Forrest Beach Lifesavers: Rising to the Challenge in the Face of Adversity

When devastating floods swept through North Queensland earlier this year, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club stepped up to support their community in ways that went far beyond the shoreline. Among those who made a difference was 15-year-old Jett Reid, Junior Club Captain, who proved that heroes don’t always wear capes—they wear red and yellow uniforms and bring an unwavering sense of responsibility.

Jett’s journey began when his preparation for the State Championships was interrupted by the severe flooding in the North Barrier region. Instead of focusing on competition, Jett found himself at the heart of the community’s recovery efforts, demonstrating leadership, resilience, and the lifesaving skills he had honed as a volunteer.

When floodwaters rose, Jett and his fellow junior lifesavers took on the crucial task of welfare checks, particularly focusing on the elderly who were most at risk. In one instance, they discovered two elderly residents trapped in their home by the rising waters. Without hesitation, Jett and his team launched their IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) and safely guided the individuals to higher ground. “Just knowing that we were able to help someone—and potentially save a life—made all the difference,” Jett reflected.

But the work didn’t end there. As the floodwaters receded, the Forrest Beach lifesavers took on the daunting task of cleaning up the coastline, which had been littered with debris, fallen trees, and branches washed up from local creeks. Jett and his teammates worked tirelessly to clear the beaches and restore some normalcy to their beloved community.

Reflecting on the experience, Jett noted, “It’s about staying calm, making quick decisions, and helping those who need it most.” His words capture the spirit of Surf Life Saving: it’s not just about patrolling the beach, but about being prepared to help whenever and wherever the community needs it.

To cap off their efforts, the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club hosted a community barbeque—a moment to reconnect, share stories, and support one another as they began to rebuild. “It’s in moments like these that you realise how much your training and experiences in surf lifesaving can prepare you for life’s unexpected challenges,” Jett said.

Although the State Championships were cancelled due to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Jett and his fellow lifesavers came away with something even more important—a deeper understanding of the power of community and the impact of their efforts. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder that being a lifesaver is about more than just the beach; it’s about being there for your community when it matters most.

If you’ve ever thought about becoming a lifesaver and making a difference in your community, now is the time to get involved. Join us and become part of a movement where every effort counts.