City of Coffs Harbour Council has voted to keep its lifeguard operations in-house, with a commitment to ongoing improvement of the service, following a comprehensive review.
The decision follows an unsolicited approach to absorb the service by the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) last year.
“Community interest in the City Lifeguard Service and potential models for delivery is understandable given the service’s long history and that it rates highly in community satisfaction surveys,” said Council General Manager, Murray Wood.
“The ALS submitted a strong proposal and it was important for the City to undertake its due diligence to review the proposal with considerations for improved services for the community. In an ever changing world, it is important the City continues to review all of its services over time to ensure we deliver efficient and relevant services to the community.”
Following a resolution by Council last August, the Council’s review of the ALS proposal was informed by staff and a broad range of stakeholders, including volunteer surf lifesaving clubs, board rider clubs, surf schools and education providers.
“Importantly, the review identified a number of learnings and opportunities for improvements for the City Lifeguard Service going forward,” said Council Planning and Communities Director, Ian Fitzgibbon.
“There is also opportunity to further strengthen our already strong relationship with our four local surf lifesaving clubs, Surf Lifesaving NSW and other key stakeholders. And we thank the Australian Lifeguard Service for their interest.”
Mr Wood said the Council and community have the utmost respect for the City’s Lifeguard Service.
“We value their dedication and professionalism. The City remains committed to maintaining a high quality, public safety focused lifeguard service,” he said.
The Lifeguard Service patrols seven local beaches through summer, including Park Beach, Coffs Harbour’s main surf beach, which is patrolled year-round.
For detailed information on Coffs Harbour City lifeguard beach patrols, visit here.
