The North Barrier Branch hosted a collaborative and constructive RAP the Coast Forum in Ayr on 15 November 2025, bringing together Branch and club leaders to advance Surf Life Saving Queensland’s reconciliation journey. Invitations were extended to Traditional Owner groups and representatives, with information and updates shared throughout the session.

The forum highlighted the strong foundations already established across the Branch, including successful partnerships between NBB clubs and local education and community organisations. These include long-standing engagement between Forrest Beach SLSC and St Teresa’s College, ongoing collaboration with St Joseph’s and Arcadian SLSC, the Clontarf Foundation, and emerging opportunities with the Stars Foundation.

From introductory come and try days, to club participation in Raising of the Flags, through to expanded cultural education, community programs, and leadership pathways for young people, participants identified a clear set of priorities and opportunities for both club and branch-level action. The willingness of clubs to host and participate in the forum as part of their face-to-face branch meeting demonstrates a genuine commitment to strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and embedding cultural respect and inclusion across all aspects of lifesaving.

Key Next Steps Identified

• Traditional Custodian Acknowledgement signage – Clubs expressed interest in signage and A-Frame designs for beach entry and patrol zones.
• Raising of the Flags – 2026 season – Several clubs indicated they intend to participate, with the process and nomination requirements discussed.
• Expanding partnerships and pathways – Continued focus on building new connections and strengthening existing community partnerships, increasing representation, and creating opportunities across patrol participation, education, surf sports, employment pathways, and cultural recognition to support club growth and organisational capability.

The Ayr forum reinforced the North Barrier Branch’s commitment to walking alongside Traditional Custodians and strengthening community relationships through meaningful action, visibility, and respect. With growing club engagement and clear priorities in place, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of deeper partnerships, stronger cultural connections, and greater inclusion across the branch.  Well done and thank you North Barrier Branch.