Tragically a man has drowned on Stanwell Park Beach swimming 800m from the Patrolled Area.

The patrol responded to a radio call from Surfcom at approx. 1:40pm on Monday, 1 October 2018.

The whole patrols effort to save the man's life deserves massive praise. Within minutes of the recieving the radio call the IRB was launched and successfully navigated a testing surf to reach the swimmer who was being supported by surfers.

The swimmer was returned to shore where CPR was commenced and assisted by a doctor on the beach, until the paramedics and a helicoptor arrived. Unfortunately despite all efforts the swimmer was not able to be revived.

The life savers on patrol put all of their training into action and performed very well under the circumstances, and should be be commended in the actions. It was a textbook response to the situation, including the IRB Driver and Crews skill, the CPR, use of Defib, Beach Management, Crowd Control, and communications and co-operation with emergency services.

The message to all beach goers is clear "SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS". 

Steven McDonald
Club President
Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC