An initiative to improve emergency response after serious incidents such as shark attacks has been extended, with the Shire of Waroona becoming the first regional council to adopt the scheme.
The Beach Emergency Number (BEN) program has been rolled out by the State Government in partnership with Mandurah man Rick Gerring, whose brother Ben was tragically killed in a shark attack at Gearies Beach in Falcon in June 2016.
The initiative involves the placement of signs with unique codes along the coastline to help emergency services pinpoint exact locations when responding to serious incidents.
The City of Mandurah independently installed 81 BEN signs in honour of Mr Gerring in May 2017, with three signs now in place at Preston Beach.
Mr Gerring said the rollout of the signs was a positive measure in the ongoing debate over shark mitigation.
“Using the BEN signs, the first people on the scene can relay the beach reference number with confidence emergency services know the exact location, reducing critical time in attending the scene,” he said.
“With the signs being standard along our coastline, it will mean people will instantly recognise them in the unfortunate event of an incident occurring and relieving unnecessary stress trying to communicate with emergency services.
“Although nothing can ever bring my brother Ben back, knowing that the BEN signage will save many lives gives me some closure and a legacy that will never be forgotten.”
Murray-Wellington MP Robyn Clarke said more than 1000 BEN signs were being funded by the Government and she was pleased Preston Beach was among the first locations they had been installed.
“The installation of these signs will make an immense difference in an emergency,” she said.
“Preston Beach is a popular tourist spot in the summer and I commend the Shire of Waroona for taking up this initiative to help keep locals and visitors safe.”
Shire of Waroona councillor Noel Dew said “something positive had been borne out of a terrible tragedy.”
“The Shire of Waroona has just over 16 kilometres of coastline under our watch,” he said.
“It is important to note that the beach here at Preston Beach is open to 4WD traffic, which is increasing substantially each year.
“As everyone would recognise, wherever you have vehicles you also have potential for serious accidents which in turn places further importance of having BEN signage in this area. In reality, a life could be saved.”
The McGowan Government has offered grants of up to $25,000 for eligible metropolitan councils, and up to $50,000 for eligible regional councils, to install the lifesaving signage.
Fisheries Minister Dave Kelly said response times were critical after serious incidents such as shark attacks.
“Time is critical in an emergency and could mean the difference between life and death,” he said.
“BEN signs will be vital for first responders to identify the quickest route to a precise location.
“I have spoken to emergency responders who have told me they have no doubt these signs will save lives.
“In the event of an emergency, the public can call triple zero and quote the BEN number with confidence that emergency services will reach the destination as quickly as possible.”
Gareth McKnight
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
Gareth McKnight is Mandurah Mail's editor.
