Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine
“Drowning risk increases when older adults are by themselves and have pre-existing medical conditions,” Dr Lawes explained. “No one plans to get in trouble. But as we get older, our strength, mobility and breath control can change. Many incidents happen when people are alone, meaning there’s no one there to call for help. That’s why social connection and regular participation with others are key to reducing drowning risk.” The role of lifesavers and lifeguards Last season, surf lifesaving services completed more than 2.19 million preventative actions and performed over 8,200 rescues nationwide. In Queensland alone, volunteers contributed over 344,000 patrol hours, performing 2,355 rescues and 35,000 first aid treatments, providing more than $2.5 billion in community value. The data also shows that without lifesavers and lifeguards, there would have been an estimated 1,500 additional drowning deaths across the country last year. Those numbers represent the incredible impact of our members — every patrol, every preventative action, every rescue — and the ripple effect it has through communities. A collective reminder As we head into summer, these findings are more than just statistics — they’re stories of lives cut short, families changed forever, and moments where tragedy could have been prevented. For Queensland’s 9,000+ patrolling members, it’s also a reminder of why we do what we do. Whether it’s a rescue, a warning, or a friendly chat on the sand, every action we take contributes to safer beaches and stronger communities. Together, we can make sure that the record we break next year isn’t for lives lost — but for lives saved.
The 2025 National Coastal Safety Report, released by Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), revealed that 154 people lost their lives on the coast last year — the highest figure since national records began. Of those, Queensland accounted for 31 deaths, marking a 35% increase on the previous year. Every single one of these tragedies happened outside the red and yellow flags, outside patrol hours, or at unpatrolled beaches. It’s a devastating statistic that reinforces what every lifesaver knows too well: supervision saves lives. A concerning trend: older Australians at greater risk The report found that over half of all coastal drowning deaths (55%) involved people aged 55 and over, with one in four occurring among 60–69-year-olds. The findings highlight a growing risk group — older Australians recreating along the coast, often swimming, fishing, or walking alone. Surf Life Saving Queensland’s Gold Coast Regional Manager, Nathan Fife, said the results were deeply concerning. “In Queensland last year, we saw 31 drownings along our coastline — that’s a 35% increase on the previous year,” Nathan said. “One of the trends we’re seeing is older Australians aged 55+ drowning along our coastline. We’re also seeing an alarming number of people swimming outside the patrolled flags, outside patrol times and well away from the red and yellow.” Men remain overwhelmingly represented in drowning data, making up 87% of all coastal drowning deaths nationally. “We know males can be risk-takers, but we’re urging people not to take chances. Swim at patrolled beaches, during patrolled hours, and within the flags. It’s simple advice — but it’s life-saving,” Nathan said. The hidden factors: isolation and health SLSA National Research Manager, Dr Jaz Lawes, said older adults often face added risks when swimming or recreating alone.
A RECORD WE NEVER
WANTED TO BREAK: RISING COASTAL OLDER AUSTRALIANS MOST AT RISK IN DROWNINGS
Australia has recorded its highest-ever number of coastal drowning deaths — a sombre reminder of why our role in the red and yellow remains as vital as ever.
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