Despite the best efforts of volunteer surf lifesavers and paramedics, a well-respected member of Ocean Beach SLSC was unable to be revived after suffering what appears to be a medical emergency while participating in a social swim last Sunday.
It’s been a challenging week for the tight-knit Ocean Beach club on the NSW Central Coast as they come to terms with the loss of David Isaacs, as tributes continue to flow from across the community for the popular 49-year-old.
In addition to being a Nipper parent, winter swimming club member and surf lifesaver, David was heavily involved at The Entrance Water Polo club.
During his time there he wore multiple hats serving as president, coach, mentor to juniors, as well as being the club’s current media manager. He was held in such high esteem at “The Mighty Ducks” that he was also made a life member.
The father of three was participating in a weekly social swim on Sunday when he got into difficulty at around 8.30am.
After being pulled unconscious from the water, the volunteer surf lifesavers who were preparing for the morning patrol acted immediately in a valiant attempt to save Mr Isaacs’ life.
This prompt response meant that CPR treatment commenced straight away.
Despite the trauma of having to respond to an incident involving one of their own, the training and professionalism of the attending lifesavers kicked in and while initial treatment was administered, the State Operations Centre was advised of the incident and police and paramedics alerted.
On arrival, paramedics took over treatment, but unfortunately all efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
Ocean Beach SLSC Director of Lifesaving Katie Dixon said the lifesavers involved did a fantastic job under extremely difficult circumstances.
“This medical situation was an extremely challenging one for our members, who never gave up and reacted exactly the way their training has prepared them to.
“Unfortunately it wasn’t the outcome we wanted but the paramedics and staff at the hospital also praised the efforts of the lifesavers involved and they can take pride in the fact that their professionalism and dedication meant he had a chance,” she said.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said this incident highlights the very best of lifesaving.
“The lifesavers who responded did a wonderful job in what were extraordinary circumstances. It was incredibly difficult to be called upon to treat a fellow club member yet they were able to perform their duties as first responders despite the emotion of the situation,” Mr Pearce said.
“As a lifesaving community we stand with our own and we will continue to offer our support to the Ocean Beach club and its members.
“On behalf of Surf Life Saving NSW I would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of friends of Mr Isaacs, and it clear from the tributes that have been flowing in recent days that he was a man who was truly loved and respected within his community,” he concluded.
Friday 27 October 2017