Swimmers at Jones Beach now have the reassurance that lifesavers and lifeguards are now finding it easier to keep an eye on them, from a new state-of-the-art radio and patrol tower which became operational in January.

Last year the Kiama Downs Surf Life Saving Club received a grant from the NSW Government of just over $68,000 to go towards the tower.

“The old radio tower was good but didn’t let us see the water’s edge along the whole of the beach,” says Brett Schweitzer, President of KDSLSC.

“The new tower is much better for our observation as it’s closer to the beach and gives us that little bit more height so that we can see the whole stretch of beach.”

KDSLSC members showed the tower off to Gareth Ward PM and Councillors Rice, Larkins and Croxford on Australia Day

The tower is Australian-made by a company in Perth and cost around $90,000. It is located in the middle of Jones Beach, but is able to be dismantled and moved if needed.

While the Surf Club owns the tower, Kiama Council’s lifeguards will also use it over their season.