newy.com.au – Redhead and Catherine Hill Bay are among the latest coastal locations to receive rescue jet skis as Surf Life Saving NSW expands its statewide fleet to 67 craft ahead of the summer patrol season.
The rollout is backed by the NSW Government’s $23 million investment in water safety and also covers Byron Bay, Ballina, Evans Head, Clarence, Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Terrigal, Avoca, Copacabana, Malabar and Shellharbour.
The new jet skis feature upgraded rescue and safety technology, including live tracking systems and Personal Locator Beacons, to help volunteer surf lifesavers respond in demanding conditions. Operators will also receive personal flotation devices, helmets, trauma kits and full-length wetsuits.
Jet skis, drones and Emergency Rescue Beacons are positioned along the NSW coast to support year-round responses, including incidents away from patrolled beaches and search-and-rescue operations.
Surf lifesavers have performed almost 1000 rescues using jet skis over the past three seasons, including nearly 300 during the 2025-26 season.
Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said the expanded fleet would provide greater protection beyond the summer patrol period.
“From the North Coast to the Illawarra, this will mean more communities are better protected year-round, not just during the summer patrol season.
“Not only will they save the lives of community members and visitors, but they will reduce the risk for our volunteers when they go to the aid of others.”
Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steve Pearce said the craft played a critical role in emergency responses.
“Jet skis are the backbone of our Rescue Services response capability, especially away from patrolled locations and in search and rescue situations,” Mr Pearce said.
“The continued support of the NSW Government ensures our volunteer surf lifesavers have access to modern, purpose-built equipment that enables faster response times, improved safety for rescue personnel and better outcomes for those in need along the state’s coastline.”
The government has also funded 64 Emergency Response Beacons at known coastal blackspots, bringing the total number installed and operating across NSW to 68.
