Lake Macquarie Local Government Area - Water Safety NSW · Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Lake Macquarie Local Government Area Page vii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report contains

Funded by the NSW Government under the NSW Water Safety

Black Spots Fund watersafety.nsw.gov.auA NSW Government water safety initiative

Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment Lake Macquarie Local Government Area

July 2016

Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Lake Macquarie Local Government Area

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© Surf Life Saving New South Wales, Belrose 2016 All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer

This work is copyright. However, material form this publication may be copied or published by State

Government agencies without the permission of Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) on the condition that the

meaning of the material is not altered and SLSNSW is acknowledged as the source of the material. Any other

persons or bodies wishing to use the material must seek permission. The views expressed herein do not

necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.

Funded by the NSW Government under the NSW Water Safety Blacks Spots Fund


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................................. VII

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................................. IX

1 INTRODUCTION, SCOPE & CONTEXT ......................................................................................................... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 CONTEXT AND SCOPE ................................................................................................................................... 3

1.3 LIMITATIONS ............................................................................................................................................... 4

1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS .................................................................................................................................. 5

1.5 PROJECT TEAM / AUTHORS ............................................................................................................................ 7

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................................. 8

2.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................... 8

2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 8

2.3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................. 12

2.4 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................... 14

2.5 ABSAMP TYPES AND RATINGS .................................................................................................................... 15

2.6 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS .................................................................... 17

2.6.1 Rhythmic Bar and Beach ............................................................................................................... 17

2.6.2 Transverse Bar and Rip ................................................................................................................. 17

2.6.3 Low Tide Terrace ........................................................................................................................... 18

2.6.4 Reflective....................................................................................................................................... 19

2.6.5 Rock Platforms and Rocky Coasts ................................................................................................. 19

2.7 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR) ................................................................................................................ 20

2.7.1 Facility Visitation Rating (FVR) Reference Tables ......................................................................... 21

2.8 FACILITIES AUDIT ....................................................................................................................................... 24

2.9 POPULATION, DEVELOPMENT, TOURISM & INCIDENTS ...................................................................................... 26

2.9.1 Population Statistics ..................................................................................................................... 26

2.9.2 Development Plans in Lake Macquarie ......................................................................................... 27

2.9.3 Tourism Information ..................................................................................................................... 29

2.9.4 Beach Usage Statistics .................................................................................................................. 32

2.9.5 Drowning Incidents ....................................................................................................................... 38

2.9.6 Emergency Callouts ....................................................................................................................... 40

2.10 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION ......................................................................................................... 42

3 RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS .................................................................................................................. 44

3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (INHERENT GROSS RISK) ...................................................................................... 44

3.1.1 Action Planning Priority Index ....................................................................................................... 44

3.1.2 Australian Beach Safety and Management Program ................................................................... 44

3.1.3 Local Population Rating ................................................................................................................ 45

3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction Rating ............................................................................................... 46

3.1.5 Access Rating ................................................................................................................................ 47

3.1.6 Action Planning Priority Score ....................................................................................................... 48

3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS ................................................................................................... 52

3.2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 52

3.2.2 Hierarchy of Risk Treatments (Controls) ....................................................................................... 52


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3.2.3 Education and Awareness Programs ............................................................................................ 53

3.2.4 Safety Signage .............................................................................................................................. 61

3.2.5 Emergency Marker System ........................................................................................................... 68

3.2.6 Access Infrastructure and Ongoing Capital Works/Maintenance Programs ................................ 68

3.2.7 Public Rescue Equipment .............................................................................................................. 73

3.2.8 System of Supervision ................................................................................................................... 75

4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ......................................................................................................................... 79

4.1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTING ................................................................................................. 79

4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS ................................................................................................................. 81

4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE ................................................................................................................... 82

4.4 COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 84

4.5 JOINT EMERGENCY RESPONSE ...................................................................................................................... 85

5 MONITOR AND REVIEW ......................................................................................................................... 86

6 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................... 87

APPENDICES APPENDIX A - Access and Signage Schedule APPENDIX B - Risk Register and Treatment Plan APPENDIX C - Public Rescue Equipment APPENDIX D - Facilities Audit APPENDIX E - Coverage Maps APPENDIX F - Stakeholder Engagement APPENDIX G - Life Saving Service Level Calculator


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LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1.1.1 THE INTERNATIONAL LIFE SAVING FEDERATION DROWNING CHAIN. ............................................................................................ 2

FIGURE 2.2.1: LAKE MACQUARIE LGA – ASSESSED LOCATIONS SITE INSPECTION (MAP 1). .................................................................................. 9

FIGURE 2.2.2: LAKE MACQUARIE LGA – ASSESSED LOCATIONS SITE INSPECTION (MAP 2). ................................................................................ 10

FIGURE 2.3.1: RISK MANAGEMENT PROCESS (STANDARDS AUSTRALIA, 2009). ............................................................................................ 13

FIGURE 2.6.1 ILLUSTRATION OF A RHYTHMIC BAR & BEACH. .................................................................................................................... 17

FIGURE 2.6.2: ILLUSTRATION OF A TRANSVERSE BAR AND RIP. .................................................................................................................. 17

FIGURE 2.6.3: ILLUSTRATION OF A LOW TIDE TERRACE. ........................................................................................................................... 18

FIGURE 2.6.4: ILLUSTRATION OF A REFLECTIVE BEACH. ........................................................................................................................... 19

FIGURE 2.9.1: LOCATION OF THE ROSE GROUP DEVELOPMENT AT CATHERINE HILL BAY. .................................................................................. 27

FIGURE 2.9.2: STAGES OF THE ROSE GROUP DEVELOPMENT AT CATHERINE HILL BAY ...................................................................................... 27

FIGURE 2.9.3 TOURISM VISITATION FOUR YEAR ROLLING AVERAGE. ........................................................................................................... 29

FIGURE 2.9.4 AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA ................. 32

FIGURE 2.9.5 RESCUE STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ............................................. 33

FIGURE 2.9.6 FIRST AID STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA ........................................... 34

FIGURE 2.9.7 PREVENTION STATISTICS RECORDED BY SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB VOLUNTEERS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA ....................................... 34

FIGURE 2.9.8 LAKE MACQUARIE LGA – DROWNING AND VICTIM POSTCODE................................................................................................. 39

FIGURE 2.10.1: PROJECT BLUEPRINT FLYER. ......................................................................................................................................... 43

FIGURE 3.2.1: DON’T PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE™ .............................................................................................................................. 54

FIGURE 3.2.2: SURVIVE A RIP ........................................................................................................................................................... 54

FIGURE 3.2.3: OLD 4 NEW .............................................................................................................................................................. 54

FIGURE 3.2.4: SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS........................................................................................................................................... 54

FIGURE 3.2.5 RECREATIONAL FISHING ALLIANCE ROCK FISHING SCHOOL. ..................................................................................................... 55

FIGURE 3.2.6: AN EXAMPLE OF A RIP CURRENT SIGN ON PUBLIC AMENITY BLOCKS. ........................................................................................ 57

FIGURE 3.2.7: EXAMPLE OF A NATIONAL PARKS VISITOR INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 57

FIGURE 3.2.8: EXAMPLE OF HOW A HIGHWAY BILLBOARD COULD LOOK PROMOTING SURF SAFETY IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE AREA. ............................ 58

FIGURE 3.2.9: LARGE ACCOMMODATION PROVIDER AT HAMS BEACH. ........................................................................................................ 59

FIGURE 3.2.10: COUNCIL ACCESS SIGN. .............................................................................................................................................. 61

FIGURE 3.2.11: BEWARE FALLING ROCKS WARNING SIGN. ....................................................................................................................... 61

FIGURE 3.2.12: UNPATROLLED BEACH ................................................................................................................................................ 61

FIGURE 3.2.13: COUNCIL ACCESS SIGN (OLDER STYLE). ........................................................................................................................... 61

FIGURE 3.2.14: NATIONAL PARKS ACCESS SIGN. .................................................................................................................................... 62

FIGURE 3.2.15: BREAK WALL SAFETY SIGN. .......................................................................................................................................... 62

FIGURE 3.2.16: COUNCIL WASTE DUMPING SIGN .................................................................................................................................. 63

FIGURE 3.2.17: AN EXAMPLE OF RIP EDUCATION SIGNAGE. ..................................................................................................................... 64

FIGURE 3.2.18: EXAMPLE OF TEMPORARY SIGNAGE DIRECTING PATRONS TO THE PATROLLED LOCATION. ............................................................ 65

FIGURE 3.2.19: EXAMPLE OF EMERGENCY MARKER SIGN. ....................................................................................................................... 68

FIGURE 3.2.20: FORMAL ACCESS AT BLACKSMITHS BEACH. ...................................................................................................................... 69

FIGURE 3.2.21: INFORMAL ACCESS AT HAMS BEACH. ............................................................................................................................. 69

FIGURE 3.2.22: AN EXAMPLE OF ACCESS REDIRECTION AT SWANSEA HEADS BEACH........................................................................................ 69

FIGURE 3.2.23: EXISTING LIFE RING AT REDHEAD POINT. ......................................................................................................................... 74

FIGURE 4.1.1: SUGGESTED EMERGENCY 'TRIPLE ZERO' INFORMATION FOR SIGNAGE....................................................................................... 79

FIGURE 4.1.2: ‘EMERGENCY +’ APPLICATION ....................................................................................................................................... 80

FIGURE 4.2.1: EXAMPLE OF A MOBILE EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACON ON A BEACH. ..................................................................................... 81

FIGURE 4.3.1: EMERGENCY SERVICES LOCATED NEAR THE COASTLINE IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. .................................................................. 83

FIGURE 4.4.1: SIGNAL STRENGTH OF THE SHEPARDS HILL REPEATER (BURWOOD BEACH TO REDHEAD POINT). ...................................................... 84

FIGURE 4.4.2: SIGNAL STRENGTH OF THE CAVES BEACH REPEATER (REDHEAD BEACH TO PINNY BEACH). .............................................................. 84

FIGURE 4.4.3: SIGNAL STRENGTH OF THE ADJUSTED SNAPPER POINT REPEATER (SHARK HOLE TO CATHERINE HILL BAY SOUTH) ................................. 84

FIGURE 4.5.1: A JOINT TRAINING EXERCISE OFFSHORE LAKE MACQUARIE’S HASTINGS RIVER. ............................................................................ 85


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LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1.4.1: DEFINITIONS OF KEY TERMS. ............................................................................................................................................. 5

TABLE 2.2.1: ASSESSED LOCATIONS AND ASSESSMENT DATES. .................................................................................................................. 11

TABLE 2.4.1: ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS. ................................................................................................................................... 14

TABLE 2.4.2: BEACH HAZARD RATING CALCULATION MATRICES FOR WAVE DOMINATE BEACHES. ....................................................................... 14

TABLE 2.5.1: ABSAMP BEACH HAZARD RATINGS – LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ................................................................................................... 15

TABLE 2.7.1: TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT AND NATURAL HAZARDS RATING FOR RESERVES – NON BEACH ENVIRONMENTS. ........................................... 21

TABLE 2.7.2: TYPICAL DEVELOPMENT RATINGS FOR BEACHES. .................................................................................................................. 21

TABLE 2.7.3: TYPICAL POPULATION USE RATING FOR A FACILITY. ............................................................................................................... 21

TABLE 2.7.4: SUGGESTED FREQUENCY USE RATING FOR A FACILITY. ........................................................................................................... 21

TABLE 2.7.5: FACILITY VISITATION RATES – FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS. ....................................................................................................... 22

TABLE 2.8.1: TOP 10 MOST COMMON COASTAL FACILITIES. .................................................................................................................... 24

TABLE 2.8.2: TOP 10 LOCATIONS FOR FACILITIES................................................................................................................................... 25

TABLE 2.9.1 LAKE MACQUARIE POPULATION DATA (ABS, 2011). .............................................................................................................. 26

TABLE 2.9.2 POPULATION COUNT OF COASTAL STATE SUBURBS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA (ABS, 2011). ........................................................ 26

TABLE 2.9.3 TOURISM DATA AND VISITOR INFORMATION FOR LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. .................................................................................... 29

TABLE 2.9.4 DOMESTIC DAY VISITOR INFORMATION FOR LAKE MACQUARIE LGA ............................................................................................ 29

TABLE 2.9.5 DOMESTIC OVERNIGHT VISITOR INFORMATION FOR LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ................................................................................. 30

TABLE 2.9.6 INTERNATIONAL VISITORS INFORMATION FOR LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ........................................................................................ 31

TABLE 2.9.7 ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS WITH DIRECT COASTAL ACCESS IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. .......................................................... 31

TABLE 2.9.8 VOLUNTEER SURF LIFE SAVING TOTAL PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS AND RESCUES FOR BEACHES IN LAKE MACQUARIE LGA ............................ 37

TABLE 2.9.9 DROWNING INCIDENTS FROM 01/07/04 TO 30/06/15 IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ............................................................... 38

TABLE 2.9.10 EMERGENCY CALLOUTS THROUGH THE SRES FROM 01/01/08 TO 30/06/15 IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ................................... 40

TABLE 3.1.1 ABSAMP MODAL RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS.................................................................................................... 44

TABLE 3.1.2 LOCAL POPULATION RATING DESCRIPTORS........................................................................................................................... 45

TABLE 3.1.3 LOCAL POPULATION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS. .............................................................................................. 45

TABLE 3.1.4 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION DESCRIPTORS. .................................................................................................................... 46

TABLE 3.1.5 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS. ............................................................................... 46

TABLE 3.1.6 ACCESS RATING DESCRIPTORS. ......................................................................................................................................... 47

TABLE 3.1.7 ACCESS RATINGS APPLIED TO ASSESSED LOCATIONS. .............................................................................................................. 47

TABLE 3.1.8 SUMMARY OF ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY CALCULATIONS FOR EACH ASSESSED LOCATION. ............................................................. 48

TABLE 3.1.9: KEY TO LAND MANAGEMENT OF LOCATIONS. ...................................................................................................................... 49

TABLE 3.1.10 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY SCORES FOR ASSESSED LOCATIONS. ............................................................................................. 49

TABLE 3.2.1: EXAMPLES OF EDUCATION AND AWARENESS PROGRAMS. ...................................................................................................... 53

TABLE 3.2.2 SUMMARY TABLE OF AQUATIC AND RECREATIONAL SIGNAGE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL. ..................... 65

TABLE 3.2.3: SUMMARY TABLE OF AQUATIC AND RECREATIONAL SIGNAGE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE. .............................. 66

TABLE 3.2.4: ACCESS PROVISION WITHIN LANDS MANAGED BY LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL. ..................................................................... 71

TABLE 3.2.5: ACCESS PROVISION WITHIN LANDS MANAGED BY THE NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE........................................................ 72

TABLE 3.2.6 AN OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT (PRE) (BRADSTREET, ET AL., 2012). ...................................................................... 73

TABLE 3.2.7 VOLUNTEER LIFESAVING SERVICES IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. .............................................................................................. 76

TABLE 3.2.8 PAID LIFEGUARD SERVICES IN THE LAKE MACQUARIE LGA. ....................................................................................................... 77

TABLE 4.3.1 COASTAL EMERGENCY SERVICE LOCATIONS FOR LAKE MACQUARIE LGA (<10KM FROM THE COAST). ................................................. 82

TABLE 4.4.1: KEY TO RADIO COVERAGE STRENGTH................................................................................................................................. 84


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This report contains findings and treatment options which align with current International and Australian

standards, guidelines and best practice risk management processes. The report contains information specific

to locations under the authority of Lake Macquarie City Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and

Crown Lands.

These locations include (north to south):

Activities/Facilities

The Lake Macquarie Local Government Area (LGA) is a popular destination which sees year round public usage

and recreational activity, including swimming, surfing (including all surfcraft), fishing, snorkelling/diving,

boating, and walking.

A number of facilities support coastal usage and activities including well maintained car parks and beach

access, lifeguard and lifesaving supervision, coastal walks, a number of public amenity blocks, BBQs, and picnic

tables.

Hazards/Risks

The Lake Macquarie LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of

the area. These are outlined in detail in ‘Appendix B’.

Based on the risk assessment in ‘Appendix B’, the following hazards have been rated with the greatest

inherent risk for the Lake Macquarie LGA:

Strong currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type

Waves/waves overwashing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells

1. Burwood Beach

2. Dudley Beach

3. Redhead Point

4. Redhead Beach

5. Blacksmiths Beach

6. Reids Reserve Breakwall

7. Swansea Wall Beach

8. Reids Mistake Head

9. Swansea Heads Beach

10. Crabbs Beach

11. Hams Beach

12. Caves Beach

13. The Caves

14. Stinky Point

15. Stinky Point Beach

16. Spoon Rocks

17. Quarry Beach

18. Quarry Head

19. Pinny Beach

20. Shark Hole

21. Bogey Hole

22. Middle Camp Inlet

23. Catherine Hill Bay Beach

24. Catherine Hill Bay Beach South


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Inshore holes/drop off/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type

Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action

Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type

Submerged rocks/objects: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement

Cliffs/dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography

Boating traffic/collision: As a result of human interaction

It has been identified that the hazards listed above pose risk to the following types of recreational users:

Strong currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users

Waves/waves overwashing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users

Inshore holes/drop off/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen

Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: Fishermen, rock platform users

Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users

Submerged rocks/objects: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen

Cliffs/dangerous access: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers

Boating traffic/collision: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters

Existing Risk Treatments

Land Managers in partnership with a number of other organisations have implemented the following risk

treatment initiatives within the Lake Macquarie LGA:

o System of supervision

o Education and awareness programs

o Safety signage

o Public rescue equipment


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SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Please note:

o The below recommendations are provided as options for guidance only and will not be binding to the Land Manager.

o The below recommendations are in no particular order in regards to prioritisation.

o Further explanation to the recommendations should also be referenced and can be found on the corresponding pages.

o Some treatment options may be relevant for two or more agencies.

Recommendation 1

Lake Macquarie City Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Strategic Coordination:

1.1 Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Lake Macquarie Local Government

Area should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options

such as education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision. (p.28)

1.2 Coastal usage and incident data (e.g. drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard

statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk

treatments for coastal safety. (p.41)

1.3 Land Managers in the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should continue to meet together as

well as with Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch as an effective forum which raises safety issues and

implements coastal safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report

be addressed as part of this meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at

least twice a year, before and after the surf life saving season. (p.43)

1.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using

a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence. (p.51)

Education:

1.5 Education and awareness programs within the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should

continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups

who may not have the expertise to implement educational programs should approach peak water

safety organisations to assist in delivery. (p.60)

1.6 Education and awareness programs should include standardised key safety messages which are

recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/). (p.60)

1.7 Land Managers and tourism organisations should ensure that patrolled locations and surf safety

information is promoted through any websites, specific promotional material, newsletters and social

media pages. The BeachSafe website (http://www.beachsafe.org.au) could also be promoted through

these methods. (p.60)

1.8 Surf safety information should be promoted through various local media streams. Specific examples

can be referenced in the report. (p.60)


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1.9 Approach tourism and holiday rental real estate organisations with the aim of distributing

standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers.

Collateral should continue to be made available at Visitor Information Centres and at local shops such

as newsagents or bakeries. (p.60)

1.10 Land Managers should assist peak water safety organisations to promote existing educational

programs encouraging rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p.60)

Safety Signage:

1.11 Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should

be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and

upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing

signs into a single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.67)

1.12 Existing access signage that does not meet a consistent adopted style should be replaced through

natural attrition. (p.67)

1.13 As the majority of access locations lead to unpatrolled sections of beaches ‘rip current’ educational

signage should be implemented at main car parks or at high usage access areas. The sign should

inform beachgoers of how to identify a rip current and what options to take to escape the rip current.

(p.67)

1.14 Temporary signage should be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a

supervised swimming area and where there is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as

strong currents, creek openings and pollution. (p.67)

Access:

1.15 Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through

ongoing infrastructure and capital works programs. This will encourage formal access use (rather than

informal), enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage

needed. (p.72)

1.16 Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation,

in order to promote/facilitate the use of formal access. (p.72)

Supervision/Surveillance:

1.17 The level of lifeguarding services provided (staffing levels, operational dates, patrol hours and

locations) should continue to be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the most suitable and effective

service is provided. (p.78)

Emergency Response:

1.18 In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an

opportunity to promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community.

(p.80)


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1.19 Land Managers should consult with the local emergency management committee to ensure that all

emergency response services are aware of the roles and responsibilities when a shark related incident

occurs as per the DPI Shark Incident Response Plan. Any future iterations of this plan should also be

acknowledged (p.80)

1.20 An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Hunter Branch Duty

Officers/Support Operations, senior Lifeguards and the local emergency services every couple of years

before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p.85)

Monitor & Review:

1.21 In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure

the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been

implemented and where future funding opportunities can be directed. (p.86)

1.22 All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the

relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management

area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.86)

Recommendation 2

The National Parks and Wildlife Service should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:


2.1 Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Lake Macquarie Local Government

Area should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options

such as education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision. (p.28)









2.4 As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using

a staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence. (p.51)

Education:

2.5 Education and awareness programs within the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should

continue to be implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups

who may not have the expertise to implement educational programs should approach peak water

safety organisations to assist in delivery. (p.60)


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2.6 Education and awareness programs should include standardised key safety messages which are

recognised by the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/). (p.60)

2.7 Land Managers and tourism organisations should ensure that patrolled locations and surf safety

information is promoted through any websites, specific promotional material, newsletters and social

media pages. The BeachSafe website (http://www.beachsafe.org.au) could also be promoted through

these methods. (p.60)

2.8 Surf safety information should be promoted through various local media streams. Specific examples

can be referenced in the report. (p.60)

2.9 Land Managers should assist peak water safety organisations to promote existing educational

programs encouraging rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets. (p.60)

Safety Signage:


be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and

upgrade of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing

signs into a single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.67)

2.11 Existing access signage that does not meet a consistent adopted style should be replaced through

natural attrition. (p.67)

2.12 As the majority of access locations lead to unpatrolled sections of beaches ‘rip current’ educational

signage should be implemented at main car parks or at high usage access areas. The sign should

inform beachgoers of how to identify a rip current and what options to take to escape the rip current.

(p.67)

Access:




needed. (p.72)



Public Rescue Equipment:

2.15 Land Managers should consider implementing Life Rings at the proposed locations identified in

‘Appendix C’. The Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational

Fishing Alliance of NSW will be able to provide guidance on costings, suppliers and ongoing

maintenance. (p.74)


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Emergency Response:

2.16 In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an

opportunity to promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community.

(p.80)

2.17 Land Managers should consult with the local emergency management committee to ensure that all

emergency response services are aware of the roles and responsibilities when a shark related incident

occurs as per the DPI Shark Incident Response Plan. Any future iterations of this plan should also be

acknowledged (p.80)

Monitor & Review:

2.18 In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure

the effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been

implemented and where future funding opportunities can be directed. (p.86)

2.19 All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the

relevant strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management

area and a structured approach to maintenance. (p.86)

Recommendation 3

The Water Safety Advisory Council should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:

Emergency Marker Signage:

3.1 With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property

Information, a state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be

considered. (p.68)


3.2 Explore the means to fund the expansion and continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in

consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the

Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW at the locations outlined in ‘Appendix C’. Final positioning

should be determined by these fishing associations. (p.75)

Recommendation 4

Surf Life Saving (State, Branch and Club) should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:


4.1 Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and

Surf Life Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky

coast should be commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related

to rocky coasts in this report should be reviewed. (p.16)


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Education:

4.3 Approach tourism and holiday rental real estate organisations with the aim of distributing

standardised surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers.

Collateral should continue to be made available at Visitor Information Centres and at local shops such

as newsagents or bakeries(p.60)

4.4 The Surf Life Saving Clubs in the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should participate in a Rip

Currents Awareness Day. (p.60)

Safety Signage:

4.5 Temporary signage should be used at coastal access points that are outside the patrol services’ area

of surveillance to warn beach users and direct them to patrol areas. They should also be used by the

coastal tourist parks to inform guests of when conditions warrant the ‘closing of a beach’. Surf Life

Saving NSW will be able to alert park operators when dangerous swell events are predicted through

the dangerous surf advisory process.(p.67)

4.6 Temporary signage should be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a

supervised swimming area and where there is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as

strong currents, creek openings and pollution. (p.67)

Supervision/Surveillance:

4.7 Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular

basis to cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled. (p.78)

Emergency Response:

4.8 Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to hold discussions with Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch to

monitor and review the radio network in the Lake Macquarie LGA after the installation and

adjustment of radio infrastructure at Caves Beach and Snapper Point (p.84)

4.9 An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Hunter Branch Duty

Officers/Support Operations, senior Lifeguards and the local emergency services every couple of years

before the commencement of the surf life saving season. (p.85)

4.10 Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to work with and develop relationships with the Lake Macquarie

Marine Rescue Units. (p.85)


Page xv

Recommendation 5

NSW Crown Lands should consider implementing the following risk treatment options:


5.1 Land Managers should consider implementing Life Rings at the proposed locations identified in

‘Appendix C’. The Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational

Fishing Alliance of NSW will be able to provide guidance on costings, suppliers and ongoing

maintenance.(p.74)

Recommendation 6

Belmont Wetland State Parks Trust (BWSPT) should consider implementing the following risk treatment

options:










Safety Signage:


be implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and upgrade

of existing signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a

single sign (less signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage. (p.67)

Access:




needed. (p.72)




Page 1 of 89

1 INTRODUCTION, SCOPE & CONTEXT

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Project Background:

Surf Life Saving New South Wales (SLSNSW) is undertaking a significant state-wide drowning prevention

project, known as Project Blueprint. As a core component of the project, every accessible coastal beach and

rock platform in New South Wales (NSW) are being assessed using industry leading systems and processes. The

outcomes will include evidence based drowning prevention treatment options to stakeholders and

government, both at a local, regional and state level.

Project Blueprint is being delivered by Australian CoastSafe, as the leading coastal public safety risk

management authority in Australia. Australian CoastSafe is the strategic and intelligence beach safety unit of

Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) – visit www.coastsafe.org.au for more information.

This document is a coastal public safety risk assessment and treatment plan specific to water safety related

issues identified at every beach and rock platform located on the coast of the Lake Macquarie LGA. The Land

Managers of this area include Lake Macquarie City Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Crown

Lands.

The Drowning Issue:

Tragically, NSW accounts for 50% of the national coastal drowning toll annually. As of 30 June 2015, there have

been 403 coastal drowning deaths in NSW since 1 July 20041. The vast majority of these can be attributed to

swimming/rip-currents, rock-fishing and boating, with a high majority occurring at unpatrolled locations/times,

where no expert assistance is immediately available.

Accidental drowning deaths in the coastal aquatic environment can be accounted for through a number of

factors known as the ‘drowning chain’ and these are:

o Lack of knowledge, disregard or misunderstanding of the hazard

o Uninformed or unrestricted access to the hazard

o Lack of supervision or surveillance

o An inability to cope once in difficulty

The strategies that have been identified to address the drowning chain are:

o Education and information

o Denial of access, improvement of infrastructure and/or provision of warnings

o Provision of supervision

o Acquisition of survival skills

1 Surf Life Saving Incident Reporting Database

http://www.coastsafe.org.au/


Page 2 of 89

Figure 1.1.1 The international Life Saving Federation Drowning Chain. Source: International Life Saving Federation

Treatment Options:

This report will be fundamental in addressing the coastal drowning issue in NSW both in the short, mid and

long term. The report will do this by providing a sustainable and effective drowning prevention strategy with

clear supporting evidence/data, engagement of relevant stakeholders, and the application of effective risk

mitigation and drowning prevention initiatives where and when they are required.

It is acknowledged that Land Managers have many competing priorities and limited resources. Land Managers

should balance water safety land management activities within the context of their broader role to provide

services and facilities to meet the current future needs of their local communities as a whole, all within a

limited budget.

This report recognises that there are many inherent risks associated with the NSW coastline and that in most

instances these risks associated with the NSW coastline cannot be eliminated and can only be managed within

the operations contexts of the Land Manager, taking into account all of their responsibilities and available

resources. This report also recognises that visitors to these areas also have a personal responsibility for their

own safety and those they are responsible for.

The treatment options found in the report are representative of Australian CoastSafe’s opinion in relation to

risk management at the locations assessed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NSW Government.


Page 3 of 89

1.2 CONTEXT AND SCOPE

Project Context:

SLSNSW received funding as part of a NSW Government water safety initiative through the Water Safety Black

Spots Fund to deliver coastal public safety risk assessments on the NSW coastline (beaches and rock

platforms). The program will be staged over several years with phase four (the final phase) to include the

Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Greater Taree, Great Lakes, Port Stephens, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs.

The report provides risk treatment options about how to improve risk and safety management in line with

current industry standards:

o AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk management – Principles and Guidelines,

o AS/NZS2416.1:2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags,

o ISO 7001:2007 Graphical symbols – Public information symbols,

o AS2342 – 1992 Development, Testing and Implementing of Information and Safety Symbols and Symbolic

Signs, and

o ISO9001:2008 Quality Management Systems – Requirements.

Project Scope:

This coastal risk assessment and treatment plan has been prepared following an on-site risk assessment

undertaken by Australian CoastSafe of the Lake Macquarie LGA which commenced on Tuesday 19th January

and concluded on Friday 22nd January, 2016.

The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment, including but not

limited to; signage, car parks, access tracks, service provision, geographical hazards, geological hazards, user

groups, conflicting activities and usage. The report also identifies facilities and activities that encourage people

to visit the location.

The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined to be the northern boundary of the Lake

Macquarie LGA and the northern boundary of the Munmorah State Conservation Area. All accessible coastal

environments within these boundaries have been included in this report.

Aquatic areas which are excluded from this assessment include all bodies of water which are not ‘coastal’ in

nature under SLSA definitions, and all hazards not directly associated with the use and immediate access to the

coastal aquatic environment. While recreational and commercial boating occur in these waters the detailed

assessment of hazards and their treatments specific to boating activities with then areas falls outside the

scope of this report. Information on boating safety can be found at

http://maritimemanagement.transport.nsw.gov.au/

The engagement of Land Managers and other key local stakeholders was also a vital part of this risk

assessment.

Australian CoastSafe assessed the following in detail:

o Access locations, classifying these as formal or informal access tracks and recommending treatment

options. Signage that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current signage Appendix A.

o Hazards, their potential risks, risk groups, risk scores and treatment options Appendix B.


Page 4 of 89

o Public rescue equipment that should be implemented, in conjunction with an audit of current public rescue

equipment Appendix C.

o Facilities and points of interest that may attract members of the public to coastal locations Appendix D.

Other appendices include:

o Coverage maps of assessed locations Appendix E.

o Stakeholder Engagement Appendix

o Life Saving Service Level Calculator Appendix G.

At no time during the inspection was the water entered. The assessments were performed from the land,

along the edges of the water, along rocky outcrops, headlands, access tracks and car park access points.

1.3 LIMITATIONS

The following are acknowledged as limitations of this coastal public safety risk assessment.

o The absence of an agreed and recognised methodology for rating the hazardousness of rock platforms.

o Difficulty in gaining feedback from all identified stakeholders. Successful stakeholder engagement was not

statistically representative of the greater community and was bias towards lifesavers / lifeguards.

o Limited timeframes allowed for stakeholders to provide feedback on consultative draft versions of the

main report and appendices as a result of the project timeframes.

o The on-site data collection was completed during a small period of time and may not necessarily capture

the true conditions at a given location.


Page 5 of 89

1.4 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Definitions of the key terms used within this report are provided below.

Table 1.4.1: Definitions of key terms.

ABSAMP Australian Beach Safety and Management Program.

Attendance A snapshot of the on-beach and in-water attendance taken every two hours on a

daily basis.

ATV All-terrain vehicle.

CALD Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities.

Coastal

The foreshore, seabed, coastal water, and airspace 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

(Adapted from the Resource Management Amendment Act 1991 – New Zealand).

Coastal Waterway A coastal body of water e.g. river/creek opening.

Consequence Outcome or impact of an event.

Control An existing process, policy, device, practice or other action that acts to minimise

negative risk or enhance positive opportunities.

Emergency Action Plan A plan that outlines the procedures to be used in the event of an emergency.

First Aid A lifesaver/lifeguard treating either a minor or major first aid incident, which may

require further assistance from NSW Ambulance e.g. broken bones or stings/bites.

Formal Access

Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating

the use of a generally safer ‘track’, effectively exposing people to the relevant

safety signage/information, reducing the quality of signage required and

enhancing emergency reporting/location identification.

Frequency A measure of the number of occurrences per unit of time.

Geomorphology Is the scientific study of landforms and the processes that shape them.

Hazard A source of potential harm.

Hazard Symbols A graphical symbol used together with a safety colour and safety shape to form a

safety sign.

Inaccessible A location that is not able to be accessed from land by standard reasoning and/or

entry is prohibited by private access.


Page 6 of 89

Informal Access

Informal access ways may create higher risk through use (uneven

ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/sink-holes),

may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make

emergency location reporting difficult (location awareness).

Inherent Risk The risk that an activity would pose if no controls or other mitigating factors were

in place.

IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat.

LGA

Local Government Area – for the purposes of this report this area is used to

determine the scope of the assessment (i.e. the coastal boundary of the Local

Government Area). This may include lands managed by Councils, Crown and

National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Lifesaving Service

An organised and structured service comprised of paid lifeguards and/or

volunteer lifesavers and appropriate rescue and first aid equipment supported by

a coordinated backup team.

Likelihood Used as a general description of probability or frequency.

Modal The conditions that occur most frequently, or more often than other conditions.

Monitor

To check, supervise, observe critically or measure the progress of an activity,

action or system on a regular basis in order to identify change from the

performance level required or expected.

Peak Water Safety

Agencies

A peak body is defined as a state, territory or national non-profit organisation

established to cater for the needs, interests and aspirations of its members.

Members may include individuals or organisations, but they will all have a

common interest. Peak bodies in the water safety sector may include agencies

such as Surf Life Saving, Royal Life Saving, Surf Educators Australia, Austswim,

Australian Professional Ocean Lifeguard Association, Surfing NSW and the Office

of Boating Safety who represent the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council as a

committee member.

Prevailing The conditions existing in a particular place or at a particular time.

Preventative Action /

Prevention

A lifesaver/lifeguard simply providing proactive direction or advice to beachgoers

in a ‘preventative action’ for the beachgoer to avoid finding themselves in a

position beyond their capability.

Probability A measure of the chance of occurrence expressed as a number.

Rescue A lifesaver/lifeguard rendering direct assistance to a beachgoer in difficulty in the

water.

Residual Risk Risk remaining after implementation of risk treatments.


Page 7 of 89

Rip Current Channelled currents of water flowing away from shore, typically extending from

the shoreline, through the surf zone, and past the line of breaking waves.

Risk Standards Australia defines risk as the effect of uncertainty on objects (AS/NZS

31000:2009).

Risk Analysis Systematic process to understand the nature of and to the level of risk.

Risk Assessment Standards Australia defines a risk assessment as the overall process of risk

identification, risk analysis and risk evaluation (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Evaluation Process of comparing the level of risk against criteria.

Risk Identification The process of determining what, where, when, why and how something should

happen.

Risk Management Standards Australia defines risk management as coordinated activities to direct

and control an organisation with regard to risk (AS/NZS 31000:2009).

Risk Register

A table summarising the identified risks, the location, why it has been identified as

a risk, and what current treatments are in place to lessen the risk and an overall

hazard rating.

Risk Treatment Process of selection and implementation of measures to modify risk.

Risk Treatment Plan A table summarising how to deal with the identified risks, including a list of

potential risk treatments, the risk treatments currently and any residual risk.

RWC Rescue water craft (jet ski).

SLS Branch Surf Life Saving Branch, a regional body of Surf Life Saving formed to further the

objects of surf lifesaving in a particular geographic area.

Stakeholders Those people and organisations who may affect, be affected, or perceive

themselves to be affected by a decision, activity or risk.

1.5 PROJECT TEAM / AUTHORS

Project Team:

Adam Weir, Operations Manager, [email protected]

Luke Stigter, Coastal Risk Coordinator; [email protected]

Chris Twine, Coastal Risk Officer, [email protected]

Australian CoastSafe

Surf Life Saving New South Wales

Ph: 02-9471 8000| F: 02-9471 8001

W: www.coastsafe.org.au/blueprint

mailto:[email protected]



http://www.coastsafe.org.au/blueprint


Page 8 of 89

2 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

2.1 INTRODUCTION

The methodology included site identification, site inspection, hazard identification, data analysis, beach hazard

ratings, beach identification, facility visitation ratings, facilities, beach usage, tourism data, incident data,

communication and consultation.

2.2 SITE IDENTIFICATION

The map on the following page provides an overview of the locations of beaches and rock platforms within the

Lake Macquarie LGA subject to the coastal risk assessment. The specific locations can be referenced in

‘Appendix E’. All together the Australian CoastSafe team assessed approximately 34km of coastline in the Lake

Macquarie LGA.

The area includes locations and/or facilities under the administration of:

o Lake Macquarie City Council

o National Parks and Wildlife Service

Glenrock State Conservation Area

Awabakal Nature Reserve

Wallarah National Park

o Crown Lands

Belmont Wetlands State Park Trust (BWSPT)

The assessment identifies hazards and the associated risks of the coastal environment and is not limited to

signage, car parks, access tracks, service provision, geographical hazards, geological hazards, user groups,

conflicting activities and usage. The report also identifies facilities and activities that encourage people to visit

the location.

The geographical scope of this assessment has been determined to be the northern boundary of the Lake

Macquarie LGA and the northern boundary of the Munmorah State Conservation Area. All accessible coastal

environments within these boundaries have been included in this report.

Aquatic areas which are excluded from this assessment include all bodies of water which are not ‘coastal’ in

nature under SLSA definitions, and all hazards not directly associated with the use and immediate access to the

coastal aquatic environment.


Page 9 of 89

Figure 2.2.1: Lake Macquarie LGA – Assessed Locations Site Inspection (Map 1).


Page 10 of 89

Figure 2.2.2: Lake Macquarie LGA – Assessed Locations Site Inspection (Map 2).


Page 11 of 89

Table 2.2.1: Assessed locations and assessment dates.

Location Land Management Authority Date

Burwood Beach National Parks and Wildlife Service Tuesday 19 January, 2016

Dudley Beach National Parks and Wildlife Service Tuesday 19 January, 2016

Redhead Point National Parks and Wildlife Service Thursday 21 January, 2016

Redhead Beach Lake Macquarie City Council &

Belmont Wetlands State Park Trust

Tuesday 19 January, 2016 & Thursday 21 January, 2016

Blacksmiths Beach Lake Macquarie City Council &

Belmont Wetlands State Park Trust Thursday 21 January, 2016

Reids Reserve Breakwall Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Swansea Wall Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Reids Mistake Head Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Swansea Heads Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Crabbs Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Hams Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Caves Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

The Caves Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Stinky Point Lake Macquarie City Council Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Stinky Point Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Spoon Rocks Lake Macquarie City Council Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Quarry Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Quarry Head Lake Macquarie City Council Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Pinny Beach National Parks and Wildlife Service Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Shark Hole National Parks and Wildlife Service Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Bogey Hole National Parks and Wildlife Service Wednesday 20 January, 2016

Middle Camp Inlet National Parks and Wildlife Service Wednesday 20 January, 2016 &

Friday 22 January, 2016

Catherine Hill Bay Beach Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016

Catherine Hill Bay South Lake Macquarie City Council Friday 22 January, 2016


Page 12 of 89

2.3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND RISK ASSESSMENT

During the site inspection hazards were identified within the area inspected and assessed in terms of their

individual risk to public safety (extreme, high, medium, low) using a risk assessment matrix ‘Appendix B’.

The risk framework and descriptors used in the risk ranking tool (p.3, ‘Appendix B’) are based on Surf Life

Saving Australia’s risk management framework. Specific mentions of Surf Life Saving in the descriptors should

be used to provide clarification on what the different ratings for consequence and impact may equate to for

the specific circumstances of the Land Manager. If necessary, Land Managers may wish to translate these

ratings to their own risk management framework in order to align assessed risks with their existing enterprise

risk management frameworks.

Risks assessed in this report are specific to injury and death along the coast. As a result this report and

assessment is usually aligning to the descriptors used for ‘physical/safety’ in the risk assessment tool on p.3 of

‘Appendix B’.

The risk assessment matrix considers both the type of harm that could be sustained as a result of an individual

hazard and the likelihood of this harm actually occurring.

Hazards/Risks:

The Lake Macquarie LGA has a number of consistent hazards due to the geography and high energy nature of

the beaches in the area.

Based on the risk assessment in ‘Appendix B’, the following hazards have been rated with the greatest

inherent risk for the Lake Macquarie LGA:

Strong currents/rip currents: As a result of wave action and beach type

Waves/waves over washing: As a result of model wave height and exposure to ocean swells

Inshore holes/drop-off/deep water: As a result of coastal processes, wave action and beach type

Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: As a result of coastal geography/break walls and wave action

Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: As a result of coastal process, wave action and beach type

Submerged rocks: As a result of coastal geography and sand movement

Cliffs/dangerous access: As a result of coastal geography

Boating traffic/incidents: As a result of human interaction

It has been identified that the above listed hazards pose risk to the following types of recreational users:

Strong currents/rip currents: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users

Waves/waves over washing: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen, rock platform users

Inshore holes/drop-off/deep water: Swimmers, fishermen

Slippery rocks/uneven surfaces: Fishermen, rock platform users

Shallow sandbanks/shore dump: Swimmers, surf craft users

Submerged rocks: Swimmers, surf craft users, fishermen

Cliffs/dangerous access: Fishermen, walkers, sight seers

Boating traffic/incidents: Swimmers, surf craft users, boaters


Page 13 of 89

Note that whilst dangerous marine life, such as sharks, have been assessed (see Appendix B) it is the opinion of

Australian CoastSafe that they do not present a greater inherent risk than the hazards listed above (i.e. it is not

one of the greatest inherent risks for the Lake Macquarie LGA).

This coastal public safety risk assessment aligns with the international standard of risk management ‘AS/NZS

ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines’ (Standards Australia, 2009).

Figure 2.3.1: Risk management process (Standards Australia, 2009).


Page 14 of 89

2.4 BEACH HAZARD RATINGS AND OVERVIEW

The ABSAMP (Australian Beach Safety and Management Program) was developed by Professor Andrew Short

from the University of Sydney Coastal Studies Unit in conjunction with Surf Life Saving Australia. The program

has identified coastal hazards that affect bathers and rates the safety of the beach on a scale of one to ten,

where one (1) is the least hazardous and ten (10) is the most hazardous. The beach hazard ratings and

definitions are provided below. Table 2.4.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings.

The beach hazard rating is calculated by determining the beach type and wave height. This can be done under

either modal (average) or prevailing (current) conditions. The beach hazard rating is then calculated by using

the following table. Table 2.4.2: Beach hazard rating calculation matrices for wave dominate beaches.

Wave Height

Beach Type

< 0.5 (m)

0.5 (m) 1.0 (m) 1.5 (m) 2.0 (m) 2.5 (m) 3.0 (m) > 3.0 (m)

Dissipative 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10

Long Shore Bar Trough

4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10

Rhythmic Bar Beach

4 5 6 6 7 8 9 10

Transverse Bar Rip

4 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Low Tide Terrace 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

Reflective 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10

The beach hazard ratings used in risk based calculation throughout the report relate to modal beach

conditions and as such the hazard rating of a beach may increase when conditions alter e.g. with increasing

wave height, winds, strong tides and high tide. Furthermore, a hazard rating is also applied to an average

person and therefore the hazard may in fact be greater or less, depending upon an individual’s own skill, and

understanding and competence in relation to a certain area. The ABSAMP hazard ratings for the inspected

areas of the Lake Macquarie LGA are detailed within the next section of the report.

Hazard Rating Details

1 – 3

Least Hazardous: Low danger posed by water depth and/or weak currents; however, supervision still required, in particular for children and poor swimmers.

4 – 6

Moderately Hazardous: The level of hazard depends on wave and weather conditions, with the possibility of strong rips and currents posing a moderate risk.

7 – 8

Highly Hazardous: Experience in strong surf, rips and currents required, with beaches in this category considered dangerous.

9 – 10

Extremely Hazardous: Identifies beaches that are considered extremely dangerous due to strong rips and currents, and large breakers.


Page 15 of 89

2.5 ABSAMP TYPES AND RATINGS

The ABSAMP Hazard Rating for the assessed locations listed in Table 2.5.1 below. The table provides both a

modal and a prevailing ABSAMP rating. The modal ABSAMP rating represents the average conditions for each

location, which has been extracted from the Australian Beach Safety and Management Program. The prevailing

ABSAMP rating represents the conditions observed by Australian CoastSafe on the day each audit took place.

Table 2.5.1: ABSAMP Beach Hazard Ratings – Lake Macquarie LGA.

Location Name ABSAMP No.

ABSAMP

Rating

(Modal)

ABSAMP Type

(Modal)

ABSAMP

Rating

(Prevailing)

ABSAMP Type

(Prevailing)

Burwood Beach nsw248 7

Transverse Bar and

Rip / Rhythmic Bar

and Beach

6 Transverse Bar

and Rip

Dudley Beach nsw249 7 Transverse Bar and

Rip 6

Transverse Bar

and Rip

Redhead Point nsw249RPa 7* Rock Platform 6* Rock Platform

Redhead Beach nsw250a 6 Rhythmic Bar and

Beach 6

Rhythmic Bar and

Beach

Blacksmiths Beach nsw250b 5 Transverse Bar and

Rip 5

Transverse Bar

and Rip

Reids Reserve

Breakwall nsw250RPa 4* Rock Platform 2* Rock Platform

Swansea Wall Beach nsw241 3 Low Tide Terrace 3 Low Tide Terrace

Reids Mistake Head nsw241RPa 5* Rock Platform 5* Rock Platform

Swansea Heads

Beach nsw252 6

Low Tide Terrace +

Rocks 5

Low Tide Terrace

+ Rocks

Crabbs Beach nsw253a 6 Reflective + Rocks 5 Reflective + Rocks

Hams Beach nsw254 6 Transverse Bar and

Rip 6

Transverse Bar

and Rip

Caves Beach nsw255 5 Low Tide Terrace 5 Low Tide Terrace

The Caves nsw255RPa 4* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Stinky Point nsw255RPb 4* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Stinky Point Beach nsw256 3 Reflective 3 Reflective

Spoon Rocks nsw256RPa* 4* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Quarry Beach nsw257 5 Reflective + Rocks 4 Reflective + Rocks

Quarry Head nsw257RPa 6* Rock Platform 4* Rock Platform

Pinny Beach nsw258 6 Reflective / Low

Tide + Rocks 5

Reflective / Low

Tide + Rocks

Shark Hole nsw258RPa 6* Rock Platform 5* Rock Platform

Bogey Hole nsw258RPb 6* Rock Platform 5* Rock Platform

Middle Camp Inlet nsw258RPc 6* Rock Platform 5* Rock Platform


Page 16 of 89

Location Name ABSAMP No.

ABSAMP

Rating

(Modal)

ABSAMP Type

(Modal)

ABSAMP

Rating

(Prevailing)

ABSAMP Type

(Prevailing)

Catherine Hill Bay

Beach nsw259 7

Transverse Bar and

Rip / Rhythmic Bar

and Beach

6 Transverse Bar

and Rip

Catherine Hill Bay

South nsw269 3 Reflective 3 Reflective

* Lake Macquarie LGA Rock Platform Ratings

Currently there is no method of rating the hazardousness of the rocky coast, in an equivalent manner to the

ABSAMP beach hazard rating system for sandy beaches. Research is currently underway; Dr. David Kennedy

has utilised a grant from Melbourne University to pilot the methods for the development of a risk classification

study on rocky coasts (Kennedy, et al., 2013). This research has now received funding under an Australian

Research Council linkage grant. Professor Colin Woodroffe (University of Wollongong) presented the

methodology for this project at the NSW Coastal Conference in Kiama (November, 2012). An update of this

research was provided by Dr. David Kennedy at the NSW Coastal Conference in Ulladulla (November, 2014).

As an interim method of providing an indication of the hazardousness of rock platforms the ABSAMP beach

hazard ratings for the beaches on either side of the each rock platform have been averaged. Since the beaches

on either side of a rock platform would be exposed to similar prevailing and modal wind, wave and weather

conditions and these sandy beaches have a recognised and accepted method of rating the associated

hazardousness taking the average of the beaches bordering a rock platform will provide an indication as to the

potential hazard associated with the modal conditions affecting the rock platform.

It is a limitation of the report that there is no available method of calculating the specific hazard rating of a

rock platform. In order to allow the risk calculations used in this report to be processed the interim solution,

which takes into account the local conditions and geomorphology detailed above, has been applied. Once the

research being conducted by Dr. David Kennedy and Prof. Colin Woodroffe is completed then these

calculations should be revisited.

Treatment Option 4.1

Research currently being conducted by the University of Melbourne, University of Wollongong and Surf Life

Saving Australia into a rocky coast classification model and hazard rating system for rocky coast should be

commended and supported. Once this research is completed the calculations related to rocky coasts in this

report should be reviewed.


Page 17 of 89

2.6 ABSAMP BEACH TYPE CHARACTERISTIC OVERVIEW AND HAZARDS

The modal beach characteristics and associated hazards for each location are as follows:

2.6.1 RHYTHMIC BAR AND BEACH

Rhythmic bar and beach type commonly occurs

around the southern Australian coast. They

usually consist of relatively fine-medium (0.3

mm) sand and exposure to waves averaging

more than 1.5 m. They are characterised by an

outer bar which is separated from the beach by

a deep trough, however unlike the longshore

bar and trough type, the bar varies in width and

elevation alongshore, and it is rhythmic.

Waves break more heavily on the shoreward-

protruding rhythmic bar sections with the

broken wave and white water flowing shoreward as a wave bore. The bore then flows off the bar into the

deeper tough, where it moves shoreward and longshore as a rip feeder current. Part of the wave reforms in

the trough and breaks again on the shore.

The water from both the wave bore and the swash piles up in the rip feeder channel and moves sideways

toward the adjacent rip embayment. The converging feeder currents turn and flow seaward as a rip current

through the trough and across the deeper seaward-protruding sections of the rhythmic bar.

The following beaches within the Great Lakes LGA are classified as rhythmic bar and beach:

o Redhead Beach

2.6.2 TRANSVERSE BAR AND RIP

Transverse bar and rip (TBR) type is the most

common and extensive of Australia’s wave-

dominated beach types. They occur primarily on

beaches composed of fine to medium sand (0.3

mm) and exposed to waves averaging 1.5 m.

This beach type received its name from the fact

that the bars are transverse or perpendicular to

and attached to the beach, separated by deeper

rip channels.

The bars and rips are usually regularly spaced

and range from 150 m on the lower energy sea-

dominated northern Australian beaches to 250 m along the higher energy southeast coast and 350 m along

the exposed southern coast. Waves break heavily on the shallower bars and less in the deeper rip channels

Figure 2.6.1 Illustration of a Rhythmic Bar & Beach.

Figure 2.6.2: Illustration of a Transverse Bar and Rip.


Page 18 of 89

resulting in lower energy swash in lee of the bars and higher energy swash/shore break in lee of the rips. The

shoreline is rhythmic building a few metres seaward behind the attached bars as deposition occurs forming the

mega cusp horns and being scoured out and often scarped in lee of the rips forming the embayments. The surf

zone has a cellular circulation pattern. Waves tend to break more on the bars and move shoreward as wave

bores. This water flows both directly into the adjacent rip channel and, closer to the beach, into the rip feeder

channels located at the base of the beach. The water in the rip feeders converge and return seaward as a

strong rip current.

The following beaches within the Lake Macquarie LGA are classified as transverse bar and rip:

o Burwood Beach

o Dudley Beach

o Blacksmiths Beach

o Hams Beach

o Catherine Hill Bay Beach

2.6.3 LOW TIDE TERRACE

Low tide terrace beaches tend to occur when

waves average about 1m and sand is fine to

medium. They are characterised by a moderately

steep beach face, which is joined at the low tide

level to an attached bar or terrace, hence the

name – low tide terrace. The bar usually extends

between 20-50m seaward and continues

alongshore, attached to the beach. It may be flat

and featureless, have a slight central crest, called

a ridge, and may be cut every several tens of

metres by small shallow rip channels, called mini

rips.

At high tide when waves are less than 1m, they may pass right over the bar and not break until the beach face,

which behaves much like a reflective beach. At spring low tide, however, the entire bar is usually exposed as a

ridge or terrace running parallel to the beach and waves break by plunging heavily on the outer edge of the

bar.

At mid tide, waves usually break right across the shallow bar, when they are most likely to generate rip

currents. The water is returned seaward, both by reflection off the beach face, especially at high tide, and via

the mini rips, even if no rip channels are present. The rips, however, are usually shallow, ephemeral or

transient meaning they will flow strongly for a few minutes then dissipate.

The following beaches within the Lake Macquarie LGA are classified as low tide terrace:

o Swansea Wall Beach

o Swansea Heads Beach

o Caves Beach

o Pinny Beach

Figure 2.6.3: Illustration of a Low Tide Terrace.

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_a-b.jsp#Beach_face

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_s-t.jsp#Spring

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_q-r.jsp#Rip_current

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_q-r.jsp#Rip_current

http://www.ozcoasts.gov.au/glossary/def_q-r.jsp#Rip_channel


Page 19 of 89

2.6.4 REFLECTIVE

Reflective sandy beaches lie at the lower energy

end of the wave-dominated beach spectrum.

They are characterised by relatively steep, narrow

beaches usually composed of coarser sand (0.4

mm). On the open Australian coast, sandy

beaches require waves to be less than 0.5 m to be

reflective. For this reason they are also found

inside the entrance to bays, at the lower energy

end of some ocean beaches and in lee of the reefs

and islets that front many beaches.

Reflective beaches are Australia's most common beach type occurring in every state though they are more

common around the southern half of the continent. Reflective beach morphology consists of the steeper,

narrow beach and swash zone, with beach cusps commonly present in the upper high tide swash zone. They

have no bar or surf zone as waves move unbroken to the shore, where they collapse or surge up the beach

face.

The following beaches within the Lake Macquarie LGA are classified as reflective:

o Crabbs Beach

o Stinky Point Beach

o Quarry Beach

o Catherine Hill Bay South

2.6.5 ROCK PLATFORMS AND ROCKY COASTS

Rock platforms and rocky coasts are wave eroded regions that exist at the base of rocky cliffs and headlands.

They are typically influenced by tides and waves. For coastal hazards, rocky coasts can therefore be considered

static features unable to adjust their morphology during storms unlike sandy beaches (Kennedy, et al., 2013).

The following regions within the Lake Macquarie LGA are classified as Rock Platforms or Rocky Coast:

o Redhead Point

o Reids Reserve Breakwall

o Reids Mistake Head

o The Caves

o Stinky Point

o Spoon Rocks

o Quarry Head

o Shark Hole

o Bogey Hole

o Middle Camp Inlet

Figure 2.6.4: Illustration of a Reflective beach.


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2.7 FACILITY VISITATION RATES (FVR)

The Facility Visitation Rate (FVR) is a quantitative assessment system developed by Statewide Mutual as ‘Best

Practice’ for Signage As Remote Supervision (2007). The FVR can be used by NSW Local Government to

determine the most appropriate signage schedule for a facility (venue or location).

The FVR is calculated using data collected during the assessment process and includes site population use and

frequency of use. Since the FVR calculation is used to determine aquatic recreational warning signage

requirements, the figures used are those of the peak period of beach usage.

The Statewide Mutual Best Practice Manual – Signs as Remote Supervision is provided as a decision-making

tool for Councils to determine the content and placement of signage for recreational facilities under the care

and control of council within a systematic and readily useable framework.

The framework seeks to satisfy the duty of care owed to a person engaging in a recreational activity at a facility

under the care and control of Council where full-time supervision may not be possible. The methodology

makes reference to the principles outlined in the Civil Liability Act 2002 (NSW), Part 1A, Division 5, Section 5M

relating to “No duty of care for recreational activity where risk warning”.

The general descriptions used in the Best Practice Manual for each rating level are intended to assist Council

deciding upon the most appropriate content and placement of signs. The Manual however recognises that for

facilities with a rating of 27 or greater:

“the installation of a sign alone warning people of the hazards would not be the most appropriate risk

reduction technique. A combination of both supervision and signage is the most appropriate

approach.”

Australian CoastSafe uses the FVR scores to determine which locations require warning signage as well as the

most appropriate sign content at these locations. The content requirements for a sign in a given FVR ‘range’

are outlined below.

The following information is used to calculate the FVR:

1. Observational data collected during the site assessment; (only during peak summer periods do we rely on

observational data)

2. Stakeholder observation, consultation and feedback; and,

3. Historical statistical data

The Facility Visitation Rate is calculated using the following formula:

FVR = (Development x Population) + Frequency

Where:

Development* = the level of facilities and infrastructure that exist within or about the facility.

Population = the average number of people that use the facility at any point in time.

Frequency = the number of times that the facility is used by patrons.

* Note: Development ratings were calculated with reference to 2.7.2


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2.7.1 FACILITY VISITATION RATING (FVR) REFERENCE TABLES

Table 2.7.1: Typical Development and Natural Hazards Rating for Reserves – non beach environments.

Rating Development Natural Hazards

1 Virginal bush, cleared land, no infrastructure No hazardous features

2 Cleared land, static infrastructure e.g. grass area with

tables and chairs, toilet block, lookout

Sloping ground; no natural water;

walking track around reserve

3

Cleared land with mobile infrastructure e.g. grassed area

with play equipment, cycle way, market, leash free dog

areas

Reserve contains natural waterway that

runs during wet weather, drops less

than 1 meter

4

Land manager owned infrastructure with no artificial

lighting e.g. golf course, football field, recreational

ground, caravan park

Creeks, ponds and ledges between 1

meter and 3 meters

5 Extensively developed infrastructure with artificial

lighting e.g. sporting complex, artificially lit courts

Contains rivers, dams and cliffs greater

than 3 meters

Table 2.7.2: Typical development ratings for beaches.

Rating ABSAMP Beach Rating

1 Beach hazard rating 1 and 2





Table 2.7.3: Typical population use rating for a facility.

Rating Population Use

1 Less than 5 people at a time

2 5 to 50 people at a time



5 Greater than 500 people at a time

Table 2.7.4: Suggested Frequency use rating for a Facility.

Rating Frequency of Use

1 An annual activity or event is held at the facility

2 An activity event takes place in the facility on a monthly basis

3 An activity event takes place in the facility on a weekly basis

4 An activity event takes place in the facility on a daily basis

5 The facility is in continuous use for the majority of the day

The FVR values for assessed locations in the Lake Macquarie LGA are provided in Table 2.7.5.


Page 22 of 89

Table 2.7.5: Facility Visitation Rates – for assessed locations.

LOCATION NAME DEVELOPMENT

RATING X POPULATION + FREQUENCY = FVR

Burwood Beach 4 x 3 + 3 = 15

Dudley Beach 4 x 3 + 3 = 15

Redhead Point 4 x 1 + 3 = 7

Redhead Beach 3 x 4 + 4 = 16

Blacksmiths Beach 3 x 4 + 4 = 16

Reids Reserve Breakwall 2 x 2 + 2 = 6

Swansea Wall Beach 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Reids Mistake Head 3 x 1 + 2 = 5

Swansea Heads Beach 3 x 1 + 2 = 5

Crabbs Beach 3 x 2 + 2 = 8

Hams Beach 3 x 3 + 4 = 13

Caves Beach 3 x 4 + 4 = 16

The Caves 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Stinky Point 2 x 1 + 2 = 4

Stinky Point Beach 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Spoon Rocks 2 x 2 + 2 = 6

Quarry Beach 3 x 2 + 2 = 8

Quarry Head 3 x 1 + 2 = 5

Pinny Beach 3 x 1 + 2 = 5

Shark Hole 3 x 1 + 2 = 5

Bogey Hole 3 x 1 + 3 = 6

Middle Camp Inlet 3 x 2 + 2 = 8

Catherine Hill Bay Beach 4 x 3 + 3 = 15

Catherine Hill Bay South 2 x 2 + 3 = 7

Given the FVR scores listed in Table 2.7.5, the most appropriate signage characteristics for each location are

listed below.

FVR Score between 4 and 6

o Reids Reserve Breakwall

o Reids Mistake Head

o Swansea Heads Beach

o Stinky Point

o Spoon Rocks

o Quarry Head

o Pinny Beach

o Shark Hole

o Bogey Hole

This score would generally indicate that where access cannot be controlled, entrances to the beach provided

by Land Manager have signage and spaced no greater than 1000 metres apart around the beach perimeter.

Additionally the signage should contain the following:

o The name of the facility

o A general warning message


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o Ordinances that apply to the facility should appear on the sign as prohibition pictograms

o Any information symbols relevant to the facility

NB: The sign does not require the depiction of warning symbols.


o Redhead Point

o Swansea Wall Beach

o Crabbs Beach

o The Caves

o Quarry Beach

o Middle Camp Inlet

o Catherine Hill Bay South

o Stinky Point Beach


by Land Managers have signage and are spaced no greater than 500 metres apart around the beach perimeter.





o All potential hazards identified within the facility that have a risk rating of HIGH should appear on the sign

as warning symbols. If no highs then the top hazard should appear



o Burwood Beach

o Dudley Beach

o Hams Beach

o Catherine Hill Bay Beach








as warning symbols. If no highs then the top two hazards should appear



o Redhead beach

o Blacksmiths Beach

o Caves Beach





Page 24 of 89




as warning symbols. If no highs then the top three hazards should appear



o No locations








as warning symbols. If no highs then the top four hazards should appear


2.8 FACILITIES AUDIT

Facilities in the coastal risk management process are any item of infrastructure which is situated close to the

beach/access. The 10 most common coastal facilities along the Lake Macquarie LGA coastline are shown in the

table below.

Table 2.8.1: Top 10 most common coastal facilities.

Rank Facility Type Count

1 Rubbish Bins 67

2 Picnic Table 59

3 Car Park 31

4 Bench 28

5 Shower 15

7 Barbecue Area 9

7 Water tap 8

8 Sheltered Picnic Table 7

10 Amenities Block 6

10 Viewing Platform 6

Why do we record facilities?

Facilities are recorded because it is important for the Land Manager to recognise that by providing the above

facilities it is expected that there will be an increase in people visiting these areas. This increase can correlate

to the likelihood of a risk occurring in a coastal environment. Treatment plans identified in the report should

be implemented in these areas to reduce the risk of a particular event occurring.

Below is a list of the top ten locations for facilities within the Lake Macquarie LGA:


Page 25 of 89

Table 2.8.2: Top 10 locations for facilities.

Rank Location Count

1 Redhead Beach 75

2 Caves Beach 55

3 Blacksmiths Beach 45

4 Catherine Hill Bay Beach 23

5 Reids Reserve Breakwall 22

6 Swansea Heads Beach 8

7 The Caves 7

8 Hams Beach 7

9 Redhead Point 6

10 Burwood Beach 5

Refer to Appendix D for a further breakdown of facilities at the assessed locations within the Lake Macquarie

LGA.


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2.9 POPULATION, DEVELOPMENT, TOURISM & INCIDENTS

Population growth is an important consideration when evaluating and predicting beach usage trends.

Increasing beach usage due to population growth relates to an increase in the probability of an event

occurring. Tourism operations and development proposals are also associated with population growth, and

these should also be considered when determining suitable risk treatment options.

2.9.1 POPULATION STATISTICS

The 2011 census recorded a population count of 189,006 in the Lake Macquarie LGA. Over the last 10 years,

the population has increased by 11,821 people (6.7% growth). The first table lists the male, female and total

population in the Lake Macquarie LGA for the last three Census counts. The second table lists the 2011

population of the suburbs that are situated along the coast of the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Table 2.9.1 Lake Macquarie population data (ABS, 2011).

Table 2.9.2 Population count of coastal state suburbs in the Lake Macquarie LGA (ABS, 2011).

State Suburb Males Females Total

Dudley 1,120 1,147 2,267

Redhead 1,715 1,738 3,453

Belmont 3,064 3,356 6,420

Belmont South 595 609 1,204

Blacksmiths 908 936 1,844

Swansea Heads 360 346 706

Caves Beach 1,920 2,016 3,936

Catherine Hill Bay 220 212 432

Lake Macquarie Local Government Area – Population

Year Males Females Total

2011 92,311 96,695 189,006

2006 89,637 93,501 183,138

2001 86,712 90,473 177,185


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2.9.2 DEVELOPMENT PLANS IN LAKE MACQUARIE

Existing and future coastal development plans (government and private) scheduled for the Lake Macquarie

LGA should consider the impact of increased beach usage, discussing possible treatment options such as

education, signage, beach access and supervision.

One example is the large development under construction just south of the existing Catherine Hill Bay Village.

Being developed by the Rose Group, ‘Beaches - Catherine Hill Bay’ will extend over 58 hectares and is expected

to create around 550 new residential lots upon completion (Department of Planning and Infrastructure 2012).

The development is rolling out in stages, however there have already been 230 lots sold in stage 1 of the

development and it should be anticipated that beach visitation numbers will increase quickly as the later

stages are completed (Cronshaw, 2015).

Figure 2.9.1: Location of the Rose Group development at Catherine Hill Bay.

Figure 2.9.2: Stages of the Rose Group development at Catherine Hill Bay

The Development Control Plan includes Development Principles that govern the overall goals of the

development (Department of Planning and Infrastructure 2012). These include;

Create walkable neighbourhoods and maximise opportunities for public access to the coastal

foreshore and Moonee Beach


Page 28 of 89

Create a new coastal walkway and coastal reserve adjacent to the cliff edge and connecting from

Middle Camp Beach to the Moonee Headland across the existing Bin Building.

As part of the development there are multiple proposed improvements to infrastructure for the local

community including $1 million in funding to the Catherine Hill Bay Surf Life Saving Club (Newcastle Herald,

2009).

Council should be aware that attendance to Catherine Hill Bay Beach and surrounding areas will increase as

these developments are finalised. These developments will:

1. Improve access to the coast.

2. See an increase with interaction activities such as swimming, surfcraft use, fishing and 4WD.

3. See an increase in beach / coastal visitation numbers in the local area.

This will increase the risk of incidents occurring along the adjacent unpatrolled coastline and council should

consider a regular review of coastal visitation and safety as this development progresses.

Treatment Options 1.1 & 2.1

Existing and future coastal development plans scheduled for the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area

should consider the impact of increased coastal usage, discussing possible treatment options such as

education, signage, access, public rescue equipment and supervision.


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2.9.3 TOURISM INFORMATION

The following table shows the number of domestic overnight visitors, domestic day trippers and international

visitors over a four year annual average to the year ending September 2014 (Destination NSW, 2015).

Table 2.9.3 Tourism data and visitor information for Lake Macquarie LGA.

Overall Tourist Figures (‘000)

Domestic Overnight 285

Domestic Day Trip (>50km) 798

International Visitors 8

Figure 2.9.3 Tourism visitation four year rolling average. Source: International Visitor Survey and National Visitor Survey, Tourism Research Australia (TRA).

Domestic Day Visitors:

Table 2.9.4 Domestic Day Visitor information for Lake Macquarie LGA

Top 5 Activities (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

Visiting Friends & Relatives 316 40 36

Eating out at restaurants 296 37 44

Go shopping (pleasure) 146 18 21

Go to the beach (including swimming) 103 13 10

General sight seeing 75 9 15

Top Origin Markets (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

Hunter 412 52 10

Sydney 235 30 42

Central Coast 107 13 6


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Age Group (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

15 - 24 years * * 14

25 - 34 years * * 16

35 - 44 years 117 15 17

45 - 54 years 123 15 17

55 - 64 years 168 21 17

65 years or over 166 21 19

* - Indicates insufficient statistics

In summary, for domestic day visitors, going to the beach is the fourth most popular activity at 13% just above

the state average. People from the Hunter region accounted for over 50% of domestic day trippers well above

the state average of 10% with Sydney accounting for 30%. Central Coast also had 13% of the origin market.

There was insufficient data for some of the age group statistics however there was a higher number of 55+

year olds taking day trips compared to the other ages.

Domestic Overnight Visitors:

Table 2.9.5 Domestic Overnight visitor information for Lake Macquarie LGA.

Top 5 Activities (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %


Eating out at restaurants 112 39 58

General sight seeing 63 22 25

Pubs, Clubs, Discos 54 19 22

Go shopping (pleasure) 51 18 26

Top Origin Markets (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

Sydney 123 43 28

Regional NSW 119 42 41

Total Interstate 43 15 32

Top Accommodation Types (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

Friends or relatives property 393 48 39

Caravan park or commercial camping ground 131 16 13

Hotel, resort, motel or motor Inn 68 8 25

Own property (e.g. Holiday House) 59 7 4

Age Group (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

15 - 24 years 55 19 15

25 - 34 years 45 16 17

35 - 44 years 47 17 18

45 - 54 years 47 16 19

55 - 64 years 45 16 16

65 years or over 46 16 15


Page 31 of 89

Travel Party (‘000) Lake Macquarie

% NSW Average %

Travelling with Children 89 31 26

Adult couple (in a relationship sense) 79 28 27

Travelling alone 78 27 26

Friends or relatives - without children 26 9 15

In summary, visiting and swimming at beaches in the Lake Macquarie LGA was not in the top5 activities for

domestic overnight travellers. 43% of overnight visitors travel from Sydney and 42% are travelling from

regional NSW whilst only 15% travel interstate for an overnight visit. 48% of domestic overnight visitors stay at

a friends or relatives property and is the most popular accommodation type by a significant margin. Only 16%

stay at a caravan park or commercial camping ground although this is higher than the NSW average of 13%.

The number of visitors from each age demographic leans slightly to the younger age groups with the highest

percentage in the 15-24 year old bracket and the most common type of travellers are families with children.

International Visitors:

Table 2.9.6 International visitors information for Lake Macquarie LGA.

Top Origin Markets (visitors) (‘000) Lake Macquarie % NSW %

UK 2 24 11

New Zealand 2 20 13

Purpose of Visit (Visitors) (‘000) Lake Macquarie % NSW %

Holiday 3 39 56


Note: There are insufficient statistics collected for international visitors to provide analysis

Local Accommodation Providers

Local accommodation providers also attract beach users to the coast especially during school holiday periods.

The beachside suburbs of the Lake Macquarie LGA have many holiday apartments/houses, caravan

parks/camping grounds and hotels/motels. The accommodation providers that have direct access to coastal

waters are listed below:

Table 2.9.7 Accommodation providers with direct coastal access in the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Venue Type Location Park Owner

Approx.

Max

Capacity

Glenrock Scout Camp Cabins Burwood Beach Scouts Australia 450

Redhead Beach Holiday Park Cabins and

caravans Redhead Beach Private 200

Belmont Wetlands State

Park Trust

Tents (camping

only) Redhead Beach

Crown Lands (Trust

Managed) 2000

Blacksmiths Beachside

Holiday Park

Cabins, caravans

and tents

Blacksmiths

Beach

Lake Macquarie

Holiday Parks 500

Caves Beachside Hotel Hotel Suites and

Villas Hams Beach Private 170

Note: There are also numerous inland caravan parks, motels and holiday rentals.


Page 32 of 89

There is a component of the Lake Macquarie population that is transient, meaning that some coastal locations

may see limited activity for the majority of the year until peak holiday times where the population may

increase.

Caravan parks/camping grounds that have direct access to coastal waters are of significance when determining

the level of risk at a certain location. As most guests are domestic or international visitors their knowledge of

the beach conditions will be less than local residents and therefore there is a higher chance of visitors getting

into difficulty. A recent study has found that “visitors to coastal tourist parks are at a greater risk when

swimming and bathing due to a high percentage of parks being close to unpatrolled beaches with hazardous

swimming conditions” (McKay, et al., 2014). It is therefore important to ensure that the guests of these

accommodation providers have some understanding of beach safety.

Many access points from caravan parks and camping grounds also lead to unpatrolled beaches or sections of a

beach which may also increase the level of risk.

Some treatment options regarding accommodation providers that have direct access to coastal waters can be

found in Sections 3.2.3– Education and Awareness Programs and 3.2.4 – Safety Signage.

2.9.4 BEACH USAGE STATISTICS

Volunteer Lifesaving Statistics:

The following statistics have been recorded by the lifesaving (volunteers) operating within the Lake Macquarie

LGA. Figures for are over five patrolling seasons (2010/11, 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15). Statistics for

lifesavers have been sourced from the Surf Life Saving internal management database known as ‘SurfGuard’.

Attendances:

The graph below provides the average daily attendances as recorded by lifesavers (weekends and public

holidays) for the services operating within the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Figure 2.9.4 Average daily attendance statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Lake Macquarie LGA (July 2010 to June 2015).

Notes to graph:

o Redhead SLSC (Redhead Beach) recorded the highest average daily attendance compared with other surf

life saving clubs in Lake Macquarie LGA. It should be noted that Redhead Surf Club statistics were

incomplete for the 2014/15 season and was not included in the graph.

o The highest attendance figure occurred in season 2013/14 at Redhead Beach.

o The lowest attendance figure occurred in season 2013/14 at Catherine Hill Bay Beach.


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Rescues:

The graph below provides the rescues as recorded by lifesavers (weekends and public holidays) for the services

operating within the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Figure 2.9.5 Rescue statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Lake Macquarie LGA (July 2010 to June 2015).

Notes to graph:

o Caves SLSC (Caves Beach) recorded the highest number of rescues compared with other surf lifesaving

clubs followed by Blacksmiths Surf Club.

o The highest number of rescues was conducted at Blacksmiths Beach in the 2011/12 season with 57.

o Catherine Hill Bay Surf Club recorded the highest number of rescues in the 2013/14 season.

o The least amount of rescues was conducted at Redhead Beach with an average of 12 per season.

First Aid and Preventative Actions: The graphs below display the first aid and prevention statistics for lifesavers (weekends and public holidays).

Figure 2.9.6 First Aid statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Lake Macquarie LGA (July 2010 to June 2015).

Preventative Actions may include:

o Swimmers advised/warned

o Craft users advised/warned

o Beach users advised/warned

o Warning signs erected

o Shark alarm

o Searches/lost children

First Aid cases may include:

o Minor injuries/first aid

o Major injures/hospitalisation

o Marine stings

o Spinal injuries

o Shock


Page 34 of 89

Notes to graph:

o Redhead SLSC (Redhead Beach) recorded the highest number of first aid cases on average, compared with

other surf life saving clubs. Catherine Hill Bay had the second highest number of recorded first aids.

o The highest first aid figure occurred in the 2010/11 season at Catherine Hill Bay Beach.

o Blacksmiths Beach had the lowest number of recorded first aids every season for the past 5 seasons with

the lowest number occurring in the 2013/14 season (10 first aids).

Figure 2.9.7 Prevention statistics recorded by Surf Life Saving Club volunteers in the Lake Macquarie LGA (July 2010 to June 2015).

Notes to graph:

o Caves SLSC (Caves Beach) recorded the highest number of preventions on average compared with other

surf life saving clubs. Caves SLSC recorded at least twice as many preventions as the next nearest club

(Redhead SLSC).

o The highest number of recorded preventions in a season was conducted at Caves Beach in the 2014/15

season with 2,759.

o Blacksmiths SLSC recorded the least amount of preventions for every season in the past 5 seasons. The

2014/15 season had the least amount of recorded preventions with only 123.


Page 35 of 89

Paid Lifeguard Statistics:

The following statistics have been recorded by the paid lifeguards operating within the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Figures are over 5 patrolling seasons (2010/11, 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15).

Attendances:

The graph below provides the average daily attendances as recorded by paid lifeguards (weekdays) for the

services operating within the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Notes to graph:

o Redhead Beach lifeguards recorded the highest average daily attendance

o Catherine Hill Bay Beach Lifeguards recorded the lowest average daily attendance

Rescues:

The graph below provides the rescues as recorded by lifeguards (weekdays) for the services operating within

the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Figure 2.9.8 Average daily attendance statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Lake Macquarie LGA for

the past 5 seasons (July 2010 to June 2015).

Figure 2.9.9 Total number of Rescue statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Lake Macquarie

LGA in the past 5 seasons (July 2010 to June 2015).


Page 36 of 89

Notes to graph:

o Redhead Beach lifeguards recorded the highest number of rescues since July 2010

o Blacksmiths Beach lifeguards recorded the lowest number of rescues since July 2010

First Aid and Preventative Actions:

The graphs below display the first aid and prevention statistics for lifeguards (weekdays).

Notes to graph:

o Redhead Beach lifeguards recorded the highest number of first aids since July 2010 closely followed by

Blacksmith Beach lifeguards

o Caves Beach lifeguards recorded the lowest number of first aids

Notes to graph:

o Caves Beach lifeguards recorded the highest number of preventative actions since July 2010

o Redhead Beach lifeguards recorded the lowest number of preventative actions since July 2010

Figure 2.9.10 Total number of First Aid statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Lake Macquarie

LGA in the past 5 seasons (July 2010 to June 2015).

Figure 2.9.11 Total number of Prevention statistics recorded by paid lifeguards in the Lake

Macquarie LGA in the past 5 seasons (July 2010 to June 2015).


Page 37 of 89

Rescues/Preventative Actions:

The following tables show the cumulative statistics for both preventative actions and rescues which are then

used to determine the preventative actions: rescues ratio. In theory, the more preventative actions a

club/service makes, the number of rescues that are required to be conducted will decrease e.g. Redhead SLSC

makes 70 preventative actions before having to conduct a single rescue. These statistics may highlight which

clubs/services have the opportunity to be more proactive in making preventative actions with the aim of

reducing the amount of rescues that need to be performed.

Table 2.9.8 Volunteer Surf Life Saving total preventative actions and rescues for beaches in Lake Macquarie LGA (June 2010 – July 2015).

Redhead SLSC Blacksmiths SLSC Caves SLSC Catherine Hill Bay

SLSC

Total Preventative Actions

4194 767 8714 3197

Total Rescues 60 85 120 72

Ratio Preventative Actions: Rescues

70:1 9:1 73:1 44:1

Notes to table:

o Caves SLSC has the best preventative action to rescue ratio despite having the most number of rescues. o Blacksmiths SLSCs low number of preventative actions means their preventative action to rescue ratio is

very low at 9.

Table 2.9.9 Lifeguard services total Preventative Actions and rescues for beaches in the Lake Macquarie LGA (June 2010 – July 2015).

Redhead Beach Blacksmiths Beach Caves Beach Catherine Hill Bay

Beach

Total Preventative Actions

2307 3920 4845 3768

Total Rescues 184 47 77 101

Ratio Preventative Actions: Rescues

13 83 63 37

Notes to table: o The most effective ratio was recorded by Blacksmiths Beach lifeguards and the least effective was

recorded by Redhead Beach lifeguards o Catherine Hill Bay Beach lifeguards recorded a similar number of preventative actions as Blacksmiths

Beach lifeguards however the higher number of rescues recorded, lowered the ratio significantly.


Page 38 of 89

2.9.5 DROWNING INCIDENTS

The drowning incidents that have occurred in the Lake Macquarie LGA from the 1st of July 2004 are provided

below. The table excludes any inland drowning incidents.

Table 2.9.10 Drowning incidents from 01/07/04 to 30/06/15 in the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Notes to table:

o The average age of drowning victims was 46.

o All victims were male.

o All victims were Australian residents.

o 40% of incidents were rock fishing related.

While data surrounding incident location/time has been referenced, specific environmental conditions at the

time of incidents have not been adequately assessed to identify causal factors and specific trends. This

information exists and is held in raw format by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), including wave

height/direction, tides, wind speed/direction, temperature, and visibility.

The Bureau of Meteorology and Surf Life Saving Australia are currently undertaking a retrospective analysis of

meteorological and oceanographic conditions prevalent at the time of drowning cases between 2003 and 2013

to identify trends and inform the refinement of the hazardous surf warning system.

Review and assessment of this data may identify environmental trends which may encourage/discourage

recreational activities, impact hazard/risk perception and risk taking behaviour, identify higher-risk conditions

for types of localities, and specific ‘Blacks spot’ locations. Dangerous surf warnings and education/awareness

programs may be improved as a result.

Date Location Time Age &

Gender Nationality

Residential

Status Activity

Victim

Postcode

30/01/2005 Swansea

Channel 6:51 48 / M Australian

Australian

Resident Boating 2290

31/03/2007 Dudley

Beach 10:30 52 / M Canadian

Australian

Resident Swimming 2250

26/10/2013 Red Head 15:37 35 / M Korean Australian

Resident

Rock

Fishing 2153

26/12/2014 Catherine

Hill Bay 16:05 53 / M Australian

Australian

Resident

Diving/

Snorkelling N/A

9/01/2016 Catherine

Hill Bay 9:33 40 / M

Middle

East Australian

Resident

Rock

Fishing 2168


Page 39 of 89

Figure 2.9.12 Lake Macquarie LGA – Drowning and Victim Postcode.


Page 40 of 89

2.9.6 EMERGENCY CALLOUTS

There have been 42 emergency callouts through the Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (SRERS) from

1st January 2008 to 30th June 2015 in the Lake Macquarie LGA. The SRERS involves callout teams

(lifesavers/lifeguards) including ‘after hours’ responding to emergencies that have been tasked by the Police.

As a result of the 42 callouts, 15 persons were rescued and 30 callouts resulted in ‘no further action’ or ‘stood

down before response’ meaning resources were ultimately not required. Such cases include self rescue, rescue

by another member of the public, rescue by another emergency response organisation, and false alarms.

Unfortunately, 1 of these callouts were a result of coastal drowning / death.

Note: The data below does not incorporate incidents from other emergency services where the SRERS may not have been

tasked e.g. Water Police, Ambulance and Marine Rescue data.

Table 2.9.11 Emergency Callouts through the SRES from 01/01/08 to 30/06/15 in the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Date Incident Location Season Time Job Type Summary Outcome

20/01/2009 Caves Beach Summer 17:19 Rock Related Stood Down

9/03/2009 Catherine Hill Bay Autumn 18:29 Swimming 1 Person Rescued

25/04/2009 Redhead Beach Autumn 12:18 SurfCraft No Further Action

4/07/2009 Spoon Rocks Winter 14:20

Diving/

Snorkelling No Further Action

5/07/2010 Caves Beach Winter 8:29 Other No Further Action

11/01/2011 Blacksmiths Summer 18:24 SurfCraft No Further Action

17/01/2011

Lake Macquarie

Entrance Summer 14:43 Swimming 1 Person Rescued

30/01/2011 Catherine Hill Bay Summer 15:00 Rock Related 4 Persons Rescued

26/02/2011 Dudley Beach Summer 14:41 Swimming No Further Action

1/07/2011 Caves Beach Winter 14:30 SurfCraft No Further Action

10/01/2012 Dudley Beach Summer 13:34 Swimming No Further Action

11/02/2012 Catherine Hill Bay Summer 16:33 Swimming No Further Action

8/04/2012 Blacksmiths Autumn 14:04 Vessel 1 Person Rescued

7/05/2012 Caves Beach Autumn 16:24 SurfCraft No Further Action

22/10/2012

Lake Macquarie

Entrance Spring 11:35 Vessel 1 Person Rescued

9/11/2012 Redhead Spring 16:05 Environmental No Further Action

5/12/2012 Catherine Hill Bay Summer 7:18 SurfCraft No Further Action

31/12/2012 Caves Beach Summer 15:57 SurfCraft No Further Action

8/01/2013 Redhead Summer 18:33 Swimming No Further Action

18/01/2013 Blacksmiths Summer 19:33

Parachute/

Parasail No Further Action

16/03/2013 Catherine Hill Bay Autumn 11:13 Rockfishing No Further Action

9/04/2013 Red Head Beach Autumn 20:07 Vessel No Further Action

11/05/2013 Caves Beach Autumn 16:14 Other No Further Action

30/05/2013 Caves Beach Autumn 10:27 Self Harm 1 Person Rescued

29/09/2013 Burwood Beach Spring 14:28 Vessel No Further Action

26/10/2013 Redhead Beach Spring 15:37 Rockfishing 1 Coastal Drowning


Page 41 of 89

Date Incident Location Season Time Job Type Summary Outcome

28/12/2013 Blacksmiths Summer 9:29 Shark Sighting No Further Action


1/01/2014 Blacksmiths Summer 17:00 Other 2 Persons Found



26/01/2014 Redhead Beach Summer 13:07 Other No Further Action


8/04/2014 Nine Mile Beach Autumn 9:44 Vessel No Further Action

17/08/2014 Caves Beach Winter 17:18 Surfing No Further Action

16/09/2014 Catherine Hill Bay Spring 12:02 Swimming No Further Action

18/10/2014 Catherine Hill Bay Spring 11:07 Other 1 Person Found

4/01/2015 Caves Beach Summer 16:31

Parachute/

Parasail 1 Person Rescued

18/01/2015 Redhead Beach Summer 11:32 Vessel No Further Action

18/01/2015 Catherine Hill Bay Summer 18:23 Other No Further Action

20/02/2015 Moon Island, Swansea Summer 9:17 Rockfishing 2 Persons Rescued

18/04/2015 Catherine Hill Bay Autumn 11:50 Rock Related N/A

Notes to table:

o 36% of all incidents occurred within the areas between Redhead Beach and Blacksmiths Beach, 31%

between Swansea Wall Beach and Spoon Rocks, 21% between Quarry Beach and Catherine Hill Bay Beach

and 12% between Burwood Beach and Redhead Point.

o 93% of emergency incidents were located in lands managed by Lake Macquarie City Council and 7% were

located in lands managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

o 16.7% of emergency incidents were a result of swimming, 16.7% from surfing or surfcraft, 14.3% were

boating related, 14.3% from rock fishing, 14.3% from other unique means, 11.9% from shark sightings and

4.2% from parasailing.

o 52.3% of emergency incidents occurred during summer, 23.8% during autumn, 9.5% during winter and

14.3% during spring.

o 66.7% of all incidents occurred in the afternoon or evening.

Treatment Options 1.2, 2.2 & 6.1

Coastal usage and incident data (e.g. drowning incidents, emergency callouts, lifesaving and lifeguard

statistics) should be used when making informed decisions about the implementation of risk treatments for

coastal safety.


Page 42 of 89

2.10 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION

Communicating with stakeholders about risk perception and tolerance is a core component of the risk

assessment and management process.

Stakeholder Consultation

Consultation with a number of stakeholders was formally undertaken to ensure Land Managers and other key

stakeholders were given the opportunity to provide local input and knowledge i.e. validation of strategies in

place, risk management issues and opportunities that may exist.

Local stakeholder meetings were conducted with:

o Jeff Green, Leisure Operations Coordinator, Lake Macquarie City Council

o Paul Stone, Lifeguard Team Leader, Lake Macquarie City Council

o Deon van Rensburg, Newcastle Area Manager, National Parks and Wildlife Service

o Glen Gifford, Ranger Lakes Area , National Parks and Wildlife Service

o Greg Wright, Chair, Belmont Wetlands State Park Trust (teleconference only)

The consultation process has been aided in the following ways:

o Open community forums and workshops,

o Print and radio media announcements of workshops and consultation,

o Written and verbal follow ups post workshops,

o Use of social media – Twitter,

o Web based surveys,

o Web based information submissions,

o On-site communication and distribution of flyers,

o On-site one-to-one surveying, and

o Draft reports circulated to the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council.

Consultation Workshop

Two separate community forums were held in the Lake Macquarie LGA to engage with the local community.

These were advertised in local media and pre-identified stakeholders were notified via email and follow up

phone calls. The community forums were open to any member of the public including surf lifesavers,

lifeguards, fishing groups, surfing associations, emergency services personnel, boaters, residents, etc.

The first community forum was held at the Caves Surf Life Saving Club in Lake Macquarie on Tuesday 16

February, 2016 and was attended by:

o Samantha Hallett, Caves Surf Life Saving Club

o Jason Gay, Caves Surf Life Saving Club

o Troy Anderson, Swansea-Belmont Surf Life Saving Club

o Graham Burge, Swansea-Belmont Surf Life Saving Club

o Richard Black, Catherine Hill Bay Surf Life Saving Club

The second community forum was held at Redhead Surf Life Saving Club on Wednesday 17 February, 2016 and

was attended by:

o Mike McKey, Redhead Surf Life Saving Club

o Andy Wright, Redhead Surf Life Saving Club


Page 43 of 89

Figure 2.10.1: Project Blueprint Flyer.

Consultation Survey

The consultation process also involved the introduction of two online surveys which has been useful to capture

input from key stakeholders, at local/regional level. The first survey was sent to both internal and external

stakeholders. Questions focused on drowning identification and prevention. The second survey was sent to

internal stakeholders only e.g. lifesavers and lifeguards. Questions focused on visitation numbers and

incidents. Specific questions and answers can be referenced in ‘Appendix F’

Stakeholder communication

The process of communicating risk estimates from the assessment process to decision-makers and ultimately

to the public, sometimes referred to as risk education, is only one part of the communication process. In

getting those affected by risk to accept risk mitigation measures, and in providing decision-makers and

communities with the information they need to tolerate and deal with risks, there needs to be two-way

communications that includes those affected by risk, the public, into the decision-making process.

Lake Macquarie City Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Belmont Wetlands State Park Trust and

Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch should hold regular liaison meetings as an effective forum which raises safety

issues and implements coastal safety strategies in the Lake Macquarie LGA. Currently bi-annual meetings

between Lake Macquarie City Council, Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch and local Surf Life Saving Club presidents

are held to review potential risk, ongoing beach management strategies and public safety. This forum should

also be attended by a representative from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Belmont Wetlands

State Park Trust. Treatment options found in this report can then be addressed in this forum and participants

are encouraged to continue meeting at least twice a year before and after the surf life saving season.

The Local Emergency Management Committee is an effective group in the Lake Macquarie LGA which discuss

emergency management processes, opportunities and issues (including coastal). The group is made up of

representatives from NSW Police, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW Ambulance Service,

State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue, Lake Macquarie City Council, Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch, Local

Government Departments (Education, Communication Services) and Transport NSW.

Treatment Options 1.3, 2.3, 4.2 & 6.2

Land Managers in the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should continue to meet together as well as

with Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch as an effective forum which raises safety issues and implements coastal

safety strategies. It is encouraged that the treatment options found in this report be addressed as part of this

meeting. After an initial meeting, participants are encouraged to meet at least twice a year, before and after

the surf life saving season.


Page 44 of 89

3 RISK ASSESSMENT FINDINGS

3.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY (INHERENT GROSS RISK)

3.1.1 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY INDEX

The Action Planning Priority Index can be viewed as the gross risk score for a beach. The index seeks to identify

the risks associated with the broader coastal environment under assessment, rather than specific hazards and

risks present at a particular location or site. The majority of information detailed in this section of the report

will be identified through pre-existing data (where available), with new data sourced where gaps are present

or the data is not reliable (Tipton & Wooler 2016).

The total score for the Action Planning Priority Index is intended to be used for the purpose of prioritising risk

mitigation strategies provided for consideration in this report. The individual components of the Action

Planning Priority Index should not be considered in isolation from the total scores outlined in Table 3.1.8.

The information is based on modal data for peak visitation during the busiest season(s).

The Action Planning Priority Index uses the following risk identification information:

1. Australian Beach Safety & Management Program (ABSAMP) Rating

2. Local Population Rating (LPR)

3. Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR)

4. Access Rating (AR)

3.1.2 AUSTRALIAN BEACH SAFETY AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Table 3.1.1 ABSAMP modal ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location Name ABSAMP Rating

Burwood Beach 7

Dudley Beach 7

Redhead Point 7*

Redhead Beach 6

Blacksmiths Beach 5

Reids Reserve Breakwall 4*

Swansea Wall Beach 3

Reids Mistake Head 5*

Swansea Heads Beach 6

Crabbs Beach 6

Hams Beach 6

Caves Beach 5

The Caves 4*

Stinky Point 4*

Stinky Point Beach 3


Page 45 of 89

Location Name ABSAMP Rating

Spoon Rocks 4*

Quarry Beach 5

Quarry Head 6*

Pinny Beach 6

Shark Hole 6*

Bogey Hole 6*

Middle Camp Inlet 6*

Catherine Hill Bay Beach 7

Catherine Hill Bay South 3

* Lake Macquarie LGA Rock Platform Ratings

3.1.3 LOCAL POPULATION RATING

The Local Population Rating (LPR) expands on the information obtained from the Facility Visitation Rating. This

additional population rating identifies the population of residents and/or non-residents located within 2km’s

of a coastal location under assessment. The highest figure (resident or non-resident) will be recorded.

Table 3.1.2 Local population rating descriptors.

Population Rating Qualifying Description (all staying/living within 2km of beach)

1 < 50 residents and/or < 20 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)

2 50 – 250 residents and/or 21 – 100 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)



5 2500 + residents and/or 1000 non-residents (domestic or overseas tourists)

Table 3.1.3 Local population ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location LPR Total

Burwood Beach 3

Dudley Beach 4

Redhead Point 4

Redhead Beach 5

Blacksmiths Beach 5

Reids Reserve Breakwall 4


Reids Mistake Head 4


Crabbs Beach 5

Hams Beach 5

Caves Beach 5

The Caves 5

Stinky Point 4


Spoon Rocks 4


Page 46 of 89

Location LPR Total

Quarry Beach 4

Quarry Head 3

Pinny Beach 3

Shark Hole 2

Bogey Hole 2

Middle Camp Inlet 2



3.1.4 HUMAN/ACTIVITY INTERACTION RATING The Human/Activity Interaction Rating (HAIR) identifies any conflicts present at the coastal environment between the number of people and activities taking place. Activities include both those in the water and those on the beach.

Table 3.1.4 Human/Activity Interaction descriptors.

Population

(in-water) Conflicting activities

Population

(on beach) Conflicting activities

100+ 5 Persistent and dangerous 5 1000+ 5 Persistent and dangerous 5

75-100 4 Persistent 4 750-1000 4 Persistent 4

50-75 3 Regular 3 500-750 3 Regular 3

25-50 2 Isolated conflicts 2 250-500 2 Isolated conflicts 2

1-25 1 No conflicts reported 1 1-250 1 No conflicts reported 1

Table 3.1.5 Human/Activity Interaction ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location Population

(in water) Conflict

Population

(on beach) Conflict HAI Total

Burwood Beach 2 2 1 1 6

Dudley Beach 2 2 1 1 6

Redhead Point 1 1 1 1 4

Redhead Beach 5 2 2 2 11

Blacksmiths Beach 5 2 2 2 11

Reids Reserve Breakwall 1 2 1 1 5

Swansea Wall Beach 1 3 1 1 6

Reids Mistake Head 1 1 1 1 4

Swansea Heads Beach 1 1 1 1 4

Crabbs Beach 1 1 1 1 4

Hams Beach 3 3 1 1 8

Caves Beach 5 2 3 2 12

The Caves 1 1 1 2 5

Stinky Point 1 1 1 1 4

Stinky Point Beach 1 1 1 1 4

Spoon Rocks 1 1 1 1 4

Quarry Beach 1 1 1 1 4

Quarry Head 1 1 1 1 4

Pinny Beach 1 1 1 1 4


Page 47 of 89

Location Population

(in water) Conflict

Population

(on beach) Conflict HAI Total

Shark Hole 1 1 1 1 4

Bogey Hole 1 1 1 1 4

Middle Camp Inlet 1 1 1 1 4

Catherine Hill Bay Beach 3 2 1 1 7

Catherine Hill Bay South 1 2 1 1 5

3.1.5 ACCESS RATING

Beaches or coastal environments that have increased accessibility (i.e. near major roads, cities, public

transport, car parks, boat ramps, maintained access paths etc.) increase the likelihood of users at that beach.

This directly increases the level of risk of drowning and or injury.

Table 3.1.6 Access rating descriptors.

Table 3.1.7 Access ratings applied to assessed locations.

Location Access Rating

Burwood Beach 3

Dudley Beach 3

Redhead Point 2

Redhead Beach 5

Blacksmiths Beach 5

Reids Reserve Breakwall 3


Reids Mistake Head 1


Crabbs Beach 3

Hams Beach 3

Caves Beach 5

The Caves 1

Stinky Point 1

Access Rating Qualifying Description

1 No identifiable access via road or track, no facilities, car parking or obvious access

points

2 Access via un-maintained track with no facilities and/or via water access

3

Access via any form of track or walkway (either maintained or un-maintained) AND any

provision of facilities or services including (but not limited to) public transport, shower,

public toilet, payphone, kiosk, significant roadway, parking

4

Access via maintained tracks with clearly identified parking area AND/OR provision of

basic facilities (i.e. public toilets, public shower/ wash down area) AND/OR within 10km

of moderate sized town or city (population greater than 5,000)

5

Clearly evident, marked or signposted and maintained access points AND/OR within

10km of major town or city (population greater than 25,000) AND/OR car parking for 50

or more vehicles/boat trailers. Public transport provided within 250m of a beach access

point


Page 48 of 89

Location Access Rating


Spoon Rocks 2

Quarry Beach 2

Quarry Head 2

Pinny Beach 2

Shark Hole 2

Bogey Hole 2

Middle Camp Inlet 2



3.1.6 ACTION PLANNING PRIORITY SCORE

The action planning priority score provides an indicator for the overall level of risk of the location. The scores

range from 0 to 60. These scores can be used to prioritise the order in which risk treatments described in the

next section of this report are implemented.

Table 3.1.8 Summary of action planning priority calculations for each assessed location.

Location

AMSAMP

X 2

(Out of 20)

Population

Support

X 2

(Out of 10)

Human

Activity/

Interaction

(Out of 20)

Access

X 2

(Out of 10)

Total Score

(Out of 60)

Burwood Beach 14 6 6 6 32

Dudley Beach 14 8 6 6 34

Redhead Point 14 8 4 4 30

Redhead Beach 12 10 11 10 43

Blacksmiths Beach 10 10 11 10 41

Reids Reserve Breakwall 8 8 5 6 27

Swansea Wall Beach 6 8 6 6 26

Reids Mistake Head 10 8 4 2 24

Swansea Heads Beach 12 8 4 2 26

Crabbs Beach 12 10 4 6 32

Hams Beach 12 10 8 6 36

Caves Beach 10 10 12 10 42

The Caves 8 10 5 2 25

Stinky Point 8 8 4 2 22

Stinky Point Beach 6 8 4 4 22

Spoon Rocks 8 8 4 4 24

Quarry Beach 10 8 4 4 26

Quarry Head 12 6 4 4 26

Pinny Beach 12 6 4 4 26

Shark Hole 12 4 4 4 24

Bogey Hole 12 4 4 4 24

Middle Camp Inlet 12 4 4 4 24

Catherine Hill Bay Beach 14 6 7 8 35

Catherine Hill Bay South 6 6 5 4 21


Page 49 of 89

Where limited resources prohibit the implementation of all risk treatments recommended in this report, those

beaches that have received a high action planning priority score should be treated first, then beaches with a

medium, low and very low score.

Table 3.1.9: Key to land management of locations.

Council Managed NSW National Parks and Wildlife

Managed Mixed Land Managers

Table 3.1.10 Action Planning Priority scores for assessed locations.

Priority Priority location Total Score Comments

1 Redhead Beach 43

High – this location should be

considered as a priority for

implementation of identified risk

treatment options

2 Caves Beach 42




treatment options

3 Blacksmiths Beach 41




treatment options

4 Hams Beach 36

Medium – this location should be

considered for implementation of

identified risk treatment options after

locations rated as high or as funding

becomes available

5 Catherine Hill Bay

Beach 35





becomes available

6 Dudley Beach 34





becomes available

8 Burwood Beach 32





becomes available


Page 50 of 89


8 Crabbs Beach 32





becomes available

9 Redhead Point 30

Low – this location should be



locations rated as medium or as

funding becomes available

10 Reids Reserve

Breakwall 27






15 Swansea Wall Beach 26






15 Swansea Heads Beach 26






15 Quarry Beach 26






15 Quarry Head 26






15 Pinny Beach 26






16 The Caves 25







Page 51 of 89


21 Reids Mistake Head 24






21 Spoon Rocks 24






21 Shark Hole 24






21 Bogey Hole 24






21 Middle Camp Inlet 24






22 Stinky Point 22






22 Stinky Point Beach 22






24 Catherine Hill Bay

South 21







As funding becomes available, treatment options outlined in this report should be implemented using a

staged/prioritisation approach, based on evidence.

Key High 41+ Medium 31-40 Low 21-30 Very Low 0-20


Page 52 of 89

3.2 OVERVIEW OF PRINCIPAL RISK TREATMENTS

3.2.1 INTRODUCTION

There are a range of risk treatment options that can be considered in the context of coastal risk management.

The selection of the most appropriate option involves balancing the financial, social and environmental

impacts of implementing each against the benefits derived from each. These may include any combination of

the following:

o Spread (share) risk – insurance,

o Engineer (structural and technological) risk treatment – include modified practices,

o Regulatory and institutional – change through revised regulations and planning,

o Avoid – isolate the risk, move people away,

o Research to better understand, and

o Educate and inform stakeholders.

3.2.2 HIERARCHY OF RISK TREATMENTS (CONTROLS)

In determining the most appropriate and cost effective option, it is important to consider the hierarchy of risk

treatments (controls). The hierarchy is a sequence of options which offer a number of ways to approach the

hazard control process (Bierens 2014).

o Hard controls deal with the tangible such as:

Eliminate the hazard which in a coastal context is often difficult to achieve.

Isolate the hazard which in a coastal context can be difficult due to the dynamic nature of

environmental and weather conditions.

Use engineering controls such as design of access paths, installation of appropriate signage, and

revegetation.

Use administrative controls such as supervision, emergency action plans, other documented policies,

practices and procedures.

Use of personal protective equipment such as lifejackets and public rescue equipment.

o Soft controls deal with human behaviour such as:

Use of effective leadership, management, trust, ethics, integrity, and building relationships

Education

Outlined below are principal risk treatment solutions that expand upon those listed within the Risk Register

and Treatment Plan in ‘Appendix B’. The solutions outlined endeavour to provide specific and detailed

information relative to the beach locations; however due to the diverse nature of location characteristics,

recommendations are at times mainly generic in nature.

Land Managers should plan to adopt the most appropriate treatments specific to their organisations

capabilities and in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. The principal risk treatments are outlined on the

following pages.


Page 53 of 89

3.2.3 EDUCATION AND AWARENESS PROGRAMS

Public education and awareness programs are a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy,

and target both the pre-arrival and early arrival periods (prior to hazard exposure).

Key factors pertaining to effective education and awareness programs include:

o Consistency in safety messaging (elimination of confusing/unclear or dissipative information).

o Consistency in the method of provision (ongoing information provided at regular locations/times).

o Longevity in the provision of information (ongoing, not a one-off).

Education Summary:

The following table outlines a range of education and awareness programs that can be adopted by Land

Managers within the Lake Macquarie LGA. Table 3.2.1 is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all

education and awareness programs available to Land Managers, it is intended to provide examples of a range

of programs that are available and delivered within the context of aquatic safety. Land Managers are not

limited to the organisations listed in the table below, however they should ensure that any provider engaged

to act on their behalf is adequately licensed, qualified, regularly audited and insured.

Table 3.2.1: Examples of Education and Awareness programs.

Organisation Program Focus Area

Australian Professional

Lifeguard Association Backpack Beach Survival Guide Swimming / Rip Currents

AustSwim Learn to Swim Swimming

Marine Rescue NSW Log on and off Boating

Marine Rescue NSW Using your marine radio Boating

NSW Department of Primary

Industries (Fisheries) Get hooked – It’s fun to fish Fishing

Paddle NSW Paddle Safe Watercraft

Surf Educate Australia Kids Academy of Surf Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Educate Australia Corp Surf Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW Nippers Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW Surf Ed. Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW Beach to Bush Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW Western Sydney Blackspot Project Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW BeachSafe Swimming / Rip Currents

Surf Life Saving NSW Coastal Accommodation Safety

Network Swimming / Rip Currents

Surfing NSW Vegemite Surf Groms Surfing / Rip Currents

Surfing NSW Surfers Rescue 24/7 Surfing / Conducting Rescues

Recreational Fishing

Alliance NSW Rock Fishing Safety Awareness Rock Fishing

Royal Life Saving Society Swim and Survive Swimming

Royal Life Saving Society Respect the River Swimming, boating & fishing

Transport NSW (Maritime) Old 4 new lifejacket upgrade Boating & Fishing

Transport NSW (Maritime) Wear a Lifejacket Boating & Fishing

Transport NSW (Maritime) Boating Education Officers Boating


Page 54 of 89

The figures below are not intended as a comprehensive display of all education and awareness collateral

available to Land Managers, rather to provide examples of a range of collateral that are available and can be

provided to Land Managers upon request. Land Managers are not limited to the education collateral shown in

the figures below, however they should ensure that any education collateral distributed or displayed is aligned

to the key water safety messages promoted by the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council.

Figure 3.2.1: Don’t put your life on the line™2

Figure 3.2.2: Survive a rip current.

Figure 3.2.3: Old 4 New Lifejacket Upgrade.

Figure 3.2.4: Swim between the flags.

3.2.3.1 EXISTING CONTROLS:

During the course of the assessment and throughout the consultation process, Australian CoastSafe were

made aware of various beach safety information sources and education programs that are currently in place to

educate and inform the public at a local level in the Lake Macquarie LGA. These programs as well as any other

initiatives within and around the Lake Macquarie LGA should continue to be implemented, reviewed and

supported by Land Managers and key stakeholder groups.

It is acknowledged that Land Managers or key stakeholder groups may not have the capacity or expertise to

implement surf education programs, and where this is the case they should work with peak water safety

organisations to enhance the delivery of education programs within these areas.

Swimming Safety:

Nippers:

The nippers program is a junior activities program that introduces children aged 5 to 13 to surf lifesaving. It is a

fun outdoors activity that develops a child’s confidence, teaches valuable life skills and safety knowledge.

Nippers are held every Sunday between October to March at Redhead SLSC, Swansea-Belmont SLSC, Caves

SLSC and Catherine Hill Bay SLSC.

Surfing Safety:

Surf Schools/Surf Groms:

Learn To Surf Newcastle (2015) operates within Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGA. Surf schools provide

surfing lessons, offers surf tours, but most importantly provides beginner surfers with key surf safety

knowledge and awareness.

2 Don’t put your life on the line is a registered trade mark of the NSW Recreational Fishing Alliance NSW.


Page 55 of 89

Surfers Rescue 24/7:

Surfing NSW, with support of the NSW Government are giving surfers in NSW the opportunity to do a free CPR

and Board Rescue Course (Surfers Rescue 24/7, 2015). Any competent surfer from a recreational grass roots

boardrider to professional surfers can participate in this course.

Rock Fishing Safety:

The Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW has produced the Safe Fishing website, which also provides

multilingual information and resources to promote safer recreational rock fishing (Recreational Fishing

Alliance, 2011). Part of this initiative has been the provision of multilingual flyers and DVDs to promote rock

fishing safety.

Education days are also organised for rock fishers to provide educational learning and fishing techniques that

will provide rock fishers with more information to make an informed decision about where they decide to fish

as well as communicating key safety messages. One of these education days has also been filmed and is

available through the YouTube channel ‘ACFishing’.

Figure 3.2.5 Recreational Fishing Alliance rock fishing school.

Boating Safety:

Lifejackets:

Nine out of ten people who drowned when boating in NSW were not wearing a lifejacket (Roads and Maritime

Services 2014). On 1 November 2010, the rules governing the use of lifejackets on recreational vessels were

strengthened to prevent loss of life on waterways. Lifejackets must be worn in the following circumstances:

1. By children less than 12 years old at all times when aboard a vessel less than 4.8 metres long and when

aboard a vessel less than 8 metres long which is underway.

2. By anyone being towed, including waterskiing, wakeboarding or parasailing and those being towed on

tubes, sea biscuits or similar towable devices.

3. Boating at night and boating alone when aboard a vessel less than 4.8 metres long.

4. By a person on a PWC (Jet Ski) at all times.

5. By anyone aboard a canoe or kayak when more than 100 metres from shore.

6. By a person kitesurfing alone more than 400 metres from shore.

7. In certain situations of heightened risk including, but not limited to bad weather and crossing bars.

8. By anyone at any time when directed by the skipper.


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Boating Education Officers:

Boating Education Officers support Boating Safety Officers to help raise boating safety awareness and provide

public safety information. Boating Education Officers visit boat ramps and retailers to directly engage

recreational boaters to deliver information about the latest safety gear. They can also visit schools to deliver

interactive boating safety presentations.

Smart Phone App:

The Marine Rescue smartphone app provides boaters with a range of valuable safety tools and information.

The app enables boaters to log on directly with Marine Rescue and there is also a safety tracking option,

updating a boats position every 30 minutes (Marine Rescue NSW 2015).

General Water Safety:

Community Education:

Providing surf education is a key component in addressing the drowning chain and has the opportunity to

reach a key target group. Surf education is not a core responsibility for Land Managers however they are still

encouraged to assist with school participation levels.

Surf education (theory and application) can be very beneficial for primary and high school students. This type

of education can include but is not limited to:

o Class room based surf safety presentations

o Swim and survive

o Surf education programs at the beach

Lake Macquarie City Council lifeguards are available to provide water safety sessions for schools and can be

booked by contacting Council. The ‘A Matter of Seconds’ program that runs between May and September has

council beach lifeguards visiting around 70 primary schools giving education about emergency care and water

safety awareness (Lake Macquarie City Council, 2016a). Programs such as these should continue to be

provided and supported at a local and regional level.

Online Education:

Lake Macquarie City Council (2016b, 2016c) has a section on their website that provides an overview of the

beaches patrolled and their service dates/times as well as information about the local swim centres and ‘Learn

to Swim’ programs available to teach and improve swimming skills.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (2016) website provides a list of safety advice for all water related

activities and provides a link to the NSW Water Safety website.

Land Managers may also be able to utilise social media through its Facebook account to communicate safety

messages or advise when dangerous surf warnings are in place.

Smart Phone App:

The BeachSafe smartphone app provides beach goers with detailed information about Australia’s beaches,

including full weather and forecast information, tide, swell and water temperature. Most importantly the app

shows which locations are patrolled by either paid lifeguards or volunteer lifesavers and the dates / times the

beach is supervised (BeachSafe, 2015).


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Media:

Throughout the year, local radio and print media play a key role in delivering key safety messages as well as

informing the public when dangerous surf warnings are in place.

3.2.3.2 RECOMMENDED CONTROLS:

Educational Messages:

Land Managers should continue to provide public education/awareness programs which include standardised

key safety messages and align/reference to peak coastal water safety agency websites such as:

NSW Water Safety Advisory Council: http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety/

Together with the following referenced websites of the NSW Water Safety Advisory Council for beach safety:

o BeachSafe: www.BeachSafe.org.au

o Safe Fishing: www.safefishing.com.au

o Boating: www.maritimemanagement.transport.nsw.gov.au

Water Safety Information:

Due to the high number of visitors to the Lake Macquarie LGA including both day and overnight visitors, Surf

safety information has the opportunity to be promoted through various local media streams. Below are

options as examples that could be implemented.

Posters:

Displaying posters which promote water safety at locations such as public amenity blocks, Surf Life Saving

Clubs and visitor information displays directly located around coastal beach access is a great opportunity for

the exposure of messages.

Figure 3.2.6: An example of a rip current sign on public amenity blocks.

Figure 3.2.7: Example of a National Parks visitor information board where water safety information could be displayed.

Educational posters/signage should not be placed in positions where they would compete with formal aquatic

and recreational safety signage which is usually placed around formal access points and high traffic areas (see

Section 3.2.4 - Safety Signage).

Quick Response (QR) codes may also be able to be utilised on any posters and visitor information

noticeboards. QR codes involve the use of smart phone technology to provide location based safety

messaging. They also allow for the embedding of additional detailed information for beach users that are

interested in knowing more, without competing with other relevant information in visitor information boards.

http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/beach-safety/

http://www.safefishing.com.au/

http://www.maritimemanagement.transport.nsw.gov.au/


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The system works by scanning a smart phone over the QR Code. These codes can be linked to specific water

related safety information about a specific location, with the potential for multilingual messages. Information

may also be able to include when dangerous surf warnings occur.

Cinema Advertisements:

As well as visiting the coastline, many holiday makers will also visit the cinemas at some stage during their

holiday. Over the summer school holidays when visitation levels are at their peak there may be an option for

Lake Macquarie City Council and peak water safety organisations to work with local cinema providers to screen

advertisements which promote key surf safety messages. These advertisements could include local surf life

savers promoting the locations that are the safest places to swim. There are two cinemas situated in Lake

Macquarie, Event Cinemas in Glendale and Lake Cinema in Boolaroo.

Highway Billboards:

Many domestic tourists travel to the Lake Macquarie coastline from Newcastle, Sydney and the Central Coast.

The Pacific Highway runs along the Lake Macquarie coastline and provides the most direct access to the

beaches in the LGA. Water safety messages could be promoted along the Pacific Highway targeting visitors in

the form of roadside billboards.

Figure 3.2.8: Example of how a highway billboard could look promoting surf safety in the Lake Macquarie area.

4WD Permits:

Surf safety information could be distributed to four wheel drivers when they purchase permits for the Belmont

Wetlands State Park. There is a list of locations where permits can be purchased on the Belmont Wetlands

website (Belmont Wetlands State Park, 2015)

Tourists and Visitors:

The Lake Macquarie LGA is a popular destination for domestic travellers, especially through the school holiday

periods. A number of caravan and tourist parks within the Lake Macquarie LGA provide direct access to the

coast, often to unpatrolled sections of a beach. A recent study has found that “visitors to coastal tourist parks

are at a greater risk when swimming and bathing due to a high percentage of parks being close to unpatrolled

beaches with hazardous swimming conditions” (McKay, et al., 2014). It is therefore important to ensure that

the guests of these accommodation providers have some understanding of beach safety.


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Education Collateral:

The distribution of surf safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers

(including holiday rental real estate organisations) in the Lake Macquarie LGA should be implemented on an

ongoing basis to ensure the collateral is part of the welcome information package for guests. Brochures and

flyers about surf safety should continue to be made available at the Visitor Information Centres and at local

shops such as newsagents or bakeries. Prior to distribution of surf safety collateral there should be

consultation with Lake Macquarie City Council to ensure a consistent message is delivered to the public.

Figure 3.2.9: Large accommodation provider at Hams Beach.

Rip Current Awareness Day:

Over the past few years, Surf Life Saving Clubs have participated in an annual day to raise awareness about rip

currents through an educational and visual demonstration. As part of these scheduled events, coloured dye is

released by club members at various beaches around Australia to show the speed and distance of which a rip

current can flow. Surf clubs can organise to participate in these educational demonstrations. Surf Life Saving

Australia can provide the necessary resources to branches and clubs upon request.

Personal Protective Equipment:

Water safety agencies actively promote the use of lifejackets for fisherman and recreational boaters.

Educational and awareness programs in the Lake Macquarie LGA should also promote and encourage these

user groups to wear lifejackets. These messages could be included in community based education programs or

the use of educational signage at well-known rock fishing locations.

The NSW Ministry for Police and Emergency Services has prepared a report on behalf of the Water Safety

Advisory Committee on the outcome of consultation undertaken in 2013 on the wearing of lifejackets by rock

fishers. The report, which includes a number of options to increase the wearing of lifejackets by rock fishers,

will be submitted to the NSW Government for consideration.

A coronial inquest was also held in June 2015 focusing on the deaths of nine rock fishermen. Magistrate C

Forbes, Deputy State Coroner made the following recommendation to the Minister for Justice and Police.

“To the Minister for Justice and Police

I recommend the introduction of legislation required the mandatory use of life jackets by those

engaged in rock fishing including:

a) A requirement that the life jackets comply with the Australian Standards,

b) The consideration of a twelve month grace period,


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c) The legislation be introduced with a dedicated education campaign, and

d) The consideration of accompanying the introduction of mandatory life jackets with initiatives to

facilitate the wearing of appropriate life jackets such as coupons or gift vouchers for free or subsided

life jackets or life jacket borrowing schemes for those engaged in rock fishing.”3


Education and awareness programs within the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should continue to be

implemented, reviewed and supported. Land Managers and key stakeholder groups who may not have the

expertise to implement educational programs should approach peak water safety organisations to assist in

delivery.


Education and awareness programs should include standardised key safety messages which are recognised by

the aquatic industry (e.g. http://www.watersafety.nsw.gov.au/).


Land Managers and tourism organisations should ensure that patrolled locations and surf safety information is

promoted through any websites, specific promotional material, newsletters and social media pages. The

BeachSafe website (http://www.beachsafe.org.au) could also be promoted through these methods.


Surf safety information should be promoted through various local media streams. Specific examples can be

referenced in the report.


Approach tourism and holiday rental real estate organisations with the aim of distributing standardised surf

safety collateral (e.g. brochures and flyers) to all coastal accommodation providers. Collateral should continue

to be made available at Visitor Information Centres and at local shops such as newsagents or bakeries.


Land Managers should assist peak water safety organisations to promote existing educational programs

encouraging rock fishermen and recreational boaters to wear lifejackets.


The Surf Life Saving Clubs in the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area should participate in a Rip Currents

Awareness Day.

3 Coroners Court New South Wales 2015


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3.2.4 SAFETY SIGNAGE

Safety signage is a fundamental component of any drowning prevention strategy and targets the in-transit and

on-arrival periods pertaining to a person/s arriving at a hazardous location (Bierens 2014).

Key factors relating to effective safety signage include:

o a risk assessment process used in the identification of priority information to display,

o alignment to Australian Standards for signage content (AS/NZS2416:2010),

o consistency in signage layout/display (Australian Water Safety Council, 2013),

o consistency in the appropriate positioning of signage, to maximise exposure to the public prior to arriving

in a hazardous location, with the minimum number of signs, and

o a consistent process of signage maintenance as part of the Land Managers annual planning.

3.2.4.1 EXISTNG CONTROLS:

Existing safety signage within the Lake Macquarie LGA in regards to coastal safety is below and includes:

o warning signage at coastal access points,

o warning signage for dangerous cliffs,

o warning signage at unpatrolled beach locations, and

o warning signage at high risk locations such as breakwalls. Lake Macquarie City Council

Figure 3.2.10: Council Access Sign.

Figure 3.2.11: Beware Falling Rocks Warning Sign.

Figure 3.2.12: Unpatrolled Beach

Figure 3.2.13: Council Access Sign (older style).


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National Parks and Wildlife Service Crown Lands

Figure 3.2.14: National Parks Access Sign.

Figure 3.2.15: Break wall Safety Sign.

3.2.4.2 RECOMMENDED CONTROLS:

Proposed Signage:

As funding becomes available, Appendix A outlines where access signage has the opportunity of being

implemented. The Action Planning Priority Index should be used to assist in prioritisation: Land Managers

should implement signage at high and medium ranked locations before lower ranked locations.

Signage Types (National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual)

Level 1 Road Signs: Land Managers have the option to place this type of signage at the closest intersection

location for directional purposes.

Level 2 Car Park Signs (Primary access sign): Land Managers have the option to place this type of signage at the

main entrance/car park to an aquatic environment. The recommended content includes location name,

emergency contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information.

Level 3 Access Signs (Secondary access sign): Land Managers can place this type of sign at access points or

pathways that lead to the aquatic environment (beach, rock pool or rock platform). Level 3 access signs follow

the same principles as those of Level 2 car park signs and typically display the location name, emergency

contact information, safety hazards/prohibitions and lifesaving/lifeguard service information.

Level 4 Individual Hazard and Regulation sign: Land Managers have the option to us this sign where a hazard is

localised and has been identified at a level of risk that warrants sign posting.

Examples of these signs can be referenced in ‘Appendix A’.

When implementing future signage, the following points are recommended:

1. Safety signs as recommended in this report should meet Australian Standard ‘AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 Water

Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags’, and align signage style/layout with the ‘National Aquatic and

Recreational Signage Style Manual, 3rd

Edition, July 2006’ or the State-wide Mutual guide. It is the

recommendation of this report that style is aligned to the former.

2. Signage layout (top-down order) consists of the following:

a) Location name and emergency marker (if/when applicable) or street address


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b) Hazards and warnings within the designated area

c) Safety information or general location/area details

d) Regulations

e) Facility / Land Manager

3. Safety signs should meet the size/height/placement specifications outlined in ‘AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 Water

safety signs and beach safety flags’.

4. ‘Diamond’ hazard symbols should be utilised (not triangle). Context: AS/NZS 2416.3:2010 provides for the

use of either ‘diamond’ or ‘triangle’ hazard symbols. For consistency with existing signage and across local

government areas the more effective diamond symbols should be utilised.

5. Effective placement of aquatic and recreational safety signage in a public reserve cannot be

underestimated. Location, height and existing visual distractions are major factors which contribute to

the effectiveness of a sign when installed.

6. Signs positioned in car parks should be placed central to the parking area and where parked vehicles will

not obscure the sign.

7. Signs that are positioned in relation to open access areas should be spaced at regular intervals, with the

distance between individual signs dependent upon the calculated Facility Visitation Rate (FVR).

8. Signs that are positioned in relation to defined access points should be sited as close as practical to the

access point, or other appropriate location, and need to be consistently applied where possible e.g. on the

left of the track entrance.

Signage Consolidation/Removal:

To effectively capture the attention of visitors, improve overall visual amenity and avoid confusion as a result

of too many signs, repetitive and/or unnecessary information and signs should be removed. Further, any non-

essential signage (not related to location, safety, hazard, prohibition information) that is present at a location

should be considered for removal or re-located as appropriate so as not to impact on the recognition of the

safety orientated priority signage. The figure below is an example of how signage at an access may lead to

confusion for the beach user. Wording such as ‘Patrolled Area’ is typically used in reference to a lifeguarding

service but in this case is specific to rangers looking out for illegal waste disposal in the dune area.

It is important to note that at most locations, an improved safety signage system usually results in an overall

reduction in the quantity of signage due to the elimination of duplicate or ineffectual signs and the

Figure 3.2.16: Council Waste Dumping Sign


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consolidation of key information into other signs. Excessive signage at coastal access points can cause people

to become desensitised to the information presented to them and have the opposite effect of their intended

purpose. Signage consolidation may also see a reduction in the implementation and maintenance costs related

to signage and a reduction in the visual pollution of a site. ‘Appendix A’ references those few signs that have

the opportunity to be consolidated/removed.

Consistent Signage:

It is the view of Australian CoastSafe that a consistent strategy of signage should be implemented within an

LGA. Consistent signs are encouraged to avoid confusion and give a clear and consistent message. Below is an

excerpt from AS 2416:2010 Water Safety Signs and Beach Safety Flags, Part 3, Guidance for Use (p.iv).

The standard states that “a standardized method of signing with the use of appropriate supplementary text

throughout the working and public environment assists the process of education and instruction on the

meaning of water safety signs and beach safety flags, and the appropriate actions to take.” The intention of

AS2416:2010 Part 3 is “to ensure a uniformity of application of water safety signs and beach safety flags which

leads to increased familiarity, and therefore improved safety, for the users including visitors and for the

general public.”

As seen in the signage examples above, Lake Macquarie City Council currently have a few access signs that are

inconsistent which can be updated to the newer adopted style.

Education Signage:

Rip currents are the number one cause of drowning along the coastline of NSW (SLSNSW, 2015). 90% of the

25,000 surf rescues each year are also rip related (Science of the Surf, 2015).

As the majority of access locations lead to unpatrolled sections of beaches where rip currents can occur

educational signage could be implemented at main car parks or at high usage access points. An example of this

sign can be viewed below, however it is suggested that proposed educational signage should be larger than

this example. The sign informs beachgoers of how to identify a rip current and what options to take to escape

the rip current.

Figure 3.2.17: An example of rip education signage.

If implemented, this type of signage should not be placed in positions where they would compete with already

existing access signage.


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Temporary Signage:

Temporary individual hazard signs may be used where a hazard is localised, has been identified at a level of

risk that warrants a sign posting and is not permanent in nature.

Temporary hazards signs can be utilised in the following ways:

1. Where there is a higher risk of injury from temporary hazards.

2. Where a hazard may exist at a patrolled beach either side of the flags.

3. To direct patrons to a flagged area.

Feedback from Lake Macquarie City Council states that previous attempts at using temporary signage were

hindered by vandalism or theft and it is not viable to cover the vast areas of dynamic coastline with these

signs. However, the temporary signage strategy suggested in this report would primarily be used in

conjunction with paid and volunteer lifesaving services, during patrol hours and removed outside of patrol

hours. As stated below, temporary signage could also be used by accommodation providers in dangerous

conditions.

Figure 3.2.18: Example of temporary signage directing patrons to the patrolled location.

Tourist Parks:

Accommodation providers that have direct coastal access at unpatrolled locations are well positioned to

implement temporary signage to inform people park guests of when beach conditions warrant the ‘closing of a

beach’. Surf Life Saving NSW will be able to inform park managers of when dangerous swell events are

occurring through a media release. A temporary sign could be positioned in front of the main access paths that

lead to the beach.

Signage Summary Table:

Lake Macquarie City Council Table 3.2.2 Summary table of aquatic and recreational signage recommendations for Lake Macquarie City Council.

Locations Existing

Signs Maintenance

Required

Possible Consolidate

/Remove

Proposed Level 3 Access/

Open

Proposed Level 4 Hazards

Boating Information

Sign

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Signage

Redhead

Beach 57 5 12 6 0 0 6 -6

Blacksmiths

Beach 48 3 9 2 1 0 3 -6


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Locations Existing

Signs Maintenance

Required

Possible Consolidate

/Remove

Proposed Level 3 Access/

Open


Boating Information

Sign

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Signage

Reids Reserve

Breakwall 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Swansea Wall

Beach 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 1

Reids Mistake

Head 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Swansea

Heads Beach 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Crabbs Beach 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 1

Hams Beach 12 2 3 5 0 0 5 2

Caves Beach 34 3 11 1 0 0 1 -10

The Caves 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Stinky Point 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Stinky Point

Beach 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1

Spoon Rocks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Quarry Beach 11 0 1 1 0 0 1 0

Quarry Head 11 0 2 0 0 0 0 -2

Catherine Hill

Bay Beach 24 1 7 4 0 0 4 -3

Catherine Hill

Bay South 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Totals 225 14 45 22 1 0 23 -22

Note: Net signage = proposed signage minus consolidated/removed/relocated signage. So, 23 signs have been

proposed and 45 existing signs have the opportunity to be consolidated/removed within lands managed by

Lake Macquarie City Council, leaving a net sum of negative 22 signs.

National Parks and Wildlife Service

Table 3.2.3: Summary table of aquatic and recreational signage recommendations for National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Locations Existing

Signs Maintenance

Required

Possible Consolidate/ Remove

Proposed Level 3 Access /Open


Boating Information

Sign

Total Proposed

Signs

Net Signage

Burwood

Beach 12 0 0 1 0 0 1 1

Dudley Beach 13 0 1 2 0 0 2 1

Redhead Point 25 1 2 1 0 0 1 -1

Pinny Beach 21 1 2 0 0 0 0 -2

Shark Hole 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Bogey Hole 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Middle Camp

Inlet 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1

Totals 78 2 5 5 0 0 5 0


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Note: Net signage = proposed signage minus consolidated/removed signage. So, 5 signs have been proposed

and 5 existing signs have the opportunity to be consolidated/removed, leaving a net sum of zero signs.


Standardised water safety signage that aligns to Australian standards and best-practice ‘style’ should be

implemented at the locations listed in ‘Appendix A’. This may include the maintenance and upgrade of existing

signage through planned works schedules, the consolidation of multiple existing signs into a single sign (less

signs), sign relocation or the removal of unnecessary signage.


Existing access signage that does not meet a consistent adopted style should be replaced through natural

attrition.


As the majority of access locations lead to unpatrolled sections of beaches ‘rip current’ educational signage

should be implemented at main car parks or at high usage access areas. The sign should inform beachgoers of

how to identify a rip current and what options to take to escape the rip current.


Temporary signage should be used at coastal access points that are outside the patrol services’ area of

surveillance to warn beach users and direct them to patrol areas. They should also be used by the coastal

tourist parks to inform guests of when conditions warrant the ‘closing of a beach’. Surf Life Saving NSW will be

able to alert park operators when dangerous swell events are predicted through the dangerous surf advisory

process.


Temporary signage should be used at access locations near patrolled areas to direct patrons to a supervised

swimming area and where there is a higher risk of injury due to temporary hazards such as strong currents,

creek openings and pollution.


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3.2.5 EMERGENCY MARKER SYSTEM

When an incident occurs at a specific street address, it is relatively simple for emergency services to identify

the location of the caller/incident. However, when an incident occurs at locations such as open-space

parkland, walking trails, beaches or rock platforms (where no cross-street or other reference point is available)

it can delay the identification of a location and the subsequent emergency service response.

Emergency location markers enable triple zero call takers to immediately and accurately verify the location of

an emergency triple zero call.

Figure 3.2.19: Example of emergency marker sign.

Emergency markers display a unique number to a specific location, most commonly on existing access/safety

signage. These emergency marker displays could be a sticker placed over already existing signage.

For an emergency marker system to be effective, a standardised state-wide program is required, that engages

Police and other emergency service CAD systems and land management authority signage plans. No current

program exists in NSW.

Australian CoastSafe is currently working with key government departments and emergency services to

develop a best practice emergency marker system which can be rolled out on a state-wide basis in the near

future.


With guidance from the Ministry for Police and Emergency Services and Lands and Property Information, a

state aligned emergency marker system at all identified access locations should be considered.

3.2.6 ACCESS INFRASTRUCTURE AND ONGOING CAPITAL WORKS/MAINTENANCE

PROGRAMS

The way the coast is accessed is a significant factor in the management of coastal risk. While preventing public

access/use to the coastal environment is not desired, a number of options exist to minimise the risks

associated with the access way itself and the hazards that may be encountered on the coast (via that access

way).

In reference to the assessment process, access points have been broken down into formal (defined), and

informal (undefined) access.

Access issues are interrelated to other risk management initiatives/options such as water safety signage,

emergency access numbering/reporting, supervision (lifeguard) information and public rescue equipment. An

effective access plan for an area may optimise the effectiveness and efficiency of other initiatives .


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Figure 3.2.20: Formal access at Blacksmiths Beach. Figure 3.2.21: Informal access at Hams Beach.

Formal Access:

The majority of formal access tracks in the Lake Macquarie LGA are well maintained. Land managers conduct

inspections due to vegetation overgrowth, degraded footings and unattached fence posts when required.

Formal, well maintained access ways are effective in promoting and facilitating the use of a generally safer

‘track’, exposing people to the relevant safety signage/information, reducing the quantity of signage required

and enhancing emergency access, reporting and location identification.

Informal Access:

A number of informal access tracks also exist. Informal access ways may create higher risk through use

(uneven ground/hazards), may expose people to dangerous locations (cliffs/unstable and uneven surfaces),

may require duplicate/multiple signage (inefficient/costly) and may make emergency location reporting

difficult (location awareness).

Options for formalising, redirecting or consolidating informal access use may include man-made barriers,

vegetation growth and fencing. It is noted that for some locations and situations it may be difficult to formalise

access and/or restrict the use of informal access.

Figure 3.2.22: An example of access redirection at Swansea Heads Beach

Open Access:

Open access occurs where there are no channels of barriers restricting where visitors can access the aquatic

environment.


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Emergency Vehicle Access:

Access for emergency and lifeguarding/lifesaving services should be well known to key personnel. These access

paths are regularly monitored to ensure that emergency vehicles are able to access a coastal location. All

emergency vehicle access locations are recorded in ‘Appendix A’.

Boat Ramp Access:

There were no coastal boat ramp locations within the assessed area of the Lake Macquarie LGA. Note that

there are multiple boat ramps inland along the Swansea Channel and in the lake. Four Wheel Drive Access:

Belmont Wetlands State Park beachfront, at the north end of Blacksmiths Beach, is the only area where

recreational beach four wheel driving (4WD) is allowed in the Lake Macquarie LGA. See ‘Appendix A’ for

specific locations. Belmont Wetlands State Park (2015) has a website that contains the relevant information

about 4WD in the area as well as a detailed brochure about the regulations and boundaries for the 4WD area.

Some of the main regulations include:

o The speed limit is a maximum of 30km/h and drivers are required to slow to a speed of no more than

15km/h when passing pedestrians,

o Vehicles should stay 15m away from other vehicles,

o Avoid reckless driving, and

o Don’t park within 20m of access points to the beach.

The brochure also contains hazard warning messages for those using the state park and beachfront areas including that it is an unpatrolled location.


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Access Summary Table: Lake Macquarie City Council Table 3.2.4: Access provision within lands managed by Lake Macquarie City Council.

Location Open

Access Formal

Pedestrian

4WD Vehicle/

Boat Ramp

Informal / Old Access

Private / Restricted

Access

Total Access

Possible Redirection

Net Access

Redhead Beach 0 14 1 5 0 20 4 16

Blacksmiths

Beach 0 19 2 2 0 23 0 23

Reids Reserve

Breakwall 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Swansea Wall

Beach 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2

Reids Mistake

Head 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0

Swansea Heads

Beach 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1

Crabbs Beach 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 1

Hams Beach 0 7 0 2 0 9 4 5

Caves Beach 0 11 0 0 0 11 0 11

The Caves 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 3

Stinky Point 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0

Stinky Point

Beach 0 3 0 1 0 4 1 3

Spoon Rocks 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2

Quarry Beach 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2

Quarry Head 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1

Catherine Hill

Bay Beach /

Middle Camp

Beach

0 10 0 9 0 19 6 13

Catherine Hill

Bay South 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 2

Totals 0 70 3 30 0 103 18 85

Note: Net Access = the total of all access types minus consolidated/redirected access. In other words, 103

access points have been located in lands managed by Lake Macquarie City Council, however 18 of these access

points have the opportunity to be consolidated / redirected, leaving a net access of 85.


Page 72 of 89

National Parks and Wildlife Service

Table 3.2.5: Access provision within lands managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Location Open

Access Formal

Pedestrian

4WD Vehicle/

Boat Ramp

Informal / Old Access

Private / Restricted

Access

Total Access

Possible Redirection

Net Access

Burwood Beach 0 6 0 0 0 6 0 6

Dudley Beach 0 4 0 2 0 6 1 5

Redhead Point 0 6 0 4 0 10 1 9

Pinny Beach 0 1 0 2 0 3 2 1

Shark Hole 0 1 0 2 0 3 0 3

Bogey Hole 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1

Middle Camp

Inlet 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 1

Totals 0 20 0 11 0 31 5 26

Note: Net Access = the total of all access types minus consolidated/redirected access. In other words, 31

access points have been located in lands managed by the national parks and wildlife service, however 5 of

these access points have the opportunity to be redirected, leaving a net access of 26.


Formal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should continue to be regularly maintained through ongoing

infrastructure and capital works programs. This will encourage formal access use (rather than informal),

enhance the effectiveness of water safety signage and minimise the quantity of signage needed.


Informal access paths identified in ‘Appendix A’ should be considered for redirection or consolidation, in order

to promote/facilitate the use of formal access.


Page 73 of 89

3.2.7 PUBLIC RESCUE EQUIPMENT

The table below provides an overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) currently in or available for use in

Australia.

Table 3.2.6 An overview of Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) (Bradstreet, et al., 2012).

PRE Type

Morphology

of current

installations

Advantages Disadvantages

Extensive

Training

Required

Recommended

uses in NSW

Rescue Tube

Sandy

beaches and

rock pools

Can be thrown

short distances

Requires the rescuer

to enter the water

themselves

Yes None

Throw Bag Not in use Distance of

deployment

Risk of theft, risk of

using the line to

return the patient

towards the rocks,

not strong/tough

enough to be

resilient from

environmental

conditions

No

May be used on a

case by case basis.

Further

effectiveness

investigation

required.

Throw Sticks

(Stormy

grenades)

Personal

device

(mobile)

Mobility – easily

deployed to

incident locations

Effective mid-range

(thrown)

Requires 2 to off-set

‘miss-throw’ of the

first

No

Yes. Relevant

personnel /staff

(emergency

services/SLS

/rangers)

Life Ring

(Angel ring)

Steep

rampart rock

platforms

Ease of use.

Rugged design.

Awareness

campaign

established.

Single use device.

Distance of

deployment.

Requires rescuer to

approach the

platform edge.

Weight.

No

Steep (>1:1)

rampart rock

platforms

Silent Sentry Sloping

platforms

EPIRB unit

immediately alerts

emergency

services. Multiple

balls can be rolled

down slopes to the

patient keeping the

rescuer at a safer

distance

EPIRB units were

vulnerable to

vandalism and

disabled

No

Sloping (<1:1)

rampart rock

platforms.

Recommended

redesign to

remove EPIRB

housing.


Page 74 of 89

Life Rings (Angel Rings™4):

Life rings are an instantly recognised lifesaving mechanism and their functionality is easily understood by both

a rescuer and the casualty. The national ‘Angel Ring ™ Project’ has seen the installation of 131 rings in NSW

with 62 confirmed rescues involving their use (ANSA, 2014).

On 4 February 2014, The Australian National Sports Fishing Association received additional funding for the

expansion and maintenance of the Angel Ring Project through the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust.

There are currently 2 life rings situated in the Lake Macquarie LGA and 1 life ring has been proposed at the

breakwall on Blacksmiths Beach. Further information can be found in Appendix C.

Figure 3.2.23: Existing Life Ring at Redhead Point.

In regards to any maintenance issues that may arise, ANSA NSW has stated the following:

“ANSA NSW will maintain contact with the local clubs, NSW Government agencies

and individuals who have installed or agreed to manage the angel rings and

continue communication to ensure that management targets are met.

As a minimum ANSA NSW or its nominated management team must complete a

visual check at least every 2 months to determine the rings status.” (ANSA, 2013)

Global Positioning Satellite (GPS):

GPS technology is available to be used within public rescue equipment such as life rings. Recreational fishing

bodies have already trialled certain tracking devices in some areas and should be consulted with in relation to

this matter. This technology may be beneficial by the way of a daily audit that can record when a life ring has

been washed away or stolen as part of an asset management system.


Land Managers should consider implementing Life Rings at the proposed locations identified in ‘Appendix C’.

The Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW

will be able to provide guidance on costings, suppliers and ongoing maintenance.

4Angel Ring is a registered trade mark of the Australian National Sport fishing Association.


Page 75 of 89


Explore the means to fund the expansion and continued maintenance of the ‘Angel Ring Project’ in

consultation with the Australian National Sports Fishing Association (NSW Branch) and the Recreational Fishing

Alliance of NSW at the locations outlined in ‘Appendix C’. Final positioning should be determined by these

fishing associations.

3.2.8 SYSTEM OF SUPERVISION

The supervision of aquatic coastal locations is often required to manage the risk of the location, whether due

to prevailing weather and beach conditions, the proximity to large population bases, or the attendance of the

beach/coastal area due to its location or attractiveness (Tipton & Wooler 2016).

The primary decision to be made by Land Managers before establishing a lifesaving/lifeguard service is to

determine which areas will be patrolled or unpatrolled. A patrolled beach is one at which a trained lifesaver

and/or lifeguard is stationed during prescribed times and designated by the flying of red and yellow flags. A

mobile lifesaver/lifeguard or lifeguard vehicle that periodically visits or checks a location may be effective as a

proactive education initiative but should not be considered as providing a patrolled swimming location.

Uncertainties may exist when deciding whether supervision at a given location is appropriate, since:

o The provision of a service may encourage attendance at a non-suitable location, such as when the beach

topography and morphology create a highly hazardous location. This factor would be reflected in the

ABSAMP beach hazard rating;

o Such services may be deemed too expensive and therefore not provided by the responsible land manager;

o The patronage of the location is low and the assessed risk level is minimal.

There are a range of aquatic supervisory services that should be considered, as it is not “one size fits all”. They

include:

o Full time comprehensive lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, fixed and

portable facilities, equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services.

o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard service with appropriate levels of trained personnel, portable facilities,

equipment, craft, vehicles and links to central command and emergency services.

o Seasonal lifesaving/lifeguard service with trained personnel, portable facilities, some equipment and craft,

and links to a command centre.

o A flexible demand based service with trained personnel provision which allocates resources to where they

are most needed.

o Surveillance cameras.

o No service, but the provision of safety signs and controlled access.

Lifesaving Service Level Calculator:

The lifesaving service level calculator takes into consideration the ABSAMP beach hazard ratings, visitation

levels, frequency of use, residency of visitors, incident history and remoteness of location to determine best

practice lifesaving service levels.

The first decision that needs to be made by a Land Manager is whether or not a location should be patrolled.

The Action Planning Priority Index should be used to guide decision making on which locations are of greater

inherent risk and therefore a higher priority for a lifesaving service. The lifesaving service level calculations

should not be used in isolation to determine whether or not a lifesaving service should be provided, however


Page 76 of 89

once a decision has been made to provide a service the calculations should be referred to for guidance on the

minimum service level required. It should be noted that whilst some Lifesaving service level calculations

indicate that there should be changes to supervision levels, the written recommendations in this report are

what should be used to assist land managers in making an informed decision on adequate lifesaving service

level provisions, not individual scores in the calculator. These recommendations relate to paid lifeguard service

levels, as volunteer service levels are determined by the SLSNSW Standard Operating Procedures and

individual club lifesaving service agreements. Calculations for all beaches can be found in ‘Appendix G’.

International Best Practice:

The International Life Saving Federation (ILS) is the peak body for lifeguard and water safety organisations

internationally.

Lifeguard/Lifesaving Uniforms:

The ILS recommends the colours for uniforms be red & yellow5. Lifeguards/lifesavers throughout the world are

called upon to provide safety services at a range of water environments that include swimming pools, beaches,

lakes, river front and other waterfronts. In providing these aquatic safety services, it is important that the

people using these environments for aquatic activity can readily identify the lifeguards/lifesavers for:

o Guidance on safety issues, and

o Assistance in times of need

As such the lifeguards should be readily distinguishable against the many people and colours they may be

wearing while in, on or around these aquatic environments.

The red and yellow colours have been used by a number of International Lifesaving Member Federations for

many years to such an extent and with much success that red and yellow has become synonymous with

lifesavers and lifeguards in these countries.

Volunteer Lifesaving Service - Existing:

Below are the patrol dates and hours for the 2015/2016 season over weekends and public holidays. Table 3.2.7 Volunteer Lifesaving Services in the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Club Patrol Dates Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays

Start Time Finish Time

Redhead SLSC 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 9:00am 5pm

Swansea-Belmont SLSC 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 9:00am 5pm

Caves SLSC 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 9:00am 5pm

Catherine Hill Bay SLSC 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 9:00am 5pm

Regular roving patrols are also encouraged as part of SLSNSW Standard Operating Procedures (SLSNSW 2014)

and are incorporated into a Clubs Patrol Operation Manual. Roving patrols can be conducted by ATV, IRB/RWC

or walking and should continue to be conducted at the following location throughout a patrol.

5 ILSF Lifesaving Position Statement - LPS 05 - Lifesaver And Lifeguard Uniforms


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o Redhead SLSC: Redhead Bluff (north) to First Creek (south)

o Swansea-Belmont SLSC: Swansea- Belmont Clubhouse (north) to Breakwall (south)

o Caves SLSC: Hams Beach Boundary (north) to south end of beach (south)

o Catherine Hill Bay SLSC: Second carpark (north) to Jetty (south)

RWC Patrols:

It is also acknowledged that the Hunter Branch through its support services conducts a roving patrol through

an RWC on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am to 5pm from the 19/09/2015 to 25/05/2016

between Redhead SLSC and Wybung Headland. This service is also available for callouts that occur through the

surf rescue emergency response system.

Paid Lifeguard Service – Existing:

The Lake Macquarie lifeguard patrol dates and hours for the 2015/2016 season are provided below.

Table 3.2.8 Paid Lifeguard Services in the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Club Patrol Dates Monday to Saturday

Start Time Finish Time

Redhead Beach 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 8:30am 5pm

Blacksmiths Beach 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 8:30am 5pm

Caves Beach 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 8:30am 5pm

Catherine Hill Bay Beach 19/09/15 - 25/04/16 8:30am 5pm

Marine Rescue:

Marine Rescue plays a key role in boating safety and response within the Lake Macquarie LGA and a unit is

stationed at Lake Macquarie and Camden Haven. This unit is able to respond to incidents via a number of

vessels.

Roads and Maritime Services (RMS): The RMS website lists coastal bars at http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/using-waterways/navigation-communication/coastal-bars.html. Some have web cam vision which can be accessed http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/maritime/using-waterways/web-cameras/index.html

Paid Lifeguard Service – Recommended:

Australian CoastSafe acknowledges the challenges that arise for regional coastal councils in regards to funding

lifeguard services.

Some options to assist in funding lifeguard services may include:

1. Slight levy applied to rates at Tourist Parks.

2. Paid parking at the main car parks for non-residents.

3. Joint funding arrangements with tourism organisations and local businesses.

4. Future grant funding.

The lifeguard treatment options listed below are based upon the research and data contained within this

Project Blueprint coastal public safety risk assessment:

o Lifesaving service level calculator ‘Appendix G’,

o Anecdotal evidence and feedback obtained through the various methods of consultation,


Page 78 of 89

o Historical drowning and emergency response incidents,

o Historical beach visitation data (where available), and

o Tourism NSW and ABS population data.


The level of lifeguarding services provided (staffing levels, operational dates, patrol hours and locations)

should continue to be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure the most suitable and effective service is

provided.


Branch and club procedures should continue to ensure that roving patrols are performed on a regular basis to

cover a nearby beach/section of a beach that is not patrolled.


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4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Consideration of issues in relation to emergency response is extremely relevant to a drowning prevention

strategy for the Lake Macquarie LGA.

Emergency response considerations include but are not limited to:

o Emergency communications/reporting Triple Zero (000),

o Emergency phones/alarms,

o Emergency response beacons,

o Emergency service response,

o Radio coverage, and

o Emergency service communications (internal and joint service).

4.1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS/REPORTING

The ability of members of the public to request assistance in an emergency is an important component of a

drowning prevention strategy.

The Australian Government, through the Attorney-General’s Department are currently running a national

Triple Zero (000) campaign which aims to build awareness of the Triple Zero (000) number and educate the

community about when to use the number. The campaign serves to reinforce to members of the public their

responsibilities when calling the Triple Zero (000) emergency number both in nominating the required

emergency service and identifying the location they are calling from. The campaign uses the internet,

newspapers, radio and television to promote messages of Triple Zero (000). In addition, elements of the

campaign have been translated to reach culturally and linguistically diverse communities throughout Australia.

In addition, “Triple Zero (000) should not be referred to as 'Triple Oh', as this can cause confusion and could

result in people incorrectly dialling 666 on some alpha-numeric keypads. If dialled within Australia, emergency

calls to 666 will not be re-routed to Triple Zero (000)” (Australian Government, Attorney's-General

Department, 2012).

Figure 4.1.1: Suggested emergency 'Triple Zero' information for signage.

Emergency Services Smart Phone Application:

‘Emergency +’ is an application developed by emergency services, the federal government and industry

partners. The application uses a mobile phone's GPS functionality so callers can provide emergency call-takers

with their exact location information. ‘Emergency+’ also includes SES and Police Assistance Line numbers as

options, so non-emergency calls are made to the most appropriate number (Apple 2014).


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One disadvantage of the application however is that you are required to have phone coverage for it to work.

Dependent on phone providers, many Black spot locations exist in remote areas.

Figure 4.1.2: ‘Emergency +’ Application for smart phones.

In reference to coastal environments, while the application provides the latitude/longitude and a nearest

street reference, it does not inform emergency services of what is the most effective and efficient way to

access the person who is need of assistance. This is where the Emergency Marker System (section 3.2.5) will be

a beneficial ‘value-add’ as all access locations to the coastline will be mapped, potentially including all the

routing information, outlining to responding emergency services of how to best enhance responsiveness to a

particular point of interest.

Dangerous Marine Life

There is a perception within the public that marine life, such as sharks, poses a significant threat to human life

when we choose to swim in the ocean and whilst incidents do occur it is statistically unlikely to cause harm

when compared to other hazards such as rips. This perception has created a high profile around any incidents

involving sharks as well as many research projects into ways of mitigating shark attacks. It is important that

emergency response services are consistent with their approach to dealing with these types of incidents to

improve outcomes for victims and improve public perception of shark ‘issues’. The current plan (Department

of Primary Industries, 2014) details the roles and responsibilities of the relevant emergency services during an

incident. Lake Macquarie City Council has their own response plan (Lake Macquarie City Council, 2016d) that

outlines the procedures to follow during a shark incident which closely matches the DPI shark response guide.


In consultation with the Local Emergency Management Committee, Land Managers have an opportunity to

promote the ‘Emergency +’ smart phone application throughout the local community.


Land Managers should consult with the local emergency management committee to ensure that all emergency

response services are aware of the roles and responsibilities when a shark related incident occurs as per the

DPI Shark Incident Response Plan. Any future iterations of this plan should also be acknowledged


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4.2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEACONS

Emergency Response Beacons (ERB) can be positioned in high use/risk areas. They are highly visible and once

activated, link via radio to lifesaving/lifeguard services.

The two main types of ERB are:

Mobile: A movable unit which can be placed at a designated location for a limited period (usually daylight

hours) before being removed for security/monitoring reasons. They usually complement an existing on-beach

lifesaving/lifeguard service (nearby) or on-duty staff hours (non-lifesaving).

Fixed/permanent: A unit which is permanently or semi-permanently positioned (secured) at a location, and

provides 24/7 capacity. Such an ERB should fit within a coordinated emergency communications system,

whereby the unit is monitored 24/7 and complemented with specific procedures for emergencies by those

monitoring the ERB.

Fixed ERBs are generally only considered for use in high risk locations, where:

o Limited or no mobile phone coverage exists,

o A service can consistently monitor the beacon, and

o A daily process of equipment checking/testing is in place.

More information about ERB can be provided by Surf Life Saving New South Wales.

Figure 4.2.1: Example of a mobile emergency response beacon on a beach.


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4.3 EMERGENCY SERVICE RESPONSE

Emergency services and support organisations play a vital role in responding to coastal emergencies within the

Lake Macquarie LGA (see table and figure below). Resources that may respond include:

o NSW Police (including Water Police),

o NSW Ambulance,

o NSW Fire and Rescue,

o State Emergency Service (SES),

o Marine Rescue NSW,

o Lake Macquarie City Council Lifeguards,

o Surf Life Saving Hunter (Branch and Club Callout Teams). Table 4.3.1 Coastal Emergency Service locations for Lake Macquarie LGA (<10km from the coast).

Emergency Services – Lake Macquarie Local Government Area

Emergency Service Street Address Suburb

NSW Police 2-6 Herbert Street Belmont

NSW Police 25-27 Smith Street Charlestown

NSW Police 234 Pacific Highway Swansea

NSW Ambulance 8 Herbert Street Belmont

NSW Ambulance Corner of Pacific Highway & Dudley

Street Charlestown

NSW Fire and Rescue 633 Pacific Highway Belmont

NSW Fire and Rescue 7 Charles Street Charlestown

NSW Fire and Rescue 10 Lake Road Swansea

NSW Fire and Rescue 68 Violet Town Road Tingira Heights

Marine Rescue NSW Corner of Waratah Street and Wallsend

Street (end of gravel road) Swansea Heads

Marine Rescue NSW 5 Lakeview Parade Pelican

Redhead Beach Lifeguard Service & Redhead SLSC

Redhead Surf Life Saving Club Gateshead

Blacksmiths Beach Lifeguard Service & Swansea-Belmont SLSC

Ungala Road Blacksmiths

Caves Beach Lifeguard Service & Caves SLSC

127/139 Caves Beach Road Caves Beach

Catherine Hill Bay Beach Lifeguard Service & Catherine Hill

Bay SLSC LOT 212 Flowers Drive Catherine Hill Bay


Page 83 of 89

Figure 4.3.1: Emergency services located near the coastline in the Lake Macquarie LGA.


Page 84 of 89

4.4 COMMUNICATIONS

Radio Coverage:

The State Operations Centre in Belrose (SLSNSW) assist lifeguards and lifesavers during normal operations and

emergency incidents via UHF radio communication. The UHF radio signal strength on the Lake Macquarie

coastline uses the Shepards Hill, Caves Beach and Snapper Point repeater. Below is the coverage map for each

of these repeaters.

Figure 4.4.1: Signal strength of the Shepards Hill repeater (Burwood Beach to Redhead Point).

Figure 4.4.2: Signal strength of the Caves Beach repeater (Redhead Beach to Pinny Beach).

Figure 4.4.3: Signal strength of the

adjusted Snapper Point Repeater (Shark

Hole to Catherine Hill Bay South)

Table 4.4.1: Key to radio coverage strength.

In Lake Macquarie there have been some issues with the radio coverage, especially at locations such as

Redhead Beach and Caves Beach where the surf clubs are located next to headlands which can deteriorate

signal strength. However with the introduction of a new radio repeater at Caves beach (Figure 4.4.2) and an

adjustment to the height of the Snapper Point repeater (Figure 4.4.3: To be installed before the start of the

2016 patrol season) there should be strong coverage across most of the Lake Macquarie coastline with only a

few small patches of average signal strength.

The Shepards Hill repeater provides strong coverage to the north end of the LGA (Figure 4.4.1) with some

weaker signal strength behind Dudley and Burwood Beach however there is still sufficient coverage in these

zones.


Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to hold discussions with Surf Life Saving Hunter Branch to monitor and

review the radio network in the Lake Macquarie LGA after the installation and adjustment of radio

infrastructure at Caves Beach and Snapper Point.

No coverage (Blacks spot)

Signal strength (limited)

Signal strength (average)

Signal strength (strong)


Page 85 of 89

4.5 JOINT EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (SRERS):

The Surf Rescue Emergency Response System (NSW) was established in January 2008 and provides a single

point of contact for emergency services when there is a need to utilise surf rescue assets in coastal incidents.

The emergency number can be contacted 24/7 and operators (State Duty Officers) can task/notify any surf

rescue asset in NSW.

Through the growth of this system the Hunter Branch have an effective Branch Duty Officer system and

dedicated Club Callout Teams that can respond to incidents outside of patrolled locations/after hours.

Lifeguards and lifesavers do an outstanding job responding to emergency incidents (many of which occur at

unpatrolled locations and/or after hours).

The most appropriate resource at the time of the incident are notified first and activated i.e. volunteer

lifesavers, paid lifeguards or other emergency services.

Marine Rescue NSW:

Marine Rescue NSW is at times the most appropriate resource to respond to incidents along the coastline

(particular vessel incidents). As part of the SRERS, Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to work with and

develop relationships with the Lake Macquarie and the Camden Haven Marine Rescue Unit.

Emergency Scenario Training:

In the past there have been multi agency emergency response exercises in the Lake Macquarie LGA involving

local emergency services such as Police, Marine Rescue and Surf Life Saving. Such exercises help to establish

and cement the chain of command, cooperation and adherence of operational procedures in the event of a

joint emergency response. These training exercises should continue take place every couple of years.

Figure 4.5.1: A joint training exercise offshore Lake Macquarie’s Hastings River.


An emergency response training scenario should continue to be conducted with Hunter Branch Duty

Officers/Support Operations, senior Lifeguards and the local emergency services every couple of years before

the commencement of the surf life saving season.


Surf Life Saving NSW should continue to work with and develop relationships with the Lake Macquarie Marine

Rescue Units.


Page 86 of 89

5 MONITOR AND REVIEW

The process of monitor and review ensures that risk treatment options are meeting their objectives, new

hazards and risks are identified in a timely manner and evolving strategies are in line with community

expectations.

Land Managers are encouraged to ensure that a there is a process of regular review of the effectiveness of any

risk mitigation strategies that have been implemented. This can include a process for the review of any

drowning or emergency response incidents affecting public safety at the locations assessed. The treatment

options outlined in this report can also be used as a benchmark as future funding opportunities become

available and when budget preparations occur annually.

Land Managers may determine to further engage peak water safety organisations to assist with the monitor

and review process. The process should include the review of all incident data, access points, signage,

education, public rescue equipment, supervision and emergency response.


In consultation with relevant stakeholders, this document should be reviewed annually to measure the

effectiveness of any risk mitigation strategies and drowning prevention initiatives that have been implemented

and where future funding opportunities can be directed.


All drowning prevention strategies have the opportunity to be documented and incorporated into the relevant

strategic and management plans. This will ensure consistency throughout the management area and a

structured approach to maintenance.


Page 87 of 89

6 REFERENCES

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Attorney Generals’ Department 2014, Triple Zero (000) awareness campaign and promotional material, viewed

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Lake Macquarie City Council 2016b, Patrolled Beaches, viewed 20 April 2016

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Lake Macquarie City Council 2016c, Swim Centres, viewed 20 April 2016

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Lake Macquarie City Council 2016d, ‘Beach Lifeguard Services Operational Manual’ Lake Macquarie City

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Learn to Surf Newcastle 2015, Learn To Surf Newcastle, viewed 2 March 2016

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Lake Macquarie Local Government Area - Water Safety NSW · Coastal Public Safety Risk Assessment: Lake Macquarie Local Government Area Page vii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This report contains