Michelle Landry (Capricornia, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Last financial year, almost one quarter of drownings in Australia occurred at the beach. Today I recognise the outstanding volunteer work of Yeppoon surf lifesavers on the Capricorn Coast. Earlier this year, in conjunction with the Wide Bay Capricorn Branch of Surf Life Saving Queensland, the Yeppoon club marked the end of the surf patrol season by holding a memorial service to reflect on those who have died in the surf.

During the season, club members performed over 3,600 hours on surf patrols. The volunteers were able to take 1,000 preventative actions that helped to save lives and performed about 50 first-aid treatments. Sadly, in Queensland at least six lives were lost to beach drownings. During the ceremony, Yeppoon surf lifesavers held one minute's silence while a wreath was laid in the ocean. At the same time, the club's rowing team held the oars into the sky, which is a surf lifesaver's mark of respect. On behalf of the House, I wish to acknowledge our appreciation for the good work carried on by all lifesavers on Australian beaches.

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