A prominent partnership between Transport for NSW and Surf Life Saving NSW is successfully delivering the ‘Swim Between the Flags’ message to commuters on key bus routes and train stations around Sydney.


“We are very fortunate to have some wonderful, iconic beaches in Sydney however we have had a spike in coastal drownings throughout NSW over the summer period. It is vital that people keep safe and swim between those red and yellow flags,” said the Minister for Emergency Services, Troy Grant.



To support Surf Life Saving NSW, Transport for NSW has provided spaces on buses and video screens at selected train stations to display the ‘Swim Between the Flags’ and rip awareness campaigns.



The water safety push includes posters that feature the key surf safety and rip current awareness messages in nine different languages, such as traditional and simplified Chinese, Korean and Hindi, and reaches thousands of commuters each day in an attempt to ensure beachgoers enjoy their day out and return home safely.



The posters can be seen on more than 250 buses operating across popular coastal suburbs in Sydney until mid-March.



Video screens at major train and bus stations have also been giving commuters vital safety advice in key locations.



Since the campaign began in mid-January, it is estimated to have reached almost 1 million locals and visitors to Sydney.



Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said he’s delighted that the NSW Government is supporting this extremely worthwhile public information campaign.



“Many visitors to Sydney use public transport to get to the beach and to have these visible safety tips is incredibly valuable, especially for international tourists,” said Mr Pearce.



“As surf lifesavers, our primary concern is for everyone to enjoy their day at the beach safely, and any initiative that gets information to those that might not necessarily be familiar with our coastline is fantastic.”



 



Monday 19 February 2018