PATROLLING THE BEACH
Patrols
Patrolling the beach is the main function of the surf club and we encourage our members to participate in patrolling duties. Avoca Beach SLSC prides itself on its strong patrol numbers, making the whole experience of patrolling the beach a very supportive and enjoyable one.
Bronze Medallion courses are run on a regular basis from September to April each year for those over the age of 15.
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Patrol groups are rostered on a regular basis throughout the season, with most groups patrolling once a month for a four hour period. Each patrol group has a Patrol Captain, an IRB Driver and an ARC holder as well as regular bronze holding members. If you are unable to make your patrol, you will need to arrange for a substitute.
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Avoca Beach SLSC patrols the area north of the rock pool to the lake, with a designated patrol area located between the pines and the rock pool depending on prevailing surf conditions.
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Those members, who have fulfilled their rostered patrol duties, are recognised at the end of season presentation.
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Patrolling members are provided a patrolling uniform from SLSA, consisting of a yellow shirt, red shorts and cap which is to be worn whilst on patrol. Please do not wear casual clothes whilst on patrol as you need to be quickly identifiable to members of the public. Patrol members are encouraged to wear sunscreen, keep up their fluid intake on a regular basis, and to make use of the shelters provided.
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If a member wishes to patrol, but due to work, education or other commitments is unable to attend rostered patrols, they may apply in writing to the Board of Directors for static membership.
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Patrol Hour Requirements for Competition
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Avoca Beach SLSC competitors are required to complete 25 patrol hours to be eligible to compete. This is mandated by SLSA.
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Each year, every patrolling and competitive member is required to complete an annual requalification in their life saving skills. This is a great opportunity to refresh and update your skills.
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The ‘requal’ will include a run, swim, run, resuscitation skills, signals and rescue techniques. The date of this requalification then becomes your proficiency number.
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Skills maintenance
Patrolling at Avoca
All patrol members must see their patrol captain to ensure they sign on and off patrol in the patrol app. It is important that Members sign on as soon as they arrive on patrol. Please remember that the Log Books are legal documents and could be called upon as evidence.
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Duties while on patrol are: monitoring the conditions of the beach, ensuring the safety of all swimmers, with particular attention being given at all times to the area adjacent to the Rock Pool which is well known for its rips which have caught many unsuspecting tourists; prevention of potential dangers to the beach goers; treatment of any injured person & ensuring Incident Report Log in any cases that are referred further; provision of public information; care & cleaning of equipment, Captains Office, & First Aid Room and any other duties deemed necessary by your Patrol Captain and Vice Captain.
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Please remember you are the face of lifesaving whilst on patrol, and the public have high standards. Please be aware of your language, actions and general behavior at all times. Members of the public need to be able to easily identify patrols members, so you will need to wear your patrol shirt, shorts and hat while on patrol
Duty of Care + Public Liability
All Members have a duty of care for the public and fellow Club Members. Public Liability Insurance is cover which is available if a member of the public or a Surf Life Saving Club member takes legal action (civil) for alleged negligence against SLSA or its members – including all financial Avoca Beach SLSC Members.
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If Members follow safety and precautionary measures set by SLSA, use SLSA approved equipment and remain vigilant the need for public liability insurance will be minimised. Any Member acting in a manner that constitutes willful misconduct or willful negligence may not be covered by insurance and could be personally liable for any loss or damage resulting from his/her actions. A reminder to all Members that we are bound by the SLSA Codes of Conduct
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