The sun-kissed shores of Queensland are a haven for beachgoers, with their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. However, the idyllic scene at one popular Queensland beach took a turn for the alarming when lifeguards revealed a surprising and potentially deadly inhabitant lurking beneath the waves.


Queensland lifesavers showcased the minuscule yet highly venomous Irukandji jellyfish. The footage, which has since gone viral, depicts the tiny creature swimming over a $2 coin, providing a stark visual comparison that emphasises its diminutive size.


The Australian Lifeguard Service in North Queensland posted footage of the Irukandji jellyfish online. 'This is what we mean when we say Irukandji really are THAT small!' The post serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can exist even in the most picturesque of settings.


Cairns senior lifeguard Jon Murray spoke about the challenges of spotting these jellyfish in the water. 'In some of our huts, we have specimens in formaldehyde jars, and a lot of the feedback we get is, 'I knew they were small, but I just didn't know how small,'' he explained.

The Irukandji jellyfish, while tiny, packs a powerful punch. Its sting can cause severe pain, and in some cases, significant medical complications. Contrary to what some beachgoers might believe, the stinger nets installed at some Far North Queensland beaches are not designed to protect swimmers from these small jellyfish. 'The stinger nets themselves are made to stop the box jellyfish, a much bigger, much more lethal type of jellyfish,' Murray clarified. 'It cannot, and does not claim to stop the Irukandji.'

Given the potential risks, lifeguards advise swimmers, particularly those with cardiovascular conditions, to wear protective microsuits even when swimming within the confines of the nets. This advice comes despite researchers initially predicting a quieter stinger season due to ecosystem damage from floods caused by Cyclone Jasper. However, the season has been more active than anticipated, catching both beachgoers and researchers off guard.


The presence of Irukandji jellyfish is not always immediately apparent following a sting, as symptoms can take 20 to 40 minutes to manifest. Murray described the onset of symptoms as unmistakable once they begin. 'The first true sign of an Irukandji sting was usually a patient reporting they had a sore lower back,' he said. 'It's like having a cricket bat slam in your back over and over and over that just starts to spread throughout the body as the poisons hit the lymph nodes.'

When such symptoms are reported, lifeguards take swift action to escalate the situation and close the affected beach to protect the public. Swimmers are encouraged to stay informed about beach closures and to always swim between the flags for safety.

The discovery of the Irukandji jellyfish serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance while enjoying Australia's beautiful beaches. It's crucial to heed the advice of lifeguards and local authorities, who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all beachgoers.


For our members at the Seniors Discount Club, we urge you to stay updated on beach conditions, especially if you're planning a trip to the coast. Always check the latest reports on jellyfish activity and follow safety guidelines to ensure a pleasant and harm-free beach experience.
Have you ever encountered a jellyfish while swimming at the beach? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, and let's keep each other informed about staying safe in the water.