This page is sourced from the former Cairns City Council website. For more information, click here. Lifeguard Services
A qualified lifeguard service officially patrols our main beaches, with all lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers fully trained in first aid and in the treatment of marine stings from Dangerous Marine Stingers which migrate to our waters in the warmer months (typically November to May though times vary from year to year). Lifeguards also have direct contact with the Ambulance and State Emergency Service (SES) in the event of a medical emergency.
The lifeguards also supervise the stinger-resistant enclosure systems at patrolled mainland beaches. The stinger nets are designed to minimise the threat from box jelly fish (Chironex fleckeri). Up to date information on beach conditions can be obtained by contacting Surf Life Saving Queensland's Far North Queensland Supervisor, on telephone 0403 577 649.
In the event of all marine stings where a lifeguard is not present, get out of the water and apply liberal amounts of vinegar, which can be found on all main beaches. Monitor the patient's breathing and send for urgent medical attention.
Swimmers are advised to stay on the patrolled beaches, swim between the flags and to avoid swimming in saltwater creeks or tidal rivers, as estuarine crocodiles pose a very real and dangerous threat.
Lifeguards patrol beaches at the following times: