Surf Coast info

If you're a visitor to Victoria's surf coast towns like Lorne and Torquay during your end of school celebrations, then you'll find this local info a great help for making your stay safe and enjoyable.

The Surf Coast Shire has a localised website for activities, events and news for this area. Head to www.schooliesdownsouth.com.au (new window) to check it out!

Local laws

• Drinking or possession of alcohol in open containers in the street or public spaces is illegal
• Lighting open fires on the foreshore or camping grounds is prohibited
• Camping or sleeping in vehicles in the street or in public places is also an offence
• You can be fined $250 for offensive behaviour including urinating in public or offensive language
• Smoking is banned on beaches
• The foreshore area and beach is 'glass free'

Local tips

Even during schoolies events places like Lorne and Torquay can still be very quiet. Here are some important things to know:

• Visit www.schooliesdownsouth.com.au for detailed information on events and services
• Youth workers will be in key locations from 20th November - 5th December 2009 in Lorne and Torquay, so if you are having any problems, or just have a question to ask, these are good people to approach
• Most shops close early, so plan ahead with meals
• Pack warm clothes, as it can be very cold and sometimes wet, even in November & December
• All licensed venues are strict on ID
  
• Bring a torch, not all streets are brightly lit
• Mobile phone coverage can be limited in coastal areas
• Visit http://www.visitsurfcoast.com for detailed information about Lorne and Torquay and don't forget to check out the visitor info centres

Take responsibility

• Stick with your friends and look out for each other
• Call 000 if things get out of hand
• Take care of your belongings to avoid theft
• Be certain your driver is capable, sober and trustworthy
• Remember if it seems too good to be true - it probably is!
• Have some emergency cash with you at all times

Beach safety

Unknown beaches can be unpredictable, so:

• Swim between the flags
• Swim with your friends
• Keep in your depth
• Don't drink and swim
• Watch out for rips and large swells
• Don't swim at night time
• Always SLIP, SLOP, SLAP

Plan ahead

• Plan your trip - accommodation, money, transport, food, warm clothes, wet weather gear and people you will be with
• Let someone at home know where you are going and when you'll be back
• Pack some fun stuff - guitar, cards, footy, frisbee

Important contacts

Police, ambulance and fire
000

Poison Info line
13 11 26

Lifeline
13 11 14

Centre Against Sexual Assault
1800 806 292

Vline info (public transport)
13 61 96

24-hour drug and alcohol line
1800 888 236