When the waves breach the seawall and soak the park behind Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, even the most seasoned locals take notice.

Kiama SLSC executive member Dave Griffin, a long-time patrolling volunteer, said this week’s swell was the biggest he has ever seen.

“We had a few east coast lows in 2021 and we sandbagged the club then,” he said.

“But, back then I didn’t see waves breaking over the beach retaining wall and into the park like this is definitely the biggest I’ve seen.”

The swell was so strong that a wave burst through the lifeguard door at the front of the club. Locals recall the water reaching Manning Street in the 1970s, making this likely the biggest surf event in 40 years.

“Even when the beach is closed, we still have a responsibility to be here,” Griffin explained.

“During the week, that’s the council lifeguards, and on weekends it’s our Kiama Surf Club volunteers.

“Most of the time, it’s people unfamiliar with the ocean who get into trouble – they don’t realise how unpredictable and dangerous these conditions can be.

“Some are fishing off rocks where waves can suddenly surge much higher than expected. Others are chasing the perfect action shot, then find themselves in real danger.”

When that happens, it is not just the individuals who are in danger.

“In conditions like this, it’s not just your own safety on the line,” he said.

“Lifeguards and lifesavers are here to help people stay safe – not to put themselves in danger rescuing someone who ignored the warnings.”

Kiama Council Lifeguards and Kiama Surf Life Saving Club volunteers are here to help people stay safe – not to put themselves in danger rescuing someone who ignored the warnings.

Griffin has been part of the club’s executive for several years, running the nippers program and now working with cadets aged 14 to 18.

“Our team of volunteers all contribute in different ways. And you don’t have to be a great swimmer or even go in the water. There are so many ways to be part of the club.”

As the surf peaked just after high tide, Griffin was already helping the Kiama Council team with the next task.

The beach closed warning flag had been knocked over again and the sandbags were running low.

But the commitment from this volunteer crew remained as steady as the tide.

KSLSC gym and nippers storage was flooded when waves breached the door