Island’s surfing patrol changes

PATROL of one of Queensland’s most dangerous beaches has been taken away from Surf Life Saving Queensland.

A Department of Environment and Science spokeswoman said the government department had hired local company Category 5 Emergency Care to provide a lifeguard service at Green Island from October 1.

“Green Island is a unique destination for visiting tourists and, unlike other beaches, is particularly isolated,” she said.

“The level of service will not change under the new contract. The beach will be patrolled by two lifeguards 365 days a year, with capacity for additional staff during higher risk periods.

“The department has increased funding for lifeguard services at Green Island over the past five years and implemented other initiatives such as in-water rest stations, improved water safety signage in multiple languages, reducing beach access points and consistent messaging to direct visitors to the patrolled flagged area for in-water activities.”

Green Island was the most dangerous beach in Queensland for three years in a row from 2015 and last year was ranked second. When approached for comment, a SLSQ spokesman refused and directed the Cairns Post to the Department of Environment.

A worker on Green Island, who did not wish to be named, expressed concern that the supervision of the beach was being taken out of SLSQ hands.

A job advertisement on SEEK has called for applications from qualified lifeguards. “While providing a safe supervised swimming area to prevent in-water deaths is the primary purpose, lifeguards may also be required to assist with other first aid issues such as marine stings, heat/sun exposure, etc,” the ad read.

The positions would pay between $55,000-62,000 for those with a Bronze Medallion or a lifeguard with five years’ experience in a similar role.