There was a significant reduction in the number of drowning deaths around the Australian coastline during 2003-2004, with the biggest decrease occurring along the eastern Australian coastline, according to a new report from Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA).

The National Surf Safety Report, released to mark the official beginning of summer, found that 40 people drowned around the coast over the last 12 months, down from the five-year average of 58.

There was a significant reduction in the number of drowning deaths around the Australian coastline during 2003-2004, with the biggest decrease occurring along the eastern Australian coastline, according to a new report from Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA).

The National Surf Safety Report, released to mark the official beginning of summer, found that 40 people drowned around the coast over the last 12 months, down from the five-year average of 58.

SLSA CEO, Greg Nance, said there were a number of probable reasons for the reduction in coastal drowning deaths, including relatively calm conditions along the eastern Australian seaboard, as well as an increase in patrols and educational programs around the country.

“While the reduction in coastal drowning numbers is welcome, the families and friends of 40 people are no doubt still grieving over what were essentially preventable tragedies, Mr Nance said.

“Nevertheless, surf lifesavers around the country are today thanking the Australian public for their part in the overall reduction in coastal drowning deaths.

“Our message today however is that there is no room for complacency, as today marks the beginning of summer and the highest drowning risk period around the Australian coastline.

“Despite the efforts of surf lifesavers around the country, there is no substitute for personal responsibility, beginning with the most basic safety message ” swim between the flags’, Mr Nance said.

Key findings from the SLSA National Surf Safety Report are:

– Males continued to account for the most coastal drowning deaths, while people in the 30-39 years age group were also most at risk.

– Most coastal drowning victims lived between 10 and 50km from the coast, with people living less than 10km from the coast making up 43 per cent.

– Two international tourists drowned, similar to the previous year’s result.

– NSW and Queensland both recorded their lowest coastal drowning numbers in five years, the rate in South Australia decreased by half and in the Northern Territory there were no coastal drowning deaths recorded. However Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania all saw an increase in coastal drowning.

– Summertime weekends, particularly during holidays, were the highest risk period for coastal drowning.

– Most coastal drowning deaths occurred when the person was swimming or wading, riding a surf craft or rock fishing and once again, no coastal drowning deaths occurred between the flags.

Mr Nance said SLSA continued to work towards its goal of zero preventable drowning through the introduction of the new Total Service Plan focusing on four key areas: Education, Prevention, Services and Youth.