Canadian lifeguard helps out at Austi Beach

Richard MacCauley (standing right) gets a few local tips from Austinmer lifeguards. PHOTOS: Warren & Diana Ackary

WOLLONGONG’S lifeguards have an international addition to their summer ranks.

Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service’s Richard MacCauley has joined Wollongong City Council’s 75-strong team for six weeks as part of the annual lifeguard exchange program.

Richard, 22, has swapped his home beach in Lawrencetown, Canada, for the surf and sands of Austinmer Beach. The exchange program between Council and the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service has been in place for more than 20 years.

“This program provides the lifeguards with the opportunity to learn new techniques and skills in a different environment, while also enhancing the strong relationship we have between the two services,” Wollongong City Council’s Recreation Services Manager Jason Foye said.

“Our lifeguards get the chance to work on Nova Scotia’s lakes, while the Canadian recruit gets a taste of our often heavy surf conditions.”

Richard has been looking after swimmers on Austinmer beach since December 22. So far he has really enjoyed the challenge and the different conditions.

Richard MacCauley at Austinmer Beach

“We’re lucky to get water temperatures pushing 20 degrees at home in the peak of summer, so it’s nice not to have to wear a wetsuit in the water,” he said.

“I’ve always wanted to see Australia, and this is a great opportunity to escape Nova Scotia’s cold winter and come Down Under. Plus, I get to develop my skills as a lifeguard.”

One new experience Richard could have done without are bluebottles. Since reporting for duty, he has been stung and is now well-versed in the best way to treat them which is to wash the stingers off with fresh, cold water and then apply ice.

Richard is with Council until the end of January. He will then take a month to travel before heading home.