Media Release - Learn to 'Read' the Surf

January 3, 2012

Do you live in Warringah, make frequent trips to the beach, but do not know how to spot a rip? You are not alone. According to Dr Rip, most Australians can't spot a rip.

Get informed and learn how to 'read' the surf at the award-winning 'Science of the Surf' lecture, hosted by Warringah Council on Wednesday 18 January at Dee Why Beach.

Science of the Surf is presented by Dr Rob Brander*, aka Dr Rip, who explains in an engaging way what rip currents are, why they form, where they form and how to spot them.

He will also discuss dangerous and benign surf conditions, including plunging waves, surging waves and spilling waves.

Most drownings in the surf, and 90 per cent of rescues, are caused by rip currents, yet many beach users don't know what a rip is or how to spot one.

"If you can't identify a rip or other dangerous surf conditions, I encourage you to come to the Science of the Surf lecture – this one-hour lecture might just save someone's life," said Warringah Mayor Michael Regan.

At the end of the lecture biodegradable purple dye will be released into a rip to illustrate just how quickly they flow – rips can move faster than Grant Hackett can swim!

Science of the Surf (Summerama Event)

Wednesday 18 January

11am – 12noon

Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club

Adults and children welcome (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)

Entry free

Rips Behaving Badly

In Australia…

17,500 rips operate at any given time
Rips are a factor in approx. 90% of surf rescues
An estimated 60-70% of beach related coastal drowning deaths involve rips
In summer, on average someone drowns in a rip every 2-3 days
Each year rips account for more fatalities than bushfires, flooding, cyclones, sharks and tsunamis combined