Dive Into Summer
Summer holidays are here, and it's time to hit the beach or pool! Here on the Northern Rivers of NSW we have plenty of waterways to enjoy, but it's essential to think about safety first.
Water Safety Tips
Before you dive in, make sure you're aware of these essential water safety tips from Royal Life Saving Australia:
- Know your swimming abilities
- Always supervise children around water
- Avoid alcohol around water
- Wear a lifejacket when boating or fishing
- Avoid swimming alone
- Know the conditions before entering the water
- Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
If you're looking for rainy day activities for children during the school holidays, Royal Lifesaving Australia have lots of colouring pages and puzzles available to download
Visiting the area? Here are 10 unmissable things to do in the Byron Shire (locals-approved).
Plastic Pollution
Whilst enjoying the beautiful beaches and waterways of Australia, it's essential to remember the importance of taking your rubbish home. In particular, plastic bottles and bags can have a devastating impact on our oceans and marine life. When plastic bottles aren't disposed of properly, they can end up in the ocean, harming sea creatures and contributing to the staggering problem of plastic pollution.
Every on-line order as a positive impact
At Stewart's Menswear Mullumbimby, we're committed to making a positive impact on our planet. That's why we've partnered with GreenSpark to help reduce plastic waste in our oceans!
We donate a portion of every online sale towards rescuing plastic bottles from our oceans and restoring marine life through the planting of kelp. It's a small step, but together we can make a big difference!
Sustainable Swimwear with Zoggs
We are also proud to partner with suppliers who share our values. Zoggs is one such brand that is passionate about the Oceans and are making changes to protect our world for the future. Zoggs' Ecolast+ fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, with 6 bottles used per metre of fabric. Not only is Ecolast+ eco-friendly, but it is also 100% chlorine proof, ensuring your swimsuit withstands hours in the pool. Check out our blog post on chlorine-proof swimwear to learn more about Repreve and Zoggs' innovative products.
Sun Safety Reminders
While enjoying the water, it's easy to forget about sun safety. But protecting yourself from the harsh Australian sun is vital. The UV index in Australia is consistently high, even on cloudy days and in Winter. This means your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays which can lead to sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer. Did you know that skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia? Make sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with high SPF when heading outdoors.
For the best protection, use all five of Cancer Council's Sun Smart steps
The 5 S's for sun safety are:
- Slip on some protective clothing
- Slop on some sunscreen
- Slap on a hat
- Seek shade
- Slide on some sunglasses
By following these water safety tips, choosing sustainable swimwear, and prioritising sun safety, you'll be well on your way to a fun and safe summer. Happy swimming!
What should I pack for a Byron Shire holiday
- Swimwear + a spare pair
- Rashie or lightweight long-sleeve shirt (sun + surf protection)
- Hat + sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Sunscreen + lip balm with SPF
- Thongs or slides
For the hinterland and markets
- Light shirt (breathable bamboo/cotton/linen)
- Comfy shorts
- Sneakers/sandshoes for walking
- A light layer for evenings (it can cool down after sunset)
Good-to-have
- Reusable bag for markets plus beach clean-ups (remember to take your rubbish home)
- Insect repellent for dusk
- A dry bag or zip pouch for phone/keys
- A basic first-aid kit (band-aids, electrolytes)
Dive Into Summer FAQs
What are the most important water safety tips for summer?
Stick to your limits, supervise kids closely, avoid alcohol around water, and check conditions before you swim. Where possible, swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags.
Should I always swim at a patrolled beach?
If you’re at the ocean, patrolled beaches are the safest option, especially for visitors who don’t know local conditions. Swimming between the flags gives you the best chance of a safe, enjoyable swim.
What does “chlorine-proof” swimwear mean?
Chlorine-proof fabrics are designed to handle repeated pool use without breaking down as quickly as standard swim materials. If you swim laps or hit the pool often on holidays, it’s worth choosing chlorine-resistant options.
How do Stewart’s Menswear online orders help the planet?
Stewart's Menswear have partnered with GreenSpark and donate a portion of every online sale toward projects like rescuing plastic bottles from oceans and restoring marine life (including kelp planting). It’s a simple way customers can make their purchase count for more.
Do I really need sun protection on cloudy days?
Yep, UV can still be high even when it doesn’t feel hot. Australia’s UV index is consistently high, so hat, sunglasses and SPF are worth packing every time.
What are the “5 S’s” of sun safety?
Slip on protective clothing, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses. Using all five together gives the best protection.
Where can I shop for swimwear, hats and sun-safe extras locally?
If you’re in the Byron Shire, you can pop into Stewart’s Menswear in Mullumbimby for practical summer gear and friendly advice (or order online if you’re travelling).