Clarence Valley residents who enjoy visiting the beach or popular waterholes now have the peace of mind of increased safety after rescue tubes were installed in eight locations to help save lives.

The rollout of the rescue tubes over the past few months now sees the lifesaving devices available to the public 24 hours a day in case anyone needs to be saved from the water.

Housed in a specially designed aluminium box, the rescue tubes advise users to dial triple-0 to get help and to get a surfer’s assistance if possible.

People who are not strong swimmers are not advised to use the rescue tube and advised not to go in the water.

Rescue tubes, made with a high-quality canvas and rope, and stainless-steel clip to withstand corrosion are designed to meet the latest standards in Surf Life Saving equipment, flexibility, buoyancy and sturdiness, and come with a rope and lanyard attached.

The rescue tube box contains instructions on how to use the device, including “Place strap over head and one shoulder, pull rescue tube behind you as you swim, use fins if available.”

“When approaching the patient, keep clear and push towards them. Instruct then to hold on and remain calm.

“Hold onto tube with patient, RAISE ONE ARM and wait for help or swim across current towards broken waves and/or shore.”

When council announced the installation of the rescue tubes on social media, several Iluka residents complained that their town had again been forgotten.

A Clarence Valley Council spokesperson said rescue tube locations were selected based on the outcomes of Appendix C – Public Rescue Equipment of Project Blueprint and community requests, with the requirement for being on Council managed lands.

“Iluka Breakwall already has Public Rescue Equipment, being an Australian National Sportfishing Association ANSA NSW installed and maintained Angel Ring,” the spokesperson said.

“Other Iluka coastal locations identified are on or adjacent NPWS managed land, not Council managed lands.”

Rescue tubes complement existing Angel Rings, of which there are more than 130 installed along the NSW Coast at fishing locations, and to boost safety around breakwalls including at Yamba and Iluka.

The installation of the rescue tubes at locations around the Clarence Valley also complement rescue tubes installed by neighbouring councils at Coffs Harbour and Ballina.

Rescue tubes are located in the Clarence Valley at: Turners Beach, Yamba; Main Beach, Yamba; Lovers Point, Yamba; Pippi Beach, Yamba; Angourie Blue and Green pools; Brooms Head Main Beach (north); Wooli Main Beach; Wooli breakwall.  

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 29 May 2024.