The Douglas region has some of the most pristine beaches in Queensland, and our tropical beaches are a popular destination for individuals and groups all year round.
A swimming enclosure located at Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas is in the water to provide safer swimming conditions during the dangerous marine stinger season typically from November to May (subject to seasonal variability). Council provides lifeguard services on this beach at certain times. Swim safe and only swim at beaches patrolled by a lifeguard.
Lifeguard services
North Queensland’s has some iconic beaches which are famous all over the world! They attract millions of 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: 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
Swim safe during annual stinger season
Stinger season generally runs from November to May. The stinger resistant swimming enclosures at local beaches give a high degree of protection against Box Jellyfish (but are not 100 percent ‘stinger proof’).
Beaches may be closed when stingers are present. Closures remain in place until weather patterns change and drive stingers away from the coastline. Always heed lifesavers’ warnings and do not swim when beaches are closed.
Even when beaches are open, you can reduce your exposure to potential stings – wear protective clothing (wetsuit or full-body lycra suit) and enter the water slowly as stingers will often swim away, given the chance.
Freewheeler Beach Wheelchair
Lifeguard Hut, Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas
Please see the life guards on Four Mile Beach to collect the Freewheeler Beach Wheelchair. There is no cost to hire the Freewheeler, but you will need to sign an indemnity form.
Submit feedback: As part of ongoing evaluation of the use of the Freewheeler and improving the shire’s accessibility, we welcome any feedback regarding its use during your booking. Please submit feedback by contacting Council via email comdev@douglas.qld.gov.au or calling 4099 9444.
Boat ramps
The Queensland Government provides a number of boating facilities such as boat ramps, pontoons and jetties within the Douglas Shire Council area.
For a list of locations and facility types, including amenities, restrictions and site conditions, visit the Maritime Safety Queensland website and search “boating facilities”.
Nippers
thing! Nippers get to have fun, meet new friends, and develop skills for life, all while learning how to become a genuine surf lifesaver.
If you’re thinking of introducing your child to lifesaving, then Junior Activities (Nippers) is for you. Junior Activities is open to children from age five up to 13 years (age for a season is calculated as of midnight September 30). Every club in Queensland offers a Junior Activities program, all with various styles and sizes.
The program is focused on play, participation, and fun. It offers an educational pathway through the delivery of the Junior Development Resource Kit which is designed to ensure children have fun at the beach while participating in lessons that will develop them to become a knowledgeable participant in both lifesaving and sport. As they progress through the various age groups, nippers will undergo lessons in wading, running, swimming, board paddling and lifesaving skills including working towards resuscitation and first aid.
Contact your local club and have a chat today.
Become a Lifesaver
By becoming a surf lifesaver, you will gain lifelong skills and knowledge in surf awareness, rescue techniques, radio communication, and CPR to help patrol the beach and keep members of your community safe. Remember, you don’t have to be in the water to be a lifesaver – there are multiple roles that can be undertaken on the beach!
Once you become a surf lifesaver by gaining your Surf Rescue Certificate or Bronze Medallion, there are a huge range of opportunities available to you such as competing in surf sports, operating powercraft or training others.
Contact your local club and have a chat today.
Lifeguards
The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) Queensland has always been dedicated to saving lives and is committed to the provision of a proactive service on the beaches and within the community. ALS QLD operates throughout the Queensland coast from the Far North Queensland to South East Queensland region. ALS QLD provides a variety of employment opportunities for prospective lifeguards including full-time, seasonal, and casual employment.
Find out more here: https://lifeguards.com.au/qld/recruitment-information/
Community Awareness Presenters
Surf Life Saving Queensland is always seeking highly motivated, enthusiastic, and outgoing individuals to promote the importance of beach and water safety. Community Awareness has a wide variety of programs that cater to all ages. Our ideal candidates will be able to develop strong public speaking skills and comfortably engage with large groups. If you have a passion for education and enthusiasm for ensuring the community is safe at the beach then this role is a great fit for you.
Want to see what roles are available? Click here: https://www.lifesaving.com.au/get-involved/work-with-us
Volunteers and Supporters
All Surf Life Saving Clubs are charities and associations. They need a team of volunteers to help run and lead the club on behalf of the members. From the Club President to the Club Treasurer – we have a range of roles for all types of members.
Join the Support Crew
Surf Life Saving Clubs are always looking for people to help with special projects, quick tasks, and short-term volunteering. Roles may include the club photographer or historian, joining the gear and equipment team, assisting with fundraising, or becoming part of the BBQ crew!
Help is always appreciated, and we encourage you to bring your skills to the club, lend a hand and be part of the Surf Life Saving family. Contact your local club and have a chat today.
