Borrow – Wear – Return

Surf Life Saving NSW, in partnership with Randwick City Council and funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust, has launched a new Lifejacket Library trial aimed at increasing community safety in one of New South Wales’ most popular and high‑risk rock fishing areas. Our Lifejacket Library, now available at the Des Renford Leisure Centre (DRLC) in Maroubra, provides at-risk communities with free access to lifejackets that can be borrowed for the day by anyone heading out to rock fish. This service ensures that adults participating in rock fishing have access to a lifejacket certified and approved for rock fishing in Australia. Why use it? A lifejacket is only effective when it’s worn and correctly fitted, not carried.

Supported by Randwick City Council

How it works

  • Borrow – Visit the Des Renford Leisure Centre (DRLC) and advise reception staff that you would like to borrow a lifejacket for rock fishing. Check in by scanning the QR code located on the Lifejacket Library station poster and completing the digital form.
  • Fit – Scan the QR code on the Lifejacket Library station poster to view the demonstration video on how to correctly fit a lifejacket. Select the appropriate size and ensure the jacket fits snugly and comfortably.
  • Return – Return the lifejacket, clean and dry, to the Des Renford Leisure Centre (DRLC) before the end of business hours.

Other Rock Fishing Safety Programs

Coastal Safety Workshop

Full-day event at NSW fishing spots with expert talks, safety demos, lifejacket fittings, and a free lunch

In-Community Safety Workshop

Morning sessions in diverse Sydney communities covering fishing safety, gear, and coastal awareness

TAFE / Adult Education Session

45-60 min interactive sessions at NSW TAFE campuses, ideal for new migrants

Timmy Gone Fishing

45-min fun, interactive water safety lessons for young children

Community Education Stalls

Pop-up stalls at events offering safety advice and take-home resources

Safety Resource Campaigns

Awareness drive through tackle shops, visitor centers, and community forums with safety materials.

Rock Fishing Safety Videos

These videos have been filmed with the help of our amazing Surf Life Saving Lifesavers and members. These videos focus on key rock fishing safety messaging and are subtitled in English.

Rock Fishing Safety Infographic

Crafted by SLSNSW this infographic provides a visually illustrative and simple way to promote key rock fishing safety messages and activities.

Rock Fishing Safety Fact Sheets

Our rock fishing safety fact sheets have been created for our diverse multilingual communities with the support of our Multicultural Advisory group and with the help of the communities they are created for.

Rock Fishing Safety

Rock fishing is a popular sport for many but it can be dangerous. Use this page to learn about how you can keep yourself, friends and family safe.

Rock Fishing Safety Tips

Knowing how to stay safe and what to look out for while rock fishing can help you to stay safe and ensure an enjoyable rock fishing experience with your friends and family.

Amr’s Story

Originally from Egypt, Amr is an avid rock fisher keen to share his experiences to help others stay safe on the coast.

Yoni’s Story

Yoni's story With a serious passion for rock fishing and as a highly trained Surf Lifesaver, Yoni has many stories to share.

Rock Fishing Safety Quizzes

These quizzes have been developed by SLSNSW to support the learning of our in language content. The quizzes are a fun and informative way to learn and consolidate knowledge and are available in multiple languages.