Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) is urging local residents to exercise caution when visiting the coastline this weekend.
The warning comes as hazardous weather conditions are forecast to impact parts of northern NSW, from the Hunter to the Far North Coast, with the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) predicting the worst of it on Sunday 12 February.
As Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle continues to move in a south-easterly direction, remaining well offshore and dissipating over the coming days, the effects are expected to be felt along the coastline with 3-3.5-metre waves and strong winds, ramping up Saturday and peaking 24 hours later.
Coupled with anticipated hot weather across NSW, conditions will be risky for coastal activities such as rock fishing, boating, surfing and swimming.
SLSNSW director of lifesaving Joel Wiseman pleaded with people to be “extremely vigilant”.
“Our resources are actively patrolling and Support Operations Teams from the Hunter to the Far North Coast are in operation,” he said.
“But, if you are planning on taking a risk, we strongly urge you to check BeachSafe and understand your limitations.
“Rock fishers should avoid coastal rock platforms exposed to the ocean, while people should consider staying out of the water.
“Club call-out teams, duty officers and surf rescue assets are on standby, as always, to respond to critical coastal incidents.”
Fifty-five people drowned on the NSW coastline in 2022.
This summer, alone, 19 have died.
Hazardous surf conditions safety tips
- Avoid rock fishing and water activities on exposed beaches/rock-shelves
- Only swim at patrolled beaches, between the red and yellow flags. See the Beachsafe Website for patrolled locations/times
- Check the official Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) forecast before undertaking rock fishing and water activities
- Boaties should seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and always wear a lifejacket If witnessing an in-water emergency dial Triple Zero (000) – Police
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