In February 2026, lifesavers from the Society of Lifesaving (SOL) swapped lecture theatres for the shoreline, travelling north to support patrols at Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club and Moore Park Surf Life Saving Club while connecting with local volunteers both on and off the beach.
The visit forms part of an ongoing initiative aimed at strengthening links between university-based lifesavers and regional surf clubs, while also providing extra support on patrolled beaches across Queensland.
For many SOL members, the experience was a return to familiar ground. As SOL President Dan Miller explained, a large number of university lifesavers originally come from regional clubs.
“With many of our members originally coming from regional clubs, visits like this allow us to reconnect, build new friendships and support local patrols,” Dan said.
“Our program is about giving back as patrolling members, learning from others, and contributing where we can. It was also great to experience some of Bundaberg’s fantastic tourism locations — a real highlight.”
Across the weekend, SOL members joined patrol teams at both Bundaberg and Moore Park, working alongside local lifesavers, sharing knowledge, and building connections that extended beyond the red and yellow.
Moore Park Surf Life Saving Club President Vita Narkrosa said the visit was warmly welcomed by the club.
“The SOL visit was a terrific initiative. Our members enjoyed patrolling alongside the team and making new connections,” Vita said.
“Programs like this give SOL members the chance to experience our region and see what we have to offer both on and off the beach.”
At Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club, Club Captain Chris Steffan highlighted the value the exchange brought to younger members.
“It was a privilege having the SOL team patrol with us,” Chris said.
“Our younger members gained a lot from meeting lifesavers from larger clubs outside the region, and we look forward to welcoming them back again in the future.”
For SOL and Bundaberg member Amelia Walsh, the weekend was especially meaningful.
“It was great to show my Brisbane friends the hospitality of Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club and patrol on my home beach,” Amelia said.
Beyond the patrols, the visit offered an opportunity for SOL members to experience regional Queensland, strengthen friendships, and gain insight into the unique challenges and rewards of patrolling in different environments.
The partnership program will continue, with future visits planned across regional Queensland to build capability, share knowledge, and encourage ongoing participation in lifesaving — ensuring the next generation of lifesavers remain connected to the clubs and communities that shape the movement.