newy.com.au – The number of female lifeguards patrolling Newcastle’s beaches and ocean baths will reach a record high this summer, City of Newcastle says, as two trainee graduates join the professional ranks on Saturday.
Women now account for about 40 per cent of the council’s lifeguards. The start of seasonal patrols will bring coverage to all six city beaches, adding to year-round patrols at three beaches and the Merewether and Newcastle ocean baths.
Lexi Sutherland and Bronte Bowker, who are completing their Higher School Certificates, will take up casual roles after finishing last summer’s six-week trainee program alongside experienced mentors. Sutherland won the under-17 female ironperson title at the NSW Championships in March, while Bowker was part of the winning under-19 ski relay team.
Council community and recreation executive manager Lynn Duffy said every participant since the trainee program began in 2021 had returned to work for the council as a professional lifeguard in some capacity.
“We know some Councils are struggling to fill lifeguard roles because it’s a seasonal job that requires a unique set of skills,” Ms Duffy said.
She said the program helped the council maintain a team familiar with Newcastle’s beaches and patrol procedures. Delivered in partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving, it will offer places to another four high school students this summer, with applications closing on 6 October.
Ms Sutherland said the friendships she formed during her traineeship had encouraged her to apply for a casual lifeguard job.
“I developed so many new skills and had amazing learning experiences that I hope to keep building on this season,” she said.
Ms Duffy urged beachgoers never to swim alone, to stay between the red and yellow flags and to ask lifeguards for advice about conditions. Swimmers in trouble should raise a hand and yell for help, she said.
Wallsend, Mayfield, Stockton and Beresfield pools will also reopen on Saturday, following the reopening of Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre in August.
Winter maintenance included tile and expansion joint repairs in Wallsend’s 50-metre pool, servicing Lambton’s splash park and replacing bench seating at Stockton. The council also carried out safety upgrades, non-slip surface painting and plumbing repairs across the pool network.
