Australia’s beaches are iconic, drawing people from all walks of life. But this love for the ocean comes with risks, especially for migrants who may be unfamiliar with water safety. At Kiama, the surf lifesaving club is not only keeping people safe—it’s breaking down cultural barriers and building bridges.

“We see a lot of families from South Asia and Southeast Asia,” says Patrol Captain Ben George. “For many, it’s their first time at the beach, and they don’t always understand the dangers. We step in, explain where to swim, and sometimes even talk to the kids if the parents’ English isn’t strong.”

Understanding rip currents is a crucial part of staying safe, but recognising them can be challenging. Interactive resources like the How to Spot a Rip website have become vital tools in helping beachgoers identify dangers before stepping into the water. The website offers visual guides and practical tips, empowering everyone—whether locals or first-time beach visitors—to navigate the ocean more safely.

The challenges go beyond language. “Cultural norms play a role too,” explains Councillor Matt Brown. “We’ve had to rescue women wearing full clothing because they don’t want to swim in crowded areas, even if it’s dangerous. It’s a delicate balance of respect and safety.”

These experiences reflect broader trends. Research from the Royal Life Saving Society Australia highlights that migrants are at a higher risk of drowning due to limited swimming skills and unfamiliarity with water safety practices. The organisation notes that “multicultural communities in Australia are at greater risk of drowning due to cultural differences in swimming ability and water safety knowledge.”

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To address these challenges, the Kiama surf club is actively engaging with multicultural communities. One standout success is the growing participation of Muslim families. “It started with one family and snowballed,” says Ben. “Now we have kids in nippers and parents earning their bronze medallions.”

This approach mirrors initiatives elsewhere. Surf Life Saving Queensland’s “On the Same Wave” program has educated over 60,000 people from diverse backgrounds about beach safety, while in Victoria, a push to provide fully funded swimming lessons is helping vulnerable communities reduce the risk of drowning.

At Kiama, building connections is key. “We’re a nation surrounded by water,” says Matt. “The more people we can get swimming safely, the better. It’s not just about saving lives—it’s about making sure everyone feels they belong.”

For Ben and the team, lifesaving goes beyond the waves. It’s about prevention, education, and inclusion. “This club is a reflection of our town,” Ben adds. “People from all backgrounds coming together, learning, and looking out for each other. That’s what lifesaving is really about.”

On Kiama’s beaches, the flags don’t just represent safety—they represent a community united by the water.