Local lifeguards help keep Tea Gardens pool open Myall Coast Myall Coast - popup ad Myall Coast News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - January 18, 2024 Local lifeguard Chris Lock keeps an eye on the pool water’s condition with various tests, while Di Perry and The Y’s Melissa Morgan run the entrance window. TIRELESS initiative from a few local heroes has helped keep the Tea Gardens Pool open, making the summer heat that much more bearable for many on the Myall Coast. Eight locals (and one from Newcastle) answered the call as of late last year, many hailing from the Myall Masters Swimming Club – and a fair few coming out of retirement to do so. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au “The local lifeguards now constitute the majority of lifeguards on duty and without them The Y would be struggling to have the pool open,” Leon Bobako, President of the Myall Masters, told NOTA. Myall Masters Vice-President Linda Stubbs explained, “After COVID, The Y took over management of the pool, there were lifeguards and it ran well, but those people eventually moved on, and it became more and more difficult to fill the roles. “The Y has a minimum two-lifeguard policy, and throughout 2023, there were several instances of the pool closing due to staffing problems, often occurring on the weekends, so the Myall Masters, who also swim here, were asked if we had any interest. “Chris Lock got The Y funding for training, which we were then able to do at the pool itself last year.” According to Mr Lock, the swimmers have diligently completed various training modules, including “CPR, Fire Warden training, and competencies in eight essential units from the Royal Lifesaving New South Wales, covering crucial skills such as providing first aid, emergency care, administering oxygen in emergencies, and operating an automated external defibrillator (AED)”. “Some days we have been super busy, and have remained busy right up until closing time at 7pm,” Ms Stubbs added, commenting on the clear and obvious need to keep this local community resource open and available. Among the lifeguards are Warren and Jane Savill, who also run critical ‘Learn to Swim’ lessons at the Tea Gardens Pool, operating Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The Savills cater to all ages, from babies to adults, and also run squads and school carnival training. By Thomas O’KEEFE Locals Warren Savill and Linda Stubbs are ready to supervise and help keep the pool safe and open.
