ISSUE 09
- Beth Landon
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 28
In this issue, we look at a new and improved set of recommended guidelines which need to be undertaken in the event of an emergency. Get to know lifesaver Jonah Kaiser, who has been patrolling here for 5 years.Â
GENERAL NEWS
IN THE CASE OF EMERGENCY
In this blog, we often focus on the many wins and achievements we have here at Port Kembla beach. Whilst the positives vastly outnumber the negatives, from time to time, our lifesavers find themselves in unprecedented situations and making major decisions. In situations such as these, it is vitally important for our lifesavers to reflect in order to continually readjust to minimise the risk of tragedy.Â
Following the Anzac Day (2022) Honeycomb rocks rescue and subsequent recovery mission, experienced lifesaver, Mark Peterlin developed a set of guidelines to outline the recommended steps to be taken if the need occurs.
The document outlines lifesavers responsibilities and obligations, as well the appropriate legislation which suggests that individuals and patrollers can not be forced to undertake a rescue if they do not want to.Â
In the event of an emergency, lifesavers are able to respond if:
The Patrol Captain will determine that it is safe to respond; giving consideration to the welfare of the responders/IRB crew and the surf conditions.
 There are enough suitably qualified members to crew the IRB.
 There are members willing to launch the IRB and attend to a potentially dangerous situation in large seas.
Those who respond must be adequately prepared to attend the situation.
There are three (3) qualified patrol members remaining to patrol the beach whilst other patrol members attend the incident.
Surfguard is notified that the IRB is leaving the beach.
It is recommended that patrolling members read the attached document to find more information on the matter.Â
If you need further clarification on at-risk locations, please contact Mark Peterlin who has offered to take members out on the IRB for familiarisation purposes.
Please read the full document here.
MOMENTS ON PATROL
4/1/2026
Patrols 1 and 2 welcomed our newest patrolling members, the SRCs, to their first patrol ever. Although the conditions turned at mid day, the SRCs learned the importance of closing the beach during a storm. As the storm passed, Patrol 2 was able to raise the red and yellow flags once again!
11/1/2026Â
Patrol 3 and Patrol 4 had a bit of a cold day following the sweltering weather of Saturday. They made sure to watch the rips surrounding the beach to ensure every swimmer went home safe!
LIFESAVER SPOTLIGHT
JONAH KAISER
How long have you been a lifesaver?
I’ve been a lifesaver for 5 years now.
What has been your biggest accomplishment this season?
My biggest accomplishment this season would have to be that I now lead my own patrol as a patrol captain.
Why do you like patrolling?
I like patrolling as it opens up so many opportunities and ways to have fun while also serving my community.
What is your most memorable moment from patrol?
Leading and teaching my patrol members about the IRB to assist them in achieving their IRB Crew Certificate and IRB Driver Certificate.
COMING UP...
16/1/2026 - Bronze course expressions of interest due
18/1/2026 - Patrol 9 (9:00 am - 1:30pm) & Patrol 10 (1:30 pm - 6:00 pm)
25/1/2026 - Patrol 2 (9:00 am - 1:30pm) & Patrol 1 (1:30 pm - 6:00 pm)
26/1/2026 -Â Volunteer Patrol