Your guide to what happened across the Kiama LGA on the weekend of 19-21 January 2024

Two mass rescues at Surf Beach during heatwave

Sunday 21 January 2024 was one of the most challenging days the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club has faced, with a total of nine rescues in the same day, including two mass rescues.

Kiama SLSC Club Captain Tash Osmond-Dreyer told The Bugle that the very hot weather which peaked over 35 degrees Celsius in Kiama, lured about 400 visitors to Surf Beach, the main beach in Kiama, near Coronation Park.

The first mass rescue involved five swimmers, with SLSC already tactically in the water, who were then swiftly supported by additional team members deploying tubes and the further deployment of the inflatable rescue boat to rescue one individual who was struggling.

You can watch the textbook rescue here on video from the Kiama SLSC Facebook Page:

Mass rescue video Kiama Surf Beach

The second mass rescue was later in the day and, according to Club Captain Tash, mirrored the first. 

One swimmer in the second group required first aid assistance after getting stuck and experiencing dizziness and breathlessness. 

Tash said a number of beach goers thanked them for their efforts, which balanced the more difficult beachgoers, in such a large crowd, who disregarded and were disrespectful to the lifesavers who experienced unpleasant interactions with those reluctant to adhere to safety guidelines.

“After a grueling 7.5-hour shift, exhaustion prevailed, but the commitment of our team did not waver,” Tash said.

“I am super grateful for all our volunteers on patrol. It means so much for me that people give up their time to serve the community, and keep others safe. They are all amazing.”

Jamberoo lookout accident

A two-car accident occurred at the junction of Jamberoo Mountain Road and the Jamberoo Lookout around 10am Saturday near Budderoo National Park.

Both Jamberoo and Albion Park Rural Fire Service attended, as well as police and ambulance units. 

One person was taken to hospital after being assisted from the car, but was conscious. It is believed a medical episode occurred where the driver lost consciousness. The patient was transported to hospital but no details of age, sex or condition have been released.