Thieves have stolen from lifeguards in the Far North while they were rescuing a kayaker who was struggling in the water.
Chairman of Far North surf lifesaving club, David Ross, said two mobile phones were stolen from lifeguards at about midday on Sunday when they headed out with an IRB to assist the kayaker.
"This is the first time anything like this has occurred but it only takes a few people to ruin it for everyone," Mr Ross said.
"The lifeguards are there to keep the beaches safe and shouldn't have to worry about having their personal items being stolen. Items such as personal phones are sometimes the only way our young guards can keep in contact with family and friends while working away from home over the summer.
"We urge people to think about the implications this has on the lifeguards who patrol the beaches, day in and day out."
