RECKLESS SWIMMERS

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 31, 7 February 1933, Page 9

RECKLESS SWIMMERS

SYDNEY BEACH PERILS.

SPLENDID RESCUE WORK,

(By a Special Correspondent.)

SYDNEY, February 2,

It appears almost useless to advise people not to go surfing when the sea is really rough, and not to go very far out at any time; but-last Thursday being Anniversary Day and a general holiday —a great many people had cause to remember these warnings, when it was rather too late. The waves broke heavily at Manly, Bondi and Bronte, and the life-savers had an exceptionally busy time. Throughout the day at Manly there were nearly 100 "saves"—that is, the life-saving squads were in action with belts and reels nearly 100 times. _ At one period in the afternoon six reels were being used on this beach simultaneously; and no doubt everyone of these "cases" would have ended in a tragic fatality if the life-savers had not been there. At Bronte there were 31 "saves," two, men being responsible for the rescue of eight surfers between them. At Bondi conditions were even worse. Early in the afternoon, six surfers were being dragged from danger at one time by different beltmen. There were between 40 and 50 saves . during the day,, and at one moment, _ matters were so serious that the beach inspector ordered everybody out of the water, so as to get things straightened out a little. Quite apart from the sharks —which, like the poor, are always -with Us— surfing has its dangers, and' the worst of them is the foolish and reckless swimmer, who Tefuses to take advice,' and compels other people to risk their lives to rescue him. But surfing, as we know it, would be quite impossible if it were not for the splendid system of lifesaving which has been worked up to such a wonderful pitch, of efficiency on the "' *