Beach patrols

Shoalhaven coastline

Blessed with perhaps the most beautiful landscapes on the east coast of Australia, the Shoalhaven is home to the lush rainforests of Kangaroo Valley, our own hinterland near Milton and miles of exquisite beaches along its eastern boundary.

Stretching from Berry to North Durras, the balmy sea breezes of summer and the clean, crisp winter air give every reason to stay outdoors and keep the temperatures and climate of the Shoalhaven comfortable all year round.

From Sea Pools at the beach to poolside in our centres, it's vitally important to be aware of both yourself and your children when in and around water. For your own safety and the safety of others, we strongly recommend swimming at patrolled beaches.

To make your next trip to the beach safer, be aware of some of the main hazards and follow these simple tips:

  • Always swim between the red and yellow flags
  • Read the safety signs
  • Ask a lifeguard or lifesaver for safety advice
  • Swim with a friend
  • If you need help, stay calm and attract attention by raising your arm above your head
  • Never enter the water if you have been drinking alcohol or are under the influence of drugs
  • Wear sunscreen, seek shade and stay hydrated
  • Boat skippers and rock fishers should check the local forecast, seek advice from NSW Maritime and always wear a lifejacket
  • If witnessing an in-water emergency, dial Triple Zero (000) - Police
  • For information on beach conditions or to find a patrolled beach near you, check out the BeachSafe website or download the mobile app.

The Surf Lifesaving South Coast Inc is an affiliated Branch of Surf Life Saving Australia (NSW).

Our Branch is made up of nine (9) Surf Clubs, has over 3000 members and is one of 11 Branches in the state of NSW. We patrol beaches from Warilla / Barrack Point SLSC in the north, all the way down to Mollymook SLSC in the south.

See www.southcoastbranch.com.au for more information.

Shoalhaven Council beach patrols

Surf patrol season from 23 September 2023 to 28 April 2024

  • (Dates subject to contract)

Weekend patrols from 23 September 2023 to 28 April 2024

Daily summer patrols from 4 December 2023 to 29 January 2024

Daily summer patrols from 20 December 2023 to 29 January 2024

Please click the links above for real-time information on the status of each patrolled beach and unique patrol schedules.

Water quality

Shoalhaven City Council monitors whether the quality of the water of Shoalhaven beaches is good for swimming in based on samples taken at ten beaches spanning the Shoalhaven coastline. To see the latest water quality ratings and information on what the best times to visit the beach are, go to the Shoalhaven City Council website.

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