Surf Lifeguard patrols are the core service we provide at Omaha Beach SLSC. Our volunteer surf lifeguards undertake their patrolling duties with the key objectives of reducing the risk of injury or potential drowning to all visitors and beachgoers at Omaha Beach.
With visitor numbers to the Omaha area expected to grow exponentially over the next few years, our surf lifeguards are continually adapting and improving their skills and knowledge to meet the specific needs of our community. As a Volunteer Surf Lifeguard at Omaha Beach SLSC you will be assigned a patrol team. Each patrol team is responsible for approximately one weekend patrol a month plus some public holidays. Generally about 14 days a season. You can choose between either Saturday or Sunday or do both weekend days, but it is important you communicate your availability to the Patrol Captain to ensure we can balance the cover over both days throughout the season.
Communication is the key to running successful patrols and we have two main communication avenues that as a lifeguard you will be directed to; TeamReach and Facebook (private group). It is critical to join the Team Reach group of your patrol at least.
As a patrolling lifeguard there are endless opportunities to challenge yourself and have fun. Through training courses, training or competing in surf sports, to our Adventure paddles or IRB adventures around our coastline, you can make friends, have fun while growing your skills.
ALL lifeguards are required to undergo refresher training every year to ensure they can carry out lifesaving activities in a way that is safe for them, other members and the public. Omaha Beach runs an annual refresher day the Sunday before Labour weekend every season. We encourage lifeguards to attend as it often includes a ‘start of season’ Lifeguard briefing.
Patrolling Season.
Volunteer Surf Lifeguards are on duty weekends and public holidays at Omaha Beach from Labour weekend until Easter Monday.
Volunteer Surf Lifeguards are on duty weekends and public holidays at Tawharanui from Mid December until the weekend after Waitangi Day.
Safeswim is a website that offers live information on beaches across Aotearoa NZ, including Lifeguard Patrol hours, hazards, water conditions, tides and public facilities etc.
Click here to go straight to Safeswim https://www.safeswim.org.nz/
( Then search for the beach you require)
FAQs
How many days do Omaha patrol?
In 2024 = 56 days at Omaha.
We also have a small team of 3 or 4 experienced guards at Tawharanui from 2024. Patrolling 17 days
How many days do we have to patrol?
See the Patrol Policy at the bottom of this page.
How do we receive information from the club?
1)Install the TeamReach app on your phone and join your patrol group to start. Other groups of interest branch out from that.
Patrol groups are OmahaAlpha, OmahaBravo, OmahaCharlie, OmahaDelta
2)If on facebook join Omaha Clubbies
3)Make sure your email address and phone number with the club is current and one you monitor yourself.
What is “Surf Sports”?
Under the Lifesaving tab click on Surf Sport in the drop down menu to find out the benefits of Surf Sports. If you are interested in training or competing in Surf Sports join the TeamReach group Surf2021
How do I become an IRB driver?
You must be 16 years of age but check out the requirements here.
This is a very involved qualification and best you only start if you are committed.
I am interested in IRB racing as a driver, crewperson or patient
Join TeamReach group OmahaIRB-r
I am interested in qualifying as an IRB crewperson.
You can do this once you are a qualified lifeguard. One or two modules are run through the year.
Join TeamReach group OmahaCrew
