Are you ready to wear the red and yellow in North Queensland?
We are so excited to see that you might be wanting to join the red and yellow army! Being a lifesaver means you a part of a community that has dedicated their service to the beach for over a hundred years.
Did you know that you don’t actually have to get in the water to be a lifesaver? Yes, correct. You can provide support in and out of the water. Find out more below.
Want to get involved in surf life saving?
BEING A SURF LIFESAVER – WATER AND LAND BASED
Want to become a fully qualified surf lifesaver on beach patrol?
You will need join a Club and then undertake your Bronze Medallion (our main lifesaving course.) Alternatively, you can complete a Surf Rescue Certificate which is considered a stepping stone to a full Bronze Medallion.
Bronze Medallion
The Bronze Medallion equips you with essential skills in surf awareness, rescue techniques, radio communication, CPR, and first aid, opening up opportunities for you.
As a Bronze Medallion holder, your responsibilities will include beach patrols, ensuring public safety, potential rescues using a board or tube, and preventive actions.
What do I need to gain my Bronze Medallion?
- Be a financial member of an SLSQ Life Saving Club.
- Be at least 15 years of age on the final assessment date.
- Complete an unaided swim of 400 m in 9 minutes or less (goggles and masks permitted) in a swimming pool of not less than 25 m, or over a measured open water course which will be observed prior to you undertaking any water training or assessment activities.
How long does a Bronze Medallion course take?
The Bronze Medallion course is typically run over 6-8 weekends or a one week intensive course. However, each course schedule can vary depending on trainer availability, weather conditions, and facility availability. Specific schedules will be issued for each course.
Surf Rescue Certificate
The Surf Rescue Certificate was originally intended for young people aged between 13 and 15 years, however, anyone over the age of 13 can qualify at this level. The Surf Rescue Certificate is the minimum standard required for water safety at Nippers and similar events.
What do I need to gain my Surf Rescue Certificate?
The Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) is a stepping stone to the full Bronze Medallion that is generally the minimum standard required for full patrolling duties.
- Be a financial member of an SLSQ Life Saving Club.
- Be at least 13 years of age.
- Complete an unaided swim of 200 m in 5 minutes or less (goggles and masks permitted) in a swimming pool of not less than 25 m, or over a measured open water course which will be observed prior to you undertaking any water training or assessment activities.
How long does a SRC course take?
The SRC course is typically run over 8 weeks with one weeknight for theory and one day on the weekend for practical. However, each course schedule can vary depending on trainer availability, weather conditions, and facility availability. Specific schedules will be issued for each course.
SURF LIFESAVER – LAND BASED
We understand that sometimes the thought of rescuing a person in need from the water may seem daunting.
Or perhaps you are not a confident swimmer? Maybe you are a parent who wants to give back to your child’s Club? Then don’t worry, there is always a role for you at a Surf Life Saving Club.
Most people are not aware that you can still patrol in the red and yellow without even stepping foot in the water! There are a number of important positions on our patrol units that can make a difference.
An Observer
A patrolling Member who helps identify key risks and monitor the beachgoers. This course takes 1.5 – 2 hours to complete.
Radio Operator
A patrolling Members who provides communication support, an essential part of lifesaving. You will need to complete the Observer course before completing your Radio Operators Certificate.
First Aid Officer
A patrolling Member who helps identify key risks and monitor the beachgoers. This course takes 1.5 – 2 hours to complete.
WANT TO GET YOUR CHILD INVOLVED IN SURF LIFE SAVING?
If you want to introduce your child to lifesaving, consider enrolling them in Nippers. Open to kids aged five to 13, every Queensland club offers diverse Nippers programs.
Nippers is a fun way for children to enjoy the beach in a safe environment. The Junior Development Program is designed to ensure children have fun at the beach while participating in lessons that will give them a pathway to becoming a fully rounded participant in both lifesaving and sport.
WONDERING HOW ELSE YOU CAN GET INVOLVED?
From Club photographer, to helping with administration through to manning the Club BBQ – there is a role for everyone who wants to get involved. So c’mon – Join the Club!
Check out our range of other roles! View roles.
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