SURF Life Saving NSW says it will continue to work with the state government and rock fishing groups to find effective ways to reduce drownings due to rock fishing.

The Deputy Coroner handed down recommendationsinto the Inquest into rock fishing drownings in Newcastle today, saying drowning due to rock fishing continues to be an issue in NSW and highlighting the need for a holistic, state-wide approach to reduce the death toll.

The Inquest findings have recommended stakeholders work together to examine possible ways to improve safety, including better signage, use of floatation devices such as lifejackets and fixed angel rings and a continued focus on education.

The Inquest was established to examine the high incidence of drownings due to rock fishing over the last few years, including the deaths of five people in one incident at Catherine Hill Bay in early 2010.

Surf Life Saving statistics consistently highlight rock fishing as the second highest cause of coastal drowning in NSW.

SLS NSW Lifesaving Manager, Dean Storey says the organisation will examine the findings and will work together with other stakeholders to address the drowning toll.

“We’ve been doing what we can in our capacity as the state’s primary water safety and rescue organisation, but a state-wide approach which results in a complete strategy is long overdue,” said Storey.