On the 14th of January 2023, Abalone lovers flocked to Bennion Beach, North of Trigg, to take advantage of the one hour window allowed for abalone fishing. Fishing for abalone is considered “Inherently dangerous” with six fatalities occurring since 2012, in the space of 34 hours of delving for the sought after delicacy.
Whilst there have been recommendations on behaviors and steps to take, to ensure individual safety, it is also critical that there are water safety experts and lifeguards present to help minimize the risks some may face, whilst also be available to rescue and assist in times of need.
Trigg Island SLSC on this day, had 15 members volunteer to ensure the safety of the community, and deployed IRB’s (Inflatable Rescue Boats) and jet skis, as well as have land based patrol to support those in the water.
The team of 13 was headed by life member Justin Meldrum, and John Rhatigan. We’d like to thank the following members for their time, which they volunteered and committed to ensure the safety of others.
- Mark Armstrong
- Tahl Collinson
- Kaden Davies
- Kevin Edwards
- Sarah Moar
- Mark Mulvay
- Kirk Phillips
- David Philpott
- Craig Piercy
- Kimber Radford
- Nicole Radford
- Sajih Samia
- Adam Yeo
Our Director of Lifesaving – Chris Davies – was also present on the day, overseeing operations and snapping a few photos, seen below.
Thank you to everyone for your efforts, no rescues were undertaken on the day, which is a huge win. Trigg Island SLSC are appreciative of our community putting in such efforts for others, and proud that our values are displayed in events like this.
A special mention should also be given to the Swanbourne Nedlands SLSC, whom also supported our club on this day, a demonstration that surf lifesaving is a movement, in which multiple organisations come together for, to see growth in each other.
