Surf Life Saving WA lifeguards on Cable Beach for 2020 season

Published on 20 July 2020

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Lifeguards from Surf Life Saving Western Australia (SLSWA) are back patrolling Cable Beach, with the service to be available until October 25.

The number of beachgoers at Broome’s iconic beach has increased significantly since COVID-19 travel restrictions have been eased, with up to 400 people simultaneously using the safe swimming space between the flags in recent days and weeks.

The Shire initially employed beach lifeguards for weekend beach patrols, working in partnership with Broome Surf Lifesaving Club (BSLSC) volunteers to keep the public safe.

However, SLSWA started providing the service from July 13, with a mix of local and visiting lifeguards to be stationed on the beach from 10.30am – 4.30pm on Mondays to Saturdays.

The BSLSC will continue their Sunday patrols until early October.

Shire of Broome deputy president Desiree Male said staff at the Beach Hut had helped to monitor beach numbers initially, assisting in determining when the need for a full service became apparent.

“Uncertainty in the duration of the COVID-19 restriction period and the unknown level of visitation to Broome caused a disrupted start to the dry season,” she said.

“But it’s been great to see Broome residents utilising Cable Beach in the first instance and then lately the impressive return of visitors to Broome, particularly over the current school holiday period.

“Hopefully the high numbers continue for the remainder of the season.”

SLSWA Lifesaving Coordinator Nick Pavy said it was fantastic to have the iconic red and yellow of SLSWA’s lifeguard services back on Cable Beach, as WA started to return to post COVID-19 normality.

“There’s obviously been some disruption to the resumption of services, however we are looking forward to spending another season watching over both visitors and locals in Broome as they continue to enjoy WA’s wonderful coastline and the iconic Cable Beach.”

The SLSWA crew are well accustomed to operating the Cable Beach bathing area, having overseen the service for the most part since mid-2016.

In 2019, the beach season saw 15 rescues, four major first aids, 111 minor first aids, 12 beach closures and 7,203 recorded preventative actions.

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