FOUR MILE BEACH, with its four kilometres of perfectly soft, fine white sand and crystal clear water lapping gently at the shore, seems very innocuous.
It is therefore surprising to learn that lifeguards on Douglas Shire’s signature beach responded to over 5,700 people in distress in the twelve months to June 2019.
Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said Four Mile Beach was one of Queensland’s most recognised beaches and undoubtedly one of the shire’s outstanding features, but was surprised at the number of swimmers who get into difficulty.
“It really drives home the importance of having a patrolled beach and the reason why Councillors were unanimous in their decision to continue financial support to Surf Life Saving Queensland to patrol Four Mile Beach.”
“Council has awarded a three year contract to Surf Life Saving Queensland.”
“It means we will continue to have a lifeguard on duty 365 days of the year and a second lifeguard on duty for all school holidays including Christmas and Easter,” Mayor Kerr said.
The Mayor added that while safety for all beach goers is the primary reason for Council funding the service – the benefits go further than this.
“A key drawcard to this region is being able to offer safe swimming all year round.”
”The service includes the all-important stinger nets which are dragged each day when in place from November to May, and Four Mile Beach is promoted as a patrolled beach on Surf Life Saving Queensland’s website.”
“It also supports the longevity of our local Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club whose volunteer members provide lifeguard duties on Sundays and Public Holidays,” Mayor Kerr said.
Rob Davidson, Surf Life Saving Queensland’s Regional Manager North Queensland said the organisation had been providing services to Douglas Shire Council for over three decades and appreciated Council’s ongoing support.
“We are pleased Douglas Shire Council has chosen to continue with our services which we are continually improving, not just in terms of training for our lifeguards, but also ensuring we have state-of-the-art equipment.”
“I can’t recommend Four Mile Beach highly enough – it’s a fabulous beach for swimming, but if you do visit, please be sure to swim between the flags!” Mr Davidson said.
