QLD: Lifesavers extend patrols over Easter

AAP General News (Australia)
04-01-1999
QLD: Lifesavers extend patrols over Easter

Lifesavers will be on patrol longer over Easter at Queensland's most popular beaches
following a big increase in drownings this summer.

During Easter -- the state's second-busiest beach session after Christmas -- lifesavers
will be on patrol from 7.30am to 5pm (AEST) on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.

Surf Life Saving Queensland services manager GEORGE HILL says the extended patrol hours are
a bid to combat the tragic rate of drownings.

Thirteen people have drowned off Queensland beaches since September, with the national
figure standing at 39.

Most of the Queensland drownings were at unpatrolled beaches and Mr HILL says by extending
the patrols people will have no excuse not to swim between the flags.

AAP RTV geb/sd/mcm/jn

KEYWORD: EASTER LIFESAVERS (BRISBANE)

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