You’re cruising through life—juggling patrols, study, work, and a social life—and then bam. You get a letter in the mail. Maybe it’s a fine. Maybe it’s a speeding ticket. Or maybe you’ve been summoned for jury duty. If your first reaction is wait, what do I even do with this? — you’re not alone.
Adult responsibilities can creep up on you fast. But don’t stress—here’s a simple guide to navigating those unexpected life admin moments like a pro.
Fines and Infringements: What happens if you get one?
Whether it’s a speeding ticket, a public transport fine, or a parking violation, it’s important not to ignore it. Most fines issued in Queensland come with:
- A due date (usually around 28 days from issue)
- The amount owed
- Payment options
- Information on how to dispute it
What to do:
- Read the fine carefully. Check the details—was it definitely you? Do the time and location match?
- Pay it before the due date if you accept the fine. You can usually pay online via the Queensland Government’s website.
- Can’t afford it? Apply for a payment plan through the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER). You can pay in instalments that suit your budget.
- Want to challenge it? You have the right to contest a fine, but don’t leave it too late. Follow the instructions on the notice to request a review or go to court.
Letting a fine lapse can lead to enforcement action, extra fees, or even a licence suspension. So act early—even if you’re unsure.
Surf Life Saving tip:
If you’re driving to patrols or club events regularly, be extra mindful of local parking rules, school zones, and mobile phone laws. Keeping your licence clean helps you stay eligible for key SLSQ roles like IRB driver or patrolling supervisor.
Speeding Fines: Don’t panic—but do take action
If you’ve been snapped speeding, you’ll usually receive an infringement notice in the mail. It will outline:
- How fast you were going over the limit
- The fine amount
- Demerit points incurred
If the car is in your name but someone else was driving (like a mate or sibling), you can nominate the actual driver—just follow the process on the back of the notice.
Remember:
- Paying the fine doesn’t mean you admit to being a bad driver—it means you’re being responsible.
- Too many demerit points can result in licence suspension, especially if you’re on your P-plates.
Jury Duty: What it is, and what you need to do
Jury duty is a civic responsibility—basically, it’s your turn to help decide the outcome of a court case. In Queensland, if you’re over 18, you could be randomly selected.
If you receive a jury summons, don’t ignore it. You must respond—either to confirm your availability, apply for a deferral, or request an exemption.
Can you skip jury duty?
Not exactly. But you can apply for an exemption or deferral if:
- You’re a full-time student
- You have work or club commitments you can’t reschedule (like patrols)
- You have personal or health issues that would make attendance difficult
Requests need to be made officially and usually require evidence (like a letter from your employer or club).
What if you have to attend?
You’ll be given instructions on where to go and when. If selected to serve, you may need to attend court for several days. You’ll be paid a small allowance and may also be reimbursed for travel.
Serving on a jury is a big responsibility, but also a unique way to see how the legal system works. And hey, it’s one of those “life experience” stories you’ll definitely remember.
Final Thoughts
Getting a fine, a speeding ticket, or a jury duty notice doesn’t mean you’ve done something terribly wrong—it means you’re living in the real world, and these things happen. The key is knowing how to respond, acting early, and staying informed.
Being part of the surf lifesaving community means you already value responsibility, integrity, and public service. Handling life’s admin—whether it’s sorting out a fine or showing up for jury duty—is just another way to live those values beyond the beach.
Take it seriously, ask for help if you need it, and most importantly—don’t ignore the mail.