I haven't heard anything.

Did a search on the Newcastle Council website, the only thing I found was a media release for a three day conference for Managing Beach Water Safety in a Changing Environment.

http://www.ncc.nsw.gov.au/news/current/mrdata.cfm?MID=1363&M=4&Y=2005

This is a little bit from the release "The continued population shift to coastal areas and trends in beach recreation like the use of jet skis and kite boards have impacted on the traditional role of the Lifeguard. Community expectation of knowledge on environmental issues and dealing with anti-social behaviour also add to today's Lifeguards duties".

Doesn't sound to bad for us, more looking at the role of our Lifeguards on our beaches.

HOPEFULLY!!!

Must have been a slow news day, the lifeguards were not inpressed with the radio giving this spin.

The "meeting" was a workshop as part of the Australian Professional Ocean Lifeguard Association (APOLA) national conference. AKSA has been working with APOLA to give the lifeguards useful background info about kitesurfers and how to assist in rescuing them if they are in difficulty or pose a risk to other beach/water users.

We demonstrated some equipment and explained landing launching and securing/carrying kites. Then we gave them some pointers for working out what sort of level kiters are at, to help them identify people who they need to keep an eye on. We also explained about self rescue and assisted rescue.

The Lifeguards were really positive about kiting, as they all love the ocean and want people out there enjoying it. They are our best chance to ensure continued access to beaches, as they are the ones that the councils consult if they get any complaints from the public. They want us to self regulate our beaches, this means locals welcoming newcomers and explaining any local conditions, accessing their level and helping them avoid causing incidents that may damage the reputation of kitesurfing.

If anyone wants to know more about the AKSA safety initiatives let me know.

Cheers
Gav