The Board of Surf Life Saving NSW has decided effective immediately, all patrols by volunteer surf lifesavers on NSW beaches will be cancelled for the remainder of the season.

The unprecedented decision was made to protect the safety and welfare of volunteer surf lifesavers from potential infection by the COVID-19 virus and to discourage large gatherings of people on popular beaches.

In place of beach patrols by surf lifesavers, enhanced Support Operations including jet skis and rescue boats will provide a roving presence, emergency callout teams will be on standby to response, complemented by surveillance patrols using drones.

It is hoped the decision to withdraw patrols will also support Government attempts to reduce contact between people to stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Although regular beach patrols are cancelled, emergency response callout teams will remain on duty and could be tasked by Emergency Services to assist anyone in trouble.

Remember that volunteer surf lifesavers will not be present on the beach as they usually are.

Members of the public are urged to think twice before heading to the beach.