Twelve months ago, the future of the Coffs Harbour Council Beach Lifeguard service was uncertain.
A proposal to outsource the service raised serious concerns among lifeguards, community members, and the United Services Union (USU), prompting a determined campaign to protect a service long recognised as a vital part of the region’s public safety network.
Today, the picture could not be more different.
Following an extensive consultation process involving Council, lifeguards, the USU and the broader community, the decision was made to retain the beach lifeguard service in-house. One year on, that decision continues to deliver positive outcomes, with the service gaining momentum and entering an exciting new phase of growth and improvement.
The campaign to retain public delivery of the service demonstrated the power of workers and communities standing together. Lifeguards, backed by the USU, made a compelling case for preserving local knowledge, professional expertise and accountability within a publicly delivered model. Community support was strong, and decision-makers listened.
The result has been more than simply retaining the status quo.
Significant structural reforms are now nearing completion, setting the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable lifeguard service. These changes will create additional operational and full-time beach lifeguard positions, strengthening frontline capability, professionalism and ensuring greater continuity across the service.
Importantly, all parties have committed to a three-year Lifeguard Services Improvement Plan, which will guide the ongoing development of the service and deliver lasting benefits for the broader community. The plan will provide a framework for continuous improvement, supporting innovation, workforce development and enhanced service delivery while ensuring frontline lifeguards remain central to shaping the future of the service.
The recruitment process for the upcoming season is also nearing completion, providing certainty for workers and confidence for the community. As preparations continue, the new season will begin with something that was far from guaranteed a year ago: clarity, security and a shared commitment to success.
For lifeguards, it represents recognition of the professional role they play in protecting residents and visitors alike. For the community, it delivers confidence that public safety remains in the hands of experienced local professionals who know the beaches, understand local conditions and are committed to serving the public interest.
What began as a campaign to protect jobs and public safety has evolved into a roadmap for a stronger and more resilient service.
As the next season approaches, there is a sense of optimism across the lifeguard service and the wider community. The future is brighter, the workforce is stronger, and the foundations are in place for continued improvement.
It is a fantastic result for lifeguards, for beachgoers and for the community as a whole.
Most importantly, this outcome serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when workers and their union, the USU, stand together, and communities unite behind quality public services.
