The SLSQ Leadership Excellence Program (LEP) provides an opportunity for members to be exposed to the many different elements of Surf Life Saving. Member Development is about providing our young people with positive experiences and opportunities which enhance their strengths and capacity as well as affirming them as contributors to our community and shapers of their own future.

The objective of the program is to introduce young adult members of the association to the more formal and responsible roles available within Surf Life Saving. The program will provide awareness and knowledge on the structure of SLSQ, and educate the participants further in all fields of communication, leadership, teamwork, and emergency management. The program is a prime feature of the retention/ succession plans that Surf Life Saving Queensland has to ensure our future is a strong and vibrant one.

2021 Program Aims:

• To develop inspired leaders with a heightened awareness of their surroundings and to provide key connections that engender a robust personal support network.
• To create “agents of changes” that allows the leaders to understand the importance of organisational sustainability and confidently take key leadership roles in the future.
• To enhance leadership skills and qualities in managing unpredictable, critical and emergency situations.

Members are eligible to apply as a participant if they meet the following criteria:

• Be minimum of 18 years of age and a maximum of 30 years of age at the time of the program;
• Be a current financial member of an SLSQ affiliated Surf Life Saving Club;
• Hold a ‘Working with Children’ Blue Card or Exemption Notice;
• Have demonstrated an eagerness to develop a wide range of skills in Surf Life Saving;
• Preferably had previous exposure to leadership/development training (e.g. Club/Branch Development Program);
• Hold a proficient Bronze Medallion;
• Hold at least two of the following awards: Advanced Resuscitation Techniques; IRB Drivers Award; Radio Operator’s Certificate; or Operational First Aid.Circular for the programApplication formApplications close 9am Friday, 27th January 2023.

As a Development Program Facilitator your role is to directly engage with the participants in your assigned group. Your primary role is to offer guidance, leadership, and encouragement throughout the program to your group, being mindful to not become a participant. As a Facilitator you will be required to work with the coordination team to further develop and hone your leadership skills.

You can find a copy of the Facilitator Role Description HERE.

Members are eligible to apply as a Facilitator if they meet the following criteria:

• Be 21 years or over – this is very important;
• Be a current financial member of an SLSQ affiliated Surf Life Saving Club;
• Hold a ‘Working with Children’ Blue Card or Exemption Notice;
• Hold a proficient Bronze Medallion and/or hold an ART, First Aid Certificate;
• Have participated as a participant or leader on a State or National Leadership Program;
• Show leadership qualities and most importantly, have a good rapport with youth.
• Hold at least two of the following awards: Advanced Resuscitation Techniques; IRB Drivers Award; Radio Operator’s Certificate; or Operational First Aid.

Facilitator Selection Guidelines:

• Following the close of Facilitator applications all clubs will be sent a list of their facilitator applicants to endorse, clubs are not required to rank their facilitator applicants where more than one has applied.
• Endorsement forms will then need to be sent from the Club to the relevant Branch for endorsement, and submission to SLSQ by COB 22 October 2021.

The cost for participants will be $350 per person (incl. GST), and SLSQ will cover the cost of all Facilitator positions.

We understand that each club may support their members’ attendance differently as it is a worthwhile opportunity for them to learn and be able to give back to the Club. We strongly encourage Clubs to consider subsidising attendance at the program. Fees will cover all program costs, including meals, use of equipment, program pack, and accommodation.
For North Queensland, North Barrier and Wide Bay Capricorn Branch participants there will be a travel subsidy provided.

Successful applicants will be notified via email along with further information pertaining to the program. Any participant/ Facilitator who withdraws after being selected will be invoiced for the full cost of the program, however clubs may opt to send a replacement, provided that replacement meets the criteria.

Applications are now open for participants.

Participant Selection Guidelines:

• Following the close of participant applications all clubs will be sent a list of their participant applicants to endorse, and are asked to preference nominations (with a “1” being the first preference). Ranking sheets will then need to be sent from the Club to the relevant Branch for endorsement, and submission to SLSQ by COB 22 October 2021.
• From the endorsed applications, SLSQ will be accepting at least one (1) member from each club, however if clubs do not fill their one (1) position, additional applications from within clubs may be considered.
• Clubs are encouraged to consider gender equity and nominate a male and a female where possible.
• Participants can only attend this program once – past participants need not apply.

Please Note: the program has a maximum capacity of 50 participants (plus the Facilitation team).

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contactSLSQ Membership Services Coordinator – Projects and Development: Lynelle Gale on (07) 3846 8012 or lgale@lifesaving.com.au.