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Lifesaving Regional Capability Building Program

Lifesaving Regional Capability Building Program

Surf Life Saving Queensland is proud to launch the Lifesaving Regional Capability Building Workshops – a new initiative designed to strengthen our frontline by giving patrolling members advanced training, real-world rescue scenarios and opportunities to build operational readiness across the state.


Once you’ve achieved your Bronze Medallion, there are few structured opportunities for scenario-based training. These regional workshops fill that gap, offering hands-on experiences that prepare members for major incidents and search and rescue operations.

Locations & Dates: 

Tannum Sands | 12 Sept 2026, 8am - 4pm

Mooloolaba  | 21 Nov 2026, 8:30am - 8pm

Eimeo | 24th & 25th October

Magnetic Island | 17 & 18th October

Mission Beach | Postponed, new date TBA

What's Included:
  • Search and Rescue Exercises (SAREx)
  • Realistic scenario-based training
  • Leadership and team-building activities
  • Interagency engagement (where possible)
  • Catering provided daily + custom workshop t-shirt

SMAR: (excluding Tannum Sands and Mooloolaba)

The Silver Medallion Aquatic Rescue (SMAR) award is a nationally recognized qualification that equips participants with advanced skills and knowledge to perform aquatic search and rescue operations beyond standard beach patrol duties. This practical, hands-on course covers essential competencies such as contributing to preparation activities for search and rescue, performing searches for missing persons, operating safely around rocks and jetties, and working alongside emergency services using equipment like Jet Boats and Jet Skis. For these workshops, you have the option to participate in SMAR training, allowing you to gain this valuable qualification. If you would not like the qualification you can still participate in the program.  

Pre-requisites: To be eligible for the SMAR award, you must complete a 400-metre pool swim in 8 minutes or less in a pool of at least 25 metres. Please note that you will not receive the SMAR award if you cannot complete this swim requirement. 

 

SARex: 

SARex stands for Search and Rescue Exercises, which are structured, scenario-based training sessions designed to replicate real-life emergency situations. These exercises aim to improve the operational readiness of lifesavers by simulating the complexity and urgency of actual search and rescue incidents. Unlike standard patrol training, SARex focuses on multi-resource coordination, meaning we bring together volunteers, powercraft operators, drone teams, and support crews to work as a unified response team. 

The purpose of SARex is to: 

  • Enhance decision-making under pressure by practicing realistic scenarios. 
  • Develop communication and coordination skills between different roles and resources. 
  • Familiarize members with search patterns and rescue procedures used in missing person cases or large-scale emergencies. 

 

Key Components: 

  • Shallow Water Rescue Training: This is a major part of SARex. Participants learn and apply structured search patterns—such as line searches and creeping line searches—in shallow water environments where visibility and depth pose unique challenges. These drills teach you how to systematically cover an area, maintain safety, and communicate effectively during a coordinated rescue. 
  • Use of Technology and Equipment: SARex incorporates drones for aerial surveillance, powercraft for rapid response, and standard lifesaving gear to ensure participants experience a realistic, resource-rich environment. 
  • Team Integration: Whether you are a Bronze Medallion holder, a powercraft operator, or hold another lifesaving award, SARex is designed for you. It’s about building capability across all roles, so everyone understands how to work together during complex rescues.