With Surf Life Saving (SFS) Research as the client, the aim of this project is to develop new and innovative infrastructure/technological approaches which seek to communicate risk and educate the general public of what to do and how to stay safe when visiting an unpatrolled location. SFS Research is part of Surf Life Saving Australia and is at the forefront of Australian coastal research, with statistical analyses and research to guide and support development of education, technology, communications and operations aimed at reducing coastal drowning deaths and other fatalities. The research ultimately works towards the strategic objectives of saving lives, developing and supporting people, growing and sustaining the movement, and engaging community.
Unpatrolled locations represent one of the biggest challenges in water safety and drowning prevention efforts. Between 2013 and 2023, three in four unintentional coastal drowning deaths occurred more than one kilometre from a Surf Life Saving service, almost all at an unpatrolled location or outside of patrolled times. While the clear advice from water safety organisations, such as Surf Life Saving Australia, is to swim at patrolled locations, during patrolled times, it is well recognised that this is not always feasible or relevant, particularly for those engaging in offshore activities, or those living in regional and remote areas where access to services is more challenging.
