On the Cassowary Coast - Etty Bay, North Mission Beach and South Mission Beach are patrolled by local Surf Life Saving Queensland through out the year.
The Cassowary Coast has some iconic beaches which are famous all over the world! They attract local residents, interstate tourists and international guests alike. However, it’s important to understand the basic safety information to keep you and your family safe.
- Always swim at patrolled beaches and only between the red and yellow flags. You can check out your closest patrolled beach here: www.beachsafe.org.au
- Be aware of stinger season which runs November to May. Swim in marine stinger enclosures and wear your stinger suit!
- Observe the safety signs
- If you’re unsure about the conditions, ask a lifesaver or lifeguard before entering the water
- Swim with a friend where possible
- If you find yourself in trouble, put your hand up for help
- Always supervise young children in and around the water
Stinger Nets
Did you know that stinger nets across the region only protect you from box jelly fish stings? This is due to the size of nets and the small size of bluebottle and Irukandji jellyfish. Box jelly fish are typically sighted in our waters from about mid-November through to May.
You can minimise your risk of getting a nasty sting by always swimming in stinger nets where provided, wearing protective clothing, and not swimming when beaches are closed.
For the current status of beaches located in our region, please visit the Surf Life Saving website at: https://www.nqlifesaving.com.au/beach-reports-nq/
First Aid for Tropical Marine Stings
1. Call for medical help (ring 000).
2. Assess the patient and perform CPR if necessary.
3. Douse the sting site with vinegar as soon as possible. Vinegar inactivates the stinging cells, preventing them from injecting more venom.
4. Reassure the patient and keep calm until medical help arrives.
5. Wait at least 45 minutes before re-entering the water as symptoms of Irukandji syndrome can take a while to develop.
6. If in doubt, treat as Irukandji sting
