Albury is spoiled for choice when it comes to places to cool off with inland waterways such as rivers, creeks, lakes, and dams all popular amongst locals over the warmer months.
These environments present a higher risk of drowning due to a variety of factors including changeable conditions, remoteness, lack of supervision and alcohol. Sadly, the Murray River is the number one river drowning blackspot in Australia with over 70 unintentional fatal drownings since 2002.
Royal Lifesaving NSW is the leader in drowning prevention and water safety education in NSW. They exist to help all Australians enjoy the water safely through drowning prevention leadership, education and action.
“Few people appreciate just how dangerous our inland waterways can be, particularly those who lack swimming skills and knowledge of local water conditions” — Justin Scarr, CEO Royal Life Saving Australia
Swimming or engaging in recreational activities in rivers, lakes and other inland waterways in the Albury Local Government Area involves inherent risk, including risk of injury or death.
Risks and hazards may not be visible, such as strong currents, undertows, water-depth, uneven surfaces or submerged objects, and conditions may change quickly.
Our inland waterways are not patrolled by lifeguards. Should you swim or engage in recreational activities in inland waterways, you do so at your own risk. Please know your limits and take responsibility for your safety.
Visit the Royal Life Saving NSW website to find out more about how to stay safe around the water.
Our Strategy
We’ve developed an Inland Waterways Drowning Prevention Strategy (IWDPS) to guide our approach in relation to activities and projects relating to drowning prevention across the Albury Local Government Area and work toward achieving our vision of a community free from drowning.
Our Strategy adopts Royal Life Saving’s Safe System Approach to Drowning Prevention which is underpinned by the following principles:
- Deaths and serious injuries are unacceptable
- People are human and sometimes make mistakes – a simple mistake shouldn’t cost anyone their life.
- People are vulnerable.
- Aquatic environments and activities should be designed to minimise the likelihood or severity of an aquatic incident if an accident happens.
- Drowning prevention is a shared responsibility – everyone needs to make safe decisions in, on and around the water to prioritise safety.
Still looking to cool off?
Albury Wodonga is home to some great swim centres that are patrolled by lifeguards.
Visit Albury Wodonga Aquatic Facilities – A Hub for Aquatics, Fitness & Sports to find a centre near you.
