Coogee shark attack prompts review of earlier, expanded lifeguard patrols

Professional lifeguard patrols at Coogee Beach and other Randwick patrolled beaches could start earlier and receive additional staff under a review ordered after the 13 June 2026 shark attack at Coogee.

Randwick City Council will assess the operational capacity of its professional lifeguard services, taking into account beach visitation and usage patterns, emergency response requirements, the demands placed on lifeguards and the outcomes of an earlier Lifeguard Services Service Review referenced in the 2024-25 Operational Plan and Budget.

The review will examine the operational need, staffing implications and costs of providing additional lifeguards at Randwick Council beaches. It will also assess the feasibility, operational implications and costs of a trial of professional lifeguard patrols beginning at 6am.

A separate report will examine sight lines and surveillance requirements at all of Randwick’s patrolled beaches. Council noted that lifeguards need clear lines of sight across the beach to monitor hazards and activity in the water, and requested that the report identify potential improvements and budget requirements.

The decisions follow the attack at Coogee Beach, where Coogee local Leah Stewart was rescued by surf lifesaver Charlie Verco. Council later recognised Verco, who successfully defended his Moloka’i to O’ahu Paddleboard World Championship title in Hawaii for his fourth consecutive world championship and set a new world record.

The review is not limited to Coogee. It covers professional lifeguard capacity across Randwick Council beaches, including staffing, costs and emergency response. No change to patrol hours or additional staffing has been approved.

A briefing must be presented to the October 2026 Governance Advisory Committee. It will outline the review’s findings, available options, estimated costs, funding implications and recommendations to enhance public safety at Randwick beaches.