Woodside, Seaspray, Lakes Entrance and surf lifesaving culture enjoyed a major showcase in the latest episode of Backroads, aired on the ABC last Tuesday. The series sees journalist and presenter Heather Ewart visit remote towns and regions and meet their communities.
The 90 Mile Beach-focused episode saw lifesavers talk about the friendships they make as well as their skills that are seen favourably by employers. And of course, there’s the carnivals and the Nippers.
But they also talk about the dangers with the storm surges and high tides, with Woodside Beach Surf Life Saving Club president Travis Dillow telling the ABC the lifeguards have had to do up to 15 “saves” in one day because of flash rips.
Ms Ewart said the surf lifesaver was an Aussie icon.
“And nowhere more so in the little towns all along 90 Mile Beach,” she said.
Ms Ewart wanted to find out if the 90 Mile Beach “really was a community or just a string of towns”.
“Is there anything that connects them beyond the surf and the sand?”
There are plenty of local legends featured. How many famous places – or famous faces – can you spot in the episode?
Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien praised the episode.
“It was a lovely snapshot of our beach tying Woodside, Seaspray and Lakes Entrance together via their surf clubs and the Nippers program and carnivals,” he said.
“As Backroads does, it highlighted the sense of community in each of these locations and featured many familiar faces for those who frequent the beach!”
Watch the episode on ABC iView.
