Large crowds are expected to flock to Queensland's beaches this Australia Day and surf lifesavers are imploring beachgoers to stay safe and swim between the red and yellow flags.

With a mostly sunny day predicted for the Wednesday public holiday, Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) Gold Coast lifesaving services coordinator Stuart Hogben expects a very busy day on the region’s beaches.

“Australia Day is traditionally one of the busiest patrol days for surf lifesavers and given the ongoing inclement weather we’ve been experiencing coupled with a mostly fine day predicted for Wednesday, we expect crowd numbers to be high,” he said.

“When the beaches are very crowded everyone needs to make a special effort to respect each other in the water.

“Even if there are large numbers between the red and yellow flags, we urge people to stay between them, because it’s the safest place to be.

Mr Hogben also warns of the dangers associated with alcohol and swimming.

“Australia Day is a day for celebration but we don’t want people to bring the party to the beach by mixing alcohol and a swim,” he said.

“Alcohol impairs your judgment and slows your reflexes – not a good combination when swimming in the surf. Please be mindful of not putting yourself in a dangerous situation and remember that your risky behaviour can put others’ safety at risk.”

The weekend following Australia Day marks the final weekend of extended patrol hours across south-east Queensland.

As a rule, from 31 January to 3 May, most Gold Coast beaches will be patrolled by surf lifesavers from 8am-5pm on weekends and public holidays, compared to 7am-6pm during the summer holiday period.

Gold Coast City Council Lifeguards will remain on patrol Monday to Friday.

Mr Hogben said despite the peak summer patrol season coming to an end following this weekend, beachgoers still need to be careful in the water.

He encouraged beach visitors to follow these simple guidelines to enjoy an incident-free day at the beach. Swim between the red and yellow flags

 - Look for and follow the advice of safety signs

 - Ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for some good advice

 - Swim with a friend

 - Stick your hand up for help

 - Don’t swim at night or after drinking alcohol

For further information, please contact:

Stuart Hogben
SLSQ Gold Coast Lifesaving Services Coordinator
0403 577 643

Kate Seccombe
SLSQ Media and Communication Executive                      

Cameron Ward
SLSQ Media and Communications Coordinator          

On call mobile:  0419 201 246