Council installs cameras to monitor unpatrolled beach
Cameras will be installed at Umina Beach before summer "to monitor unpatrolled areas and beach profiles", according to Central Coast Council.
"We are already preparing for the 2024-25 season," said Council beach safety manager Mr Phil Cantillon.
The cameras would be installed under the NSW Government Smart Beaches program,
"As always, Council remains committed to investing in making our beaches safer for locals and visitors," he said.
The cameras follow the installation of an emergency response beacon at Pearl Beach last year.
Mr Cantillon said the beacon was "a critical addition to beach safety infrastructure and can make all the difference in an emergency, as they connect callers to Surf Life Saving NSW's State Operations Centre which enables a faster response to potential rescues, particularly in unpatrolled areas".
He said: "Over the winter period, Council will also be updating its beach safety fleet with seven new Can-Am buggies.
"Additionally, lifesaving equipment will be serviced and repaired, including radio networks, two-way radios, oxygen equipment and lifeguard towers."
The 2024-25 beach patrol season will start on Saturday, September 28, with Surf Life Saving Clubs on patrol, and Monday, September 30, with Council Lifeguards.
SOURCE:
Media release, 5 Jun 2024
Phil Cantillon, Central Coast Council