SURF RESCUES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23175, 22 October 1938, Page 15

SURF RESCUES

GREAT WORK OP CLUBS TOTAL OF 141 LAST SEASON GOVERNMENT AID APPRECIATED Surf rescues reported to the New Zealand Surf Life-saving Association last season numbered 141, and these brought tlio total of rescues made by life-saving clubs sinco tlio formation of the association six years ago to 2150. This record is the subject of comment in the report to be presented at the association's annual meeting in Wellington to-night. The report states that the national value of the surf life-saving clubs is shown bv tho number of rescues made during tho season alone. They were carried out by 3D clubs with either reel and lino or without such equipment. Furthermore, a large number of persons received resuscitation or firstaid treatment. Tho spirit of selfrelianeo was the fundamental principle underlying tho work of a surf lifesaver. Much more bo done if the clubs wero afforded the opportunity of utilising their full strength in manpower by tho installation in all clubs of equipment sufficient for extending tho patrols to all tho patronised beaches of the Dominion.

Tho Government undoubtedly recognises tho valuo and work of the organisation. The Minister of Internal Affairs, tho Hon. W. E. Parry, is fully alive to the requirements of clubs, and has always given the most sympathetic hearing to requests for financial assistance. Appreciation is recorded of the substantial grant made by tho Government to tho association.

Mr. Parry was also interested in the question of tho general control and conduct of beaches. Tho association feels confident that in duo course surf life-saving clubs will be given a definite status as tho guardians of beaches, with full authority not only to patrol them, but also to decide the areas on beaches where swimmers and bathers may, in their own interests, be permitted to congregate.

The increase in the number of clubs during the season was gratifying. Aa clubs rendered a wide community service, an appeal is made in the report for donations from the public and from local bodies. In exceptional instances, local authorities did their best to help the clubs in their district.