Swim, Stay and Play on Moreton Bay Shores
Published 17 September 2021
With drive tourism booming and families rediscovering the beauty of destinations in their own backyard, Moreton Bay Regional Council wants to ensure there’s no better place to swim, stay and play than on the shores of beautiful Moreton Bay.
Almost $2 million was today awarded for lifeguarding services across the region.
The Royal Life Saving Society Queensland will continue to supply lifeguards and operational services at Settlement Cove Lagoon Redcliffe, with Surf Lifesaving Queensland providing the lifeguard service at Woorim Beach, Bribie Island.
A popular playground for holidaymakers, Mayor Peter Flannery said he wanted everyone to feel safe in the jewel of the sunshine state.
“From the bay to the beach, Moreton Bay Region is the perfect playground for a day trip or long weekend getaway in southeast Queensland,” Mayor Flannery said.
“Not only do we want to see our community COVID-free, we also want to ensure everyone is safe when holidaying here in the Moreton Bay.
“We’re pleased to partner with the Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland and Surf Lifesaving Queensland, who together have more than 200 years’ experience keeping the community safe on our beaches and aquatic facilities.
“With national drowning deaths up 20 per cent from last year, local lifeguards played a vital role in keeping the community safe.
“But swimmers also have a responsibility when they enter the water.
“The pandemic is partly to blame, with people letting loose after lockdowns and taking more risks such as swimming at unfamiliar spots.
“I don’t want to see any residents taking these risks, and as we come into the surf lifesaving season, I don’t want to see one death that could have been prevented.
“With local lifeguards on patrol from now until May, please listen to safety advice and swim between the flags.”
Local Councillor Brooke Savige (Div 1) said she expected to see visitor numbers swell this summer on Bribie Island.
“After a winter of lockdowns, I expect Woorim Beach will be on the bucket list for locals and visitors looking for the perfect wave,” Cr Savige said.
“With people beelining to the beach, please remember to listen to the advice from lifeguards and to keep a close watch of children.
“Our lifeguards at Bribie Island have been putting their lives on the line for close to 100 years, so please give them a friendly wave and say thanks the next time you go for a swim.”
Local Councillor Karl Winchester (Div 6) said Settlement Cove Lagoon was an attractive alternative for those not wanting to face the open ocean.
“I’m not surprised to see that the lagoon attracts close to 500,000 visitors every year!” Cr Winchester said.
“The lagoon is one of the region’s most popular playgrounds to stay cool, especially for those who prefer calmer water, from locals with limited mobility, families with young children and visitors looking to relax.
“The Lagoon can see up to 600 swimmers in the water at one time during summer, which is why it’s vital we have lifeguards on deck to help during those peak periods.”