Helping keep beaches safe for our communities
We are a long-term major partner of Surf Life Saving, supporting the six branches and 60 clubs that stretch along the east coast of New South Wales, from the Central Coast all the way to the Queensland border. In 2021, our partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving hit an incredible 40 year milestone!
Our partnerships with Surf Life Saving help provide thousands of junior and volunteer lifesavers with the equipment and training they need to keep more than 1 million people safe at our beaches each year. We also support the recruitment, training and retention of junior surf lifesavers, helping to nurture and ensure a pipeline of volunteers into the future.
So as thousands of surf life saving volunteers give their time to keep our beaches safe, please remember to swim between the flags and stop to say ‘thanks’ for the great work they do.
Safety messages
While spending time at the beach is a way of life for many Australians, it’s important to remember the ocean is unpredictable.
By taking the following simple safety measures, you can help to keep you and your family safe this summer:
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags
- Read and obey safety signs on the beach
- Avoid swimming alone – opt to swim with a friend or family member if you can
- Never enter the water if you have been drinking alcohol or are under the influence of drugs
- Wear sunscreen, seek shade and stay hydrated
- If you need help, stay calm and raise your hand high above your head
- Ask a lifeguard or lifesaver for safety advice
- For boat skippers and rockfishers - always check the local forecast, seek advice from NSW Maritime and wear a lifejacket before setting out for the day
Here is some more information on how to keep safe at the beach.
Community education
Community education is important to ensure future generations and new visitors to our beaches understand how to stay safe on the beach and in the surf.
Some of our Surf Life Saving branches deliver Community Education programs, tailoring these programs to different audiences, including primary and secondary school groups, pre-schoolers, international visitors and special needs groups.
If you’re interested in hosting a Community Education Day, contact your local Surf Life Saving Branch.
Latest community news
First researchers announced for Newcastle Permanent accelerator program
Meet the first group of innovators selected for our Newcastle Permanent Innovation Accelerator Program.
Proudly supporting IRONMAN Australia
Newcastle Permanent was the proud Community Partner of the 2025 Ironman: Port Macquarie, held in May in one of Australia's most scenic coastal towns.
That’s a wrap for Cinema Under the Stars!
All good things come to an end, including this year’s much-loved Cinema under the Stars season.
Hunter junior surf lifesavers shine at 2025 Newcastle Permanent Branch Championships
The best of the best junior surf lifesavers from across the Hunter hit the sand and surf on Sunday, 2 February for the highly anticipated 2025 Newcastle Permanent Branch Championships.