. Kiama Blowhole 12. Storm Bay 13. Church Point 14. Surf Beach 15. Kendalls Point 16. Kendalls 17. Kaleula Head/Friars Cave 18. Marsden Head/Little Blowhole Point 19. Easts 20. Loves Bay 21. Bare Bluff 22. Red Cliff 23. Werri 24. Werri Headland 25. Boat Harbour 26. Gerringong Headland 27. Walkers 28. Walkers Headland 29. Black Head 30. Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa

Activities/Facilities The Kiama Local Government Area (LGA) is a popular destination which sees year round public usage and recreational activity, including swimming, surfing (including all surfcraft), fishing, snorkelling/diving, boating, and walking.

A number of facilities support coastal usage and activities including well maintained car parks and beach access, lifeguard and lifesaving supervision, coastal walks, a number of public amenity blocks, BBQ’s, and picnic tables.

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Hazards/Risks The Kiama LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of the area. These are outlined in detail in the report body and Appendix B.

Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, the following hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Kiama LGA:

Strong currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type Waves/waves overwashing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells Inshore holes/drop off/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type Submerged rocks: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement Cliffs/dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography Boating traffic: As a result of human interaction

It has been identified that the hazards listed above pose risk to the following types of recreational users:

Strong currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Waves/waves overwashing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/drop off/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: Fishermen, rock platform users Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Cliffs/dangerous access: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers Boating traffic: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters

Existing Risk Treatments Land Managers in partnership with a number of other organisations have implemented the following risk treatment initiatives within the Kiama LGA: o System of supervision o Education and awareness programmes o Safety signage

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Summary of Recommendations

Please note: o The below treatment options are provided as options for guidance only and will not be binding to the Land Manager. o The below treatment options are in no particular order in regards to prioritisation. o Further explanation to the treatment options should also be referenced and can be found on the corresponding pages. o Some treatment options may be relevant for two or more agencies.

Recommendation 1 Kiama Municipal Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Strategic Coordination:

1.1 Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Kiama Local Government Area, should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision. (p.26)

1.2 Coastal usage and incident data (e.g. drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety. (p.40)

1.3 Land Managers in the Kiama Local Government Area should meet with Surf Life Saving South Coast as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of this meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year, before and after the surf life saving season. (p.43)

1.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence. (p.52)

Education:

1.5 Education and awareness programmes within the Kiama Local Government Area should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups who may not have the expertise to implement educational programmes should work with peak water safety organisations to assist in delivery. (p.61)

1.6 Education and awareness programmes should continue to include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/). (p.61)

1.7 Surf safety information should be strategically placed in visual form at various coastal locations. Specific examples can be referenced in the report. (p.61)

1.8 Develop relationships with tourism providers and holiday rental real estate organisations with the aim of distributing standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers and visitor information centres in the Kiama Local Government Area. (p.61)

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1.9 Kiama Municipal Council in conjunction with peak water safety organisations and local Tourist Parks, should promote a surf safety education programme for holiday makers in the peak season to learn about basic surf safety awareness. (p.61)

1.10 Kiama Municipal Council should assist peak water safety organisations to promote existing educational programmes encouraging rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p.61)

1.11 In conjunction with peak water safety organisations, an education day should be organised for rock fishers at Kiama Blowhole. This day will target high risk user groups providing educational learning and fishing techniques that will equip rock fishers with information to make informed decisions about where they decide to fish as well as communicating key safety messages. (p.61)

Safety Signage:

1.12 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.69)

1.13 Kiama Municipal Council should continue to work with the Roads and Maritime Service to implement specific boat safety signage (shown in the report) at all boat ramp locations. (p.69)

1.14 Temporary signage should continue to be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised swimming area and where here is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as strong currents, creek openings and pollution. (p.69)

Access:

1.15 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed. (p.73)

1.16 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access. (p.73)

1.17 Kiama Municipal Council should work with local stakeholders and the Geographical Names Board to formally recognise the rocky bays between Loves Bay and the northern end of Werri to enhance local emergency response plans, location signage and the Kiama Coastal walk promotional material. (p.73)

Public Rescue Equipment:

1.18 The rescue tube located at the northern end of Surf Beach and the rescue tube located at Kendalls Point should be replaced by life rings. (p.77)

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Supervision/Surveillance:

1.19 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Gerroa to consider providing coverage over the spring and autumn school holiday periods. (p.82)

1.20 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Werri to consider providing coverage over the spring and autumn school holiday periods. (p.82)

1.21 The level of the lifesaving and lifeguarding services provided (staffing levels, operational dates, patrol hours and locations) should be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the most suitable and effective service is provided. (p.82)

Emergency Response:

1.22 In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an opportunity to promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community. (p.84)

1.23 Investigate emergency response beacons / radio technology to be used at South Bombo and Kendalls in conjunction with nearby lifeguard and lifesaving patrols. (p.86)

1.24 An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Surf Life Saving South Coast Duty Officers/Support Operations, senior Kiama Lifeguards and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p.89)

Monitor & Review:

1.25 In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented and where future funding opportunities can be directed. (p.90)

1.26 All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.90)

Recommendation 2 The National Parks and Wildlife Service should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Strategic Coordination:

2.1 Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Kiama Local Government Area, should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision. (p.26)

2.2 Coastal usage and incident data (e.g. drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety. (p.40)

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2.3 Land Managers in the Kiama Local Government Area should meet with Surf Life Saving South Coast as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of this meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year, before and after the surf life saving season. (p.43)

2.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence. (p.52)

Education:

2.5 Education and awareness programmes within the Kiama Local Government Area should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups who may not have the expertise to implement educational programmes should work with peak water safety organisations to assist in delivery. (p.61)

2.6 Education and awareness programmes should continue to include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/). (p.61)

2.7 Surf safety information should be strategically placed in visual form at various coastal locations. Specific examples can be referenced in the report. (p.61)

Safety Signage:

2.8 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.69)

Access:

2.9 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed. (p.73)

2.10 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access. (p.73)

Emergency Response:

2.11 In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an opportunity to promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community. (p.84)

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Monitor & Review:

2.12 In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented and where future funding opportunities can be directed. (p.90)

2.13 All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.90)

Recommendation 3 The Water Safety Advisory Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Emergency Marker Signage:

3.1 With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property Information, a state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be considered. (p.70)

Public Rescue Equipment:

3.2 Explore the means to fund the expansion and continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch), the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW and Kiama Municipal Council at the locations outlined in Appendix C. Final positioning should be determined by these fishing associations. (p.77)

Recommendation 4 Surf Life Saving (State, Branch and Club) should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Strategic Coordination:

4.1 Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and Surf Life Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky coast should be commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related to rocky coasts in this report should be reviewed. (p.15)

4.2 Land Managers in the Kiama Local Government Area should meet with Surf Life Saving South Coast as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of this meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year, before and after the surf life saving season. (p.43)

Education:

4.3 The Surf Life Saving Clubs in the Kiama Local Government Area should participate in the annual Rip Current Awareness Day. (p.61)

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Safety Signage:

4.4 Temporary signage should continue to be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised swimming area and where here is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as strong currents, creek openings and pollution. (p.69)

Public Rescue Equipment:

4.5 The rescue tube located at the northern end of Surf Beach and the rescue tube located at Kendalls Point should be replaced by life rings. (p.77)

Supervision/Surveillance:

4.6 The level of the lifesaving and lifeguarding services provided (staffing levels, operational dates, patrol hours and locations) should be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the most suitable and effective service is provided. (p.82)

4.7 Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular basis to cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled. (p.82)

Emergency Response:

4.8 Investigate emergency response beacons / radio technology to be used at South Bombo and Kendalls in conjunction with nearby lifeguard and lifesaving patrols. (p.86)

4.9 Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to hold discussions with Surf Life Saving South Coast to raise any current issues and opportunities which could see further radio infrastructure installed to improve communication. (p.88)

4.10 An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Surf Life Saving South Coast Duty Officers/Support Operations, senior Kiama Lifeguards and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p.89)

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1 INTRODUCTION, SCOPE & CONTEXT

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Project Background: Surf Life Saving New South Wales (SLSNSW) is undertaking a significant state-wide drowning prevention project, known as Project Blueprint. As a core component of the project, every accessible coastal beach and rock platform in New South Wales (NSW) are being assessed using industry leading systems and processes. The outcomes will include evidence based drowning prevention treatment options to stakeholders and government, both at a local, regional and state level.

Project Blueprint is being delivered by Australian CoastSafe, as the leading coastal public safety risk management authority in Australia. Australian CoastSafe is the strategic and intelligence beach safety unit of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) – visit www.coastsafe.org.au for more information.

This document is a coastal public safety risk assessment and treatment plan specific to water safety related issues identified at every beach and rock platform located on the coast of the Kiama LGA. The Land Managers of this area include Kiama Municipal Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Crown Lands.

The Drowning Issue: Tragically, NSW accounts for 50% of the national coastal drowning toll annually. As of 30 June 2014, there have been 370 coastal drowning deaths in NSW since 1 July 20041. The vast majority of these can be attributed to swimming/rip-currents, rock fishing and boating, with a high majority occurring at unpatrolled locations/times, where no expert assistance is immediately available.

Accidental drowning deaths in the coastal aquatic environment can be accounted for through a number of factors known as the ‘drowning chain’ and these are:

o Lack of knowledge, disregard or misunderstanding of the hazard o Uninformed or unrestricted access to the hazard o Lack of supervision or surveillance o An inability to cope once in difficulty

The strategies that have been identified to address the drowning chain are:

o Education and information o Denial of access, improvement of infrastructure and/or provision of warnings o Provision of supervision o Acquisition of survival skills

1 Surf Life Saving Incident Reporting Database

Page 1 of 92 Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Kiama Local Government Area

Figure 1.1.1 The international Life Saving Federation Drowning Chain. Source: International Life Saving Federation

Treatment Options: This report will be fundamental in addressing the coastal drowning issue in NSW both in the short, mid and long term. The report will do this by providing a sustainable and effective drowning prevention strategy with clear supporting evidence/data, engagement of relevant stakeholders, and the application of effective risk mitigation and drowning prevention initiatives where and when they are required.

It is acknowledged that Land Managers have many competing priorities and limited resources. Land Managers should balance water safety land management activities within the context of their broader role to provide services and facilities to meet the current future needs of their local communities as a whole, all within a limited budget.

This report recognises that there are many inherent risks associated with the NSW coastline and that in most instances these risks associated with the NSW coastline cannot be eliminated and can only be managed within the operations contexts of the Land Manager, taking into account all of their responsibilities and available resources. This report also recognises that visitors to these areas also have a personal responsibility for their own safety and those they are responsible for.

The treatment options found in the report are representative of Australian CoastSafe’s opinion in relation to risk management at the locations assessed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.

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1.2 CONTEXT AND SCOPE

Project Context: SLSNSW received funding as part of a NSW Government water safety initiative through the Water Safety Black Spots Fund to deliver coastal public safety risk assessments on the NSW coastline (beaches and rock platforms). The project will be staged over several years with phase three to include the Richmond Valley, Clarence, Bellingen, Nambucca, Shellharbour, Kiama and Eurobodalla LGAs.

The report provides risk treatment options about how to improve risk and safety management in line with current industry standards: o AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management – Principles and Guidelines, o AS/NZS2416.1:2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags, o ISO 7001:2007 Graphical symbols – Public information symbols, o AS2342 – 1992 Development, Testing and Implementing of Information and Safety Symbols and Symbolic Signs, and o ISO9001:2008 Quality Management Systems – Requirements.

Project Scope: This coastal risk assessment and treatment plan has been prepared following an on-site risk assessment undertaken by Australian CoastSafe of the Kiama LGA which commenced on Monday 24th November and concluded on Friday 28th November, 2015.

The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment, including but not limited to; signage, car parks, access tracks, service provision, geographical hazards, geological hazards, user groups, conflicting activities and usage. The report also identifies facilities and activities that encourage people to visit the location.

The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined by the northern and southern boundaries of the Kiama LGA. All accessible coastal environments within these boundaries have been included in this report.

Aquatic areas which are excluded from this assessment include all bodies of water which are not ‘coastal’ in nature under SLSA definitions, and all hazards not directly associated with the use and immediate access to the coastal aquatic environment. While recreational and commercial boating may occur in these waters the detailed assessment of hazards and their treatments specific to boating activities falls outside the scope of this report. Information on boating safety can be found at www.maritime.nsw.gov.au.

The engagement of Land Managers and other key local stakeholders was also a vital part of this risk assessment.

Australian CoastSafe assessed the following in detail: o Access locations, classifying these as formal or informal access tracks and recommending treatment options. Signage that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current signage Appendix A. o Hazards, their potential risks, risk groups, risk scores and treatment options Appendix B. o Public rescue equipment that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current public rescue equipment Appendix C. o Facilities and points of interest that may attract members of the public to coastal locations Appendix D.

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Other appendices include: o Coverage maps of assessed locations Appendix E. o Stakeholder Engagement Appendix F. o Life Saving Service Level Calculator Appendix G.

At no time during the inspection was the water entered. The assessments were performed from the land, along the edges of the water, along rocky outcrops, headlands, access tracks and car park access points.

1.3 LIMITATIONS

The following are acknowledged as limitations of this coastal public safety risk assessment. o The absence of an agreed and recognised methodology for rating the hazardousness of rock platforms. o Difficulty in gaining feedback from all identified stakeholders. o Limited timeframes allowed for stakeholders to provide feedback on consultative draft versions of the main report and appendices as a result of the project timeframes.

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1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Definitions of the key terms used within this report are provided below.

Table 1.4.1: Definitions of key terms.

ABSAMP Australian Beach Safety and Management Program.

Attendance A snapshot of the on-beach and in-water attendance taken every two hours on a daily basis.

ATV All-terrain vehicle.

CALD Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities.

Coastal The foreshore, seabed, coastal water, and airspace above a large body of water (harbour/bay/inlet), including areas up to 2NM offshore and of which the landward boundary is the line of mean high water, except that where that line crosses a river/inlet, the landward boundary at that point shall be the point upstream that is calculated by multiplying the width of the river/inlet mouth by 5 (Adapted from the Resource Management Amendment Act 1991 – New Zealand).

Coastal Waterway A coastal body of water e.g. river/creek opening.

Consequence Outcome or impact of an event.

Control An existing process, policy, device, practice or other action that acts to minimise negative risk or enhance positive opportunities.

Emergency Action Plan A plan that outlines the procedures to be used in the event of an emergency.

First Aid A lifesaver/lifeguard treating either a minor or major first aid incident, which may require further assistance from NSW Ambulance e.g. broken bones or stings/bites.

Formal Access Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer ‘track’, effectively exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quality of signage required and enhancing emergency reporting/location identification.

Frequency A measure of the number of occurrences per unit of time.

Geomorphology Is the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them.

Hazard A source of potential harm.

Hazard Symbols A graphical symbol used together with a safety colour and safety shape to form a safety sign.

Inaccessible A location that is not able to be accessed from land by standard reasoning and/or entry is prohibited by private access.

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Informal Access Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/sink-holes), may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make emergency location reporting difficult (location awareness).

Inherent Risk The risk that an activity would pose if no controls or other mitigating factors were in place.

IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat.

LGA Local Government Area – for the purposes of this report this area is used to determine the scope of the assessment (i.e. the coastal boundary of the Local Government Area). This may include lands managed by Councils, Crown and National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Lifesaving Service An organised and structured service comprised of paid lifeguards and/or volunteer lifesavers and appropriate rescue and first aid equipment supported by a coordinated backup team.

Likelihood Used as a general description of probability or frequency.

Modal The conditions that occur most frequently, or more often than other conditions.

Monitor To check, supervise, observe critically or measure the progress of an activity, action or system on a regular basis in order to identify change from the performance level required or expected.

Peak Water Safety A peak body is defined as a state, territory or national non-profit organisation Agencies established to cater for the needs, interests and aspirations of its members. Members may include individuals or organisations, but they will all have a common interest. Peak bodies in the water safety sector may include agencies such as Surf Life Saving, Royal Life Saving, Surf Educators Australia, Austswim, Australian Professional Ocean Lifeguard Association, Surfing NSW and the Office of Boating Safety who represent the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council as a committee member.

Prevailing The conditions existing in a particular place or at a particular time.

Preventative Action / A lifesaver/lifeguard simply providing proactive direction or advice to beachgoers Prevention in a ‘preventative action’ for the beachgoer to avoid finding themselves in a position beyond their capability.

Probability A measure of the chance of occurrence expressed as a number.

Rescue A lifesaver/lifeguard rendering direct assistance to a beachgoer in difficulty in the water.

Residual Risk Risk remaining after implementation of risk treatments.

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Rip Current Channelled currents of water flowing away from shore, typically extending from the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the line of breaking waves.

Risk Standards Australia defines risk as the effect of uncertainty on objects (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Analysis Systematic process to understand the nature of and to the level of risk.

Risk Assessment Standards Australia defines a risk assessment as the overall process of risk identification, risk analysis and risk evaluation (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Evaluation Process of comparing the level of risk against criteria.

Risk Identification The process of determining what, where, when, why and how something should happen.

Risk Management Standards Australia defines risk management as coordinated activities to direct and control an organisation with regard to risk (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Register A table summarising the identified risks, the location, why it has been identified as a risk, and what current treatments are in place to lessen the risk and an overall hazard rating.

Risk Treatment Process of selection and implementation of measures to modify risk.

Risk Treatment Plan A table summarising how to deal with the identified risks, including a list of potential risk treatments, the risk treatments currently and any residual risk.

RWC Rescue water craft (jet ski).

SLS Branch Surf Life Saving Branch, a regional body of Surf Life Saving formed to further the objects of surf lifesaving in a particular geographic area.

Stakeholders Those people and organisations who may affect, be affected, or perceive themselves to be affected by a decision, activity or risk.

1.5 PROJECT TEAM / AUTHORS

Project Team: Adam Weir, Operations Manager, [email protected] Luke Stigter, Coastal Risk Coordinator, [email protected] Chris Twine, Coastal Risk Officer, [email protected]

Australian CoastSafe Surf Life Saving New South Wales Ph: 02-9471 8000| F: 02-9471 8001 W: www.coastsafe.org.au/blueprint

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2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

2.1 INTRODUCTION

The methodology included site identification, site inspection, hazard identification, data analysis, beach hazard ratings, beach identification, facility visitation ratings, facilities, beach usage, tourism data, incident data, communication and consultation.

2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION

The map on the following page provides an overview of the locations of beaches and rock platforms within the Kiama LGA subject to the coastal risk assessment. These specific locations can be referenced in Appendix E. All together the Australian CoastSafe team assessed approximately 34km of coastline in the Kiama LGA.

The area includes locations and/or facilities under the administration of: o Kiama Municipal Council o National Parks and Wildlife Service o Department of Lands (Crown Lands)

The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment and is not limited to signage, car parks, access tracks, service provision, geographical hazards, geological hazards, user groups, conflicting activities and usage. The report also identifies facilities and activities that encourage people to visit the location.

The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined by the northern and southern boundaries of the Kiama LGA. All accessible coastal environments within these boundaries have been included in this report.

Aquatic areas which are excluded from this assessment include all bodies of water which are not ‘coastal’ in nature under SLSA definitions, and all hazards not directly associated with the use and immediate access to the coastal aquatic environment.

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Figure 2.2.1: Kiama LGA – Assessed Locations Site Inspection.

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Table 2.2.1: Assessed locations and assessment dates. Location Land Management Authority Date Minnamurra Point Kiama Municipal Council Monday 24 November, 2014 Jones / Boyds Kiama Municipal Council Monday 24 November, 2014 Cathedral Rocks Kiama Municipal Council Monday 24 November, 2014 Boneyards Kiama Municipal Council Monday 24 November, 2014 Monday 24 & Tuesday 25 Bombo Quarry Kiama Municipal Council November Bombo Kiama Municipal Council Monday 24 November, 2014 Pheasant Point Kiama Municipal Council Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Blacks Kiama Municipal Council Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Kiama Municipal Council / Robertson Basin Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Crown Lands Kiama Blowhole Kiama Municipal Council Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Storm Bay Kiama Municipal Council Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Church Point Kiama Municipal Council Tuesday 25 November, 2014 Surf Beach Kiama Municipal Council Wednesday 26 November, 2014 Kendalls Point Kiama Municipal Council Wednesday 26 November, 2014 Kendalls Kiama Municipal Council Wednesday 26 November, 2014 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave Kiama Municipal Council Wednesday 26 November, 2014 Marsden Head / Little Blowhole Kiama Municipal Council Wednesday 26 November, 2014 Wednesday 26 & Thursday 27 Easts Kiama Municipal Council November, 2014 Loves Bay Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Bare Bluff Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Red Cliff Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Werri Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Werri Headland Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Boat Harbour Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Gerringong Headland Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Walkers Kiama Municipal Council Thursday 27 November, 2014 Thursday 27 & Friday 28 Walkers Headland Kiama Municipal Council November, 2014 Black Head Kiama Municipal Council Friday 28 November, 2014 Kiama Municipal Council / National Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa Friday 28 November, 2014 Parks and Wildlife Service

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2.3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT

During the site inspection hazards were identified within the area inspected and assessed in terms of their individual risk to public safety (extreme, high, medium, low) using a risk assessment matrix Appendix B.

The risk assessment matrix considers both the type of harm that could be sustained as a result of an individual hazard and the likelihood of this harm actually occurring.

Hazards/Risks The Kiama LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of the beaches in the area.

Based on the risk assessment in Appendix B, the following hazards that have been rated with the greatest inherent risk for the Kiama LGA:

Strong currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type Waves/waves over washing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells Inshore holes/drop-off/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type Submerged rocks: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement Cliffs/dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography Boating traffic: As a result of human interaction

It has been identified that the above listed hazards pose risk to the following types of recreational users:

Strong currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Waves/waves over washing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users Inshore holes/drop-off/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: Fishermen, rock platform users Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen Cliffs/dangerous access: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers Boating traffic: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters

This coastal public safety risk assessment aligns with the international standard of risk management ‘AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines’ (Standards Australia, 2009).

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Figure 2.3.1: Risk management process (Standards Australia, 2009).

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2.4 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW

The ABSAMP (Australian Beach Safety and Management Program) was developed by Professor Andrew Short from the University of Sydney Coastal Studies Unit in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia. The program has identified coastal hazards that affect bathers and rates the safety of the beach on a scale of one to ten, where one (1) is the least hazardous and ten (10) is the most hazardous. The beach hazard ratings and definitions are provided below.

Table 2.4.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings. Hazard Rating Details

Least Hazardous: Low danger posed by water depth and/or weak currents; however, 1 – 3 supervision still required, in particular for children and poor swimmers.

Moderately Hazardous: The level of hazard depends on wave and weather conditions, 4 – 6 with the possibility of strong rips and currents posing a moderate risk.

Highly Hazardous: Experience in strong surf, rips and currents required, with beaches 7 – 8 in this category considered dangerous.

Extremely Hazardous: Identifies beaches that are considered extremely dangerous 9 – 10 due to strong rips and currents, and large breakers.

The beach hazard rating is calculated by determining the beach type and wave height. This can be done under either modal (average) or prevailing (current) conditions. The beach hazard rating is then calculated by using the following table.

Table 2.4.2: Beach hazard rating calculation matrices for wave dominate beaches. Wave < 0.5 0.5 (m) 1.0 (m) 1.5 (m) 2.0 (m) 2.5 (m) 3.0 (m) > 3.0 Height (m) (m)

Beach Type Dissipative 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 Long Shore Bar 4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10 Trough Rhythmic Bar 4 5 6 6 7 8 9 10 Beach Transverse Bar 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Rip Low Tide Terrace 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

Reflective 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

The beach hazard ratings used in risk based calculation throughout the report relate to modal beach conditions and as such the hazard rating of a beach may increase when conditions alter e.g. with increasing wave height, winds, strong tides and high tide. Furthermore, a hazard rating is also applied to an average person and therefore the hazard may in fact be greater or less, depending upon an individual’s own skill, and understanding and competence in relation to a certain area. The ABSAMP hazard ratings for the inspected areas of the Kiama LGA are detailed within the next section of the report.

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2.5 ABSAMP TYPES AND RATINGS

The ABSAMP Hazard Rating for the assessed locations listed in Table 2.5.1 below. The table provides both a modal and a prevailing ABSAMP rating. The modal ABSAMP rating represents the average conditions for each location, which has been extracted from the Australian Beach Safety and Management Program. The prevailing ABSAMP rating represents the conditions observed by Australian CoastSafe on the day each audit took place.

Table 2.5.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings – Kiama LGA. ABSAMP ABSAMP ABSAMP ABSAMP Type ABSAMP Type Location Name Rating Rating No. (Modal) (Prevailing) (Modal) (Prevailing) River Inlet + Rock River Inlet + Rock Minnamurra Point nsw389RPa 7* 6* Platforms Platforms Transverse Bar and Rhythmic Bar and Jones / Boyds nsw390 7 6 Rip Beach Cathedral Rocks nsw390RPa 6* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Boneyards nsw391 4 Reflective 4 Reflective Bombo Quarry nsw391RPa 6* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Transverse Bar and Bombo nsw392 7 Rip / Rhythmic Bar 5 Rip and Beach Pheasant Point nsw392RPa 6* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Blacks nsw393 4 Reflective 4 Reflective Robertson Basin nsw393a 5* Reflective 5* Reflective Kiama Blowhole nsw393RPa 5* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Storm Bay nsw393RPb 5* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Church Point nsw393RPc 5* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Transverse Bar and Surf Beach nsw394 6 5 Rip Rip Kendalls Point nsw394RPa 5* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Kendalls nsw395 4 Low Tide Terrace 4 Low Tide Terrace Kaleula Head / nsw395RPa 4* Rock Platforms 4* Rock Platforms Friars Cave Marsden Head / nsw395RPb 4* Rock Platforms 4* Rock Platforms Little Blowhole Easts nsw396 4 Low Tide Terrace 4 Low Tide Terrace Reflective + Rock Reflective + Rock Loves Bay nsw396a 6* 6* Platforms Platforms Reflective + Rock Reflective + Rock Bare Bluff nsw396RPa 6* 6* Platforms Platforms Red Cliff nsw396RPb 6* Rock Platforms 6* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Rhythmic Bar and Werri nsw397 7 Rip / Rhythmic Bar 7 Beach and Beach Werri Headland nsw397RPa 6* Rock Platforms 5* Rock Platforms Reflective + Rock Reflective + Rock Boat Harbour nsw398 4 3 Platforms Platforms

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ABSAMP ABSAMP ABSAMP ABSAMP Type ABSAMP Type Location Name Rating Rating No. (Modal) (Prevailing) (Modal) (Prevailing) Gerringong nsw398RPa 5* Rock Platforms 4* Rock Platforms Headland Transverse Bar and Transverse Bar and Walkers nsw399 5 Rip / Low Tide 5 Rip Terrace Walkers Headland nsw399RPa 5* Rock Platforms 4* Rock Platforms Black Head nsw399RPb 5* Rock Platforms 4* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Transverse Bar and Seven Mile Beach / nsw400 5 Rip / Low Tide 5 Rip / Low Tide Gerroa Terrace Terrace * Kiama LGA Rock Platform Ratings

Currently there is no method of rating the hazardousness of the rocky coast, in an equivalent manner to the ABSAMP beach hazard rating system for sandy beaches. Research is currently underway; Dr. David Kennedy has utilised a grant from Melbourne University to pilot the methods for the development of a risk classification study on rocky coasts (Kennedy, et al., 2013). This research has now received funding under an Australian Research Council linkage grant. Professor Colin Woodroffe (University of Wollongong) presented the methodology for this project at the NSW Coastal Conference in Kiama (November, 2012). An update of this research was provided by Dr. David Kennedy at the NSW Coastal Conference in Ulladulla (November, 2014).

As an interim method of providing an indication of the hazardousness of rock platforms the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings for the beaches on either side of the each rock platform have been averaged. Since the beaches on either side of a rock platform would be exposed to similar prevailing and modal wind, wave and weather conditions and these sandy beaches have a recognised and accepted method of rating the associated hazardousness taking the average of the beaches bordering a rock platform will provide an indication as to the potential hazard associated with the modal conditions affecting the rock platform.

It is a limitation of the report that there is no available method of calculating the specific hazard rating of a rock platform. In order to allow the risk calculations used in this report to be processed the interim solution, which takes into account the local conditions and geomorphology detailed above, has been applied. Once the research being conducted by Dr. David Kennedy and Prof. Colin Woodroffe is completed then these calculations should be revisited.

Treatment Option 4.1 Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and Surf Life Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky coast should be commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related to rocky coasts in this report should be reviewed.

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2.6 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS

The modal beach characteristics and associated hazards for each location are as follows:

2.6.1 RHYTHMIC BAR AND BEACH

Rhythmic bar and beach type commonly occurs around the southern Australian coast. They usually consist of relatively fine-medium (0.3 mm) sand and exposure to waves averaging more than 1.5 m. They are characterised by an outer bar which is separated from the beach by a deep trough, however unlike the longshore bar and trough type, the bar varies in width and elevation alongshore, and it is rhythmic.

Waves break more heavily on the shoreward- protruding rhythmic bar sections with the Figure 2.6.1Illustration of a Rhythmic Bar & Beach. broken wave and white water flowing shoreward as a wave bore. The bore then flows off the bar into the deeper tough, where it moves shoreward and longshore as a rip feeder current. Part of the wave reforms in the trough and breaks again on the shore.

The water from both the wave bore and the swash piles up in the rip feeder channel and moves sideways toward the adjacent rip embayment. The converging feeder currents turn and flow seaward as a rip current through the trough and across the deeper seaward-protruding sections of the rhythmic bar.

The following beaches within the Kiama LGA are classified as rhythmic bar and beach: o Bombo o Werri

2.6.2 TRANSVERSE BAR AND RIP

Transverse bar and rip (TBR) type is the most common and extensive of Australia’s wave- dominated beach types. They occur primarily on beaches composed of fine to medium sand (0.3 mm) and exposed to waves averaging 1.5 m. This beach type received its name from the fact that the bars are transverse or perpendicular to and attached to the beach, separated by deeper rip channels.

The bars and rips are usually regularly spaced and range from 150 m on the lower energy sea- Figure 2.6.2: Illustration of a Transverse Bar and Rip. dominated northern Australian beaches to 250 m along the higher energy southeast coast and 350 m along the exposed southern coast. Waves break heavily on the shallower bars and less in the deeper rip channels resulting in lower energy swash in lee of the bars and higher energy swash/shore break in lee of the rips. The shoreline is rhythmic building a few metres seaward behind the attached bars as deposition occurs forming the

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mega cusp horns and being scoured out and often scarped in lee of the rips forming the embayment’s. The surf zone has a cellular circulation pattern. Waves tend to break more on the bars and move shoreward as wave bores. This water flows both directly into the adjacent rip channel and, closer to the beach, into the rip feeder channels located at the base of the beach. The water in the rip feeders converge and return seaward as a strong rip current.

The following beaches within the Kiama LGA are classified as transverse bar and rip: o Jones / Boyds o Bombo o Surf Beach o Werri o Walkers o Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa

2.6.3 LOW TIDE TERRACE

Low tide terrace beaches tend to occur when waves average about 1m and sand is fine to medium. They are characterised by a moderately steep beach face, which is joined at the low tide level to an attached bar or terrace, hence the name – low tide terrace. The bar usually extends between 20-50m seaward and continues alongshore, attached to the beach. It may be flat and featureless, have a slight central crest, called a ridge, and may be cut every several tens of metres by small shallow rip channels, called mini rips. Figure 2.6.3: Illustration of a Low Tide Terrace.

At high tide when waves are less than 1m, they may pass right over the bar and not break until the beach face, which behaves much like a reflective beach. At spring low tide, however, the entire bar is usually exposed as a ridge or terrace running parallel to the beach and waves break by plunging heavily on the outer edge of the bar.

At mid tide, waves usually break right across the shallow bar, when they are most likely to generate rip currents. The water is returned seaward, both by reflection off the beach face, especially at high tide, and via the mini rips, even if no rip channels are present. The rips, however, are usually shallow, ephemeral or transient meaning they will flow strongly for a few minutes then dissipate.

The following beaches within the Kiama LGA are classified as low tide terrace: o Kendalls o Easts o Walkers o Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa

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2.6.4 REFLECTIVE

Reflective sandy beaches lie at the lower energy end of the wave-dominated beach spectrum. They are characterised by relatively steep, narrow beaches usually composed of coarser sand (0.4 mm). On the open Australian coast, sandy beaches require waves to be less than 0.5 m to be reflective. For this reason they are also found inside the entrance to bays, at the lower energy end of some ocean beaches and in lee of the reefs and islets that front many beaches.

Figure 2.6.4: Illustration of a Reflective beach. Reflective beaches are Australia's most common beach type occurring in every state though they are more common around the southern half of the continent. Reflective beach morphology consists of the steeper, narrow beach and swash zone, with beach cusps commonly present in the upper high tide swash zone. They have no bar or surf zone as waves move unbroken to the shore, where they collapse or surge up the beach face.

The following beaches within the Kiama LGA are classified as reflective: o Boneyards o Blacks o Robertson Basin o Loves Bay o Bare Bluff o Boat Harbour

2.6.5 ROCK PLATFORMS AND ROCKY COASTS

Rock platforms and rocky coasts are wave eroded regions that exist at the base of rocky cliffs and headlands. They are typically influenced by tides and waves. For coastal hazards, rocky coasts can therefore be considered static features unable to adjust their morphology during storms unlike sandy beaches (Kennedy, et al., 2013).

The following regions within the Kiama LGA are classified as Rock Platforms or Rocky Coast: o Minnamurra Point o Marsden Head / Little Blowhole o Cathedral Rocks o Loves Bay o Bombo Quarry o Bare Bluff o Pheasant Point o Red Cliff o Kiama Blowhole o Werri Headland o Storm Bay o Boat Harbour o Church Point o Gerringong Headland o Kendall’s Point o Walkers Headland o Kaleula Head / Friars Cave o Black Head

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2.7 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR)

The Facility Visitation Rate (FVR) is a quantitative assessment system developed by State-wide Mutual as ‘Best Practice’ for Signage As Remote Supervision (2007). The FVR can be used by NSW Local Government to determine the most appropriate signage schedule for a facility (venue or location).

The FVR is calculated using data collected during the assessment process and includes site population use and frequency of use. Since the FVR calculation is used to determine aquatic recreational warning signage requirements, the figures used are those of the peak period of beach usage.

The following information is used to calculate the FVR:

1. Observational data collected during the site assessment; (only during peak summer periods do we rely on observational data) 2. Stakeholder observation, consultation and feedback; and, 3. Historical statistical data

The Facility Visitation Rate is calculated using the following formula:

FVR = (Development x Population) + Frequency

Where: Development* = The level of facilities and infrastructure that exist within or about the facility Population = The average number of people that use the facility at any point in time Frequency = The number of times that the facility is used by patrons

* Note: Development ratings were calculated with reference to 2.7.2

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2.7.1 FACILITY VISITATION RATING (FVR) REFERENCE TABLES

Table 2.7.1: Typical Development and Natural Hazards Rating for Reserves – non beach environments. Rating Development Natural Hazards 1 Virginal bush, cleared land, no infrastructure No hazardous features Cleared land, static infrastructure e.g. grass area with Sloping ground; no natural water; 2 tables and chairs, toilet block, lookout walking track around reserve Cleared land with mobile infrastructure e.g. grassed area Reserve contains natural waterway that 3 with play equipment, cycle way, market, leash free dog runs during wet weather, drops less areas than 1 meter Land manager owned infrastructure with no artificial Creeks, ponds and ledges between 1 4 lighting e.g. golf course, football field, recreational meter and 3 meters ground, caravan park Extensively developed infrastructure with artificial Contains rivers, dams and cliffs greater 5 lighting e.g. sporting complex, artificially lit courts than 3 meters

Table 2.7.2: Typical development ratings for beaches. Rating ABSAMP Beach Rating 1 Beach hazard rating 1 and 2 2 Beach hazard rating 3 and 4 3 Beach hazard rating 5 and 6 4 Beach hazard rating 7 and 8 5 Beach hazard rating 9 and 10

Table 2.7.3: Typical population use rating for a facility. Rating Population Use 1 Less than 5 people at a time 2 5 to 50 people at a time 3 50 to 100 people at a time 4 100 to 500 people at a time 5 Greater than 500 people at a time

Table 2.7.4: Suggested Frequency use rating for a Facility. Rating Frequency of Use 1 An annual activity or event is held at the facility 2 An activity event takes place in the facility on a monthly basis 3 An activity event takes place in the facility on a weekly basis 4 An activity event takes place in the facility on a daily basis 5 The facility is in continuous use for the majority of the day

The FVR values for assessed locations in the Kiama LGA are provided in Table 2.7.5.

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Table 2.7.5: Facility Visitation Rates – for assessed locations. DEVELOPMENT LOCATION NAME * POPULATION + FREQUENCY = FVR RATING Minnamurra Point 4 * 2 + 3 = 11 Jones / Boyds 4 * 3 + 3 = 15 Cathedral Rocks 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Boneyards 2 * 3 + 3 = 9 Bombo Quarry 3 * 2 + 4 = 10 Bombo 4 * 3 + 3 = 15 Pheasant Point 3 * 1 + 3 = 6 Blacks 2 * 4 + 3 = 11 Robertson Basin 3 * 3 + 3 = 12 Kiama Blowhole 3 * 4 + 4 = 16 Storm Bay 3 * 1 + 4 = 7 Church Point 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Surf Beach 3 * 5 + 3 = 18 Kendalls Point 3 * 2 + 4 = 10 Kendalls 2 * 4 + 3 = 11 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave 2 * 2 + 3 = 7 Marsden Head / Little Blowhole 2 * 3 + 3 = 9 Easts 2 * 4 + 3 = 11 Loves Bay 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Bare Bluff 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Red Cliff 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Werri 4 * 4 + 3 = 19 Werri Headland 3 * 1 + 3 = 6 Boat Harbour 2 * 3 + 4 = 10 Gerringong Headland 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Walkers 3 * 2 + 3 = 9 Walkers Headland 3 * 1 + 3 = 6 Black Head 3 * 3 + 3 = 12 Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 3 * 5 + 3 = 18

Given the FVR scores listed in Table 2.7.5, the most appropriate signage characteristics for each location are listed below.

FVR Score between 4 and 6 Locations include: o Pheasant Point o Werri Headland

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Manager have signage and spaced no greater than 1000 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

NB: The sign does not require the depiction of warning symbols.

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FVR Score between 7 and 10 Locations include: o Cathedral Rocks o Boneyards o Bombo Quarry o Storm Bay o Church Point o Kendall’s Point o Kaleula Head / Friars Cave o Marsden Head / Little Blowhole o Loves Bay o Bare Bluff o Red Cliff o Boat Harbour o Gerringong Headland o Walkers

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign as warning symbols. If no highs then the top hazard should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

FVR Score between 11 and 15 Locations include: o Minnamurra Point o Jones / Boyds o Bombo o Blacks o Robertson Basin o Kendalls o Easts o Black Head

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign as warning symbols. If no highs then the top two hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

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FVR Score between 16 and 20 Locations include: o Kiama Blowhole o Surf Beach o Werri o Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 250 metres apart around the beach perimeter. o The name of the facility o A general warning message o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign as warning symbols. If no highs then the top three hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

FVR Score between 21 and 26 o No locations

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 100 metres apart around the beach perimeter. Additionally the signage should contain the following: o The name of the facility o A general warning message o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign as warning symbols. If no highs then the top four hazards should appear o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

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2.8 FACILITIES AUDIT

Facilities in the coastal risk management process are any item of infrastructure which is situated close to the beach/access. The 10 most common coastal facilities along the Kiama LGA coastline are shown in the table below.

Table 2.8.1: The 10 most common facilities along the Kiama LGA coastline. Rank Facility Type Count 1 Benches 105 2 Rubbish Bins 99 3 Picnic Table 73 4 Car Park 71 5 Water Tap 29 6 Shower 25 7 Dog Tidy Bag 21 8 Sheltered Picnic Table 21 9 BBQ Area 16 10 Amenities Block 15

Why do we record facilities? Consideration should be given to the placement of facilities with respect to identified hazards and risks and lifesaving services. Foreshore BBQ, playground/s, car parks and service amenities, all subsequently attract large numbers of people (residents and tourists). It is important for the Land Manager to recognise that by providing facilities it is expected that there will be an increase in people visiting these areas. This increase can correlate to the likelihood of a risk occurring in a coastal environment. Treatment plans identified in the report should be implemented in these areas to reduce the risk of a particular event occurring.

Table 2.8.2: The top locations for facilities within the Kiama LGA. Rank Location Count 1 Werri 82 2 Kiama Blowhole 68 3 Surf Beach 53 4 Minnamurra Point 53 5 Robertson Basin 42 6 Seven Mile Beach 40 7 Kendalls 34 8 Blacks 33 9 Boat Harbour 25 10 Jones/Boyds 23

Refer to Appendix D for a further breakdown of facilities at the assessed locations within the Kiama LGA.

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2.9 POPULATION, DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

Population growth is an important consideration when evaluating and predicting beach usage trends. Increasing beach usage due to population growth relates to an increase in the probability of an event occurring. Tourism operations and development proposals are also associated with population growth, and these should also be considered when determining suitable risk treatment options.

2.9.1 POPULATION STATISTICS

The 2011 census recorded that a population count of 19,986 in the Kiama LGA. Over the last 10 years, the population has increased by 1,213 people (6% growth). The first table lists the male, female and total population in the Kiama LGA for the last three Census counts. The second table lists the 2011 population of the suburbs that are situated along the coast of the Kiama LGA.

Table 2.9.1 Kiama population data (ABS, 2011). Kiama Local Government Area – Population Year Males Females Total 2011 9,791 10,195 19,986 2006 9,300 9,685 18,985 2001 9,265 9,508 18,773

Table 2.9.2 Population count of coastal state suburbs in the Kiama LGA (ABS, 2011). State Suburb Males Females Total Population Minnamurra 433 422 855 Kiama Downs 2,395 2,453 4,848 Kiama 3,060 3,212 6,272 Kiama Heights 444 449 893 Werri Beach 273 268 541 Gerringong 1,631 1,825 3,456 Gerroa 386 371 757

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2.9.2 DEVELOPMENT PLANS IN KIAMA

Existing and future coastal development plans (government and private) scheduled for the Kiama LGA should continue to consider the impact of increased beach usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, beach access and supervision.

Increasing the level of coastal development in a particular location can have a number of implications that should be taken into account before the development occurs. This may include increasing the number and density of people living close to the coast, improving the quality and number of facilities that may attract people to the coast (i.e. car parks, foreshore BBQ’s and picnic tables etc.), changing the way in which people interact with the coast at a particular location (i.e. swimming, surfcraft use, boating and fishing), and increasing the quality and quantity of access provision to the coast. It is important that these elements are taken into consideration in the planning process so that necessary improvements to drowning prevention strategies can be implemented before the coastal usage of the location changes.

One such example is the Kiama Harbour and Blowhole Point Headland master plan. According to the Illawarra Mercury (2014) the plan aims to “consolidate various projects, many of which were the refurbishment or replacement of existing facilities, to create a consistent theme or brand for the area”. The plan also highlights the need to maximize the potential of the area for commercial and tourist activity.

Treatment Option 1.1 & 2.1 Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Kiama Local Government Area, should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options such as education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision.

2.9.3 TOURISM INFORMATION

The following table shows the number of international visitors, domestic overnight visitors and domestic day trippers over a four year annual average to the year ending September 2013 (Destination NSW, 2014).

Table 2.9.3 Tourism data and visitor information for Kiama LGA. Overall Tourist Figures (‘000) Domestic Overnight 270 Domestic Day Trip (>50km) 698 International Overnight 11

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Table 2.9.4 Domestic overnight travel data and visitor information for Kiama LGA. Activities (‘000) Kiama % NSW % Eat out at restaurants 152 26% 58% Visit friends and relatives 140 24% 22% Go to the beach 114 19% 48% Go shopping 110 19% 26% Pubs clubs discos etc. 71 12% 26% Origin (‘000) Kiama % NSW % Sydney 176 76% 28% Regional NSW 56 24% 41% Top 5 Accommodation Types (‘000) Kiama % NSW % Friends or relatives property 243 32% 39% Caravan park or commercial camping 186 24% 13% ground Rented house, apartment, flat or unit 135 17% 10% Hotel, resort, motel or motor Inn 119 16% 25% Own property (e.g. holiday house) 80 11% 4% Age Group (visitors) (‘000) Kiama % NSW % 15 - 24 years 34 13% 15% 25 - 34 years 47 17% 17% 35 - 44 years 52 19% 18% 45 - 54 years 45 17% 19% 55 - 64 years 59 22% 17% 65 years or over 34 13% 15%

In summary, beaches in the Kiama LGA are the third highest attraction behind eating out at restaurants and visiting friends and relatives. As the Kiama LGA is only a two hour drive from Sydney, the majority of visitors come from here. 32% of people stay at a friends or relatives property and 24% stay at a caravan park or commercial camping ground. This is higher than the NSW average of 13%, meaning that the Kiama LGA is a popular destination for caravan parks and camping grounds. The age group of visitors is fairly evenly spread however 55 – 64 year olds have the most visitors with 22%.

Table 2.9.5 Domestic Day Trip visitor information for Kiama LGA. Origin (‘000) Kiama % NSW % Sydney 510 78% 42% South Coast 143 22% 8% Activities (‘000) Kiama % NSW % Eat out at restaurants 352 37% 44% Visit friends and relatives 226 24% 35% General sight seeing 189 20% 16% Go to the beach (including swimming) 180 19% 10% Age Group (visitors) (‘000) Kiama % NSW % 15 - 24 years n/a n/a n/a 25 - 34 years n/a n/a n/a 35 - 44 years 137 30% 17% 45 - 54 years 103 22% 17% 55 - 64 years 110 24% 17% 65 years or over 110 24% 18%

In summary, beaches in the Kiama LGA are the fourth highest attraction for day trippers. As the Kiama LGA is only a two hour drive from Sydney, the majority of day trippers come from here during weekends. The age group with the highest number of visitors is the 35 – 44 year age group.

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Local Accommodation Providers Local accommodation providers also attract beach users to the coast especially during school holiday periods. The beachside suburbs of the Kiama LGA are largely occupied with holiday apartments/houses, caravan parks/camping grounds and hotels/motels. The accommodation providers that have direct access to coastal waters (caravan parks and camp sites) are listed below:

Table 2.9.6 Accommodation providers with direct coastal access in the Kiama LGA. Approx. Venue Type Location Park Owner Max Capacity Kiama Municipal Kiama Harbour Cabins Cabins Kiama Blowhole 102 Council Cabins, caravan Kiama Municipal Surf Beach Holiday Park Surf Beach 350 and tents Council Kiama Municipal Kendalls Beach Holiday Park Cabins Kendalls 360 Council Big 4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Cabins Easts Big 4 3000 Cabins, caravan Kiama Municipal Werri Beach Holiday Park Werri 2000 and tents Council Cabins, caravan Big 4 Discovery Holiday Parks Gerroa Big 4 1500 and tents Cabins, caravan Kiama Municipal Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park Gerroa 400 and tents Council

Note: There are also numerous inland caravan parks, hotels/motels and holiday rentals.

Caravan parks/camping grounds that have direct access to coastal waters are of significance when determining the level of risk at a certain location. As most guests are domestic or international visitors their knowledge of the beach conditions will be less than local residents and therefore there is a higher chance of visitors getting into difficulty. Many access points from caravan parks and camping grounds also lead to unpatrolled beaches or sections of a beach which may also increase the level of risk. Some treatment options regarding accommodation providers that have direct access to coastal waters can be found in Sections 3.2.3 – Education and Awareness Programmes and 0 – Safety Signage.

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2.10 BEACH USAGE AND INCIDENT STATISTICS

2.10.1 BEACH USAGE STATISTICS

The following statistics have been recorded by the lifesaving (volunteers) and lifeguard (paid) services operating within the Kiama LGA. Figures for lifesaving services are over five patrolling seasons (2009/10, 2010/11, 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14) and these have been sourced from the Surf Life Saving internal management database known as ‘SurfGuard’.

Figures for lifeguards have been sourced from Kiama Municipal Council and include statistics from season 2013/14.

Lifesaving Services – Average Daily Attendance: The graph below provides the average daily attendances as recorded by lifesavers (weekends and public holidays) for the services operating within the Kiama LGA.

Figure 2.10.1 Average daily attendance statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Kiama LGA (July 2009 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o Kiama SLSC (Surf Beach) recorded higher average daily attendance figures over both Gerringong SLSC (Werri) and Kiama Downs SLSC (Jones/Boyds) for each patrolling season. o Season 2013/2014 had the highest average daily attendance for Surf Beach (Kiama SLSC). o Kiama Downs SLSC (Jones/Boyds) recorded higher average daily attendance figures over Gerringong SLSC (Werri) in all seasons expect for 2009/2010. o The lowest average daily attendance was recorded by Gerringong SLSC (Werri) in season 2011/2012.

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Lifesaving Services - Rescues: The graph below provides the rescues as recorded by lifesavers (weekends and public holidays) for the services operating within the Kiama LGA.

Figure 2.10.2 Average daily attendance statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Kiama LGA (July 2009 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o There has been an overall decrease in rescues over the previous five seasons. o Kiama SLSC (Surf Beach) recorded the highest number of rescues during the 2010/2011 season. o Gerringong SLSC (Werri) recorded the second highest number of rescues during the 2009/2010 season. o Kiama Downs SLSC (Jones/Boyds) recorded the lowest number of rescues during season 2013/2014. o Attendances were moderately higher for the first two seasons, compared to the last four.

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Lifesaving Services - First Aid and Preventative Actions: The graphs below display the first aid and prevention statistics for lifesavers (weekends and public holidays).

Preventative Actions may include: First Aid cases may include: o Swimmers advised/warned o Minor injuries/first aid o Craft users advised/warned o Major injures/hospitalisation o Beach users advised/warned o Marine stings o Warning signs erected o Spinal injuries o Shark alarm o Shock o Searches/lost children

Figure 2.10.3 Preventative action statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Kiama LGA (July 2009 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o The highest amount of preventative actions occurred in 2013/2014 and was recorded by Kiama SLSC (Surf Beach). o Gerringong SLSC (Werri) had a higher number of preventative actions than Kiama SLSC in season 2009/2010. o The lowest amount of preventative actions occurred in 2013/2014 and was recorded by Gerringong SLSC (Werri).

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Figure 2.10.4 First aid statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Kiama LGA (July 2009to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o The highest amount of first aid cases occurred in 2012/2013 and was recorded by Kiama SLSC (Surf Beach). o Kiama Downs SLSC (Jones/Boyds) recorded more first aid cases than Gerringong SLSC (Werri). o No first aid cases were recorded by Gerringong SLSC (Werri) in seasons 2011/2012 and 2012/2013.

Lifeguard Services - Attendance:

Figure 2.10.5 Attendance statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Kiama LGA (July 2013 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o Surf Beach recorded the highest attendance followed be Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa, and Easts. o Jones / Boyds recorded the lowest attendance figures.

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Lifeguard Services - Rescues:

Figure 2.10.6 Rescue statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Kiama LGA (July 2013 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o Surf Beach recorded the highest number of rescues followed by Werri and Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa. o Jones / Boyds and Kendalls didn’t record any rescues for season 2013/2014.

Lifeguard Services - Preventions:

Figure 2.10.7 Prevention statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Kiama LGA (July 2013 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o Surf Beach recorded the highest number of preventative actions followed by Bombo and Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa. o Kendalls, Easts and Werri recorded approximately the same number of preventative actions.

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Lifeguard Services – First Aid Cases:

Figure 2.10.8 First Aid statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Kiama LGA (July 2013 to June 2014).

Notes to graph: o Surf Beach recorded the highest number of first aid cases followed by Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa and Kendalls. o Jones / Boyds recorded the lowest amount of first aid cases.

Rescues/Preventative Actions: The following tables show the cumulative statistics for both preventative actions and rescues which are then used to determine the preventative actions: rescues ratio. In theory, the more preventative actions a club/service makes, the number of rescues that are required to be conducted will decrease e.g. Kiama SLSC makes 16 preventative actions before having to conduct a single rescue. These statistics may highlight which clubs/services have the opportunity to be more proactive in making preventative actions with the aim of reducing the amount of rescues that need to be performed.

Table 2.10.1 Volunteer Surf Life Saving total preventative actions and rescues for beaches in Kiama LGA (July 2009 – June 2014). Kiama Downs Kiama Gerringong Total Preventative Actions 778 2824 875 Total Rescues 73 182 77 Ratio Preventative Actions / Rescues 11 16 11

Notes to table: o Kiama SLSC has a more effective ratio of preventative actions / rescues than Kiama Downs SLSC and Gerringong SLSC.

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Table 2.10.2 Volunteer Surf Life Saving total preventative actions and rescues for beaches in Kiama LGA (July 2003 – June 2014). Jones / Seven Mile Bombo Surf Beach Kendalls Easts Werri Boyds Beach / Gerroa Total Preventative 215 587 2297 415 423 407 619 Actions (Swimmers) Total Rescues 0 13 50 0 4 27 14 Ratio Preventative n/a 45 46 n/a 105 15 44 Actions / Rescues

Notes to table: o Easts has a more effective ratio of preventative actions / rescues than any other lifeguard service. This may be due to conditions at Easts being relatively calmer than other nearby locations. o Bombo, Surf Beach and Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa have similar ratios. o Werri has the least effective ratio of preventative actions than any other lifeguard service. o Jones / Boyds and Kendalls did not conduct any rescues during season 2013/2014 and therefore a ratio for these two lifeguard services was unable to be calculated.

2.10.2 DROWNING INCIDENTS

The drowning incidents that have occurred in the Kiama LGA from the 1st of July 2004 are provided below. The table excludes any inland drowning incidents.

Table 2.10.3 Drowning Incidents from 01/07/04 to 30/06/14 in the Kiama LGA. Coastal Drowning Incidents – Kiama Local Government Area Age / Residential Residential Date Location Time Day Month Ethnicity Activity Gender Status Postcode Black Rock 3/01/06 19:48 Tue Jan 42 & M Taiwanese Aus Resident 2148 Head Fishing 1/02/07 Easts 17:00 Thu Feb 35 & F Australian Aus Resident Swimming 2540 15/11/07 Bombo 12:30 Thu Nov 28 & F Vietnamese Aus Resident Swimming 2170 Surf International 6/01/08 2:00 Sun Jan 31 & M Canadian Swimming n/a Beach Tourist 1/01/09 Bombo 15:00 Thu Jan 50 & M Asian Aus Resident Swimming 2533 Kaleula Head/ Rock 28/05/10 18:30 Fri May 41 & M Asian Aus Resident 2135 Friars Fishing Cave Kiama International Rock 13/06/10 14:00 Sun Jun 22 & M Indian n/a Blowhole Tourist Related Little Rock 26/07/13 19:45 Fri Jul 58 & M Australian Aus Resident 2168 Blowhole Fishing Kiama Rock 15/08/14 10:29 Fri Aug 65 & M Asian Aus Resident n/a Blowhole Fishing

Notes to table: o The average age of drowning victims was 41. o 56% of incidents occurred from rock fishing. This is higher than the NSW of approx. 25%. o 71% of Australian residents who drowned had an overseas ethnic background. o 77% of all incidents occurred after 1500hrs and overnight.

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o 44% of all incidents occurred during summer, 33% occurred during winter, 11% during autumn and 11% during spring.

While data surrounding incident location/time has been referenced, specific environmental conditions at the time of incidents have not been adequately assessed to identify causal factors and specific trends. This information exists and is held in raw format by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), including wave height/direction, tides, wind speed/direction, temperature, and visibility.

The Bureau of Meteorology and Surf Life Saving Australia are currently undertaking a retrospective analysis of meteorological and oceanographic conditions prevalent at the time of drowning cases between 2003 and 2013 to identify trends and inform the refinement of the hazardous surf warning system.

Review and assessment of this data may identify environmental trends which may encourage/discourage recreational activities, impact hazard/risk perception and risk taking behaviour, identify higher-risk conditions for types of localities, and specific ‘black spot’ locations. Dangerous surf warnings and education/awareness programmes may be improved as a result.

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Figure 2.10.9 Kiama Drowning and Victim Postcode

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2.10.3 EMERGENCY CALLOUTS

There have been 59 emergency callouts through the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (SRERS) from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2014 in the Kiama LGA. The SRERS involves callout teams (lifesavers/lifeguards), including ‘after hours’ responding to emergencies that have been tasked by the Police. As a result of the 59 callouts, 18 persons were rescued by lifeguards and lifesavers. 31 callouts resulted in ‘no further action’ or ‘stood down before response’ meaning resources were ultimately not required. Such cases include self rescue, rescue by another member of the public, rescue by another emergency response organisation, and false alarms. Unfortunately, 4 of these callouts were a result of coastal drowning / death.

Note: The data below does not incorporate incidents from other emergency services where the SRERS may not have been tasked e.g. Water Police, Ambulance and Marine Rescue data.

Table 2.10.4 Emergency Callouts through the SRES from 01/01/08 to 31/12/14 in the Kiama LGA. Date Incident Location Season Day Time Job Type Summary Outcome 6/10/2008 Bombo Spring Mon 18:13 Vessel 2 Persons Rescued 25/10/2008 Minnamurra Point Spring Sat 7:23 Swimming 1 Person Rescued 15/11/2007 Bombo Spring Thu 13:15 Swimming 1 Coastal Drowning/Death 1/01/2009 Bombo Summer Thu 14:52 Swimming 1 Person Rescued 11/05/2009 Surf Beach Autumn Mon 13:51 SurfCraft No Further Action 23/01/2010 Boat Harbour Summer Sat 7:25 Vessel No Further Action 28/02/2010 Bombo Summer Sun 18:00 SurfCraft No Further Action 14/06/2010 Kiama Blowhole Winter Mon 11:27 Rock Related 1 Coastal Drowning/Death 25/09/2010 Surf Beach Spring Sat 16:47 Swimming No Further Action 25/11/2010 Kendalls Spring Thu 21:11 Other No Further Action 7/01/2011 Robertson Basin Summer Fri 21:53 Vessel No Further Action 30/01/2011 Kendalls Summer Sun 8:27 Swimming 1 Person Found 26/02/2011 Kiama Blowhole Summer Sat 14:04 Swimming No Further Action Diving/ 27/02/2011 Minnamurra Point Summer Sun 17:01 1 Person Rescued Snorkelling Stood Down Before 23/04/2011 Robertson Basin Autumn Sat 12:18 Vessel Response 27/05/2011 Boat Harbour Autumn Fri 9:48 Vessel No Further Action 23/08/2011 Surf Beach Winter Tue 18:26 SurfCraft No Further Action 17/10/2011 Werri Spring Mon 15:44 Environmental No Further Action 28/12/2011 Kendalls Point Summer Wed 6:45 Rock Fishing 1 Person Rescued 11/03/2012 Werri Autumn Sun 11:16 Vessel 1 Person Rescued 6/04/2012 Kiama Blowhole Autumn Fri 7:34 Rock Fishing 1 Person Rescued 9/04/2012 Black Head Autumn Mon 13:29 Rock Related No Further Action 14/04/2012 Black Head Autumn Sat 9:50 Vessel No Further Action Stood Down Before 6/06/2012 Werri Headland Winter Wed 17:59 Self Harm Response 8/08/2012 Walkers Winter Wed 12:54 Vessel 1 Person Found 16/11/2012 Black Head Spring Fri 11:40 Rock Fishing 1 person rescued 7/12/2012 Kiama Blowhole Summer Fri 13:00 Self Harm Drowning/Death 22/12/2012 Easts Summer Sat 13:55 SurfCraft No Further Action

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Date Incident Location Season Day Time Job Type Summary Outcome 28/12/2012 Bombo Summer Fri 13:28 Vessel No Further Action 29/12/2012 Loves Bay Summer Sat 10:05 Rock Fishing No Further Action 1/01/2013 Bombo Summer Tue 16:42 Swimming 5 Persons Rescued Stood Down Before 2/01/2013 Kiama Blowhole Summer Wed 12:09 Swimming Response Parachute/ Stood Down Before 3/01/2013 Kiama Blowhole Summer Thu 8:21 Parasail Response 5/01/2013 Black Head Summer Sat 16:36 SurfCraft No Further Action 18/01/2013 Kiama Blowhole Summer Fri 7:38 Vessel 2 persons Rescued 6/02/2013 Robertson Basin Summer Wed 13:36 Vessel 1 person Rescued 21/02/2013 Werri Summer Thu 13:56 SurfCraft 1 person Rescued 24/02/2013 Easts Summer Sun 16:47 Vessel Person Found Gerringong 1 Coastal Death / 7/03/2013 Autumn Thu 12:00 Rock Related Harbour Drowning Seven Mile Beach / Stood Down Before 10/03/2013 Autumn Sun 12:44 SurfCraft Gerroa Response 19/04/2013 Werri Autumn Fri 16:49 Swimming No Further Action 9/07/2013 Robertson Basin Winter Tue 15:10 SurfCraft No Further Action 26/07/2013 Kendalls Winter Fri 19:53 Rock Fishing Drowning/Death 4/09/2013 Church Point Spring Wed 16:02 Self Harm No Further Action 15/09/2013 Robertson Basin Spring Sun 14:09 Vessel No Further Action Little Blowhole, 26/09/2013 Spring Thu 14:41 Other No Further Action Kiama 29/10/2013 Bombo Spring Tue 17:55 SurfCraft No Further Action 1/11/2013 Kiama Blowhole Spring Fri 11:09 Rock Related No Further Action 8/11/2013 Kiama Blowhole Spring Fri 14:51 Vessel No Further Action 24/12/2013 Bombo Summer Tue 12:56 Vessel No Further Action 29/12/2013 Werri Summer Sun 17:25 Swimming No Further Action Seven Mile Beach / 2/02/2014 Summer Sun 13:42 SurfCraft No Further Action Gerroa Seven Mile Beach / 9/02/2014 Summer Sun 15:54 SurfCraft No Further Action Gerroa 15/04/2014 Werri Autumn Tue 11:36 Swimming No Further Action 18/04/2014 Bombo Autumn Fri 14:41 SurfCraft No Further Action Seven Mile Beach / Stood Down Before 10/05/2014 Autumn Sat 11:49 Self Harm Gerroa Response 9/08/2014 Loves Bay Winter Sat 14:34 Environmental Other 1 Coastal Death / 15/08/2014 Kiama Blowhole Winter Fri 10:29 Rock Fishing Drowning Seven Mile Beach / 24/08/2014 Winter Sun 14:21 Vessel No Further Action Gerroa

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Notes to table: o 17% of all emergency incidents were located at Kiama Blowhole (the highest of any other location) and 15% occurred at Bombo (the second highest location). o Interestingly the highest activity for emergency incidents were a result of vessel incidents with 27% of all jobs, 20% were a result of surfcraft, 19% were a result of swimming and 17% of were a result of rock fishing/rock related activities. o 69% of all emergency incidents occurred after midday, 12:00hrs. o 41% of emergency incidents occurred during summer, 22% during spring, 22% during autumn, and 15% during winter.

Treatment Option 1.2 & 2.2 Coastal usage and incident data (e.g. drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for coastal safety.

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2.11 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION

Communicating with stakeholders about risk perception and tolerance is a core component of the risk assessment and management process.

Stakeholder Consultation: Consultation with a number of stakeholders was formally undertaken to ensure Land Managers and other key stakeholders were given the opportunity to provide local input and knowledge i.e. validation of strategies in place, risk management issues and opportunities that may exist.

Local stakeholder meetings were conducted with: o Russell Park, Manager: Human Resources and Commercial Services, Kiama Municipal Council o Andrew Mole, Lifeguard Supervisor, Kiama Municipal Council o Greg Tedder, Area Manager – Nowra, National Parks and Wildlife Service

The consultation process has been aided in the following ways: o Open community forums and workshops, o Print and radio media announcements of workshops and consultation, o Written and verbal follow ups post workshops, o Use of social media – Twitter, o Web based surveys, o Web based information submissions, o On-site communication and distribution of flyers, o On-site one-to-one surveying, and o Draft reports circulated to the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council.

Consultation Workshop: Two public forums were held in the Kiama Local Government Area to engage with the local community. These were advertised in local media and pre-identified stakeholders were notified via email and follow up phone calls. The public forums were open to any member of the public including surf lifesavers, lifeguards, fishing groups, surfing associations, emergency services personnel, boaters, residents, etc.

The first public forum was held at the Kiama Pavilion on Wednesday 26th November, 2014 and was attended by: o Geoff Senior, NSW Ambulance Service o Murray McMillan, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club o Thomas Daly, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club o Patrick Sutton, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club o Russell Park, Kiama Municipal Council o Andrew Mole, Kiama Municipal Council o Jim Bradley, Disabled Surfers o Glenn Matthews, Director of Lifesaving, South Coast Branch o Josh Douglas, Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club

The second public forum was held at the Gerringong Town Hall on Thursday 27th November, 2014 and was attended by: o Shane Wicks, Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club

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Figure 2.11.1: Project Blueprint Flyer.

Consultation Survey: The consultation process has also involved the introduction of two online surveys which has been useful to capture input from a wide range of key stakeholders, at local/regional level. The first survey was sent to both internal and external stakeholders (total of 135 stakeholders). Questions focused on drowning identification and prevention. The second survey was sent to internal stakeholders only e.g. lifesavers and lifeguards (total of 63 stakeholders). Questions focused on visitation numbers and incidents. Specific questions and answers can be referenced in Appendix F.

Stakeholder Communication: The process of communicating risk estimates from the assessment process to decision-makers and ultimately to the public, sometimes referred to as risk education, is only one part of the communication process. In getting those affected by risk to accept risk mitigation measures, and in providing decision-makers and communities with the information they need to tolerate and deal with risks, there needs to be two-way communications that includes those affected by risk, the public, into the decision-making process.

Kiama Municipal Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Surf Life Saving South Coast should hold regular liaison meetings as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies in the Kiama LGA. It is acknowledged that this concept would need the establishment of a ‘terms of reference’ with clear structural and governance arrangements. It is recommended that the committee could have a standing item on all future meeting agendas titled ‘coastal risk management – status and issues’, or similar. Treatment options found in this report can then be addressed in this agenda item. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year (before and after) the surf life saving season.

The Illawarra Local Emergency Management Committee is an effective group who operate in the Kiama LGA which discuss emergency management processes, opportunities and issues (including coastal). The group is made up of representatives from NSW Police, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance Service, State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue, Wollongong City Council, Shellharbour City Council, Kiama

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Municipal Council, Surf Life Saving, Bluescope Steel, Port Authority of NSW, University of Wollongong and agricultural/animal services.

Treatment Options 1.3, 2.3 & 4.3 Land Managers in the Kiama Local Government Area should meet with Surf Life Saving South Coast as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of this meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year, before and after the surf life saving season.

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3 RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS

3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (INHERENT GROSS RISK)

3.1.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY INDEX

The Action Planning Priority Index can be viewed as the gross risk score for a beach. The index seeks to identify the risks associated with the broader coastal environment under assessment, rather than specific hazards and risks present at a particular location or site. The majority of information detailed in this section of the report will be identified through pre-existing data (where available), with new data sourced where gaps are present or the data is not reliable.

The total score for the Action Planning Priority Index is intended to be used for the purpose of prioritising risk mitigation strategies provided for consideration in this report. The individual components of the Action Planning Priority Index should not be considered in isolation from the total scores outlined in.

The information is based on modal data for peak visitation during the busiest season(s).

The Action Planning Priority Index uses the following risk identification information: 1. Australian Beach Safety & Management Program (ABSAMP) Rating 2. Local Population Rating (LPR) 3. Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) 4. Access Rating (AR)

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3.1.2 AUSTRALIAN BEACH SAFETY AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Table 3.1.1 ABSAMP and Indicative ratings applied to assessed locations. Location Name ABSAMP No. ABSAMP Rating ABSAMP Type Minnamurra Point nsw389RPa 7* Rock Platforms Jones / Boyds nsw390 7 Transverse Bar and Rip Cathedral Rocks nsw390RPa 6* Rock Platforms Boneyards nsw391 4 Reflective Bombo Quarry nsw391RPa 6* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Rip / Bombo nsw392 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach Pheasant Point nsw392RPa 6* Rock Platforms Blacks nsw393 4 Reflective Robertson Basin nsw393a 5* Reflective Kiama Blowhole nsw393RPa 5* Rock Platforms Storm Bay nsw393RPb 5* Rock Platforms Church Point nsw393RPc 5* Rock Platforms Surf Beach nsw394 6 Transverse Bar and Rip Kendalls Point nsw394RPa 5* Rock Platforms Kendalls nsw395 4 Low Tide Terrace Kaleula Head / Friars Cave nsw395RPa 4* Rock Platforms Marsden Head / Little nsw395RPb 4* Rock Platforms Blowhole Easts nsw396 4 Low Tide Terrace Loves Bay nsw396a 6* Reflective + Rocks Bare Bluff nsw396RPa 6* Rock Platforms Red Cliff nsw396RPb 6* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Rip / Werri nsw397 7 Rhythmic Bar and Beach Werri Headland nsw397RPa 6* Rock Platforms Boat Harbour nsw398 4 Reflective + Rock Platforms Gerringong Headland nsw398RPa 5* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Rip / Low Tide Walkers nsw399 5 Terrace Walkers Headland nsw399RPa 5* Rock Platforms Black Head nsw399RPb 5* Rock Platforms Transverse Bar and Rip / Low Tide Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa nsw400 5 Terrace

* Kiama LGA Rock Platform Ratings

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3.1.3 LOCAL POPULATION RATING

The Local Population Rating (LPR) expands on the information obtained from the Facility Visitation Rating. This additional population rating identifies the population of residents and/or non-residents located within 2km’s of a coastal location under assessment. The highest figure (resident or non-resident) will be recorded.

Table 3.1.2 Local population rating descriptors. Population Rating Qualifying Description (all staying/living within 2km of beach) 1 < 50 residents and/or < 20 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists) 2 50 – 250 residents and/or 21 – 100 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists) 3 250 – 1000 residents and/or 100 – 500 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists) 4 1000 – 2500 residents and/or 500 – 1000 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists) 5 2500 + residents and/or 1000 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)

Table. 3.1.3 Local population ratings applied to assessed locations. Location LPR Total Minnamurra Point 5 Jones / Boyds 5 Cathedral Rocks 5 Boneyards 5 Bombo Quarry 5 Bombo 5 Pheasant Point 5 Blacks 5 Robertson Basin 5 Kiama Blowhole 5 Storm Bay 5 Church Point 5 Surf Beach 5 Kendalls Point 5 Kendalls 5 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave 5 Marsden Head / Little Blowhole 5 Easts 5 Loves Bay 4 Bare Bluff 3 Red Cliff 4 Werri 5 Werri Headland 5 Boat Harbour 5 Gerringong Headland 4 Walkers 4 Walkers Headland 3 Black Head 3 Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 4

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3.1.4 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION RATING

The Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) identifies any conflicts present at the coastal environment between the number of people and activities taking place. Activities include both those in the water and those on the beach.

Table 3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction descriptors. Population Population Conflicting activities Conflicting activities (in-water) (on beach) 100+ 5 Persistent and dangerous 5 1000+ 5 Persistent and dangerous 5 75-100 4 Persistent 4 750-1000 4 Persistent 4 50-75 3 Regular 3 500-750 3 Regular 3 25-50 2 Isolated conflicts 2 250-500 2 Isolated conflicts 2 1-25 1 No conflicts reported 1 1-250 1 No conflicts reported 1

Table 3.1.5 Human/Activity Interaction ratings applied to assessed locations. Population Population Location Conflict Conflict HAI Total (in water) (on beach) Minnamurra Point 1 2 1 1 5 Jones / Boyds 3 2 1 2 8 Cathedral Rocks 1 1 1 1 4 Boneyards 2 2 1 1 6 Bombo Quarry 1 1 1 1 4 Bombo 5 2 1 2 10 Pheasant Point 1 1 1 1 4 Blacks 1 2 2 2 7 Robertson Basin 1 1 1 2 5 Kiama Blowhole 1 1 3 3 8 Storm Bay 1 1 1 1 4 Church Point 1 1 1 1 4 Surf Beach 5 3 3 2 13 Kendalls Point 1 1 1 1 4 Kendalls 5 2 2 2 11 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave 1 1 1 2 5 Marsden Head / Little 1 1 1 2 5 Blowhole Easts 5 2 3 2 12 Loves Bay 1 1 1 1 4 Bare Bluff 1 1 1 1 4 Red Cliff 1 1 1 1 4 Werri 5 2 1 2 10 Werri Headland 1 1 1 1 4 Boat Harbour 2 2 1 2 7 Gerringong Headland 1 1 1 1 4 Walkers 1 1 1 1 4 Walkers Headland 1 1 1 1 4 Black Head 2 1 1 2 6 Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 5 3 3 3 14

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3.1.5 ACCESS RATING

Beaches or coastal environments that have increased accessibility (i.e. near major roads, cities, public transport, car parks, boat ramps, maintained access paths etc.) increase the likelihood of users at that beach. This directly increases the level of risk of drowning and or injury.

Table 3.1.6 Access rating descriptors. Access Rating Qualifying Description No identifiable access via road or track, no facilities, car parking or obvious access 1 points 2 Access via un-maintained track with no facilities and/or via water access Access via any form of track or walkway (either maintained or un-maintained) AND any 3 provision of facilities or services including (but not limited to) public transport, shower, public toilet, payphone, kiosk, significant roadway, parking Access via maintained tracks with clearly identified parking area AND/OR provision of 4 basic facilities (i.e. public toilets, public shower/ wash down area) AND/OR within 10km of moderate sized town or city (population greater than 5,000) Clearly evident, marked or signposted and maintained access points AND/OR within 10km of major town or city (population greater than 25,000) AND/OR car parking for 50 5 or more vehicles/boat trailers. Public transport provided within 250m of a beach access point

Table 3.1.7 Access ratings applied to assessed locations. Location Access Rating Minnamurra Point 3 Jones / Boyds 3 Cathedral Rocks 2 Boneyards 3 Bombo Quarry 2 Bombo 4 Pheasant Point 2 Blacks 4 Robertson Basin 4 Kiama Blowhole 5 Storm Bay 2 Church Point 2 Surf Beach 5 Kendalls Point 2 Kendalls 3 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave 2 Marsden Head / Little Blowhole 3 Easts 3 Loves Bay 3 Bare Bluff 3 Red Cliff 3 Werri 4 Werri Headland 2 Boat Harbour 4 Gerringong Headland 2 Walkers 2 Walkers Headland 2 Black Head 3 Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 4

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3.1.6 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY SCORE

The action planning priority score provides an indicator for the overall level of risk of the location. The scores range from 0 to 60. These scores can be used to prioritise the order in which risk treatments described in the next section of this report are implemented.

Table 3.1.8 Summary of action planning priority calculations for each assessed location. Population Human AMSAMP Access Total Score Location Support Activity/ X 2 X 2 X 2 Interaction (Out of 20) (Out of 10) (Out of 60) (Out of 10) (Out of 20) Minnamurra Point 14 10 5 6 35 Jones / Boyds 14 10 8 6 38 Cathedral Rocks 12 10 4 4 30 Boneyards 8 10 6 6 30 Bombo Quarry 12 10 4 4 30 Bombo 14 10 10 8 42 Pheasant Point 12 10 4 4 30 Blacks 8 10 7 8 33 Robertson Basin 10 10 5 8 33 Kiama Blowhole 10 10 8 10 38 Storm Bay 10 10 4 4 28 Church Point 10 10 4 4 28 Surf Beach 12 10 13 10 45 Kendalls Point 10 10 4 4 28 Kendalls 8 10 11 6 35 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave 8 10 5 4 27 Marsden Head / Little 8 10 5 6 29 Blowhole Easts 8 10 12 6 36 Loves Bay 12 8 4 6 30 Bare Bluff 12 6 4 6 28 Red Cliff 12 8 4 6 30 Werri 14 10 10 8 42 Werri Headland 12 10 4 4 30 Boat Harbour 8 10 7 8 33 Gerringong Headland 10 8 4 4 26 Walkers 10 8 4 4 26 Walkers Headland 10 6 4 4 24 Black Head 10 6 6 6 28 Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 10 8 14 8 40

Where limited resources prohibit the implementation of all risk treatments recommended in this report, those beaches that have received a high action planning priority score should be treated first, then beaches with a medium, low and very low score.

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Table 3.1.9 Action Planning Priority scores for assessed locations.

Priority Priority location Priority Action & Total Score Comments

High – this location should be considered as 1 Surf Beach 45 a priority for implementation of identified risk treatment options. High – this location should be considered as 2 Werri 42 a priority for implementation of identified risk treatment options. High – this location should be considered as 2 Bombo 42 a priority for implementation of identified risk treatment options. Medium – this location should be Seven Mile Beach / considered for implementation of identified 4 40 Gerroa risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 5 Jones / Boyds 38 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 6 Kiama Blowhole 38 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 7 Easts 36 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 8 Kendalls 35 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 8 Minnamurra Point 35 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 10 Blacks 33 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 10 Robertson Basin 33 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 10 Boat Harbour 33 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available.

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Priority Priority location Priority Action & Total Score Comments

Medium – this location should be considered for implementation of identified 13 Boneyards 30 risk treatment options after locations rated as high or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Cathedral Rocks 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Bombo Quarry 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Pheasant Point 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Loves Bay 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Red Cliff 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 13 Werri Headland 30 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for Marsden Head / Little implementation of identified risk treatment 20 29 Blowhole options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for

implementation of identified risk treatment 21 Storm Bay 28 options after locations rated as medium or

as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 21 Church Point 28 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 21 Kendall’s Point 28 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available.

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Priority Priority location Priority Action & Total Score Comments

Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 21 Bare Bluff 28 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 21 Black Head 28 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for Kaleula Head / Friars implementation of identified risk treatment 26 27 Cave options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 27 Gerringong Headland 26 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 27 Walkers 26 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Low – this location should be considered for implementation of identified risk treatment 29 Walkers Headland 24 options after locations rated as medium or as funding becomes available. Key to Action High 41+ Medium 31-40 Low 21-30 Very Low 0-20 Planning Priority

Treatment Options 1.4 & 2.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence.

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3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS

3.2.1 INTRODUCTION

There are a range of risk treatment options that can be considered in the context of coastal risk management. The selection of the most appropriate option involves balancing the financial, social and environmental impacts of implementing each against the benefits derived from each. These may include any combination of the following: o Spread (share) risk – insurance, o Engineer (structural and technological) risk treatment – include modified practices, o Regulatory and institutional – change through revised regulations and planning, o Avoid – isolate the risk, move people away, o Research to better understand, and o Educate and inform stakeholders.

3.2.2 HIERARCHY OF RISK TREATMENTS (CONTROLS)

In determining the most appropriate and cost effective option, it is important to consider the hierarchy of risk treatments (controls). The hierarchy is a sequence of options which offer a number of ways to approach the hazard control process. o Hard controls deal with the tangible such as:  Eliminate the hazard which in a coastal context is often difficult to achieve.  Isolate the hazard which in a coastal context can be difficult due to the dynamic nature of environmental and weather conditions.  Use engineering controls such as design of access paths, installation of appropriate signage, and revegetation.  Use administrative controls such as supervision, emergency action plans, other documented policies, practices and procedures.  Use of personal protective equipment such as lifejackets and public rescue equipment. o Soft controls deal with human behaviour such as:  Use of effective leadership, management, trust, ethics, integrity, and building relationships  Education

Outlined below are principal risk treatment solutions that expand upon those listed within the Risk Register and Treatment Plan in Appendix B. The solutions outlined endeavour to provide specific and detailed information relative to the beach locations; however due to the diverse nature of location characteristics, recommendations are at times mainly generic in nature.

Land Managers should plan to adopt the most appropriate treatments specific to their organisations capabilities and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. The principal risk treatments are outlined on the following pages.

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3.2.3 EDUCATION AND AWARENESS PROGRAMMES

Public education and awareness programmes are a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy, and target both the pre-arrival and early arrival periods (prior to hazard exposure).

Key factors pertaining to effective education and awareness programmes include: o Consistency in safety messaging (elimination of confusing/unclear or dissipative information). o Consistency in the method of provision (ongoing information provided at regular locations/times). o Longevity in the provision of information (ongoing, not a one-off).

3.2.3.1 EXISTING CONTROLS:

During the course of the assessment and throughout the consultation process, Australian CoastSafe were made aware of various beach safety information sources and education programmes that are currently in place to educate and inform the public at a local level. These programmes as well as any other initiatives within and around the Kiama LGA should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported by Land Managers and key stakeholder groups.

It is acknowledged that Land Managers or key stakeholder groups may not have the capacity or expertise to implement surf education programmes, and where this is the case they should work with peak water safety organisations to enhance the delivery of education programmes within these areas.

Existing controls include:

Online Education: Key Stakeholder Websites: The council’s website details when beaches are patrolled by paid lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers, provides a general overview of each patrolled beach, outlines surf safety advice and during the peak summer season provides a daily beach condition report (Kiama Municipal Council 2015).

Figure 3.2.1: Daily beach condition report (Kiama Municipal Council 2015).

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Furthermore, the Kiama Tourism website provides a description of each beach with a link to when beaches are patrolled (Kiama 2015). The National Parks and Wildlife Service (2015) also provide advice on their website stating that “Strong rips and currents may be present at Seven Mile Beach, so take care in the water and please supervise children at all times”.

Educational messages are also promoted on relevant social media pages as well e.g. Facebook and Twitter.

Community Education: Surf Schools: The following surf schools operate within the Kiama LGA: o Surf Camp Australia o Land’s Edge Surf School

These schools provide surfing lessons, surfing tours and most importantly provides beginner surfers with key surf safety knowledge and awareness.

Surf Education: Providing surf education is a key component in addressing the drowning chain and has the opportunity to reach a key target group. Surf education (theory and application) can be very beneficial for primary and high school students. This type of education can include but is not limited to: o Class room based surf safety presentations o Swim and survive o Surf education programmes at the beach

It is acknowledged that both Kiama Municipal Council and Surf Education Australia provides theory and practical based education to local schools. Kiama council lifeguards also provide a surf education programme for schools outside the Municipality for of a fee-for-service basis (Kiama Municipal Council 2015). These school programmes should continue to be organised leading into the summer school holidays.

Beach to Bush: The Beach to Bush programme utilises surf lifesavers to teach surf safety with engaging methods to primary school aged children who live in rural areas. Schools in the Mittagong, Bowral and Moss Vale areas have recently participated in these sessions. The families of these children are likely to travel to the Kiama areas during school holiday periods and on weekends (Surf Life Saving, 2014).

Nippers: The nippers programme is a junior activities programme that introduces children aged 5 to 13 to surf lifesaving. It is a fun outdoors activity that develops a child’s confidence, teaches valuable life skills and safety knowledge. Nippers is held every Sunday between October to March at Kiama Downs SLSC, Kiama SLSC and Gerringong SLSC (Surf Life Saving, 2015)

Surfers Rescue 24/7: Surfing NSW, with support of the NSW Government are giving all surfers in NSW the opportunity to participate in a free CPR and Board Rescue Course (Surfers Rescue 24/7, 2015). Kiama Municipal Council in conjunction with Surfing NSW planning on delivering three courses on an annual basis.

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Western Sydney: One of the key target groups for surf safety education includes people residing in Western Sydney. Through the Water Safety Black Spots Fund Wollongong City Council and Surf Life Saving NSW are currently delivering surf education to schools in south west Sydney. To date this programme has received positive feedback and will aim to educate key target groups so they are informed about the hazards and risks when using the coastline.

Personal Protective Equipment: The ‘wear a lifejacket – it never ruined a day on the water’ campaign (www.lifejacketwearit.com.au) outlines that lifejackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on any recreational vessel. Nine out of ten people who drowned when boating in NSW were not wearing a lifejacket (Roads and Maritime Services, 2014). This campaign has many educational resources such as collateral, videos and media resources. The campaign also has helpful information on what types of lifejackets should be worn on all watercraft.

On 1 November 2010, the rules governing the use of lifejackets on recreational vessels were strengthened to prevent loss of life on waterways. In relation to inland waterways for powered watercraft, lifejackets must be worn in the following circumstances: 1. By children less than 12 years old at all times when aboard a vessel less than 4.8 metres long and when aboard a vessel less than 8 metres long which is underway. 2. By anyone being towed, including waterskiing, wakeboarding or parasailing and those being towed on tubes, sea biscuits or similar towable devices. 3. Boating at night and boating alone when aboard a vessel less than 4.8 metres long. 4. By a person on a PWC (Jet Ski) at all times. 5. By anyone aboard a canoe or kayak when more than 100 metres from shore. 6. By a person kitesurfing alone more than 400 metres from shore. 7. In certain situations of heightened risk including, but not limited to bad weather and crossing bars. 8. By anyone at any time when directed by the skipper.

Figure 3.2.2: Example of a lifejacket campaign Figure 3.2.3: Wear it Australia about updating life jackets (Roads and (Roads and Maritime Services, 2014). Maritime Services, 2014).

Media: Throughout the surf life saving season, radio and print media play a key role in delivering key safety messages as well as informing the public when dangerous surf warnings are in place.

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3.2.3.2 RECOMMENDED CONTROLS:

Educational Messages: Land Managers should continue to provide public education/awareness programmes which include standardised key safety messages and align/reference to peak coastal water safety agency websites such as: NSW Water Safety Advisory Council: http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety/

Together with the following referenced websites of the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council for beach safety: o BeachSafe: www.BeachSafe.org.au o Safe Fishing: http://www.safefishing.com.au o Boating: www.lifejacketwearit.com.au

Water Safety Information: Displaying posters which promote water safety at locations such as public amenity blocks, Surf Life Saving Clubs and visitor information displays directly located around coastal beach access is a great opportunity for the exposure of messages.

Figure 3.2.5: Example of a National Parks visitor information board where water safety information could be displayed.

Figure 3.2.4: Example of a Surf Safety Information Poster at Tathra beach.

Educational posters/signage and information boards should not be placed in positions where they would compete with formal aquatic and recreational safety signage which is usually placed around formal access points and high traffic areas (see Section 0 Safety Signage).

Quick Response (QR) codes may also be able to be utilised on any posters and visitor information noticeboards. QR codes involve the use of smart phone technology to provide location based safety messaging. They also allow for the embedding of additional detailed information for beach users that are interested in knowing more, without competing with other relevant information in visitor information boards. The system works by scanning a smart phone over the QR Code. These codes can be linked to specific water related safety information about a specific location, with the potential for multilingual messages. Information may also be able to include when dangerous surf warnings occur.

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Tourists and Visitors: Education Collateral: Feedback from local stakeholders and tourism industry figures suggests that the Kiama LGA is a popular destination for domestic travellers, especially through the school holiday periods. The distribution of surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers (including holiday rental real estate organisations) in the Kiama LGA should be implemented on an ongoing basis. Brochures and flyers about surf safety should also be made available at the Visitor Information Centre in Kiama.

Tourist Parks: A number of caravan and tourist parks within the Kiama LGA provide direct access to the coast (Table 2.9.6), often to unpatrolled sections of a beach. A recent study has found that “visitors to coastal tourist parks are at a greater risk when swimming and bathing due to a high percentage of parks being close to unpatrolled beaches with hazardous swimming conditions” (McKay, et al., 2014). It is therefore important to ensure that the guests of these accommodation providers have some understanding of beach safety. There is an opportunity for Kiama Municipal Council to work with peak water safety organisations and coastal tourist parks in the LGA to provide basic surf safety and awareness programmes to park guests. For example, this programme could be organised at the Surf Beach Holiday Park during the summer school holiday period.

Programmes should be facilitated by a qualified person (such as a surf rescue certificate instructor, surf school teacher or Lifeguard), with accredited teaching certification as well as hold a bronze medallion and senior first aid as a minimum. Key learning outcomes could include (but are not limited to): o Basic survival skills o Rip identification o Surf awareness: ‘Reading’ the surf o Surf negation and body surfing o Self rescue skills o General surf safety information

Upon check in, Tourist Park owners and staff could inform all guests where the closest patrolled beach is and provide all guests with surf safety pamphlets containing information specific to the adjoining beach within the guest information folder. Surf Life Saving NSW also alerts tourist accommodation providers when dangerous swell events are predicted through the Bureau of Meteorology. Community Education: Rip Current Awareness Day: Over the past few years, Surf Life Saving Clubs have participated in an annual day to raise awareness about rip currents through an educational and visual demonstration. As part of these scheduled events, coloured dye is released by club members at various beaches around Australia to show the speed and distance of which a rip current can flow. Surf clubs can organise to participate in these educational demonstrations. Surf Life Saving Australia can provide the necessary resources to branches and clubs upon request.

Personal Protective Equipment: Water safety agencies actively promote the use of lifejackets for fisherman and recreational boaters. Educational and awareness programmes in the Kiama LGA should also promote and encourage these user groups to wear lifejackets. These messages could be included in community based education programmes or the use of educational signage at well-known rock fishing locations.

The NSW Ministry for Police and Emergency Services has prepared a report on behalf of the Water Safety Advisory Committee on the outcome of consultation undertaken in 2013 on the wearing of lifejackets by rock

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fishers. The report, which includes a number of options to increase the wearing of lifejackets by rock fishers, will be submitted to the NSW Government for consideration.

Recreational Fishing Alliance: The Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW has produced the Safe Fishing website, which also provides multilingual information and resources to promote safer recreational rock fishing (Recreational Fishing Alliance, 2011). Part of this initiative has been the provision of multilingual flyers and DVDs to promote rock fishing safety.

Education days are also organised for rock fishers to provide educational learning and fishing techniques that will provide rock fishers with more information to make an informed decision about where they decide to fish as well as communicating key safety messages. One of these education days has also been filmed and is available through the YouTube channel ‘ACFishing’. An education day should also be organised for the rock platforms around Kiama Blowhole.

Figure 3.2.6 Recreational Fishing Alliance rock fishing school.

Education Summary: The following table outlines a range of education and awareness programmes that can be adopted by Land Managers within the Kiama LGA. Table 3.2.1 is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all education and awareness programmes available to Land Managers, it is intended to provide examples of a range of programmes that are available and delivered within the context of coastal aquatic safety. Land Managers are not limited to the organisations listed in the table below, however they should ensure that any provider engaged to act on their behalf is adequately licensed, qualified and insured.

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Table 3.2.1 Examples of Education and Awareness programmes. Programmes Target Audience Location Delivery (Who) School based water Local primary and high school All Locations Peak water safety agencies safety programmes students Coastal Accommodation Tourists, visitors and migrants All Locations Peak water safety agencies Network (TVM) Local Media Residents and TVM All Locations Local media outlets Learn to Swim / Swim Royal Life Saving Society Young Children All Locations and Survive Australia AustSwim accredited swim Learn to Swim All ages All Locations schools Nippers Local children All Locations Surf Life Saving NSW Surf Ed. All ages All Locations Surf Life Saving NSW Migration 2 Surf Migrants All Locations Surf Life Saving NSW Surf Groms Local children All Locations Surfing NSW Surfers Rescue 24/7 Local surfing associations All Locations Surfing NSW Kids Academy of Surf Local children All Locations Surf Educate Australia (KAOS) School surfing and surf Local children All Locations Surf Educate Australia education Corp Surf 18 years + All Locations Surf Educate Australia Get hooked – it’s fun to Schools All Locations NSW DPI (Fisheries) fish Rock fishing safety Rock fishers Rock Peak water safety agencies information Platforms Boating safety RMS Boaters Kiama information The use of QR codes on signage QR codes Kiama Municipal Council and other infrastructure to link to All Locations and National Parks & location based beach safety Wildlife Service information.

The figures below are not intended as a comprehensive display of all education and awareness collateral available to Land Managers, rather to provide examples of a range of collateral that are available and can be provided to Land Managers upon request. Land Managers are not limited to the education collateral shown in the figures below, however they should ensure that any education collateral distributed or displayed is aligned to the key water safety messages promoted by the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council.

Figure 3.2.7: Don’t put your life Figure 3.2.8: Survive a rip Figure 3.2.9: Beach safety for Figure 3.2.10: Swim between on the line™2. current. tourists / migrants. the flags.

2 Don’t put your life on the line is a registered trade mark of the NSW Recreational Fishing Alliance NSW.

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Treatment Options 1.5 & 2.5 Education and awareness programmes within the Kiama Local Government Area should continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups who may not have the expertise to implement educational programmes should work with peak water safety organisations to assist in delivery.

Treatment Options 1.6 & 2.6 Education and awareness programmes should continue to include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/).

Treatment Options 1.7 & 2.7 Surf safety information should be strategically placed in visual form at various coastal locations. Specific examples can be referenced in the report.

Treatment Option 1.8 Develop relationships with tourism providers and holiday rental real estate organisations with the aim of distributing standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers and visitor information centres in the Kiama Local Government Area.

Treatment Option 1.9 Kiama Municipal Council in conjunction with peak water safety organisations and local Tourist Parks, should promote a surf safety education programme for holiday makers in the peak season to learn about basic surf safety awareness.

Treatment Option 1.10 Kiama Municipal Council should assist peak water safety organisations to promote existing educational programmes encouraging rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets.

Treatment Option 1.11 In conjunction with peak water safety organisations, an education day should be organised for rock fishers at Kiama Blowhole. This day will target high risk user groups providing educational learning and fishing techniques that will equip rock fishers with information to make informed decisions about where they decide to fish as well as communicating key safety messages.

Treatment Option 4.3 The Surf Life Saving Clubs in the Kiama Local Government Area should participate in the annual Rip Current Awareness Day.

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3.2.4 SAFETY SIGNAGE

Safety signage is a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy and targets the in-transit and on-arrival periods pertaining to a person/s arriving at a hazardous location.

Key factors relating to effective safety signage include: o a risk assessment process used in the identification of priority information to display, o alignment to Australian Standards for signage content (AS/NZS2416:2010), o consistency in signage layout/display (Australian Water Safety Council, 2013), o consistency in the appropriate positioning of signage, to maximise exposure to the public prior to arriving in a hazardous location, with the minimum number of signs, and o a consistent process of signage maintenance as part of the Land Managers annual planning.

3.2.4.1 EXISTING CONTROLS:

Existing safety signage within the Kiama LGA in regards to coastal safety is below and includes: o warning signage at coastal access points, o warning signage at popular cliff edge locations, o warning signage at breakwater locations, and o temporary signage in place when lifesavers and lifeguards are on duty.

Kiama Municipal Council

Figure 3.2.11: Risk Warning Signage. Figure 3.2.12: Cliff edge warning.

Figure 3.2.13: Beware of strong rips / undercurrent. Figure 3.2.14: Dangerous Cliffs, falling rocks and debris.

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Figure 3.2.15: Beware of falling rocks. Figure 3.2.16: Beware of shared beach (swimming & boating).

National Parks and Wildlife Service

Figure 3.2.18: Unpatrolled beach – supervise children.

Figure 3.2.17: Safety warning signage.

Crown Lands

Figure 3.2.19: Breakwater safety signage.

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3.2.4.2 RECOMMENDED CONTROLS:

Proposed Signage: Appendix A lists locations where access signage could be implemented as funding becomes available. The Action Planning Priority Index should be used to assist in prioritisation: Land Managers should implement signage at high and medium ranked locations before lower ranked locations.

Signage Types (National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual)

Level 1 Road Signs: Land Managers have the option to place this type of signage at the closest intersection location for directional purposes.

Level 2 Car Park Signs (Primary access sign): Land Managers have the option to place this type of signage at the main entrance/car park to an aquatic environment. The recommended content includes location name, emergency contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information.

Level 3 Access Signs (Secondary access sign): Land Managers can place this type of sign at access points or pathways that lead to the aquatic environment (beach, rock pool or rock platform). Level 3 access signs follow the same principles as those of Level 2 car park signs and typically display the location name, emergency contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information.

Level 4 Individual Hazard and Regulation sign: Land Managers have the option to us this sign where a hazard is localised and has been identified at a level of risk that warrants sign posting.

Examples of these signs can be referenced in Appendix A.

When implementing future signage, the following points are recommended:

1. Safety signs as recommended in this report should meet Australian Standard ‘AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags’, and align signage style/layout with the ‘National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, 3rd Edition, July 2006’ or the State-wide Mutual guide. It is the recommendation of this report that style is aligned to the former.

2. Signage layout (top-down order) consists of the following: a) Location name and emergency marker (if/when applicable) or street address b) Hazards and warnings within the designated area c) Safety information or general location/area details d) Regulations e) Facility / Land Manager

3. Safety signs should meet the size/height/placement specifications outlined in ‘AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags’.

4. ‘Diamond’ hazard symbols should be utilised (not triangle). Context: AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 provides for the use of either ‘diamond’ or ‘triangle’ hazard symbols. For consistency with existing signage and across local government areas the more effective diamond symbols should be utilised.

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5. Effective placement of aquatic and recreational safety signage in a public reserve cannot be underestimated. Location, height and existing visual distractions are major factors which contribute to the effectiveness of a sign when installed.

6. Signs positioned in car parks should be placed central to the parking area and where parked vehicles will not obscure the sign.

7. Signs that are positioned in relation to open access areas should be spaced at regular intervals, with the distance between individual signs dependent upon the calculated Facility Visitation Rate (FVR).

8. Signs that are positioned in relation to defined access points should be sited as close as practical to the access point, or other appropriate location, and need to be consistently applied where possible e.g. on the left of the track entrance.

9. To effectively capture the attention of visitors, improve overall visual amenity and avoid confusion as a result of too many signs. Repetitive and/or unnecessary information and signs should be removed. Further, any non-essential signage (not related to location, safety, hazard, prohibition information) that is present at a location should be considered for removal or re-located as appropriate so as not to impact on the recognition of the safety orientated priority signage.

With reference to the above points 1 and 2 the existing risk warning signage that exists at some locations within the Kiama LGA should be replaced by access signage. The NSW Government – Water Safety Practice Note (2014) outlines that Land Managers should keep in mind that the audience for warnings includes children, tourists, people with a disability, people unfamiliar with the beach and people with lower than average skills, perception or judgment. For this reason it is preferable for warnings to be given by way of an easily understandable pictogram to limit the amount of wording.

Figure 3.2.20: Existing risk warning signage that could be replaced with the access signage shown in Figure 3.2.21.

Figure 3.2.21: Access signage within the Wollongong LGA that could be implemented within Kiama LGA.

Consistent Signage: It is the view of Australian CoastSafe that a consistent strategy of signage should be implemented within an LGA. Consistent signs are encouraged to avoid confusion and give a clear and consistent message. Below is an excerpt from AS 2416:2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags, Part 3, Guidance for Use (p.iv).

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The standard states that “a standardized method of signing with the use of appropriate supplementary text throughout the working and public environment assists the process of education and instruction on the meaning of water safety signs and beach safety flags, and the appropriate actions to take.” The intention of AS2416:2010 Part 3 is “to ensure a uniformity of application of water safety signs and beach safety flags which leads to increased familiarity, and therefore improved safety, for the users including visitors and for the general public.”

Signage Consolidation: It is important to note that at most locations, an improved safety signage system usually results in an overall reduction in the quantity of signage due to the elimination of duplicate or ineffectual signs and the consolidation of key information into other signs. Excessive signage at coastal access points can cause people to become desensitised to the information presented to them and have the opposite effect of their intended purpose. Signage consolidation may see a reduction in the implementation and maintenance costs related to signage and a reduction in the visual pollution of a site. ‘Appendix A’ references those signs that have the opportunity to be consolidated.

Figure 3.2.22: Signage that has the opportunity to be consolidated.

Signage Relocation: Below is an example of environmental signage which is located at an access path. As to not compete with the safety warning sign, it is recommended that through natural attrition these signs should be located away from the immediate access location. These signs could be relocated to where there is not an access, park grounds or the car park. ‘Appendix A’ references those signs that have the opportunity to be relocated.

Figure 3.2.23: Environmental signage that can be relocated away from an access path.

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Boat Ramp Locations: As boating is a significant activity within Kiama, boat ramp locations are of significance to the people who use them. Adequate signage situated at boat ramps will be a beneficial method in promoting boating safety practices. The below example is of a sign located at the Greys Beach Boat Ramp in Nowra. This signage is consistent with signage recommended under AS 2416:2010.3, displaying a good hierarchy of information, compliant and relevant warning symbols, and general safety advice and information fit for the activity of boating. As such, this signage would be a good benchmark template for implementation at other boat launching and retrieval locations identified such as Minnamurra Point, Robertson Basin and Gerroa.

Figure 3.2.24 Boating Safety Information.

Temporary Signage: Temporary individual hazard signs may be used where a hazard is localised, has been identified at a level of risk that warrants a sign posting and is not permanent in nature.

Temporary hazards signs can be utilised in the following ways: 1. Where there is a higher risk of injury from temporary hazards 2. Where a hazard may exist at a patrolled beach either side of the flags 3. To direct patrons to a flagged area

Figure 3.2.25 Example of temporary warning signage at Narrabeen.

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Signage Summary Table:

Table 3.2.2 Summary table of aquatic and recreational signage recommendations for the Kiama LGA. Proposed Proposed Possible Proposed Proposed Total Existing Maintenance Level 3 Boating Net Locations Consolidate Level 3 Level 4 Proposed Signs Required Open Safety Signage / Remove Access Individual Signs Access Sign Minnamur 47 2 6 1 4 1 0 6 0 ra Point Jones / 29 6 8 0 7 0 0 7 -1 Boyds Cathedral 5 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 Rocks Boneyards 4 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 Bombo 26 0 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 Quarry Bombo 16 0 0 0 4 0 0 4 4 Pheasant 11 0 8 1 0 0 0 1 -7 Point Blacks 12 0 2 3 0 0 0 3 1 Robertson 46 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 Basin Kiama 36 0 5 4 0 0 0 4 -1 Blowhole Storm Bay 6 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 Church 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 2 Point Surf Beach 18 0 1 3 4 0 0 7 6 Kendalls 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 Point Kendalls 14 0 7 3 2 0 0 5 -2 Kaleula Head / 8 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 Friars Cave Marsden Head / 25 0 3 0 4 0 0 4 1 Little Blowhole Easts 20 0 5 3 4 0 0 7 2 Loves Bay 11 0 3 1 1 0 0 2 -1 Bare Bluff 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Red Cliff 9 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 -1 Werri 64 2 23 1 20 0 0 21 -2 Werri 11 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 Headland Boat 15 0 7 0 2 1 0 3 -4 Harbour Gerringong 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Headland Walkers 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Walkers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Headland Black Head 9 0 1 0 5 0 0 5 4

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Proposed Proposed Possible Proposed Proposed Total Existing Maintenance Level 3 Boating Net Locations Consolidate Level 3 Level 4 Proposed Signs Required Open Safety Signage / Remove Access Individual Signs Access Sign Seven Mile Beach / 59 2 16 0 10 1 0 11 -5 Gerroa Totals 519 12 100 24 73 4 1 102 2

Note: Net signage = proposed signage minus consolidated or removed signage. So, 102 signs have been proposed in the Kiama LGA and 100 existing signs have the opportunity to be consolidated or removed, leaving a net sum of positive 2 signs.

Treatment Options 1.12 & 2.8 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage.

Treatment Option 1.13 Kiama Municipal Council should continue to work with the Roads and Maritime Service to implement specific boat safety signage (shown in the report) at all boat ramp locations.

Treatment Options 1.14 & 4.4 Temporary signage should continue to be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised swimming area and where here is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as strong currents, creek openings and pollution.

3.2.5 EMERGENCY MARKER SYSTEM

When an incident occurs at a specific street address, it is relatively simple for emergency services to identify the location of the caller/incident. However, when an incident occurs at locations such as open-space parkland, walking trails, beaches or rock platforms (where no cross-street or other reference point is available) it can delay the identification of a location and the subsequent emergency service response.

Emergency location markers enable triple zero call takers to immediately and accurately verify the location of an emergency triple zero call.

Figure 3.2.26: Example of emergency marker sign.

Emergency markers display a unique number to a specific location, most commonly on existing access/safety signage. These emergency marker displays could be a sticker placed over already existing signage.

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For an emergency marker system to be effective, a standardised state-wide programme is required, that engages Police and other emergency service CAD systems and land management authority signage plans. No current programme exists in NSW.

Australian CoastSafe is currently working with key government departments and emergency services to develop a best practice emergency marker system which can be rolled out on a state-wide basis in the near future.

Treatment Option 3.1 With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property Information, a state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be considered.

3.2.6 ACCESS INFRASTRUCTURE AND ONGOING CAPITAL WORKS/MAINTENANCE PROGRAMMES

The way the coast is accessed is a significant factor in the management of coastal risk. While preventing public access/use to the coastal environment is not desired, a number of options exist to minimise the risks associated with the access way itself and the hazards that may be encountered on the coast (via that access way).

In reference to the assessment process, access points have been broken down into formal (defined), and informal (undefined) access.

Access issues are interrelated to other risk management initiatives/options such as water safety signage, emergency access numbering/reporting, supervision (lifeguard) information and public rescue equipment. An effective access plan for an area may optimise the effectiveness and efficiency of other initiatives.

Figure 3.2.27: Formal access at Jones/Boyds. Figure 3.2.28: Informal access at Storm Bay.

Formal Access: The majority of formal access tracks in the Kiama LGA are well maintained. Land Managers conduct inspections due to vegetation overgrowth, degraded footings and unattached fence posts when required.

Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer ‘track’, exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quantity of signage required and enhancing emergency access, reporting and location identification.

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Informal Access: A number of informal access tracks also exist. Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/unstable and uneven surfaces), may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make emergency location reporting difficult (location awareness).

Options for formalising, redirecting or consolidating informal access use may include man-made barriers, vegetation growth and fencing. It is noted that for some locations and situations it may be difficult to formalise access and/or restrict the use of informal access.

Open Access: Open access occurs where there are no channels of barriers restricting where visitors can access the aquatic environment.

Emergency Vehicle Access: Access for emergency and lifeguarding/lifesaving services should be well known to key personnel. These access paths are regularly monitored to ensure that emergency vehicles are able to access the beach or rocky coast location. All emergency vehicle access locations are recorded in ‘Appendix A’.

Boat Ramp Access: There are three coastal boat ramp locations within the Kiama LGA. These access paths should have appropriate warning signage (see section – 3.2.4).

Location Names: Below is a map of the area between Loves Bay and the northern end of Werri which is now an accessible and well promoted coastal walk.

Figure 3.2.29: Overview of the coastal walk between Loves Bay and the northern end of Werri

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This area may have locally recognised names, however these are not widely and formally known by Land Managers, emergency services and lifeguards/lifesavers.

To enhance local emergency response plans, location signage and the Kiama Coastal walk promotional material could be updated. Kiama Municipal Council should work with local stakeholders and the Geographical Names Board to formally recognise these rocky bays.

Access Summary Table:

Table 3.2.3 Access provision within assessed locations in Kiama LGA. Vehicle Private / Open Formal Access/ Informal / Total Possible Net Location Restricted Access Pedestrian Boat Old Access Access Redirection Access Access Ramp Minnamurra 1 4 1 6 1 13 2 11 Point Jones / Boyds 0 7 0 9 2 18 2 16 Cathedral Rocks 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 4 Boneyards 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 Bombo Quarry 0 3 0 3 0 6 0 6 Bombo 0 4 0 0 1 5 0 5 Pheasant Point 1 0 0 2 0 3 0 3 Blacks 3 4 0 0 0 7 0 7 Robertson Basin 3 0 1 0 0 4 0 4 Kiama Blowhole 2 3 0 1 0 6 0 6 Storm Bay 0 0 0 4 0 4 3 1 Church Point 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 3 Surf Beach 0 7 0 4 0 11 2 9 Kendalls Point 1 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 Kendalls 3 3 0 0 0 6 0 6 Kaleula Head / 0 1 0 4 2 7 1 6 Friars Cave Marsden Head / 0 4 0 9 2 15 0 15 Little Blowhole Easts 2 7 0 3 0 12 0 12 Loves Bay 0 4 0 5 0 9 0 9 Bare Bluff 2 0 0 9 0 11 0 11 Red Cliff 0 2 0 7 0 9 1 8 Werri 1 23 0 1 0 25 4 21 Werri Headland 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 Boat Harbour 1 3 1 1 0 6 0 6 Gerringong 0 0 0 1 1 2 0 2 Headland Walkers 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 Walkers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Headland Black Head 0 5 0 0 2 7 0 7 Seven Mile 0 13 1 1 0 15 1 14 Beach / Gerroa Totals 20 103 4 78 11 213 18 195

Note: Net Access = the total of all access types minus consolidated/redirected access. In other words, 213 access points have been located in the Kiama LGA, however 18 of these access points have the opportunity to be redirected, leaving a net access of 195.

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Treatment Options 1.15 & 2.9 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing infrastructure and capital works programmes. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.

Treatment Options 1.16 & 2.10 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access.

Treatment Option 1.17 Kiama Municipal Council should work with local stakeholders and the Geographical Names Board to formally recognise the rocky bays between Loves Bay and the northern end of Werri to enhance local emergency response plans, location signage and the Kiama Coastal walk promotional material.

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3.2.7 PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT

The table below provides an overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) currently in or available for use in Australia.

Table 3.2.4 An overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) (Bradstreet, et al., 2012). Morphology Extensive Recommended PRE Type of current Advantages Disadvantages Training uses in NSW installations Required Sandy Requires the rescuer Can be thrown Rescue Tube beaches and to enter the water Yes None short distances rock pools themselves Risk of theft, risk of May be used on a using the line to case by case basis. return the patient

towards the rocks, Distance of Further Throw Bag Not in use not strong/tough No deployment effectiveness enough to be investigation resilient from required. environmental

conditions Mobility – easily Yes. Relevant deployed to Throw Sticks Personal Requires 2 to off-set personnel /staff incident locations (Stormy device ‘miss-throw’ of the No (emergency

grenades) (mobile) first services/SLS Effective mid-range /rangers) (thrown) Single use device. Ease of use. Distance of Steep Rugged design. deployment. Steep (>1:1) Life Ring rampart rock Awareness Requires rescuer to No rampart rock (Angel ring) platforms campaign approach the platforms established. platform edge. Weight. EPIRB unit Sloping (<1:1) immediately alerts rampart rock emergency EPIRB units were platforms. services. Multiple Sloping vulnerable to Silent Sentry balls can be rolled No platforms vandalism and Recommended down slopes to the disabled redesign to patient keeping the remove EPIRB rescuer at a safer housing. distance

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Life Rings (Angel Rings™3): Life rings are an instantly recognised lifesaving mechanism and their functionality is easily understood by both a rescuer and the casualty. The national ‘Angel Ring ™ Project’ has seen the installation of 131 rings in NSW with 62 confirmed rescues involving their use (ANSA, 2014).

During February 2014, the Australian National Sport Fishing Association recently received additional funding for the expansion and maintenance of the Angel Ring Project through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.

There are currently 8 life rings situated in the Kiama LGA, however 12 life rings have been proposed. These locations are below and are in priority order for implementation. Further information can be found in Appendix C.

Table 3.2.5 Priority order for Life Rings. Priority Order Location 1 Kiama Blowhole (north facing platforms) 2 Kiama Blowhole (near rock pool) 3 Kendalls Point 4 Church Point 5 Black Head 6 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave (north facing platforms) 7 Kaleula Head / Friars Cave (next to the cave) 8 Bombo Quarry

9 Minnamurra Point

10 Robertson Harbour (next to jetty)

11 Robertson Harbour (north side of harbour)

12 Robertson Harbour (south side of harbour)

Figure 3.2.30: An existing Life Ring located at Kiama Blowhole.

3Angel Ring is a registered trade mark of the Australian National Sportfishing Association.

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In regards to any maintenance issues that may arise, ANSA NSW has stated the following:

“ANSA NSW will maintain contact with the local clubs, NSW Government agencies and individuals who have installed or agreed to manage the angel rings and continue communication to ensure that management targets are met.

As a minimum ANSA NSW or its nominated management team must complete a visual check at least every 2 months to determine the rings status.” (ANSA, 2013)

Global Positioning Satellite (GPS): GPS technology is available to be used within public rescue equipment such as life rings. Recreational fishing bodies have already trialled certain tracking devices in some areas and should be consulted with in relation to this matter. This technology may be beneficial by the way of a daily audit that can record when a life ring has been washed away or stolen as part of an asset management system.

Rescue Tubes: The Kiama LGA has 2 public rescue tubes along the coastline (one located on the northern rocks of Surf Beach and the other one at Kendalls Point). Following our enquiries as part of the consultation process, including discussions with Kiama Lifeguards, we were unable to determine whether or not these rescue tubes have been used in the past. The rescue tubes are continually checked and maintained by the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club. These rescue tubes were also checked by risk assessors while on-site and were in good condition.

Figure 3.2.31: An existing rescue tube located at the northern end of Surf Beach.

In 2012, the NSW Department of Primary Industries commissioned a report titled a Research Review of Rock Fishing Safety in New South Wales (Bradstreet et al., 2012). The extract below is taken from pages 48 – 49 of this report and relates to the use of rescue tubes as items of public rescue equipment.

Rescue tubes are presently used in a small number of coastal council areas in NSW, generally around sandy beaches and rock pools. Their use is currently limited to sandy beaches and rock pools.

The use of a rescue tube as public rescue equipment is considered inappropriate for four reasons: 1. The use of the equipment could not be adequately taught to the rescuer in under 10 seconds preferably in pictures; 2. There is significant aquatic ability and skill required to use a rescue tube effectively; and 3. The effective use of the equipment requires the rescuer to enter the water, assuming a degree of aquatic skill and exposing the rescuer to further risk 4. The use of swimming fins is highly recommended with a rescue tube.

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An argument for the use of rescue tubes is related to human nature, and that loved ones will enter the water to conduct a rescue, and any flotation that can be provided is beneficial. This topic, for the case of the child drowning victim, is discussed in a paper by Pearn and Franklin, who term the process of the rescuer drowning following a rescue as aquatic victim-instead-of-rescuer (AVIR) syndrome. The results of this study advocate both an increase in basic rescue skills (aquatic skill development) and use of non-contact rescues.

The Royal National Lifeboat Association (RNLI) also uses rescue tubes for trained lifeguards, but the equipment is not recommended for use on beaches, rocky coasts, tidal inlets, estuaries, or man-made coasts. The descriptions of the geomorphology included in the RNLI guide are consistent with the descriptions included in the SLSA Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue Manual learners guide, therefore the guideline has been considered transferrable to the Australian environment.

Training provided to lifesavers and lifeguards in the use of rescue tubes strongly recommends the use of swim fins (flippers) to aid the effectiveness and speed with of aided and unaided rescues. This has also been displayed through scientific research. It has been noted by stakeholders that storage of swim fins in situ as a piece of public rescue equipment would be impossible due to theft, and inability to provide a variety of sizes to suit different rescuer sizes.

The RNLI guide also states that “PRE is not generally suitable for shallow shelving beaches (...) PRE has proven to be ineffective in areas where an adult is able to stand at any point within 25m of the shoreline and the gradient of the seabed or the beach is low and gentle”. In the case where PRE is going to be installed, RNLI recommend small-medium life rings are used.

Action Item 1.17: Based on the available evidence, rescue tubes are not recommended for use as PRE.

With the above information in mind and in regards to this specific location, as the rescue tubes are located on the rocks, they should be replaced by life rings.

Treatment Option 3.2 Explore the means to fund the expansion and continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch), the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW and Kiama Municipal Council at the locations outlined in Appendix C. Final positioning should be determined by these fishing associations.

Treatment Options 1.18 & 4.5 The rescue tube located at the northern end of Surf Beach and the rescue tube located at Kendalls Point should be replaced by life rings.

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3.2.8 SYSTEM OF SUPERVISION

The supervision of aquatic coastal locations is often required to manage the risk of the location, whether due to prevailing weather and beach conditions, the proximity to large population bases, or the attendance of the beach/coastal area due to its location or attractiveness.

The primary decision to be made by Land Managers before establishing a lifesaving/lifeguard service is to determine which areas will be patrolled or unpatrolled. A patrolled beach is one at which a trained lifesaver and/or lifeguard is stationed during prescribed times and designated by the flying of red and yellow flags. A mobile lifesaver/lifeguard or lifeguard vehicle that periodically visits or checks a location may be effective as a proactive education initiative but should not be considered as providing a patrolled swimming location.

Uncertainties may exist when deciding whether supervision at a given location is appropriate, since: o The provision of a service may encourage attendance at a non-suitable location, such as when the beach topography and morphology create a highly hazardous location. This factor would be reflected in the ABSAMP beach hazard rating; o Such services may be deemed too expensive and therefore not provided by the responsible land manager; o The patronage of the location is low and the assessed risk level is minimal.

There are a range of aquatic supervisory services that should be considered, as it is not “one size fits all”. They include: o Full time comprehensive lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, fixed and portable facilities, equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services. o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, portable facilities, equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services. o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard service with trained personnel, portable facilities, some equipment and craft, and links to a command centre. o A flexible demand based service with trained personnel provision which allocates resources to where they are most needed. o Surveillance cameras. o No service, but the provision of safety signs and controlled access.

Lifesaving Service Level Calculator The lifesaving service level calculator takes into consideration the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings, visitation levels, frequency of use, residency of visitors, incident history and remoteness of location to determine best practice lifesaving service levels.

The first decision that needs to be made by a Land Manager is whether or not a location should be patrolled. The Action Planning Priority Index should be used to guide decision making on which locations are of greater inherent risk and therefore a higher priority for a lifesaving service. The lifesaving service level calculations should not be used in isolation to determine whether or not a lifesaving service should be provided, however once a decision has been made to provide a service the calculations should be referred to for guidance on the minimum service level required. Calculations for all beaches can be found in Appendix G.

International Best Practice The International Life Saving Federation (ILSF) is the peak body for lifeguard and water safety organisations internationally.

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Lifeguard/lifesaving uniforms The ILSF recommends the colours for uniforms be red & yellow4. Lifeguards/lifesavers throughout the world are called upon to provide safety services at a range of water environments that include swimming pools, beaches, lakes, river front and other waterfronts. In providing these aquatic safety services, it is important that the people using these environments for aquatic activity can readily identify the lifeguards/lifesavers for: o Guidance on safety issues, and o Assistance in times of need

As such the lifeguards should be readily distinguishable against the many people and colours they may be wearing while in, on or around these aquatic environments.

The red and yellow colours have been used by a number of International Lifesaving Member Federations for many years to such an extent and with much success that red and yellow has become synonymous with lifesavers and lifeguards in these countries.

Lifeguard uniforms within the Kiama LGA are currently not consistent with the with the ISLF position statement.

Volunteer Lifesaving Service Below are the patrol dates and hours for the 2014/2015 season over weekends and public holidays.

Table 3.2.6 Volunteer Lifesaving Services in the Kiama LGA. Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays Club Patrol Dates Start Time Finish Time 20/09/2014 to 06/10/2014 10am 3pm 11/10/2014 to 14/12/2014 10am 4pm Kiama Downs SLSC 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 9am 6pm 31/01/2015 to 29/03/2015 10am 4pm 03/04/2015 to 26/04/2015 10am 3pm

20/09/2014 to 06/10/2014 9am 3pm 11/10/2014 to 14/12/2014 10am 4pm Kiama SLSC 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 9am 6pm 31/01/2015 to 29/03/2015 10am 4pm 03/04/2015 to 26/04/2015 9am 4pm

21/09/2013 to 15/12/2013 10am 3pm Gerringong SLSC 21/12/2013 to 27/01/2014 9am 6pm 01/02/2014 to 27/04/2014 10am 3pm

Regular roving patrols are also encouraged as part of SLSNSW Standard Operating Procedures (LS8 Patrol Operations) and are incorporated into a Clubs Patrol Operation Manual. Roving patrols can be conducted by ATV, IRB/RWC or walking and should continue to be conducted at the following location throughout a patrol. o Kiama Downs SLSC: Minnamurra Point (north) Boneyards (south). o Kiama SLSC: Church Point (north) to Kendalls Point (south). o Gerringong SLSC: North end of Werri (north) to Boat Harbour (south).

4 ILSF Lifesaving Position Statement - LPS 05 - Lifesaver And Lifeguard Uniforms

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Jet Rescue Boat: It is acknowledged that the Surf Life Saving South Coast Branch have a Jet Rescue Boat. Based in Kiama, this boat regularly responds to emergencies around Bass Point, Killalea / The Farm, Minnamurra / Mystics and Kiama Blowhole.

Rescue Water Craft (RWC) Service: Based at Jones / Boyds and run by Surf Life Saving South Coast, this service can also respond to incidents at nearby Killalea / The Farm, Minnamurra / Mystics and Bombo. This service also conducts roving patrols during the spring, summer and autumn school holidays to the beaches north and south of Jones / Boyds.

Australian Aerial Patrol: Based at the Albion Park airport, this service conducts regular roving patrols along the coastline of Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama on weekends, scanning for swimmers, surfcraft users, rock fishermen and boaters who may be in need of assistance as well as looking out for dangerous marine life that may be close to patrolled locations. The service is in direct communication with the surf life saving state operations centre should volunteer lifesavers or paid lifeguards need to respond to an incident or notify lifeguard/lifesaving services of shark sightings.

Paid Lifeguard Service – Existing: The Kiama lifeguard patrol dates and hours for the 2014/2015 season are provided below.

Table 3.2.7 Paid Lifeguard Services in the Kiama LGA. Beach Patrol Dates Days of Service Patrol Times Jones / Boyds 22/12/2014 to 23/01/2015 5 10am – 6pm

Bombo 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 7 10am – 6pm

Pre and post daylight 5 9am – 4pm savings Surf Beach During daylight savings 5 9am – 5pm During the summer school 5 9am – 6pm holiday period

Kendalls 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 7 10am – 6pm

Easts 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 7 10am – 6pm

Werri 22/12/2014 to 23/01/2015 5 10am – 6pm

Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa 20/12/2014 to 26/01/2015 7 10am – 6pm

Rescue Water Craft: The Kiama Lifeguard Service have on standby an RWC at Surf Beach that can be used for rescues and responding to emergency incidents within the LGA.

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Paid Lifeguard Service – Proposed: Australian CoastSafe acknowledges the challenges that arise for regional coastal councils in regards to funding lifeguard services

Some options to assist in funding lifeguard services may include: 1. Slight levy applied to rates at Tourist Parks 2. Paid parking at the main car parks for non-residents 3. Joint funding arrangements with tourism organisations and local businesses 4. Future grant funding

The lifeguard treatment options listed below are based upon the research and data contained within this report, including the following: o Lifesaving service level calculator Appendix G, o Anecdotal evidence and feedback obtained through the various methods of consultation, o Historical drowning and emergency response incidents, o Historical beach visitation data (where available), and o Tourism NSW and ABS population data.

Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa: Gerroa is a picturesque location just south of Gerringong. The combined population of these two towns is 4,213 however this population increases rapidly during school holiday periods. This can be attributed to the two large accommodation providers behind the beach that has a combined maximum capacity of 2,000 people, the numerous holiday apartments / houses available for rent and the popularity of ‘Surf Camp Australia’ who attract overseas backpackers.

Under modal conditions the beach is mostly protected at the northern end and then becomes more exposed the further south you go. The location offers a range of activities such as swimming, surf craft use, boating, rock/beach fishing and walking.

The beach is patrolled by council lifeguards during the summer school holidays and attendance statistics from the 2013-14 season show that Gerroa is the most popular beach after Surf Beach. Due to its popularity there is the opportunity for this beach to also be patrolled during the spring and autumn school holidays.

Werri: Werri is the main beach in the town of Gerringong. This beach is more hazardous than Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa as the number of rip currents / inshore gutters are more prevalent and the beach is more exposed to swells. Council lifeguards at Werri recorded the second highest number of rescues behind Surf Beach during the 2013/14 summer school holidays. Since January 2008 there have also been 6 incidents through the surf rescue emergency response system at Werri Beach and 4 of these incidents occurred during autumn and spring.

Werri is also backed by a large coastal caravan park with a maximum capacity of 2000 people. Feedback from caravan park owners suggests that the beach is just as busy over the spring and autumn school holidays than they are during summer. Because of the large caravan park, general visitor increases and the more dangerous nature of this location there is the opportunity for this beach to also be patrolled during the spring and autumn school holidays.

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If Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa and Werri were to be patrolled over these periods positive public relations / media and local educational campaigns may be able to further attract visitors to Gerroa and Gerringong. The benefit of this service is that tourists and locals from Gerringong, Gerroa and Berry would have the option to swim at a patrolled beach during these periods.

Bombo: In reference to the action planning priority scores (pg. 49), Bombo is ranked equal 2nd with Werri and scores slightly higher than Seven Mile Beach / Gerroa. Even though Bombo has a high prioritsation rating, a lifeguard service hasn’t been recommended at this location during the autumn and spring holiday periods due to there being a lower residency rating and lower visitation due to the beach not being backed by coastal accommodation.

Treatment Option 1.19 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Gerroa to consider providing coverage over the spring and autumn school holiday periods.

Treatment Option 1.20 Explore the means to fund the lifeguard service at Werri to consider providing coverage over the spring and autumn school holiday periods.

Treatment Option 1.21 & 4.6 The level of the lifesaving and lifeguarding services provided (staffing levels, operational dates, patrol hours and locations) should be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the most suitable and effective service is provided.

Treatment Option 4.7 Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular basis to cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled.

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4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Consideration of issues in relation to emergency response is extremely relevant to a drowning prevention strategy for the Kiama LGA.

Emergency response considerations include but are not limited to: o Emergency communications/reporting Triple Zero (000), o Emergency phones/alarms, o Emergency response beacons, o Emergency service response, o Radio coverage, and o Emergency service communications (internal and joint service).

4.1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTING - TRIPLE ZERO (000)

The ability of members of the public to request assistance in an emergency is an important component of a drowning prevention strategy.

The Australian Government, through the Attorney-General’s Department, is currently running a national Triple Zero (000) campaign which aims to build awareness of the Triple Zero (000) number and educate the community about when to use the number. The campaign serves to reinforce to members of the public their responsibilities when calling the Triple Zero (000) emergency number both in nominating the required emergency service and identifying the location they are calling from. The campaign uses the internet, newspapers, radio and television to promote messages of Triple Zero (000). In addition, elements of the campaign have been translated to reach culturally and linguistically diverse communities throughout Australia.

“Triple Zero (000) should not be referred to as 'Triple Oh', as this can cause confusion and could result in people incorrectly dialling 666 on some alpha-numeric keypads. If dialled within Australia, emergency calls to 666 will not be re-routed to Triple Zero (000)” (Australian Government, Attorney's-General Department, 2012).

Figure 4.1.1: Suggested emergency 'Triple Zero' information for signage.

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Emergency Services Smart Phone Application ‘Emergency +’ is an application developed by emergency services, the federal government and industry partners. The application uses a mobile phone's GPS functionality so callers can provide emergency call-takers with their exact location information. ‘Emergency+’ also includes SES and Police Assistance Line numbers as options, so non-emergency calls are made to the most appropriate number (Apple 2014). One disadvantage of the application however is that you are required to have phone coverage for it to work.

Figure 4.1.2: ‘Emergency +’ Application for smart phones.

In reference to coastal environments, while the application provides the latitude/longitude and a nearest street reference, it does not inform emergency services of what is the most effective and efficient way to access the person who is need of assistance. This is where the Emergency Marker System – (section 3.2.5) will be a beneficial ‘value-add’ as all access locations to the coastline will be mapped, potentially including all the routing information, outlining to responding emergency services of how to best enhance responsiveness to a particular point of interest.

Treatment Options 1.22 & 2.11 In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an opportunity to promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community.

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4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS

Emergency Response Beacons can be positioned in high use/risk areas. They are highly visible and once activated, link via radio to lifesaving/lifeguard services. The two main types of ERB are:

Mobile: A movable unit which can be placed at a designated location for a limited period (usually daylight hours) before being removed for security/monitoring reasons. They usually complement an existing on-beach lifesaving service (nearby) or on-duty staff hours (non lifesaving).

Fixed/permanent: A unit which is permanently or semi-permanently positioned (secured) at a location, and provides 24/7 capacity. Such an ERB should fit within a coordinated emergency communications system, whereby the unit is monitored 24/7 and complemented with specific procedures for emergencies by those monitoring the ERB.

Fixed ERBs are generally only considered for use in high risk locations, where: o Limited or no mobile phone coverage exists, o A service can consistently monitor the beacon, and o A daily process of equipment checking/testing is in place.

More information about ERB can be provided by Surf Life Saving New South Wales.

Figure 4.2.1: Example of a mobile emergency response beacon on a beach.

Two locations for this type of technology could be implemented at South Bombo and Kendalls. South Bombo experiences high visitation numbers and this has been an ongoing trend over previous seasons. During the 2014-15 summer school holidays the lifeguards stationed at the northern end of Bombo were required to make 16 rescues down at the south end of the beach. As an alternate to providing a lifeguard service, emergency response beacons may provide an option for Kiama Municipal Council.

Due to the accommodation provider at Kendalls and the central location of the beach within the Kiama area this beach can still be busy during the spring and autumn school holidays and over weekends. As such an emergency response beacon situated here may ensure that the nearby lifeguards and lifesavers stationed at Surf Beach would be able to respond quickly to incidents that may arise at Kendalls.

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Treatment Options 1.23 & 4.8 Investigate emergency response beacons / radio technology to be used at South Bombo and Kendalls in conjunction with nearby lifeguard and lifesaving patrols.

4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE

Emergency services and support organisations play a vital role in responding to coastal emergencies within the Kiama LGA (see table and figure below). Resources that may respond include: o NSW Police (including Water Police), o NSW Ambulance (including the Westpac Helicopter), o NSW Fire and Rescue, o State Emergency Service (SES), o NSW Rural Fire Service, o Marine Rescue NSW, o Kiama Municipal Council Lifeguards, and o Surf Life Saving South Coast (Branch and Club Callout Teams).

Table 4.3.1 Coastal Emergency Service locations for Kiama LGA (<10km from the coast). Emergency Services – Kiama Local Government Area Emergency Service Street Address Suburb NSW Police 32 Terralong Street Kiama NSW Police Fern Street Gerringong NSW Ambulance 120 Terralong Street Kiama NSW Fire and Rescue 120 Terralong Street Kiama State Emergency Service 205 Terralong Street Kiama Kiama Jet Boat Service Robertson Harbour Kiama SLSC & Lifeguard Service North Kiama Drive Kiama Downs Lifeguard Service Panama Street Bombo SLSC & Lifeguard Service Manning Street Kiama Lifeguard Service O’Keefe Place Kiama Lifeguard Service Ocean Street Kiama Heights SLSC & Lifeguard Service Bridges Road Gerringong Lifeguard Service Burke Parade Gerroa

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Figure 4.3.1: Emergency services within 20km of the coast in the Kiama LGA.

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4.4 RADIO COMMUNICATIONS

Radio Coverage: The State Operations Centre in Belrose (SLSNSW) assist lifeguards and lifesavers during normal operations and emergency incidents via UHF radio communication. The UHF radio signal strength on the Kiama coastline uses the repeater at Saddleback Mountain. Signal strength is mostly strong, however there are some patches of average to limited coverage at the southern end of Jones/Boyds and Bombo, Bare Bluff, Werri Headland, Gerringong Headland, Walkers Headland and Gerroa.

Figure 4.4.1: Signal strength of the Saddleback Mountain repeater.

Key:

No coverage Signal strength Signal strength Signal strength (black spot) (limited) (average) (strong)

Treatment Option 4.9 Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to hold discussions with Surf Life Saving South Coast to raise any current issues and opportunities which could see further radio infrastructure installed to improve communication.

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4.5 JOINT EMERGENCY RESPONSE (LIFESAVERS AND LIFEGUARDS)

Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (SRERS): The Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (NSW) was established in January 2008 and provides a single point of contact for emergency services when there is a need to utilise surf rescue assets in coastal incidents. The emergency number can be contacted 24/7 and operators (State Duty Officers) can task/notify any surf rescue asset in NSW.

Through the growth of this system the South Coast Branch have an effective Branch Duty Officer system and dedicated Club Callout Teams that can respond to incidents outside of patrolled locations/after hours. Lifeguards and lifesavers do an outstanding job responding to emergency incidents (many of which occur at unpatrolled locations and/or after hours).

The most appropriate resource at the time, whether this is volunteer lifesavers, paid lifeguards or other emergency services are notified first and activated.

Emergency Scenario Training: In the past there have been multi agency emergency response exercises in the Kiama LGA involving local emergency services, council lifeguards and surf life saving call out crews. Such exercises help to establish and cement the chain of command, cooperation and adherence of operational procedures in the event of a joint emergency response. These training exercises should continue take place once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season.

Treatment Options 1.24 & 4.10 An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Surf Life Saving South Coast Duty Officers/Support Operations, senior Kiama Lifeguards and local emergency services once a year before the commencement of the surf life saving season.

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5 MONITOR AND REVIEW

The process of monitor and review ensures that risk treatment options are meeting their objectives, new hazards and risks are identified in a timely manner and evolving strategies are in line with community expectations.

Land Managers are encouraged to ensure that a there is a process of regular review of the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies that have been implemented. This can include a process for the review of any drowning or emergency response incidents affecting public safety at the locations assessed. The treatment options outlined in this report can also be used as a benchmark as future funding opportunities become available and when budget preparations occur annually.

Land Managers may determine to further engage peak water safety organisations to assist with the monitor and review process. The process should include the review of all incident data, access points, signage, education, public rescue equipment, supervision and emergency response.

Treatment Options 1.25 & 2.12 In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented and where future funding opportunities can be directed.

Treatment Options 1.26 & 2.13 All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a structured approach to maintenance.

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6 REFERENCES

Apple 2015, Emergency + Preview, viewed 24 February 2015,

Australian Bureau of Statistics 2011, Australian Government, Canberra, ACT, viewed 5 January 2014,

Australian National Sports Fishing Association 2014, Angel Ring Project, viewed 24 October 2014,

Attorney Generals’ Department 2014, Triple Zero (000) awareness campaign and promotional material, viewed 5 December 2014,

Arnold 2014, ‘Kiama Council gives nod to Crown Land plan’, IIlawarra Mecury, 21 November 2014, viewed 26 February 2015

Australian Water Safety Council 2006, National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne.

Bradstreet, A, Sherker, S, Brighton, B, Weir, A, Thompson, M 2012, Research Review of Rock Fishing in New South Wales, Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney.

Bureau of Meteorology 2014, ‘Hazardous surf climatology’, Bureau of Meteorology, Melbourne.

Destination New South Wales 2014, ‘LGA Profile – Kiama, Destination New South Wales, Sydney.

International Life Saving Federation 2008, A framework to reduce drowning deaths in the aquatic environment for nations/regions engaged in lifesaving, The International Life Saving Federation, Belgium.

Kennedy, D, Sherker, S, Brighton, B, Weir, A, Woodroffe, C 2013, ‘Rocky coast hazards and public safety: Moving beyond the beach in coastal risk management. Ocean and Coastal Management’, Volume 82, pp. 85- 94.

Kiama Municipal Council 2015, Beaches, viewed 24 February 2015,

Kiama Municipal Council 2015, Beach Updates, viewed 26 February 2015,

Kiama Municipal Council 2015, Lifeguard Service, viewed 26 February 2015,

Kiama Visitor Information Centre 2015, Beaches, viewed 24 February 2015, < http://www.kiama.com.au/see- and-do/beaches>

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National Parks and Wildlife Service 2015, Gerroa Picnic Area, viewed 24 February 2015,

New South Wales Division of Local Government 2012, ‘Practice Note No. 15 – Water Safety’, Department of Premier and Cabinet, New South Wales Government.

Recreational Fishing Alliance 2011, Safe Fishing, viewed 24 September 2013,

Short, A 2006, Australian Beach Safety Management Programme, Coastal Studies Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney.

Standards Australia 2009, ‘AS/NZS ISO31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines’, Standards Australia, Sydney.

Standards Australia 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 1: Specifications for water safety signs used in workplaces and public areas’, Standards Australia, Sydney.

Standards Australia 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 2: Specifications for beach safety flags – “colour, shape, meaning and performance’, Standards Australia, Sydney.

Standards Australia 2010, ‘AS/NZS 2416:2010 Water safety signs and beach safety flags: Part 3: Guidance for use’, Standards Australia, Sydney.

Statewide Mutual 2007. ‘Signage As Remote Supervision’, Statewide Mutual, Sydney.

Surf Education Australia 2013, Surf Education and Surfing Programmes, viewed 26 September 2013,

Surf Life Saving Australia 2014, Beachsafe, viewed 23 July 2014,

Surf Life Saving Australia 2010, ‘The Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines, 2nd edition’, Surf Life Saving Australia, Sydney.

Surf Life Saving New South Wales 2015, Incident Reporting Database, Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Sydney.

Surf Life Saving New South Wales 2015, ‘Standard Operating Procedures Lifesaving Services – Patrol Operations (General)’, Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Sydney.

Surfing New South Wales 2015, Surfers Rescue 24/7, viewed 13 April 2015,

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