KEY POINTS:
The future of lifeguard patrols on Baylys Beach in Northland is up to volunteers willing to take the plunge. A professional service trialled for three weeks at the Ripiro Beach settlement, near Dargaville, finished on Sunday.
Although the community was supportive of the initiative, only a couple of locals committed to training and more will be needed for a viable future service.
Four rescues, including that of three body-boarders last Wednesday, were made during the three-week trial, but five medical call-outs and more than 1000 preventive actions were also carried out by patrols.
Ripiro Beach is notorious for its changing rips and under-currents.
Several drownings have occurred there in the past few years.
The community had urged the Kaipara District Council to support the Surf Life Saving Northern Region patrol and a grant of $5000 was made to provide the service.
Lifeguard supervisor for the Northern region Johnny Clough said up to 300 swimmers a day had taken to the water, with up to 120 people within the flagged area at peak times.
A children's education programme had also been well-attended.
Northern manager Dean Storey said he believed the service was essential to community enjoyment and safety in the area and would like to see it expanded into February next year.
"The challenge for the community is getting committed people willing to train and become lifeguards," he said.
Kaipara Mayor Neil Tiller agreed: "The small number of locals wanting to train was very disappointing."
He said the lifeguards and increased police presence had improved beach safety and behaviour, but a local surf lifesaving club was essential.
"I feel the community needs to demonstrate it is willing to play its part," he said.
The decision to repeat or extend the service would be made during the annual plan process later in the year.
"Council will need a strong argument to increase the $5000 grant it made to Surf Lifesaving New Zealand this year," Mr Tiller said.
Baylys Beach Society president Trish Harding said the educational factor had been invaluable and backed the formation of a lifesaving service.
"The ultimate is to start a club here and be self-sufficient with people we can call on."
- NORTHERN ADVOCATE
