Download - National Coastal Safety Report 2015
NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015S U R F L I F E S A V I N G A U S T R A L I A
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
N A T I O N A L D R O W N I N G S N A P S H O T
COASTALDROWNING
DEATHS
MALE
AT THE BEACH
FEMALE
19
3712
014
182
16% 27 % 9 %RIP
CURRENTS
33%SWIMMING
19%BOATING
13%ROCK
FISHING
9%WATERCRAFT
MEDICALCONDITIONOR INJURY
ALCOHOL/DRUGSAT LEAST 5KM FROM A
LIFESAVING SERVICE
Location
Activity
Contributing Factors
02
C O N T E N T S
S E C T I O N O N E : C O M M U N I T Y A N D C A PA B I L I T Y
S E C T I O N T WO : D R OW N I N G A N A LYS I S
06 24
A U S T R A L I A N P O P U L AT I O N 0 8
C OA S TA L V I S I TAT I O N 0 9
S W I M M I N G A B I L I T Y 10
R I S K PE R C E P T I O N 12
C A PA B I L I T Y 14
M E M B E R S H I P C A PAC I T Y 18
R E S C U E S 2 0
I N T R O D U C T I O N 04
G LO S S A RY 48
R E F E R E N C E 50
N AT I O N A L OV E R V I E W 26
N E W S O U T H WA L E S 32
Q U E E N S L A N D 3 4
V I C TO R I A 3 6
W E S T E R N A U S T R A L I A 3 8
S O U T H A U S T R A L I A 4 0
TA S M A N I A 4 2
N O R T H E R N T E R R I TO RY 4 5
D R O W N I N G C H A I N 4 6
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
I N T R O D U C T I O N
As the nation’s peak coastal water safety, drowning
prevention and rescue authority, Surf Life Saving
Australia’s vision is zero preventable deaths in
Australian waters. The National Coastal Safety Report 2015
provides a detailed analysis for 2014–15 and helps identify the
challenges ahead to improve water safety and lower Australia’s
drowning rate.
Our aim is to create great Australians, build better communities,
and continue our primary mission of saving lives. Australians and
visitors are drawn to our vast and beautiful coastline, with an
estimated 100 million visitations each year. Surf Life Saving
Australia (SLSA) has provided a reliable safety service to meet
the community’s needs for more than 100 years.
The National Coastal Safety Report 2015 details SLSA’s holistic
approach to drowning prevention via the Total Service Plan
and the National Safety Agenda. It recognises that drowning
is only part of the analysis that informs sound decision-making
regarding coastal safety. This report also features vital
information about the Australian community and how they
interact with the coast. Such evidence is crucial in understanding
how Surf Life Saving may need to adapt to carry on meeting
community needs, while also acting to increase people’s
resilience to coastal hazards. Surf Life Saving’s existing capacity
and capability, including lifesaving services and resources,
prevention strategies and emergency response activities,
are outlined in the report.
Surf Life Saving uses detailed analysis to deliver evidence-based
drowning prevention and resilience-building initiatives, including
our Beach Drowning Blackspot Reduction Program. We are
committed to using our limited resources to achieve the greatest
reduction in drowning and the best return on investment for
government, corporate partners and donors across the
community, including our dedicated fundraisers, the Guardians
of the Surf.
Despite the extensive national network of lifesaving services,
102 people drowned in 2014–15. Every one of these lives lost is
one too many.
Surf Life Saving is committed to the goal of Australian Water
Safety Strategy 2012–2015: to reduce coastal drowning by
50% by 2020. It is an ambitious undertaking that will only be
achievable with an evidence-based strategy delivered with
commitment and collaboration.
I commend this report to you as a vital element in the effort
to reduce drowning deaths on Australia’s coast.
Melissa King
Chief Executive Officer
Surf Life Saving Australia
SURF LIFE SAVING USES DETAILED ANALYSIS TO DELIVER EVIDENCE-BASED DROWNING PREVENTION AND RESILIENCE-BUILDING INITIATIVES.
04
T O T A L S E R V I C E P L A N
The Total Service Plan is Surf Life Saving Australia’s (SLSA)
national drowning reduction strategy and service plan. It
is created using an iterative process of analysis and review
to identify coastal safety issues of national importance. This
approach follows the public health model and is consistent with
international risk management principles.
In collaboration with stakeholders, SLSA identifies coastal
safety risks using incident monitoring, coastal risk assessments
and participation analysis. This information is analysed via
trend and target identification, GIS plotting and critical incident
analysis to identify the top national coastal safety issues,
priorities and blackspot areas that require intervention or
mitigation strategies.
THE NATIONAL SAFETY AGENDA
The issues and blackspots identified through
the Total Service Plan process form the basis of
SLSA’s National Safety Agenda. The agenda
influences lifesaving operations, including
services and equipment allocation, and
drives public education, including
evidence-based mitigation strategies,
communications campaigns and pilot
projects, and informs SLSA’s research
plan. Each component of the agenda is
regularly reviewed, evaluated and revised
as new evidence and data become available.
The Total Service Plan takes a risk management
approach, which allows SLSA to use the evidence to
ensure we locate lifesaving services and assets in areas
of need and have appropriate public education programs
and mitigation strategies to address the coastal safety issues
and known blackspots. Embedded in the process is continual
monitoring and evaluation of evidence, policies, strategies
and programs to ensure the treatments and interventions are
effective in reducing drowning deaths along the Australian coast.
The coastal safety needs of the Australian community
reflected in the National Safety Agenda and the Surf Life Saving
movement’s capacity and capability to meet these needs are
explored in the ‘Community and Capability’ section of this report.
Figure 1
TOTAL SERVICE PLAN PROCESS OVERVIEW
The Total Service Plan aligns with the International Standard ISO
31000:2009 framework, which provides principles and guidelines
for risk management.
ContextDrowning Statistics
Non-fatal Drowning DataOperational Statistics
Market ResearchPopulation Data
Participation/Behaviour Data
Communication and Consultation
Market ResearchStakeholder Consultation
Councils, Committees and Groups
Conferences and Forums
Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitor TrendsMonitor and Evaluate Service/
Asset DeploymentEvaluate Pilot Programs
Evaluate Research
Incident Tracking Capability Statement
Participation/Behaviour Analysis
National Risk RegisterCoastal Risk Assessments
Risk Identification
Coastal Safety BriefsTrend Identification
GIS Analysis
Critical Incident AnalysisTarget Identification
Case Studies
Analysis
Evaluation
Treatment/InterventionLifesaving and Support Services
Blackspot Reduction ProgramBeach Safety Equipment Fund
Communication CampaignsPublic Education and Training
Early Warning Systems
Coastal Safety Hub Risk Assessment
National Coastal Safety Report
Strategic Research Agenda
National Safety AgendaNational Coastal
Safety IssuesBlackspot Identification
NATIONAL SAFETY AGENDA ISSUES
1. Rip Currents
2. Boating
3. Rock Fishing
4. Watercraft
5. Toxicity and Health
6. International Tourists
7. Snorkelling and Diving
8. Over 55 Years
9. Dangerous Marine
Creatures
10. New Migrants
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y05
PROFICIENT MEMBERS
49,33612,690RESCUES
HelicopterMissions
1,499 313 1,035 IRBs Clubs
VOLUNTEER PATROL HOURS
1,300,000
C O M M U N I T Y A N D C A P A B I L I T Y
S E C T I O N O N E
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
A U S T R A L I A N P O P U L A T I O N
Figure 2
AUSTRALIAN POPULATION DENSITY PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA)
This map shows the estimated Australian population density per
LGA at 30 June 2014. Most LGAs with a population density higher
than 100 persons per square kilometre are located on Australia’s
coastal fringe.
1,000km
SCALE
0
0.1-1 persons per km2
< 0.1 persons per km2
1-10 persons per km2
10-100 persons per km2
> 100 persons per km2
Key to Population Density per LGA
Brisbane
Sydney
Canberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
Reference: Australian Bureau of Statistics (3218.0 Regional Population Growth, Australia)
08
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
C O A S T A L V I S I T A T I O N
Figure 3
2014–15: COASTAL VISITATION BY ACTIVITY
Question: Which of the following coastal activities have you
participated in during the past 12 months? How often do you
participate in these activities? Almost half of the Australian
population visit the coast at least once per year to swim, making
it the most popular coastal activity. The second most popular
activity is boating, with 18% of people participating in boating at
least once a year.
0 10 20 30 40 50
Swimming or Wading
Boating
Land-based or Rock Fishing
Surfing
Watercraft
Snorkelling or Scuba Diving
Less Often
3-11 Times per Year
1-4 Times per Week
1-3 Times per Month
5+ Times per Week3%1% 1% 4%
1%
1%
2% 2% 2%
2% 2% 2%
2% 2% 2% 2%
2%
3%
4%
7% 6%1% 1% 3%
6% 8% 22% 9%4%
3% 2%7% 4%
Total - 49%
Total - 18%
Total - 12%
Total - 10%
Total -9%
Total - 9%
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
Swimming8.1 million swimmers
2.9 million frequent swimmers (at least once a month)
7 swimming hours per occasional swimmer per year
48 swimming hours per frequent swimmer per year
Boating3 million boaters
0.8 million frequent boaters (at least once a month)
17 boating hours per occasional boater per year
110 boating hours per frequent boater per year
Watercraft1.4 million watercraft users
0.9 million frequent watercraft users (at least once a month)
8 watercraft hours per occasional watercraft user per year
379 watercraft hours per frequent watercraft user per year
Land-based or Rock Fishing1.9 million fishers
0.8 million frequent fishers (at least once a month)
15 fishing hours per occasional fisher per year
284 fishing hours per frequent fisher per year
Surfing1.7 million surfers
1 million frequent surfers (at least once a month)
8 surfing hours per occasional surfer per year
279 surfing hours per frequent surfer per year
Snorkelling or Scuba Diving1.4 million snorkellers or scuba divers
0.3 million frequent snorkellers or scuba divers (at least
once a month)
8 snorkelling or diving hours per occasional snorkeller/
diver per year
261 snorkelling or diving hours per frequent snorkeller/
diver per year
09
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
S W I M M I N G A B I L I T Y
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
Can't SayHighlyCompetent
Swimmer
CompetentSwimmer
AverageSwimmer
WeakSwimmer
Unable To Swim
Swimming Ability in General
Swimming Ability in the Ocean
9%
14%
23%
33%
39%
31%
20%
14%
8%
4%2%
3%
Unableto Swim
WeakSwimmer
AverageSwimmer
CompetentSwimmer
HighlyCompetent
Swimmer
Total
26%
47%
36%
27%25%
13%
UnpatrolledBeach
21%45%
25%
21%
4%3%
1%
Netted \ Enclosed Pool
Rock PoolUnpatrolled Beach
Patrolled Beach, but Not Always During Patrolled Hours
Patrolled Beach DuringPatrol Hours Only
Can’t Say
Able to Swim 50m in a Pool without Stopping
Able to Swim 50m in the Oceanwithout Stopping
56%
38%
Figure 4
2014–15: SWIMMING ABILITY OF THE AUSTRALIAN PUBLIC
Question: How would you rate your swimming ability? And how
would you rate your swimming ability in the ocean? Australians
rate themselves as less competent swimmers in the ocean than in
other locations. While 28% of people say they are competent or
highly competent swimmers in general, only 18% of people rate
themselves similarly in the ocean.
Figure 7
2014–15: SWIMMERS’ ABILITY TO IDENTIFY RIP CURRENTS
Question: Please look at the picture below and identify the
location of any rip currents. Only 26% of respondents were
able to accurately identify rip currents when shown two images
containing rip currents. While 47% of people who reported
themselves as highly competent ocean swimmers correctly
identified the rip currents, only 13% of people who reported they
are unable to swim were able to identify the rip currents.
Figure 5
2014–15: ABILITY TO SWIM 50M WITHOUT STOPPING
Question: Are you currently able to swim 50m without stopping
or touching the bottom? Are you currently able to swim 50m
in the ocean without stopping or touching the bottom? While
56% of people say they are able to swim 50m or more without
stopping in a pool or other enclosed body of water, only 38% of
people say they are able to swim 50m in the ocean.
Figure 6
2014–15: USUAL SWIMMING LOCATION
Question: Where do you usually go swimming in the ocean?
Less than half of the Australian population (45%) usually swim
at patrolled beaches during patrol hours, while 25% swim at
patrolled beaches outside of patrol hours. More than one in five
Australians (21%) usually swim at unpatrolled locations.
10
R I P C U R R E N T S S N A P S H O T2 0 0 4 –15
ANALYSISOn average, at least 19 people drown per year as a result of rip currents.
It’s the highest number of deaths for an individual hazard or activity.
AVERAGE DEATHS PER YEAR
19AVERAGE FATALITY RATE
0.10PER 100,000 POPULATION
RANK
1st102
43
218
1716
3
14%
9%
1%
CONTRIBUTING FACTORSSwimming at unpatrolled locations
Attempting a rescue
Alcohol/drug toxicity
FATALITIES
210fatalities 2004–15
86%WERE MEN
AVERAGE AGE
36YEARS
ACTIVITIES
PARTICIPATIONSwimming/Wading
• 8.1 million swimmers
• 2.9 million frequent swimmers (at least once a month)
• Occasional swimmers average 7 hours per year
• Frequent swimmers average 48 hours per year
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW/ACTFemaleMaleTotal
49% 49%54% 54%
38%
47%
40% 41%44%
52%
Per
cen
tag
e o
f Po
pu
lati
on
(%)
2014–15: NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN COASTAL SWIMMING
Swimming/Wading
Attempting a Rescue
Watercraft
Rock Fishing
Rock/Cliff Related
Diving
Snorkelling
Other
72%
KEY DEMOGRAPHIC
MEN AGED
15–39YEARS
Australian residents, Australian-born and overseas-born
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
R I S K P E R C E P T I O N
Can't Say
Not at All Hazardous
Not Very Hazardous
Somewhat HazardousVery Hazardous
Extremely Hazardous
8%
14%
50%
16%
5%
7%
SomewhatHazardous
50%
RISK PERCEPTION AND BEHAVIOURAL INSIGHTS
There is a lack of awareness among the public about the
hazards posed by the Australian coast. Surf Life Saving
Australia’s 2015 National Coastal Safety Survey revealed:
• 50% of people say the coast is only somewhat hazardous,
while 41% of people say the beach is not very or not at
all hazardous.
• 70% of people perceive rip currents to be very or extremely
hazardous, but only 26% of people are able to correctly
identify a rip current.
• Only 38% of people say they are able to swim more than
50m in the ocean without stopping or touching the bottom.
• Participants in coastal activities do not follow key safety
procedures—only 45% of people usually swim at a
patrolled beach during patrol hours, while 21% say they
usually swim at unpatrolled locations; only 18% of fishers,
42% of watercraft users and 53% of boaters always wear
a lifejacket.
While certain coastal hazards, such as rip currents, are
recognised as dangerous by people, participation in coastal
activities where rip currents may be present (such as
swimming and wading) is not seen to be hazardous. In
general, occasional (and potentially less experienced)
participants in coastal activities see the activity as less
hazardous than frequent participants say they perceive
the same activity.
This lack of understanding about the coastal environment,
together with people’s poor swimming ability in the ocean
and their low level of adherence to safety procedures, form
a dangerous combination that contributes to coastal
drowning deaths.
Surf Life Saving Australia is undertaking behavioural insights
research into high-risk groups to better understand people’s
perception of hazards and what motivates them to follow
water safety procedures. The intelligence from the research
will be used to inform water safety strategies and mitigations
as well as communications plans to more effectively influence
people’s behaviour. The research will provide a behaviour
change framework that will ultimately be used to improve
people’s resilience to coastal hazards and reduce drowning
deaths among beachgoers and coastal users.
Can't Say
Not at All HazardousNot Very HazardousSomewhat Hazardous
Very HazardousExtremely Hazardous
Not Very or Not at All Hazardous
41%
5%
9%
39%31%
10%
6%
Figure 8
2014–15: HAZARD PERCEPTION OF THE COAST
Question: How hazardous do you believe the coast (by coast
we mean the ocean and surf zone and the adjacent rocky coast)
to be? Half of the Australian population believe the coast to be
somewhat hazardous, while 21% of people perceive it to be not
very or not at all hazardous.
Figure 9
2014–15: HAZARD PERCEPTION OF THE BEACH
Question: How hazardous do you believe the beach (by beach
we mean the ocean and surf zone and the adjacent sandy beach)
to be? Four out of ten (41%) people say the beach is not very or
not at all hazardous, while 14% of people believe it to be very or
extremely hazardous.
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
12
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
Figure 10
2014–15: PERCEPTION OF COASTAL ACTIVITIES
Question: How hazardous do you think it is to participate in each of
the following activities in Australian coastal areas? How would you
rate the following hazards in Australian coastal areas? Rip currents
are seen to be very or extremely hazardous by 70% of Australians,
while 35% of people think similarly about waves. Participating in
popular coastal activities such as swimming (13%) and wading
(10%) is not perceived to be very hazardous. Rock fishing is
perceived to be very or extremely hazardous by 46% of people.
Figure 11
2014–15: PERCEPTION OF COASTAL ACTIVITIES BY PARTICIPANTS
Question: How hazardous do you think it is to participate in
each of the following activities in Australian coastal areas? In
general, frequent participants in coastal activities (at least once
per month) rate participation in the activity to be more hazardous
than occasional participants view the same activity. However,
49% of frequent rock fishers think the activity is very or extremely
hazardous, while 56% of occasional participants rate it similarly.
Rip
Cur
rent
s
Sun
Exp
osur
e
Trop
ical
Mar
ine
Stin
ger
Cre
atur
es
Mar
ine
Stin
ger
Cre
atur
es
Cro
cod
iles
Shar
ks
Roc
k Fi
shin
g
Wav
es
Scub
a D
ivin
g
Surfi
ng
Wat
ercr
aft
Snor
kelli
ng
Boa
ting
Swim
min
g
Wad
ing
Land
-bas
edFi
shin
g
10% 10%13%
15%17%
21%
26% 27%
35%
46%
53% 53% 54%
61%63%
70%Activities People Say are Very or Extremely HazardousCoastal Hazards People Say are Very or Extremely Hazardous
Scub
a D
ivin
g
Snor
kelli
ng
Boa
tin
g
Roc
kFi
shin
g
Lan
d-b
ased
Fish
ing
Wat
ercr
aft
Surfi
ng
Wad
ing
Swim
min
g
Frequent Participants Who Say the Activity is Very or Extremely HazardousOccasional Participants Who Say the Activity is Very or Extremely Hazardous
23%
5%
20%
2%
45%
12%
45%
7%
37%
6%
36%
11% 11%
30%
49%46%
50%
56%
13
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
C A P A B I L I T Y
Surf Life Saving (SLS) has significant
capability to provide coastal
surveillance patrols and aquatic
search and rescue (SAR) operations,
working in close partnership with police
and emergency services.
Our lifesavers are equipped with fit-for-
purpose equipment designed to operate
in hazardous and challenging conditions.
Thousands of rescue boards and tubes
are used around the flagged patrol areas
of our 313 Surf Life Saving clubs. They
are supported by 1,499 inflatable rescue
boats (IRBs), allowing lifesavers to quickly
navigate the surf zone and near-shore
environment.
Roving surveillance patrols that
actively monitor a stretch of coastline
near a primary patrolled area are vital
to our drowning prevention strategy.
Lifesavers undertake these patrols
using 414 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
and 4WD vehicles.
SLS support operations services extend
further beyond the red and yellow flags
to provide surveillance and emergency
response in isolated and hazardous
coastal areas. Agile craft such as 156
rescue water craft (RWC) and eight jet
rescue boats (JRBs) allow lifesavers to
access white-water areas such as coastal
bars and rocky coastlines.
A national fleet of 15 offshore rescue
boats (ORBs) and eight rigid-hull
inflatable boats (RIBs) further expand the
SLS response capability providing longer
range surveillance and blue-water rescue
services as well as supporting lifesaving in
SAR operations.
For rapid, isolated or complex rescues,
11 Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters
provide aerial support to lifesavers and
further extend our surveillance and
SAR capability. These important assets
also support police and emergency
services in a range of emergency and
disaster situations.
Critical radio communications support
these services via a broad coastal radio
network connected to communications
and operations centres. The centres
coordinate the SLS emergency response
system and input data into our SurfCom
data management system.
These services are expertly delivered
and managed through the 49,336
proficient lifesavers (Bronze Medallion
and Surf Rescue Certificate holders)
across the country. They receive
specialised training to industry best-
practice standards under the Australian
Qualifications Framework to ensure the
community receives reliable service of the
highest quality across the nation.
AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICE
The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS)
is a national lifeguard provider of beach
and pool lifeguard services to 69 local
government councils and land managers
all across Australia. It is the largest
supplier of professional lifeguards in
Australia. Annually, the ALS employs more
than 700 full-time, seasonal and casual
lifeguards and management staff.
ALS patrols are fully integrated into
and work alongside Surf Life Saving’s
volunteer beach patrol services, support
operations services, 24-hour emergency
response systems and strategically
located Westpac Life Saver Rescue
Helicopter Services.
ALS patrols vary from single-day patrols
on peak periods and public holidays (e.g.
Australia Day) to private providers to 365-
day services for large local governments.
They are a crucial component in offering a
seamless service to the community during
peak periods.
A number of local councils around
Australia maintain lifeguard services.
Statistics for those services have not been
included in this report.
14
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
Brisbane
SydneyCanberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
1,000km
SCALE
0
59
57
30
3
21
14
129
Figure 12
2014–15: SURF LIFE SAVING CLUBS
There are 313 clubs around Australia: 129 in New South Wales,
59 in Queensland, 57 in Victoria, 30 in Western Australia, 21 in
South Australia, 14 in Tasmania and 3 in Northern Territory.
15
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
C A P A B I L I T Y
Brisbane
SydneyCanberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
1,000km
SCALE
0
80
39
17
3
2
1
84
Figure 13
2014–15: AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICE
The Australian Lifeguard Service provides 226 lifeguard services
around Australia: 84 in New South Wales, 80 in Queensland,
39 in Victoria, 17 in Western Australia, 2 in South Australia,
1 in Tasmania and 3 in Northern Territory.
16
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
1,000km
SCALE
0
Jet Rescue Boat (JRB)
Rescue Water Craft (RWC)
Rigid-hull Inflatable Boat (RIB)
Offshore Rescue Boat (ORB)
Helicopter
Brisbane
SydneyCanberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
Figure 14
2014–15: SLS MAJOR ASSET LOCATION AND SERVICE RANGE
SLS maintains a fleet of 156 rescue water craft in 63 local
government areas, as well as 8 jet rescue boats, 8 rigid-hull
inflatable boats, 15 offshore rescue boats and 11 helicopters.
Their locations and service ranges are depicted on this map.
17
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
M E M B E R S H I P C A P A C I T Y
Figure 15
2014–15: PROFICIENT LIFESAVERS
There were a total of 38,748 proficient Bronze Medallion holders
and 10,588 proficient Surf Rescue Certification holders for the
entire 2014–15 season.
Figure 17
2014–15: INFLATABLE RESCUE BOAT OPERATORS
There were 6,672 proficient inflatable rescue boat (IRB) drivers
and 13,339 proficient IRB crew for the entire 2014–15 season.
Figure 18
2014–15: FIRST AID QUALIFICATIONS
There were a total of 11,516 Apply First Aid and 12,761 Advanced
Resuscitation Techniques certificate holders who were proficient
for the entire 2014–15 season.
Figure 16
2014–15: PATROLLING LIFESAVERS
There were a total of 42,956 members who performed a patrol
during the 2014–15 season.
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
Bronze Medallion
Surf Rescue Certificate17,973
4,115
7,996
2,431
5,471
1,784
4,187
1,601 2,365
482 656 154 21 100
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
19,403
8,844
6,260
4,889
2,600
810150
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
Proficient IRB Driver
Proficient IRB Crew
3,077
5,805
1,681
3,305
877
1,960
478
1,067
403
875
140 301
2616
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
Advanced Resuscitation Techniques
Apply First Aid
6,250
5,145
2,757
3,349
1,671 1,247
937 877 798 778309 104 1639
18
B O A T I N G S N A P S H O T2 0 0 4 –15
ANALYSISOn average, at least 16 people drown per year as a result of boating.
It’s the second highest number of deaths for an individual activity.
AVERAGE DEATHS PER YEAR
16AVERAGE FATALITY RATE
0.07PER 100,000 POPULATION
RANK
2nd
NSW24%
42
38
3319
23
16
4
QLD22%
VIC19%
SA13%
TAS11%
WA9%
NT2%
CONTRIBUTING FACTORSNo lifejacket usage
Boating alone
Boating at night
Alcohol/drug toxicity
KEY DEMOGRAPHIC
MEN AGED
40–69YEARS
Australian residents, Australian-born
FATALITIES
175fatalities 2004–15
91%WERE MEN
AVERAGE AGE
50YEARS
LOCATION
PARTICIPATION• 3 million total boaters
• 0.8 million frequent boaters (at least once a month)
• Occasional boaters average 17 hours per year
• Frequent boaters average 110 hours per year
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW/ACT FemaleMaleTotal
18% 18% 18%
12%13%
18%
45%
19% 19%23%
Per
cen
tag
e o
f Po
pu
lati
on
(%)
2014–15: NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN COASTAL BOATING
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
R E S C U E S
1,000km
SCALE
0
Key to Rescues per LGA
1 - 9 Rescues
10 - 49 Rescues
50 - 149 Rescues
150 - 449 Rescues
> 450 Rescues
3,644
6,741
498
244
302
1,205
56
Brisbane
Sydney
Canberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
Figure 19
2014–15: RESCUES PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA)
SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and support service personnel
performed rescues across 99 LGAs around Australia.
20
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
Figure 20
2014–15: RESCUES PER STATE
SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and support service personnel
performed 12,690 rescues during 2014–15.
Figure 21
2014–15: PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PER STATE
SLS lifesavers, lifeguards and support service personnel
performed 1,255,090 preventative actions during 2014–15.
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
6,741
3,644
498
1,205
244 56 302
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW
425,106
648,831
113,442
44,503 19,003
696 3,509
21
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
1,000km
SCALE
0
3- 5 Emergency Responses
1- 2 Emergency Responses
6- 13 Emergency Responses
14- 24 Emergency Responses
>25 Emergency Responses
Key to Emergency Responses per LGA
9
65
37
505
270
18
101
Brisbane
Sydney
Canberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
Figure 22
2014–15: EMERGENCY RESPONSE PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA)
SLS support service personnel responded to requests
for assistance from emergency services across 95 LGAs
around Australia.
R E S C U E S
22
SECTION ONE COMMUNIT Y AND CAPABILIT Y
1,000km
SCALE
0
5 - 9 Drowning Deaths
1- 4 Drowning Deaths
10 -16 Drowning Deaths
17-30 Drowning Deaths
> 31 Drowning Deaths
Key to Coastal Drowning Deaths per LGA
406
171
21
141
83
157
51
Brisbane
Sydney
Canberra
Hobart
Melbourne
Adelaide
Darwin
Perth
Figure 23
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS PER LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (LGA)
During 2004 to 2015, there were 1,031 drowning deaths in 144
LGAs throughout Australia.
23
D R O W N I N G A N A LY S I SS E C T I O N T W O
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
MALE86% 14%
FEMALE102 COASTALDROWNING DEATHS
9%
Alcohol/Drugs
27%
Medical Conditionor Injury
16%
Rip Currents
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
N A T I O N A L O V E R V I E W
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0
0.1
0.2
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
8995 98
89
8985
69
113118
83
102
No COD Listed COD Listed
Figure 24
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF NATIONAL COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
National coastal drowning death numbers and crude drowning
rates 2004–15. The 11-year average rate per 100,000 population
is 0.43 and the number is 94, while the rate for 2014–15 is 0.43
and the number is 102.
Figure 25
2004–15: 11-YEAR COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The national rates of activity types being undertaken when
coastal drowning deaths occur vary over time. The rates of
rock fishing (0.05 vs. 0.06 average rate per 100,000 pop.) and
attempting a rescue (0.004 vs. 0.02 average rate per 100,000
pop.) activities are below the 11-year average rate. Swimming and
wading (0.14 rate per 100,000 pop.), snorkelling (0.02 rate per
100,000 pop.) and other activities (0.02 rate per 100,000 pop.)
have rates equal to the 11-year averages. Boating (0.08 vs. 0.07
average rate per 100,000 pop.), watercraft (0.04 vs. 0.03 rate per
100,000 pop.), diving (0.03 vs. 0.02 average rate per 100,000
pop.) and rock/cliff related (0.02 vs. 0.01 rate per 100,000 pop.)
activities have a higher rate this year than the 11-year average.
Other activities include vehicular events, plane crash, beach
fishing and falls.
0.00
0.02
0.04
0.06
0.08
0.10
0.12
0.14
0.16
0.18
0.20
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownOtherRock/Cliff RelatedSnorkellingDivingAttempting a RescueWatercraftRock FishingBoatingSwimming/Wading
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
26
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
Figure 26
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY STATE
Of the 102 coastal drowning deaths, 37 (36%) occurred in NSW,
19 (19%) in Qld, 18 (18%) in Vic, 14 (14%) in WA, 12 (12%) in SA,
2 (2%) in Tas, and zero in NT.
Figure 27
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY AGE GROUP AND SEX
The age group representing the highest rate of fatalities is 45–49
years (n=15, 0.06 rate per 100,000 pop.). Eighty-eight fatalities
(86%) were male.
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8Crude Drowning Rate per 100,000
Crude Drowning Deaths (n)
Nu
mb
er (n
)
0.05
0.06
0.07
0.08
0
0.03
0.04
0.02
0.01
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
unknown85+80-8475-7970-7465-6960-6455-5950-5445-4940-4435-3930-3425-2920-2415-1910-145-90-4
Female
Male
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
27
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
BLACKSPOTS
A blackspot is an area with a high concentration of coastal/
ocean incidents and a high probability/risk of ongoing
reoccurrence. SLSA has identified the local government areas
(LGAs) listed below as blackspots. These LGAs are priorities
for conducting coastal risk assessments and implementing
drowning prevention activities via the Beach Drowning
Blackspot Reduction Program.
New South Wales: Bega Valley Shire, Byron Shire,
City of Coffs Harbour, City of Gosford, City of Randwick,
City of Shoalhaven, City of Wollongong, Pittwater,
Sutherland Shire, Warringah, Waverley, Wyong Shire
Northern Territory: City of Darwin
Queensland: Cairns Region, City of Gold Coast, Noosa Shire,
Redland City, Sunshine Coast
South Australia: City of Victor Harbor
Tasmania: City of Clarence
Victoria: City of Greater Geelong, Mornington Peninsula
Shire, Bass Coast Shire, Surf Coast Shire
Western Australia: City of Stirling
Beach
Rock/Cliff
Offshore
Bay
Marina/Jetty
Beach
56%56%
22%
16%
4% 3%
Swimming/Wading
Boating
Rock Fishing
Watercraft
DivingSnorkellingRock/Cliff RelatedOtherAttempting a RescueUnknown
Swimming/Wading
33%
33%
19%13%
9%
7%
5%
5%
4%5%
1%
N A T I O N A L O V E R V I E W
Figure 28
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=102)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths occurred when an
individual was participating in swimming or wading (n=34, 33%),
boating (n=19, 19%), rock fishing (n=13, 13%), using non-powered
watercraft (n=9, 9%) or scuba diving (n=7, 7%).
Figure 29
2014–15: LOCATION OF COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS (N=102)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths occurred at a beach
(n=57), at a rock/cliff location (n=22) and offshore (n=16). When
compared to last year (2013–14), the percentages illustrate a
decrease in offshore (16% from 33%) and rock/cliff locations
(22% from 25%) and an increase in drowning deaths in beach
(56% from 38%) and bay (4% from 0%) locations. There were,
again, no drowning deaths between the flags.
28
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
Greater than 5km
1km to 5km
Less than 1km
Greater than5km
41% 41%
30%
28%
Greater than 50km
Less than 10km
10km to 50km
International
Unknown
32%
28%
28%
7%4%
Greater than50km
32%
Per
cen
tag
e (%
)
0
3
6
9
12
15
Jun
e
May
Ap
ril
Mar
ch
Feb
ruar
y
Jan
uary
Dec
emb
er
Nov
emb
er
Oct
ober
Sep
tem
ber
Aug
ust
July
11:0
1pm
-12a
m
10:0
1pm
-11p
m
9:01
pm
-10p
m
8:01
pm
-9p
m
7:01
pm
-8p
m
6:01
pm
-7p
m
5:01
pm
-6p
m
4:01
pm
-5p
m
3:01
pm
-4p
m
2:01
pm
-3p
m
1:01
pm
-2p
m
12:0
1pm
-1p
m
11:0
1am
-12p
m
10:0
1am
-11a
m
9:01
am-1
0am
8:01
am-9
am
7:01
am-8
am
6:01
am-7
am
5:01
am-6
am
4:01
am-5
am
3:01
am-4
am
2:01
am-3
am
1:01
am-2
am
12:0
1am
-1 a
m
Per
cen
tag
e (%
)0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
Figure 30
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY MONTH (N=102)
The highest number of coastal drownings occurred in the month
of January (n=14); this is followed by December, February and
March (n=10). Sixty-eight occurred outside of the summer
months. Shading denotes season.
Figure 32
2014–15: DISTANCE FROM DROWNING LOCATION TO A LIFESAVING SERVICE (N=102)
Forty-two individuals (41%) drowned further than 5km from the
nearest lifesaving club. No coastal drowning deaths occurred
between the red and yellow flags.
Figure 31
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY TIME (N=84)*
There are currently 84 coastal drowning deaths (82% of the total)
with known times. Approximately one third of these fatalities
occurred between 1:01pm and 3pm (n=22).
* Only incidents with known times are represented.
Figure 33
2014–15: DISTANCE FROM RESIDENCE TO DROWNING LOCATION (N=102)
Thirty-three individuals (32%) lived further than 50km from
the drowning location, and 7 coastal drowning deaths (7%)
involved international tourists.
29
BRISBANE
SYDNEY
CANBERRA
HOBART
MELBOURNE
ADELAIDE
DARWIN
PERTH
1,000km
SCALE
0
22
3
8
5
3
5
2
222
2
2
2 2
2
2
2 225
23
3
2
52
42
2
8 3 2
5 34
2
4
2 334 2 3 2
2 2
2
2
2
32
33
2
2
44
22
3
49
42
3 28
9 8 419 25 4 4 2
9 6 312 3727
4 342 2 3222
822322
22
3 2210
2 3 3
3 22
3
2
32
62
24
2
4382
4 425
72
52
215
823
3 2
22 3
2 7
3 22
2
2
2
24
6 2
2
2
2
2
3
22
4
2
2
2
2 2
2
2
3 3
3
2
32
22 3
2
224
3
2
3
22
2
2
2
2
D R O W N I N G L O C AT I O N M A P2 0 0 4 –15
KEY TO DROWNING ACTIVITY
Attempting a Rescue
Boating
Diving
Rock Fishing
Rock/Cliff Related
Snorkelling
Swimming/Wading
Watercraft
Other
Unknown
Multiple instances per activity
at the same location
2
141
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 201530
BRISBANE
SYDNEY
CANBERRA
HOBART
MELBOURNE
ADELAIDE
DARWIN
PERTH
1,000km
SCALE
0
22
3
8
5
3
5
2
222
2
2
2 2
2
2
2 225
23
3
2
52
42
2
8 3 2
5 34
2
4
2 334 2 3 2
2 2
2
2
2
32
33
2
2
44
22
3
49
42
3 28
9 8 419 25 4 4 2
9 6 312 3727
4 342 2 3222
822322
22
3 2210
2 3 3
3 22
3
2
32
62
24
2
4382
4 425
72
52
215
823
3 2
22 3
2 7
3 22
2
2
2
24
6 2
2
2
2
2
3
22
4
2
2
2
2 2
2
2
3 3
3
2
32
22 3
2
224
3
2
3
22
2
2
2
2
171
406
51
21
83
157
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
N E W S O U T H W A L E S
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
35 35
45
29
39 40
23
4846
29
37
Swimming/Wading
Rock Fishing
Boating
Watercraft
DivingOtherRock/Cliff RelatedSnorkellingUnknown
Swimming/Wading
38%38%
19%
16%
8%
5%
3%3%
3%5%
Figure 34
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF NEW SOUTH WALES COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 37 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of
0.49 per 100,000 population in New South Wales (NSW). From
2004 to 2015, there has been an average number of 37 coastal
drowning deaths per year, which is an 11-year average rate of
0.52 per 100,000 pop.
Figure 35
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=37)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths in NSW occurred when
an individual was participating in swimming and wading (n=14,
38%), rock fishing (n=7, 19%), boating (n=6, 16%) or watercraft
(n=3, 8%).
Figure 36
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in NSW. The rock fishing
activity rate is less than the 11-year average (0.09 vs. 0.11 average
rate per 100,000 pop.) this year. Activities that have a rate
equal to the 11-year average are swimming and wading (0.18
per 100,000 pop.), watercraft (0.04 per 100,000 pop.), rock/
cliff related activities other than fishing (0.01 per 100,000 pop.)
and snorkelling (0.01 per 100,000 pop.). Activities that have a
rate greater than the 11-year average are boating (0.08 vs. 0.05
average rate per 100,000 pop.) and diving (0.03 vs. 0.02 average
rate per 100,000 pop.). There were no incidents related to
attempting a rescue in 2014–15.
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
0.30
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownSnorkellingOtherRock/Cliff RelatedDivingAttempting a RescueWatercraftBoatingRock FishingSwimming/Wading
32
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
CASE STUDY: ROCK FISHING
Fishing is one of the most popular sports in New South
Wales (NSW). About 656,000 people in NSW/ACT fish at
least once a year (SLSA NCSS, 2015). Rock fishers make up
a small, but passionate, sector of the fishing community.
While rock fishing is an enjoyable pastime, unfortunately, it
also poses many dangers. Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA)
partnered with the University of New South Wales in the
development of the Research Review of Rock Fishing in
New South Wales. Three recommendations were presented
as a result of the research.
1. Develop a state-wide strategic plan for rock fishing
safety in NSW, including the delegation of responsibilities
to key agencies, stakeholders and non-government
organisations, and the development of clear objectives
and key performance indicators. 2. Develop, implement
and assess a public education and communication
campaign, incorporated into the state-wide strategy
to promote safe rock fishing practices and support the
introduction of legislation. 3. Legislate the mandatory
wearing of lifejackets while rock fishing at coastal locations
in NSW. In July 2015, the NSW coroner made the same
recommendations after an inquest into nine NSW rock-
fishing deaths that have occurred since 2012.
ISSUE INTERVENTION
Rip currents Surf education programs
Watercraft Enhancing triple zero (000) awareness Improve effective emergency response
Boating Dangerous surf warnings
OTHER NEW SOUTH WALES COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 37
2004–15: NEW SOUTH WALES COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 38
2004–15: ROCK FISHING RELATED DROWNING DEATHS IN NSW
There have been 85 rock fishing drowning deaths in NSW
since 2004, an average of 7.7 per year. Males make up 94% of
the deaths, and the average age of individuals is 46 years.
2
44
22
3
49
42
3 28
9 8 419 25 4 4 2
9 6 312 3727
4 342 2 3222
822322
22
3 2210
2 3 3
3 22
3
2
32
62
24
2
4382
4 425
2
2
22
SYDNEY
CANBERRA
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
Nu
mb
er (n
)
6
9 9
1211
4 4
7 78 8
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
33
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
Q U E E N S L A N D
Figure 39
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF QUEENSLAND COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 19 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of
0.40 per 100,000 population in Queensland (Qld). From 2004 to
2015, there has been an average number of 16 coastal drowning
deaths per year, which is an average rate of 0.36 per 100,000 pop.
Figure 40
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=19)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths in Qld occurred when an
individual was swimming and wading (n=7, 37%), boating (n=4,
21%), and diving or snorkelling (each n=2, 11%).
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
18
11
17
12
9
16 17
24
1315
19
Swimming/Wading
Boating
Diving
Snorkelling
WatercraftAttempting a RescueUnknown
Swimming/Wading
37%37%
21%
11%
11%
11%
5%
5%
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownRock/Cliff RelatedOtherRock FishingDivingAttempting a RescueWatercraftSnorkellingBoatingSwimming/Wading
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
Figure 41
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in Qld. The watercraft
activity rate is less than the 11-year average (0.02 vs. 0.04 average
rate per 100,000 pop.) this year. Activities that have a rate equal
to the 11-year average are snorkelling (0.04 per 100,000 pop.)
and attempting a rescue (0.02 per 100,000 pop.). Activities that
have a rate greater than the 11-year average are swimming and
wading (0.15 vs. 0.13 average rate per 100,00 pop.), boating (0.08
vs. 0.07 average rate per 100,000 pop.) and diving (0.04 vs. 0.01
average rate per 100,000 pop.). There were no incidents related
to rock fishing or other rock/cliff-related activities in 2014–15.
34
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
72
52BRISBANE
215
823
3 2
22 3
2 7
3 22
2
2
2
24
6 2
CASE STUDY: SWIMMING AND WADING
During 2014–15, drowning while swimming and wading
represented 37% of all coastal drowning deaths in
Queensland. The rip current hazard is the top national safety
agenda issue and rip currents were known to be contributory
factors in at least 53% of all swimming and wading coastal
drowning deaths in Queensland in 2004–15.
To address this issue, Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ)
has identified the need to undertake risk assessments
in drowning blackspot local government areas (LGA).
The assessments include identifying coastal risks and
signage requirements and providing recommendations for
mitigation strategies for threats to public safety, lifesaving
services, rescue equipment, training, communications,
emergency response and community education.
Following recommendations from coastal risk
assessments, SLSQ has implemented increased lifesaving
services at locations identified as areas of need, for
example Green Island on the Great Barrier Reef. SLSQ
also works closely with the accommodation providers in
known blackspot locations to provide visitors with water
safety information.
Issue Intervention
Diving/Snorkelling Charter boat awareness program Coastal risk assessments
Unpatrolled locations Emergency response beacons
Inter-state and international tourists
Airport greeting programs
OTHER QUEENSLAND COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 42
2004–15: QUEENSLAND COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 43
2004–15: SWIMMING AND WADING RELATED DROWNING DEATHS IN QUEENSLAND
There have been 60 swimming and wading related
drowning deaths in Queensland since 2004, which is an
average of 5.5 per year. Rip currents were known to be
contributory factors in at least 32 (53%) of these deaths.
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Swimming/Wading Known Rip Currents
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
35
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
V I C T O R I A
Boating
Swimming/Wading
Diving
Rock Fishing
WatercraftOtherUnknown
Boating
33%
33%
17%17%
11%
11%
6%6%
0
5
10
15
20
25
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
0.30
0.35
0.40
0.45
1415
11
17
1112
10 10
23
16
18
Figure 44
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF VICTORIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 18 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of
0.30 per 100,000 population in Victoria (Vic). From 2004 to 2015,
there has been an average number of 14 coastal drowning deaths
per year, which is an average rate of 0.26 per 100,000 pop.
Figure 45
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=18)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths in Vic occurred when an
individual was boating (n=6, 33%), swimming and wading (n=3,
17%), and diving (n=3, 17%).
Figure 46
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types undertaken when coastal drowning
deaths occur vary over time in Vic. The swimming and wading
activity rate is less than the 11-year average (0.05 vs. 0.08
average rate per 100,000 pop.) this year. Activities that have a
rate greater than the 11-year average are boating (0.10 vs. 0.05
average rate per 100,000 pop.), watercraft (0.03 vs. 0.02 average
rate per 100,000 pop.), rock fishing (0.03 vs. 0.02 average rate
per 100,000 pop.) and diving (0.05 vs. 0.02 average rate per
100,000 pop.). There were no incidents related to attempting
a rescue, rock/cliff related activities other than rock fishing, or
snorkelling activities in 2014–15.
0.00
0.02
0.04
0.06
0.08
0.10
0.12
0.14
0.16
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownSnorkellingRock/Cliff RelatedAttempting a RescueOtherDivingRock FishingWatercraftBoatingSwimming/Wading
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
36
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
2 225
23
MELBOURNE
3
2
52
428 3 2
5 34
2
4
2 2
2
2 334 2 3 2
CASE STUDY: LIFEJACKETS AND BOATING
Drowning while participating in boating represented
33% of all coastal drowning deaths in Victoria in 2014–15,
and boating is the second highest number of coastal
deaths for an activity in Australia. In most instances, the
victim was not wearing a lifejacket. In 2005, regulation
was introduced in Victoria to make wearing lifejackets
compulsory, and a study by Bugeja et al (2014) reported
a significant reduction in drowning deaths following its
introduction. However, the lack of lifejacket use continues
to be a contributing factor in coastal boating drowning
deaths. Surf Life Saving Australia is a signatory to the
International Lifejacket Principles, which ‘recognise
the importance of promoting the wearing of lifejackets
when boating’. Through the Play it Safe by the Water
program and other initiatives, Life Saving Victoria (LSV)
works collaboratively with Maritime Safety Victoria to
promote lifejacket usage to Victorians. In addition, LSV
members provide role modelling for the community—it
is compulsory for lifesavers and lifeguards to wear
lifejackets while operating inflatable rescue boats or
rescue watercraft.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Nu
mb
er (n
)
5
1 1
3 3
4
2
6
4 4
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Issue Intervention
Rip currents Open Water Learning Experience
Watercraft Promoting lifejacket usage
Inconsistent or incomplete coastal safety signage
Coastal risk assessments, including recommendations about signage
Rock fishing Promoting lifejacket usage and key safety messages
60+ year olds Play it Safe by the Water program Grey Medallion
OTHER VICTORIAN COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 47
2004–15: VICTORIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 48
2004–15: BOATING RELATED DROWNING DEATHS IN VICTORIA
There have been 33 boating related drowning deaths in
Victoria since 2004, which is an average of three per year.
Males make up 97% of the deaths, and the average age of
individuals is 53 years.
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
37
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
W E S T E R N A U S T R A L I A
Figure 49
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF WESTERN AUSTRALIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 14 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of
0.54 per 100,000 population in Western Australia (WA). From
2004 to 2015, there has been an average number of 13 coastal
drowning deaths per year, which is an average rate of 0.40 per
100,000 pop.
Swimming/Wading
Rock Fishing
Watercraft
Rock/Cliff Related
Swimming/Wading
36%36%
29%
21%
14%
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
8
1513
12 1110
11
15
24
8
14
Figure 50
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=14)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths in WA occurred when
an individual was swimming and wading (n=5, 36%), rock fishing
(n=4, 29%), or using non-powered watercraft (n=3, 21%).
Figure 51
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in WA. Activities that have
a rate greater than the 11-year average are swimming and wading
(0.19 vs. 0.15 average rate per 100,000 pop.), rock fishing (0.15
vs. 0.12 average rate per 100,000 pop.), watercraft (0.12 vs. 0.06
average rate per 100,000 pop.) and rock/cliff related activities
other than rock fishing (0.08 vs. 0.04 average rate per 100,000
pop.). There were no incidents related to boating, snorkelling,
diving or attempting a rescue activities in 2014–15.
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
0.30
0.35
0.40
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownAttempting a RescueOtherDivingRock/Cliff RelatedWatercraftSnorkellingBoatingRock FishingSwimming/Wading
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
38
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
CASE STUDY: SURFING AND OTHER WATERCRAFT
Surfing and using other watercraft are popular activities
in Western Australia (WA), The Surf Life Saving Australia
National Coastal Safety Survey 2015 reported that 12%
of the WA population surf and 7% use other watercraft.
The Cape Regions on the state’s south-western coast
is a popular tourist and surfing destination. However,
there have been seven fatalities while surfing or using
watercraft in that region between 2004 and 2015. Some of
the preferred surfing locations are remote or very remote,
which can be an influencing factor in the success of any
rescue or medical emergency.
Three off-duty Australian Lifeguard Service WA lifeguards
were awarded the Surf Life Saving Australia Rescue of the
Month for December 2014. In 1.8 m swell, they rescued
a body boarder at Cape Naturaliste who required spinal
management and was transported via ambulance to
hospital. This incident highlights the importance of
having trained personnel on site to provide appropriate
emergency care. Surf Life Saving Western Australia
(SLSWA) is focused on enhancing lifesaving services
to meet changing community needs. SLSWA support
services and lifeguard services are key to providing
effective emergency response in remote areas.
22
4
2
2
2
2 2
2
2
3 3
3
2
32
22 3
2
224
3
2
3PERTH
Issue Intervention
Swimming and wading BeachSAFE education and capacity building programs
Rock fishing Promoting the Emergency Preparedness Principle of BeachSAFEMaintaining capability to provide emergency response
OTHER WESTERN AUSTRALIAN COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 52
2004–15: WESTERN AUSTRALIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 53
2004–2015: WATERCRAFT RELATED DROWNING DEATHS IN WA (N=13)
There have been 13 watercraft related drowning deaths
in WA since 2004, which is an average of 1.2 per year.
Most of the watercraft related deaths are a result of
surfing (n=6, 46%).
Kite/Wind surfing
Body boarding
Surfing
46%
38%
15%
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
39
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
S O U T H A U S T R A L I A
Figure 54
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 12 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of
0.70 per 100,000 population in South Australia (SA). From 2004
to 2015, there has been an average number of 8 coastal drowning
deaths per year, which is an average rate of 0.47 per 100,000 pop.
Figure 55
2014–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY (N=12)
The majority of coastal drowning deaths in SA occurred when an
individual was swimming and wading (n=4, 33%), boating (n=3,
25%), or snorkelling (n=2, 17%).
Swimming/Wading
Boating
Snorkelling
Other
Rock/Cliff Related
Swimming/Wading
33%
33%
25%
17%
17%
8%
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
9
13
4
9
11
3
2
76
7
12
Figure 56
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in SA. Activities that have a
rate greater than the 11-year average are swimming and wading
(0.24 vs. 0.17 average rate per 100,000 pop.), boating (0.18 vs.
0.12 average rate per 100,000 pop.), rock/cliff related activities
other than rock fishing (0.06 vs. 0.03 average rate per 100,000
pop.) and snorkelling (0.12 vs. 0.06 average rate per 100,000
pop.). There were no incidents related to watercraft, diving,
attempting a rescue, or rock fishing activities in 2014–15.
0.00
0.05
0.10
0.15
0.20
0.25
0.30
0.35
0.40
0.45
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownRock FishingAttempting a RescueSnorkellingDivingOtherRock/Cliff RelatedWatercraftBoatingSwimming/Wading
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
40
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
22
3
8
5
3
5
2
222
2
2
2 2
2
ADELAIDE
2
2
CASE STUDY: BOATING
During 2014–15, drowning while boating represented
25% of all coastal drowning deaths in South Australia,
and boating is the second highest number of deaths for
an individual activity in South Australia. In most instances
the victim was not wearing a lifejacket. Currently, South
Australia does not have legislation mandating the use
of lifejackets while boating, although using lifejackets
is encouraged.
Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) is a signatory to the
International Lifejacket Wear Principles, which report that
‘the single greatest challenge facing the recreational
boating safety community today is increasing the lifejacket
wear rate among the boating public’. SLSA recommends
that boaters always wear lifejackets when travelling in
small open boats and promotes this message to the public.
SLSA’s National Coastal Safety Survey 2015 revealed
that only 53% of boaters always wear a lifejacket. SLSA
has identified the need for a national campaign to raise
awareness about lifejacket usage among boaters. A
current research project investigating coastal boaters’
behaviour and attitudes will provide key behavioural
insights to inform the campaign and other public
education initiatives.
Issue Intervention
Swimming and wading Community education programs Vacation swimming programs
Drowning in regional locations Extend lifesaving services
OTHER SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 57
2004–15: SOUTH AUSTRALIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 58
2004–15: BOATING RELATED DROWNING DEATHS IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA
There have been 23 boating related drowning deaths
in SA since 2004, which is an average of two per year.
Males make up 91% of the deaths, and the average age
of individuals is 48 years.
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Nu
mb
er (n
)
1
4
5
4
1
3
2
3
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
41
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
T A S M A N I A
Figure 59
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF TASMANIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were 2 coastal drowning deaths or a rate of 0.39
per 100,000 population in Tasmania (Tas). From 2004 to 2015,
there has been an average number of 5 coastal drowning deaths
per year, which is an average rate of 0.92 per 100,000 pop.
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-050.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
5 5
8 8
3
5 5
4 4
22
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
Figure 60
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in Tas. Activities that
have a rate greater than the 11-year average are swimming
and wading (0.19 vs. 0.15 average rate per 100,000 pop.) and
rock/cliff related activities other than rock fishing (0.19 vs.
0.04 average rate per 100,000 pop.). There were no incidents
related to boating, rock fishing, diving, watercraft, snorkelling or
attempting a rescue activities in 2014–15.
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownAttempting a RescueSnorkellingRock/Cliff RelatedOtherWatercraftDivingRock FishingSwimming/WadingBoating
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
42
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
CASE STUDY: PADDLE SAFE
The use of paddlecraft, such as kayaks, canoes and ocean
skis, is popular in Tasmania. Retailers have seen sales
increase—in 2014–15, more than 4,000 paddlecraft
were sold. The SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
reported that at least 55,000 Tasmanians use a paddlecraft
in coastal waters.
The proliferation of paddlecraft in Tasmania combined
with increased numbers of lightweight-craft-related
rescues during 2014–15 has been identified as an area
requiring attention. Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST), in
partnership with Marine and Safety Tasmania (MaST),
have produced a three-year strategy focusing on
lightweight craft. A cornerstone of the strategy is the
Paddle Safe program, which has a multi-faceted approach
to strengthen community resilience. The program is
a consolidated intervention, education and practical
skills program aimed at encouraging and increasing safe
participation and recreation. It promotes paddle safety
messages (including lifejacket usage) via traditional media
as well as social media channels. It includes a holistic safety
program for paddlecraft users, supervisors and teachers,
including skills development sessions for the general
public and school groups. Additionally, retailers, school
staff, outdoor educators and tourism staff were engaged
and provided professional development to improve their
understanding of aquatic safety. The program began in
2014–15 and will continue into the following years.
Issue Intervention
Rip currents Community education programs
Boating Boatwise app (collaboration with MaST)Promoting awareness about inflatable lifejacket usage (collaboration with MaST)
Cold water immersion Public awareness campaigns and on-water education (collaboration with MaST)
OTHER TASMANIAN COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 61
2004–15: TASMANIAN COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
2
2
2
32
33
2
HOBART
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
43
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
R O C K F I S H I N G S N A P S H O T2 0 0 4 –15
ANALYSISOn average, at least 13 people drown per year as a result of rock fishing.
It’s the third highest number of deaths for an individual activity.
AVERAGE DEATHS PER YEAR
13AVERAGE FATALITY RATE
0.06PER 100,000 POPULATION
RANK
3rd
NSW62%
85
4
116
1
30
0
WA22%
VIC8%
TAS4%
QLD3%
SA1%
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
No lifejacket usage
Dangerous conditions
Fishing alone
KEY DEMOGRAPHIC
MEN AGED
25–64 YEARS
Australian residents, Australian-born and overseas-born
FATALITIES
137fatalities 2004–15
94%WERE MEN
AVERAGE AGE
45YEARS
LOCATION
PARTICIPATION• 1.3 million rock fishers
• 0.6 million frequent rock fishers (at least once a month)
• Occasional rock fishers average 9 hours per year
• Frequent rock fishers average 309 hours per year 0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW/ACT FemaleMaleTOTAL
8%
5% 5%
11%
5%
11%
14%
10%9%9%
Per
cen
tag
e o
f Po
pu
lati
on
(%)
2014–15: NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN COASTAL ROCK FISHING
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
SECTION T WO DROWNING ANALYSIS
N O R T H E R N T E R R I T O R Y
Figure 62
2004–15: 11-YEAR TREND OF NORTHERN TERRITORY COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
In 2014–15, there were no coastal drowning deaths in the
Northern Territory (NT). From 2004 to 2015, there has been an
average number of 2 coastal drowning deaths per year, which is
an average rate of 0.84 per 100,000 pop. Issue Intervention
Boating Promoting safe boating practices Providing emergency response
Dangerous marine creatures Wet season patrols
NORTHERN TERRITORY COASTAL SAFETY ISSUES
Figure 63
2004–15: NORTHERN TERRITORY COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS
Figure 64
2004–15: COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS BY ACTIVITY
The rates of activity types being undertaken when coastal
drowning deaths occur vary over time in NT. There were no
coastal drowning deaths to report in 2014–15.
0.0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
1.6
2014-152013-142012-132011-122010-112009-102008-092007-082006-072005-062004-05
UnknownWatercraftSnorkellingRock FishingDivingRock/Cliff RelatedOtherAttempting a RescueSwimming/WadingBoating
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
201
4-1
5
201
3-1
4
201
2-13
201
1-12
201
0-1
1
20
09
-10
20
08
-09
20
07-0
8
20
06
-07
20
05
-06
20
04
-05
Nu
mb
er (n
)
Rat
e (p
er 1
00
,00
0 p
op
.)
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
1 1 1
6
2 2
4 4
2
2
2
2
3
DARWIN
Attempting a RescueBoatingDivingRock FishingRock/Cliff Related SnorkellingSwimming/WadingWatercraftOther UnknownMultiple instances per activity at the same location
2
45
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
D R O W N I N G C H A I N
REDUCE DROWNING
LACK
OF
KNOW
LEDGE, D
ISREGARD FOR
OR
MIS
UNDE
RSTA
NDING OF THE HAZARD
RISK
ASSESSMENT
TO IN
CREA
SE K
NOW
LEDGE THROUGH QUALITY
PUBL
IC E
DUCA
TION AND AWARENESS TO PROMOTE SAFE AQUATIC
ENVIRONMENTS
TO PROMOTE QUALITY
LIFESAVING SERVICES
TO PROMOTE THE ACQUI
SITI
ON
OF SURVIVAL S
KILL
S
EDUCAT
E AND
INFO
RM
PROVIDE WARNINGS
AND DENY ACCESSEXTEND
LIFESAVING SERVICESINCREASE
SURVIVAL SKILL
S
RISK ASSESSMENTRISK ASSESSMENTRISK ASSESSMEN
T
UNINFORMED OR UNRESTRICTED
ACCESS TO THE HAZARDLACK OF SUPERVISION
OR SURVEILLANCEINABILITY TO
COPE
ONCE IN DIFF
ICULT
Y
Breaking the Drowning ChainUnderstanding why people drown is vital to developing drowning prevention strategies. Four key
factors have been identified that may lead to accidental drowning, known as the ‘Drowning Chain’.
Any of these factors alone, or in combination, could lead to death by drowning (George, 2011).
Figure 65
THE DROWNING CHAIN AND DROWNING PREVENTION STRATEGIES
The key factors that lead to drowning deaths are lack of
knowledge, disregard for or misunderstanding of the hazard;
uninformed or unrestricted access to the hazard; lack of
supervision or surveillance; and inability to cope once in
difficulty. Each of these factors can be mitigated using drowning
prevention strategies. Examples of types of strategies to address
the factors are show adjacent to the factors in this visualisation of
the Drowning Chain.
Mitigation Strategy: Educate and Inform
• Increase community awareness of hazards
• Provide education and training• Undertake advocacy
Mitigation Strategy: Warnings and Access
• Provide warnings• Coastal risk assessments• Improve infrastructure
Mitigation Strategy: Survival Skills
• Develop people’s aquatic skills • Improve community resilience
to the hazard
Mitigation Strategy: Lifesaving Services
• Provide lifesaving services • Emergency response
46
W A T E R C R A F T S N A P S H O T2 0 0 4 –15
ANALYSISOn average, at least eight people drown per year as a result of using
non-powered watercraft. It’s the fourth highest number of drowning
deaths for an individual activity.
AVERAGE DEATHS PER YEAR
8AVERAGE FATALITY RATE
0.03PER 100,000 POPULATION
RANK
4th32
18
123
413
0
17%
16%
5%
4% 5%
CONTRIBUTING FACTORSUnpatrolled locations
No lifejacket use (paddlers and other watercraft)
Rip currents
Surfing/paddling alone
FATALITIES
82fatalities 2004–15
92%WERE MEN
AVERAGE AGE
41YEARS
TYPE OF CRAFT
PARTICIPATION• 1.7 million surfers
• 1 million frequent surfers (at least once a month)
• Occasional surfers average 8 hours per year
• Frequent surfers average 279 hours per year
• 1.4 million total watercraft users
• 0.9 million frequent watercraft users (at least once a month)
• Occasional watercraft users average 8 hours per year
• Frequent watercraft users average 379 hours per year
0
5
10
15
20
25
NTTASSAWAVICQLDNSW/ACT FemaleMaleTotal
10%9%
7%8% 8%
5% 5%
21% 21%
3%4%
6%7% 7%
6%
14%
11%
16%
12% 12%
Per
cen
tag
e o
f Po
pu
lati
on
(%)
2014–15: NATIONAL PARTICIPATION IN COASTAL WATERCRAFT USE
Surfing/Body BoardingOther Watercraft
Surfboard
Body board
Kayak/Canoe
Kite surfing/Wind surfing
Wave ski/Surf ski
Other54%
KEY DEMOGRAPHIC
MEN AGED
25–49 YEARS
Australian residents, surfers and body boarders
MEN AGED
25–49 YEARS
Australian residents, paddlecraft users
Reference: SLSA National Coastal Safety Survey 2015
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
G L O S S A R Y
Advanced Resuscitation Techniques - A certification providing
the skills and knowledge required to use specialised
equipment in the provision of resuscitation in line with the
Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) guidelines.
ALS - Australian Lifeguard Service.
Apply First Aid - A certification providing the skills and
knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a
casualty.
Attempting a rescue - An individual who makes an effort to
remove someone from a dangerous situation.
AWSC - Australian Water Safety Council—also Australian Water
Safety Conference.
AWSS - Australian Water Safety Strategy.
Bay - A body of water partially enclosed by land but with a wide
mouth, affording access to the sea.
Beach - An expanse of sand or pebbles along a shoreline.
Blackspot - An area with a high concentration of coastal/ocean
incidents and a high probability/risk of ongoing reoccurrence.
Boating - Individuals using either a powered vessel or sailing
boat for pleasure and/or fishing.
Coastal - The foreshore, seabed, coastal water and air space
above a large body of water (harbour/bay/inlet), including
areas up to 2NM offshore and of which the landward boundary
is the line of mean high water, except that where that line
crosses a river/inlet, the landward boundary at that point
shall be the point upstream that is calculated by multiplying
the width of the river/inlet mouth by 5. (Adopted from the
Resource Management Amendment Act 1993-New Zealand).
Coastal death - A fatality arising from various circumstances
occurring (e.g. heart attack, boat collision, fall, shark attack)
where the location of the death is coastal.
Coastal drowning death - Where the location of the drowning is
on the coast, in the ocean up to 2NM offshore or inland up to
five times the width of the inlet/river.
COD - Cause of death
Crude drowning rate - The crude drowning rate is a comparative
rate of drowning to the size of the population in that area.
Dangerous surf warning - An alert issued by the Bureau of
Meteorology indicating that surf conditions in an area are
unsafe for coastal activities. The warnings are calculated
based on wave height, swell direction and swell period.
Diving - Engaging in recreational or commercial scuba diving.
Drowning - The process of experiencing respiratory impairment
from submersion/immersion in liquid.
Drowning death - A fatality arising from the process of
respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/immersion
in liquid.
Emergency response - An action taken by an SLS entity
in response to a call for assistance from an emergency
management organisation.
First Aid - Immediate or emergency assistance given on the spot
to people suffering from illness or injury.
Fishing - The act of catching fish.
Foreign ethnicity - Individuals who identify with a cultural group
other than Australian based on heritage, language or shared
customs. This identification is extrapolated from reported
data such as the individuals’ country of birth and the main
language spoken at home.
Hazard - The potential origin of danger, injury or difficulty.
HRS - Helicopter rescue service.
ILS - International Life Saving Federation.
Inland - An area that is beyond the line of mean high water or
beyond a landward distance of five times the width of the
coastal inlet/river mouth.
Inland Drowning Death - A fatality arising from the impairment
of respiratory function as a result of immersion in liquid, where
the location of the drowning is not considered coastal but
occurs in an inland body of water such as a river, lake, creek or
dam.
International - An individual who is confirmed to reside overseas
and/or is a temporary visitor to Australia.
IRB - Inflatable rescue boat.
JRB - Jet rescue boat.
Lake - An inland body of water surrounded by land.
Leisure Activity - An activity commenced on land such as play,
walking, jogging or cycling.
Lifeguard - Typically a paid employee at a beach or another
aquatic environment whose role is to rescue people in danger
of drowning or prevent them getting into that situation.
Lifejacket - A buoyant or inflatable garment or device designed
to keep a person afloat in water and increase their likelihood
of survival.
48
GLOSSARY GLOSSARY
Lifesaving service - A service that exists to provide aquatic
safety services to the public.
Local Government Area (LGA) - Also known as local councils,
LGAs include cities, towns, shires, municipalities or boroughs.
Marina/jetty - A boat basin offering dockage and other service
for small craft, or a pier/wharf.
NCIS - National Coronial Information System.
Ocean drowning death - Where the location of the drowning is
in the ocean further than 2NM offshore, but no further than
12NM.
Open ocean - The seabed, water and air space above the water
between 2NM and 12NM (the Australian territorial waters
limit) offshore.
ORB - Offshore rescue boat.
Other - An uncommon known activity not otherwise listed (e.g.
paragliding, aircraft crash, fall from pier).
Patrol - Surf lifesavers or lifeguards actively supervising a coastal
location.
Patrolled location - A location supervised constantly or
periodically by a lifesaving service.
Prevention - Where intervention by a lifesaving resource averts
a person/s from getting into a potentially life-threatening
situation.
Rescue - Where intervention by a lifesaving resource removes a
person/s from a life-threatening or potentially life-threatening
situation.
Resuscitation - Preservation or restoration of life by establishing
and maintaining a person’s airway, breathing and circulation.
RIB - Rigid-hull inflatable boat.
Rip current - A narrow seaward flowing current of water moving
through a surf zone (Short, 2003).
River - A natural stream of water flowing into an ocean or bay.
Rock/cliff - A rocky shoreline that may or may not have a high
steep face.
Rock/cliff related - An activity besides fishing that is performed
on a rocky shoreline or off a groyne.
Rock-fishing death - A fatality arising from various
circumstances occurring (e.g. wave motion, loss of footing)
where the victim was participating in fishing activities on a
rocky coast immediately prior to or during the incident.
RWC - Rescue water craft - sometimes called a personal water
craft.
Service season and hours - Vary between states due to climatic
factors, but in the context of this report, the season is for the
period July 2014 to June 2015.
Snorkelling - Swimming with a snorkel and face mask.
Support operations - Rapid response rescue units, not affiliated
to any specific surf life saving club.
Surf Life Saving Club - A not-for-profit organisation that provides
coastal safety services.
Surf lifesaver - Typically a volunteer at a beach or another
aquatic environment whose role is to rescue people in danger
of drowning or prevent them getting into that situation.
Surfcom - SLS radio communications centre which assists in
managing the communications of lifesaving operations and
data collection.
Swimming - Being active while immersed in water.
Total Service Plan - An assessment of current and future
lifesaving resources, trends, national blackspots and coastal
safety issues combined with evidenced-based mitigation
strategies to address these issues.
Undetermined - Cases that are not associated with a closed
coroner’s report on NCIS are often left ‘undetermined’
until an official cause of death has been determined. Some
examples are cases where bodies have been found washed
up on the beach, reports of individuals struggling in coastal
environments are made and the bodies are not found/missing
persons reports are not made, or a suspected heart attack in
a coastal environment rather than death due to immersion.
These deaths will all be followed up on and the incident
category updated once coroner determinations are made
accessible.
Wading - A person who is partially immersed in water while
standing.
Watercraft - A piece of non-powered recreational equipment
used in the water. Examples include surfboards, boogie
boards, windsurfers or kayaks.
49
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
R E F E R E N C E
METHODOLOGY
The 2015 National Coastal Safety Report contains information on
Australian community behaviours and attitudes to the coast; SLS
capability and membership capacity; rescues and emergency
response; and coastal drowning deaths for the period of 1 July 2014
to 30 June 2015. This information is correct as of 9 October 2015.
All care is taken to ensure the statistical information included
within this report is correct. However, pending the outcome
of ongoing coronial investigations and as SLS state/territory
entities update their operational information, this data may
be amended.
Data illustrated in figures may not always add up to 100% due
to rounding.
THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY ANALYSIS
Information about community swimming ability, behaviours
and attitudes to coastal safety was gathered from the National
Coastal Safety Survey. Conducted by Newspoll Market Research,
the survey was run online over the period 9–12 April 2015 among
a national sample of 1,463 respondents aged 16 to 69. The study
was carried out in compliance with ISO 20252 - Market, Social
and Opinion Research. To reflect the population distribution,
results were post-weighted (on age, gender, geographic strata
and education) and projected to Australian Bureau of Statistics
data. The Australian population aged 16 to 69 (the reference
population for this survey) is 16,444,000.
CAPABILITY AND RESCUE ANALYSIS
Data Sources
SurfGuard, the Incident Report database (IRD) and SurfCom
management system (SurfCom) are web-based applications
and are part of a suite of applications that enables members,
clubs, branches, state offices and SLSA to enter and access
SLS operational (including rescues and first aids), capability
(including assets and services), educational and administrative
data. Information was extracted from SurfGuard to identify
how many rescues were performed by volunteers, lifeguards
and support services during 2014–15; and how many active
lifesavers and new award holders there were during 2014–15.
The data was verified by SLS state/territory entities. Information
about assets, services and the number of responses to requests
from emergency services was gathered from each SLS state/
territory entity.
DROWNING DATA ANALYSIS
SLSA collects incident data from SurfGuard, the IRD,
SurfCom, the National Coronial Information System (NCIS)
and by monitoring media reports for drowning incidents.
The information is verified with the assistance of each state/
territory SLS entity and complied for analysis by SLSA’s Coastal
Safety Department. The following variables are used to match
drowning cases from more than one data source: incident date;
location; age; gender; and incident description. The NCIS is
considered the ‘gold standard’ when there is a discrepancy
in the detail collected from different data sources. Deaths are
excluded if they are reported as ‘intentional deaths’, they are
inland/ocean locations drowning, or drowning/immersion is not
a primary cause of death.
DROWNING DATA LIMITATIONS
Over years of investigation as part of the NCIS process, some
cases are amended prior to their closure, resulting in changes
to the classification of cases in our datasets. Therefore, the
number of coastal drowning deaths published in this report
may be different from annual totals previously reported. In
an effort to produce a timely report on our current year’s data
we acknowledge that these figures will change. Each year, the
changes that occur in the previous year’s report will be made
transparent. The data in this current report are not the final
figures as 63% of 2014–15 coastal drowning deaths reported
remain open cases and 13% of cases do not have a cause of
death (COD) listed yet. Once a closure occurs to NCIS cases
we can modify undetermined cases, those with unknown intent,
and those where the cause of death is not drowning.
All deaths known to have occurred in coastal waters have
been included as coastal drowning deaths, unless the COD is
listed as otherwise. Bars of two different colours are used to
illustrate the incidents where a COD has not been listed on NCIS
in Figure 24. The incidents are included in our annual totals and
analysis, and they will remain so until a COD is listed other than
drowning/immersion.
CHANGES FROM PREVIOUS REPORTS
Over years of investigation as part of the NCIS process, some
cases are amended prior to their closure and have resulted in
changes to our data sets. The new numbers of coastal drowning
deaths are different from the annual totals that have been
previously reported as cases have closed.
50
REFERENCE METHODOLOGY
Table 1
CHANGES IN THE NUMBER OF COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS PER YEAR AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED
SUGGESTED CITATION
Surf Life Saving Australia (2015) National Coastal Safety Report
2015. SLSA: Sydney.
REFERENCES
• Australian Water Safety Council (2012). Australian Water
Safety Strategy 2012–15. Australian Water Safety Council:
Sydney.
• Bugeja L, Cassell E, Brodie LR, Walter SJ (2014). Effectiveness
of the 2005 Compulsory Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Wearing Regulations in Reducing Drowning Deaths
among Recreational Boaters in Victoria, Australia. Injury
Prevention. Published Online First: 26 June 2014 doi:10.1136/
injuryprev-2014-041169.
• George, P (2011). Drowning Prevention Strategies 2011. World
Conference on Drowning Prevention. International Life Saving
Federation, Danang, Vietnam.
• International Lifejacket Wear Principles (2015). Retrieved from
http://www.lifejacketwear.com/en/ on 30/10/2015
• New Zealand, Ministry for the Environment (1991). Resource
Management Act 1991. Retrieved from http://www.legislation.
govt.nz/act/public/1991/0069/latest/DLM230265.
html?search=ts_act_Resource+Management+Act_
resel&p=1&sr=1 on 30/10/2015
• Short, AD (2003). Australia Beach Systems—The
morphodynamics of wave through tide-dominated beach-
dune systems. Journal of Coastal Research SI 35, 7–20.
• Surf Life Saving Australia National Coastal Safety Survey
(2015). Newspoll Online Omnibus April 2015.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Surf Life Saving Australia wishes to thank the following people
and organisations for their contribution to the National Coastal
Safety Report 2015:
• The Australian Government, principally the Department of
Health
• SLSA major national corporate partners, including DHL,
Telstra and Westpac
• Surf Life Saving state centres, branches, clubs and support
operations
• The SLSA Research Advisory Committee
• Royal Life Saving Society Australia, Amy Peden
• The Australian Lifeguard Service
• National Coronial Information System, Leanne Daking
2011 NCSR
2012 NCSR
2013 NCSR
2014 NCSR
2015 NCSR
2004–05 92 89 89 89 89
2005–06 103 95 95 95 95
2006–07 103 98 98 98 98
2007–08 92 89 89 89 89
2008–09 91 89 89 89 89
2009–10 84 83 85 85 85
2010–11 61 70 72 69 69
2011–12 119 115 113 113
2012–13 121 118 118
2013–14 84 83
2014–15 102
CONTACT INFORMATION
Surf Life Saving receives Government funding to commence
valuable initiatives and programs. However, we rely on the
generosity of the community and corporate support to ensure
they continue.
To help Surf Life Saving please donate to:
Surf Life Saving Foundation —slsfoundation.com.au
For more information:
Surf Life Saving Australia—sls.com.au
Surf Life Saving New South Wales—surflifesaving.com.au
Surf Life Saving Northern Territory—lifesavingnt.com.au
Surf Life Saving Queensland—lifesaving.com.au
Surf Life Saving South Australia—surflifesavingsa.com.au
Surf Life Saving Tasmania—slst.asn.au
Life Saving Victoria—lifesavingvictoria.com.au
Surf Life Saving Western Australia—surflifesavingwa.com.au
51
P A G E H E A D I N GP A G E S U B H E A D I N G
SURF LIFE SAVING AUS TR ALIA NATIONAL COA S TAL SAFET Y REPORT 2015
COASTALDROWNING
DEATHS
MALE
AT THE BEACH
FEMALE
19
3712
014
182
16% 27 % 9 %RIP
CURRENTS
33%SWIMMING
19%BOATING
13%ROCK
FISHING
9%WATERCRAFT
MEDICALCONDITIONOR INJURY
ALCOHOL/DRUGSAT LEAST 5KM FROM A
LIFESAVING SERVICE
Location
Activity
Contributing Factors
D R O W N I N GS N A P S H O T