NSW :Flags up for a safe summer on NSW beaches
ARAB NEWS ( Sydney- AUSTRALIA )Saturday, 26 September 2026- Surf life savers are preparing for a bumper season on the beaches with forecast hot conditions expected to draw large crowds as the iconic red and yellow flags go up today.
Thousands of volunteer lifesavers return to beaches across the State for the start of the 2026–27 patrol season which runs until 27 April 2027.
Weather forecasts are for above average temperatures and dry conditions leading into summer, and sadly in the past few weeks there have already been drownings at our beaches.
Life savers are urging beachgoers to swim between the flags, follow the directions of lifesavers and lifeguards, and check conditions before entering the water.
Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers are heading into the season with new and upgraded rescue equipment including jet skis, drones and Emergency Response Beacons, to help crews respond quickly when someone is in distress.
This year, to further enhance beach safety, the Minns Labor Government is investing $50 million for drone-based shark surveillance as part of a $120 million investment in the Shark Management Program.
More than 70 drones will operate covering more than 90 beaches. The expanded program includes longer surveillance hours and increased coverage, including over the NSW spring school holidays.
Two new Tagged Shark Listening Stations have also been installed in Sydney Harbour, near Balmoral and Lady Bay. The stations provide real-time notifications through the SharkSmart app when a tagged shark is detected nearby.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“The return of the red and yellow flags is a sure sign that summer is on its way and a reminder of the extraordinary work of our dedicated Surf Life Saving volunteers.
“Our Surf Life Saving volunteers give their time to protect others, respond to emergencies and help ensure people return home safely to their families.
“We are proud to support these volunteers with record investment in rescue equipment and technology, ensuring our lifesavers have resources they need to protect beachgoers this summer.
“Whether you’re swimming at Bondi, surfing on the South Coast or spending a day on the sand in Newcastle, the message is simple: swim between the flags and follow the advice of lifesavers.”
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:
“Our Government is focused on beach safety and we have made a $120 million investment in the state’s Shark Management Program to deliver extra drone shark surveillance, listening stations, research and public education.
“Our expanded drone program is delivering greater surveillance along the NSW coastline, supported by SMART drumlines, tagged shark listening stations, and shark nets.
“For the first time, Tagged Shark Listening Stations are operating in Sydney Harbour, providing real-time alerts through the SharkSmart app when tagged sharks are detected nearby.
“There are also practical steps everyone can take. Check local conditions, follow the advice of beach authorities and download the SharkSmart app before heading into the water.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:
“NSW is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the red and yellow flags are a simple way for locals and visitors to enjoy them safely.
“Our surf clubs and volunteer lifesavers are at the heart of coastal communities, and every day they put their time and expertise into keeping beachgoers safe.
“Whether you’re swimming, surfing or enjoying the beach with family and friends, choose a patrolled beach, swim between the flags and listen to the lifesavers who know the local conditions best.”
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steve Pearce said:
“This summer is expected to be one of the most challenging patrol seasons in recent years. Hot and dry conditions are likely to draw large crowds to our beaches, increasing the demand on our volunteer patrols and rescue services.
“We must also recognise the potential for increased shark activity during warmer months, reinforcing the need for vigilance on our beaches.
“We are grateful for the NSW Government’s ongoing support of Surf Life Saving NSW through funding for critical rescue equipment and public safety initiatives. These investments help ensure our volunteers have the resources they need to respond quickly when seconds count, which can ultimately save lives.
“Surf lifesavers across the state stand ready to keep our communities safe. Our message is simple: swim at a patrolled beach, swim between the red and yellow flags, and listen to the advice of lifesavers.”