If you’re thinking about joining your local surf club or becoming a volunteer surf lifesaver in Queensland, you’ve probably come across the term Bronze Medallion.
So what is it? And do you need one to volunteer?
Here’s everything you need to know.
The Bronze Medallion Explained
The Bronze Medallion is the core qualification required to become a patrolling surf lifesaver in Australia. It’s awarded by Surf Life Saving and recognised nationally.
Earning your Bronze means you’ve been trained in:
- Surf awareness and rescue techniques
- CPR and first aid
- Spinal management and patient care
- Radio communication and signals
- Teamwork, fitness, and emergency response
In short, it qualifies you to help keep beachgoers safe—and gives you the confidence and skills to respond in real-life emergencies.
Do You Need a Bronze Medallion to Volunteer with SLSQ?
Not always. The Bronze Medallion is required if you want to patrol the beach or take part in water-based rescues. But if you’re more interested in supporting from the sidelines, there are plenty of other volunteer roles that don’t require it, including:
- Administration and logistics
- First aid support (with separate qualifications)
- Radio operation
- Community education and youth programs
- Fundraising, events, and BBQs
- Inclusion and member support
That said, many volunteers love the challenge and growth that comes from earning their Bronze—no matter their age or background.
Who Can Do the Bronze Medallion?
To complete your Bronze Medallion, you need to:
- Be at least 15 years old on the date of assessment
- Complete a 400m swim in under 9 minutes in a pool or open water
- Commit to training sessions, both in theory and practical skills
- Pass the final assessment (don’t worry—trainers are there to help you succeed!)
Clubs across Queensland run Bronze Medallion courses regularly throughout the season.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Your Bronze?
- Volunteer on patrol and save lives
- Improve your fitness and ocean skills
- Join a respected team with strong community values
- Gain nationally recognised qualifications
- Build leadership and teamwork experience
- Stay active, learn new things, and give back in a meaningful way
Start Your Surf Life Saving Journey Today
Whether you want to volunteer on patrol or support from behind the scenes, there’s a place for you at Surf Life Saving Queensland.
Interested in earning your Bronze Medallion and becoming a surf lifesaver?
It’s more than a qualification—it’s the beginning of something truly rewarding.