Lakes Entrance saw a coordinated lifesaving and emergency training exercise between Christmas and New Year, with Ambulance Victoria staff joining local Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance members to practice beach rescue scenarios alongside other regional surf clubs.
The exercise focused on improving collaboration between professional paramedics and volunteer surf lifesavers during simulated incidents, including ocean rescues, patient stabilisation and rapid transport to shore.
The drill provided a valuable opportunity for teams to refine communication, response times, and on-the-spot decision-making in realistic beach conditions.
Members from Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club led the operation, supported by volunteers from nearby coastal clubs, while Ambulance Victoria crews coordinated medical responses and ensured the safe transfer of “patients” during the scenarios.
The purpose of this training is to strengthen the partnership between surf lifesaving volunteers and professional paramedics. By practising together, the groups ensure that both teams are ready to respond efficiently and effectively to emergencies along our coastline.
The exercise also offered younger lifesavers a chance to observe professional techniques and gain hands-on experience in a controlled, educational environment.
Local residents and beachgoers were reminded that such training sessions are vital for community safety and preparedness, particularly during the busy summer period when beaches are at
their busiest.
These joint exercises demonstrate the ongoing commitment of both Ambulance Victoria and Surf Life Saving Victoria to keeping coastal communities safe and building stronger networks between emergency services and volunteers.
