THE Sunshine Coast surf lifesaving season has officially kicked off, with volunteer patrols back on duty from September 19 and running through to early May 2026.
As crowds flock to the sand and surf with the warmer weather, professional lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers are reinforcing one message: Stop, Look and Stay Alive.
The national campaign calls on swimmers to stop before entering the water, look for red and yellow flags and warning signs, and stay alive by assessing their ability and never swimming alone.
Sunshine Coast Council-funded lifeguards, backed by thousands of volunteer lifesavers, patrol the coastline from north Coolum to Bulcock Beach with one shared goal: zero preventable deaths.
The 2024–25 season saw more than 6.6 million beach visits, with lifesavers and lifeguards performing 550 rescues, 98,574 preventative actions, and 7,696 first aid treatments.
This year, more than 124 lifeguards are rostered across 21 patrolled beaches. Volunteer lifesavers provide extra cover every weekend and public holiday, from 7am–5pm, stretching to 6pm over Christmas.
“Rip currents remain a leading cause of drownings,” Surf Life Saving Queensland Sunshine Coast Regional Operations Manager Aaron Purchase said. “Our patrols are vital, but public vigilance is just as important. Swim between the flags and always check the conditions.”
More information: www.beachsafe.org.au