February is here and the flags are still flying at Tathra Beach – the only strip of sand and surf south of Mollymook with lifeguard patrols seven days a week.
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Working with local volunteers, businesses from Bega and Tathra have pulled together to provide this community safety initiative until February 26.
“It just seems crazy not to have those red and yellow flags flying on our beautiful beach during the last month of summer,” Carmen Risby, secretary of the Tathra Chamber of Commerce, said.
This is the third summer where the local business community have chipped in to keep the Australian Lifeguard Service on duty past their normal deadline.
During December and January, the service is provided by Bega Valley Shire Council, but now that February is here the cost of Monday to Friday patrols will be shared between seven business houses.
Sponsors include Tathra Beachside, Tathra Beach House Holiday Apartments, BIG4 Tathra Beach Holiday Park, Tathra Beach Bowling Club, Bega Valley Motors and the Tathra and Bega Chambers of Commerce.
Valued at over $10,000, the weekday sponsorship adds to the volunteer effort each weekend by members of Tathra Surf Lifesaving Club.
“The drowning of 22 people in NSW waters during the school holidays has really reinforced our desire to see these patrols in place for our community and visitors,” Ms Risby said.
“February is often when families with toddlers will visit, it’s also a popular time for grey nomads who are keen to miss the crowds of January.”
The businesses involved feel a duty of care to these people.
“These are our most vulnerable guests,” Ms Risby said.
As part of the service, lifeguards will be posting regular beach reports to the “Tathra & Surrounds” Facebook page.
“The great thing about Tathra is that if it’s not a beach day there is so much more to do,” Ms Risby said.
“Our mountain bike tracks are second to none, there are long and shot walks through the Mimosa and Bournda National Parks, and good coffee and cake at the ocean’s edge.”
