Published 14 November 2022
A plan to tackle high drowning rates in Townsville and surrounds has been launched after extensive community consultation and engagement.
The Townsville and Surrounds Local Water Safety Strategy carefully balances a focus on the prevention of drowning with reinforcing the benefits of recreating in, on and around the water.
Key recommendations included upgrading signage at river swimming spots, getting all people boating to wear lifejackets, reducing alcohol-related drowning and funded holiday water safety programs for children,
Councillor Maurie Sores says it was “Great to see the commitment of local groups working together towards making Townsville water safe and identifying opportunities for the council to continue its commitment towards safety.”
Professor Richard Franklin of James Cook University said the strategy provides a blueprint for greater action in drowning prevention for the region.
“While there is a lot of great work going on in Townsville towards drowning prevention, more is needed,” said Professor Richard Franklin. “ the strategy helps provide a framework for greater alignment and coordination of the efforts of many towards ensuring a water safe Townsville.”
Professor Franklin, who has taken on a lead facilitation role in the Local Water Safety Group, invited organisations to implement the actions identified in the strategy as all efforts contribute to the vision of Townsville and Surrounds free from drowning.
RJ Houston, National Manager – Aquatics for Royal Life Saving Australia said the Townsville approach aligns strongly with the approach recommended by the Australian Water Safety Council in the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030.
“It is encouraging to see organisations and individuals at a local level contribute time and resources to the development of a local strategy to keep their community safe. We encourage all communities to develop a local water safety plan which reflects their community’s context.”
The Townsville Strategy is available at https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/Aquatic-Risk-and-Guidelines/inland-waterways/Local-Water-Safety-Planning/Townsville-QLD
