beyond the flags - surf life saving nsw · and passion to the job and our movement is richer for...

ISSUE 10Spring 2016

Beyondthe Flags

Surf Life Saving NSW Welcomes New President

Members Honoured At Awards Of Excellence

A Lifetime Of Memories As Crowdy Head Lifesaver Hangs Up Patrol Cap

In The Eye Of The Storm; Coogee Club Rebuilds

IRB Premiership Series Ends On A High

Your local clubis a proud supporter

of Surf Life Saving NSW.

Find a club near you.www.yourlocalclub.com.au

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WHAT’S COMING UP

Welcome to the 10th edition of our quarterly members magazine Beyond The Flags.

Firstly, I would like to thank all surf lifesavers for their efforts preparing for this season. Surf Life Saving NSW President, David Murray had the pleasure of raising the flags at Bronte Beach to celebrate the start of the 2016/17 patrol season.

A lot has been going on in Surf Life Saving since the season ended in April. A large contingent of NSW athletes rounded off their season at the 2016 Aussies on the Sunshine Coast. There have been plenty of opportunities for our surf sport athletes to compete over winter in the IRB and Pool Rescue Competitions.

Many of our patrolling members have been involved in the emergency callout system and have responded to requests for assistance during winter, and we thank them for their efforts.

We’ve also welcomed two new members to the Board after our recent elections. Former Sydney Northern Beaches President David Murray (North Curl Curl SLSC) was elected NSW President, while Donald van Keimpema (Shelly Beach SLSC) was elected Surf Sports Director, both for two year terms. I would like to acknowledge the outstanding contribution our outgoing President Tony Haven AM has made to Surf Life Saving over many years. Both he and former Surf Sports Director Michael Bate, who elected not to recontest his position, brought experience and passion to the job and our movement is richer for their involvement.

Recently I had the pleasure of attending the 2016 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence in Sydney, and this was a fantastic night to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our members. Our thanks go to Stramit Building Products who supported the awards, and have been wonderful long-time supporters of Surf Life Saving, and Mr Adam Crouch MP, Member for Terrigal who represented the Minister for Emergency Services, David Elliott.

Beyond The Flags is a vital communication tool for our members and we aim to produce a publication that encompasses the whole spectrum of Surf Life Saving, whether your involvement is in lifesaving, sport, coaching, administration, junior activities or volunteering in support of your club. We appreciate your dedication and time spent in any volunteer capacity.

Enjoy the read!

Phil Vanny AM Chief Executive Officer

15 OCTCoolangatta Gold,

Gold Coast

16 OCTSurf Club Open DaySurf Clubs in NSW

11-13 NOVSenior Performance

AcademyNarrabeen, Sydney

18-20 NOVDevelopment

Networking ProgramSydney CBD

27 NOVBeach Development Clinic

Newport, Sydney

10-11 DECInterbranch

ChampionshipsThe Lakes,

Central Coast17 DEC

SLSNSW Race DayRandwick Racecourse,

Sydney

4-5 FEBStramit Country Championships

South West Rocks, Mid North Coast25 FEB-

12 MARNSW Surf Life Saving

ChampionshipsSwansea Belmont,

Hunter

4 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU 5 SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags

New Season Launched Sydney’s famous Bronte Beach was the setting for the NSW season opening, the traditional Raising of The Flags ceremony coincided with the release of the inaugural NSW Coastal Safety Report on Friday 23 September.

SLSNSW President David Murray, Bruce Notley-Smith, Member for Coogee, Waverley Mayor Sally Betts and Bronte club members all raised the flags on the new patrol season.

Over 21,000 active surf lifesavers from the 129 surf clubs along the NSW coastline will patrol during the season.

“It’s a pleasure to be at Bronte to officially launch the new patrol season. I know that every single lifesaver patrolling throughout the state will be doing their best to keep beachgoers safe,” said SLSNSW President David Murray.

Following a season where tragically 53 people drowned in NSW coastal waters, the NSW Coastal Safety Report contains a realistic and honest look at the current and historical drowning situation on our beaches as well as an overview of surf lifesaving assets and operations.

Surf Lifesavers Brave Wild WeatherThe patrolling off season for volunteers and state wide beach closures didn’t prevent Surf Life Saving from responding to incidents and emergencies across the state during the storms that battered the NSW coast in June.

Volunteers were called on to assist Police, SES and Marine Rescue with evacuations from flooded suburban areas on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and elsewhere.

In central Narrabeen IRBs from Sydney Northern Beaches Branch and local duty officers braved the downpour to assist residents with rising floodwaters threatening homes and businesses, while75 trapped students had to be evacuated by Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB) from the NSW Sports Academy by crews from Nth Narrabeen and Newport SLSCs.

Elsewhere in the state volunteers were called out to incidents including reports of a stand up board paddler missing at Fingal Head in the Tweed.

A kayaker who became stranded in big seas after he became separated from his craft on the North Coast was extremely lucky that an experienced IRB crew from Macksville Scotts Head was able to launch a rescue effort and come to his aid.

On the Far North Coast Australian Lifeguard Service personnel were disappointed by the behaviour of some swimmers and surfers who decided to take to extremely messy waters off Byron Bay when there was a break in the rain.

Local Lifeguard Supervisor Ruben Roxbourgh said surfers were ignoring warnings and obviously still hazardous conditions to head out on the water, making the job of lifeguards even more difficult.

NSW Lifesaving Director John Restuccia commended all volunteers who lent a hand. “The community is lucky to have volunteers including surf lifesavers who have the skills and commitment to help others at times like this,” he said.

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Vietnam Nippers Visit Hailed A SuccessIt was a school holiday with a difference for a group of Cudgen Headland Nippers and their parents who recently got to demonstrate their skills and knowledge about water safety to an enthusiastic audience in Vietnam.

Drowning is a major issue in the South East Asian nation with young children the group at significant risk. Conservative estimates put the number at about 32 drowning deaths a day across the nation, a truly alarming statistic, especially when seen through the perspective of the Australian experience where beach awareness and safety is something drummed into young children from a very early age.

In 2015 Surf Life Saving Vietnam Development Officer David Field set up junior water safety programs in the South Central City of Nha Trang. Through his ties with Far North Coast Surf Life Saving, Cudgen Headland SLSC offered to enter into a sister club relationship with the fledgling Nha Trang SLSC.

David and his wife, fellow trainer Susan Eke, have been busy developing relationships with local communities throughout Vietnam and have helped train lifeguards to hopefully assist to reduce the drowning toll. “The tour

has really promoted the lifesaving development project far more effectively than can be done with one lifesaving development officer,” said David Field. “The next challenge for the project is to get local public authorities to accept the importance of education in promoting water safety and the role their lifeguard staff can play offering activities like Nippers over the summer. “

This is where the Cudgen tour has been so important to the Vietnam lifesaving development project. Locals can see the games and activities first hand and the skill the young Australians have in the water. “We’ve also been very lucky to have the support of the Far North Coast Branch for not only this project, but also ones we have in Thailand and the Philippines,” he concluded.

As part of the 2016 tour, the young Nippers from Cudgen participated in a joint activities day with their Vietnamese counterparts. They also had the opportunity to pass on their knowledge and skills gained from many hours spent on Kingscliff Beach with the famous Thung boats manned by local lifeguards putting in an appearance.

For further information follow Surf Life Saving Vietnam on Facebook.

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RACINGINTO SUMMERSurf Life Saving NSW Race Day Presented by Segenhoe Stud

17 DECEMBER 2016ROYAL RANDWICK RACECOURSE

Get involved! surflifesaving.com.au/raceday

MYRIL BUNT (OAM) For service to the community of the Sapphire Coast

Myril Bunt OAM began her involvement in Surf Life Saving back in the mid 1960s, and has made significant contributions at both Club and Branch level. Between 1983-92, Myril was secretary of Far South Coast Branch, and also served as Treasurer for seven seasons and as assistant gear steward. She served as secretary on the George Bass Marathon organising committee four times between 1995 and 2001. At Moruya SLSC she spent a decade as club secretary, and was deservedly awarded a Branch Life Membership in 1998.

PETER LOZAN (OAM) For service to swimming, and to Surf Life Saving

Peter Lozan OAM was heavily involved with the Coalcliff SLSC for almost 50 years before pursuing other interests. In two separate stints he patrolled the popular Illawarra beach from 1959-1988, and again from 1997-2009. As someone who took a keen interest in the administrative side of his club he served in various positions on the management committee, spent six years as President and was club captain for the 1966/67 season. He was made a Life Member of the club in 1974.

JOHN TAPLIN (OAM) For service to the community of Cronulla through charitable organisations

John Taplin OAM has been heavily involved in the Cronulla community and in Surf Life Saving between 1996 and 2004. During this time he was a Nippers Age Member and Committee Member at Wanda SLSC.

ROBYN WRIGHT (OAM) For service to the community of Moruya

Robyn Wright OAM is something of a community icon in Moruya through her involvement in a variety of activities.She is best known in Surf Life Saving as Secretary at Moruya SLSC and for her volunteer contribution to the Nippers group. She was also a Branch Delegate throughout much of the 1970s and 80s.

EDNA MAY (OAM) For service to the community of the Nambucca Valley

Edna May OAM continues to be heavily involved in many different aspects of the Nambucca Valley community. She has been a long term patron and supporter of Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving Club.

Lifesavers Honoured in Queen’s Birthday Awards

Surf Life Saving NSW would like to congratulate a number of current or former members who have been recognised in the 2016 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Surf Clubs To Throw Open Doors Surf Clubs around NSW will throw open their doors on Sunday 16 October to show the public what we’re all about.

89 clubs have registered for the annual Open Day which is designed to attract members and give the public an insight into the role of Surf Life Saving in our community.

Some of the many activities on the day include clubs conducting demonstrations such as rescues and how to spot a rip, highlighting their Nipper programs and fundraising through barbeques. Information packs are being sent to all participating clubs, and our Member Services team are happy to address any inquires.

In a first for the Surf Club Open Day, former Wallaby front rower and Bronte SLSC member Al Baxter has signed on as ambassador for the event. In a career spanning 69 tests and over 100 Super Rugby appearances, Al was regarded as a tough competitor on the field, but a true gentlemen off it.

Al invites everyone to come along and enjoy the 2016 Surf Club Open Day.

16 October, 2016

OPEN DAY

SURF CLUB

Lifesavers Make New Connections A group of 14 club members from around the state, all relatively new to Surf Life Saving, gathered in Sydney in June as part of the second Beyond My Club – 26+ Development Program.

The three-day program aims to connect lifesavers who have come to the movement later in life and would like to explore leadership opportunities. To be eligible for the program participants are aged over 26 and have gained their Bronze Medallion within the last three seasons.

One of those who attended the program was Cheryl McCarthy from Bermagui SLSC who is looking forward to taking the lessons learned back to her club and branch. “It was fantastic to meet a new network of like-minded lifesavers, and I gained lots of new ideas,” Cheryl McCarthy said. She said that she was attracted to lifesaving because of the community spirit and hopes to become more involved as a leader at her club in the future. “Lifesaving was a way to contribute to the community and meet new people. It’s an internationally renowned organisation that everyone has heard about and I really wanted to be part of it. My ambition is to hold a senior position on the club board and in the future, being involved at a branch level in some way as well.”

During the program the participants were introduced to the many opportunities that are available within lifesaving, attended workshops that focused on leadership skills and public speaking, and participated in bonding activities.

2016 BEYOND MY CLUB 26 + DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

James Irwin, Umina SLSC – Central CoastAdam Wright, Salt SLSC – Far North CoastCheryl McCarthy, Bermagui SLSC – Far South CoastBruce Mcaslan, Bermagui SLSC – Far South CoastJason Horadam, Redhead SLSC – HunterDaniel Maddocks, Sandon Point SLSC – IllawarraRodney Croker, Crowdy Head SLSC – Lower North CoastMylina Clancy, Hat Head SLSC – Mid North CoastSandra Slattery, Tacking Point SLSC – Mid North CoastEloise Starr, North Bondi SLSC – SydneyThomas Simpson, North Bondi SLSC – SydneyLisa Croudace, North Bondi SLSC – SydneyHolly Ross, Freshwater SLSC – Sydney Northern BeachesGeraldine Clarke, Manly LSC – Sydney Northern Beaches

FACILITATORS:

Nixy Krite, South Maroubra SLSC – SydneyGayl Ellis, Wauchope-Bonny Hills SLSC – Mid North Coast

6,673RESCUES

157,986PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS

14,708FIRST AID

735CALLS TO EMERGENCY

RESPONSE SYSTEM

Season Stats (2015/16):

John Ward provides a tangible connection to the history of lifesaving having been trained and assessed by those who learned their craft from the pioneering names within the movement. As one of the custodians of lifesaving knowledge he feels it is important to share his experiences and insights with a new generation.

Like many club members who have achieved such longevity within the Surf Life Saving ranks, the yarns that John can spin would fill multiple volumes. As a child growing up in Sydney’s east with the shadow of war still fresh in the city’s memory, joining a surf club was never really on a young John’s radar.

“Like most of my friends I played sport and enjoyed the social side of it,” John Ward said. “I grew up playing rugby and water polo and I was a pretty handy swimmer and did a lot of training at Coogee Swim Club where I was a member, but really I had never even considered joining a surf club.”

His aptitude in the water did not go unnoticed for long. Summer 1955 was hot – so much so that a 16-year-old John was putting in plenty of hours in the pool alongside a group of friends. It wasn’t long before his obvious talents caught the eye of an interested patron. That man turned out to be Ron Day who at the time was the Chief Instructor of Coogee surf club and was in the process of trying to put together a Junior R&R team. In short order John, Tom Nickson, Ross Hardy, Peter Jospe, and John Cunningham were in a squad training for their Bronze Medallion under the watchful eye of Tony Farthing.

Within a month the group were confident in their ability to handle the surf, but judgment day would have to wait with seven squads from across Sydney Branch being held back to participate in a carnival type event on Christmas Eve as part of a wider exhibition.

“There was a Fair on the grasslands from memory and I think the organisers wanted to show off the skills of the local lifesavers.

Conditions were awful; it was really breaking up and quite heavy surf. I actually heard one of the examiners asking another one if they’d put the buoys out too far,” Ward said. “The other man’s answer was ‘well let the Coogee kid have a go he’s a good belt swimmer.’ So I was first in the water and my only instruction was to not beat the patient to the buoy. I turned around when I got out there and he was still floundering in the surf – they moved the buoys in after that!”

The Bronze Medallion safely acquired, John’s interest and involvement in Surf Life Saving began to intensify. Throughout the 1960s he won four successive club championships where you had to accrue points over two swims and two belt races and regularly competed at club and state carnivals.

In 1971 he shifted to Collaroy where he would remain on patrol and compete for the next 30 seasons. As part of the club’s all conquering March Past team he would win medals at state and national level. The introduction of a Masters competition reignited a passion to race within him and he won 17 of the club’s first 20 Masters Championships and was crowned club champion as well. Collaroy’s innovative approach to new ideas indirectly led him to his third and final club.

“Every year Collaroy hosted a Masters Championship type carnival and a boat crew from Crowdy Head used to come down with a couple of other athletes. The opportunity to move north for work came up in 2001 and I wanted to stay involved in Surf Life Saving, so the Crowdy Head club seemed a natural fit,” Ward said. A natural fit it may have been, but for a man used to the hustle and bustle of Sydney it was quite a culture shock.

“When I joined I thought, what have I got into here as there didn’t seem to be enough people to operate. The club has fantastic leadership though and gets things done in the way that country clubs always do.”

Three Clubs, 60 Summers, A Lifetime Of MemoriesIt’s a universal truth that all good things eventually do come to an end and after 60 summers of patrolling the beaches of Coogee, Collaroy and Crowdy Head the time has come for John Ward to hang up his quartered cap.

Season Stats (2015/16):

53DROWNINGS

681,372VOLUNTEER HOURS

6,822 061BEACH ATTENDANCE

591AMBULANCES

In recent years there has been a push to get nipper parents qualified to patrol.” Experience tells Ward though that those challenges aren’t going to go away. “Junior numbers aren’t a problem. It’s when kids get older and leave home because there isn’t a lot of work and educational opportunities around here. You don’t begrudge them that opportunity but it’s an issue we really have to look at.” As one of the older members of the club he enjoys passing his experience onto younger members and is perfectly placed to comment on some of the changes within Surf Life Saving.

“I’ve never been shy about putting my opinions out there. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and I think some of the advances in lifesaving equipment have been absolutely fantastic. I recall my first rescue and going out at Coogee in challenging conditions to rescue a girl while wearing a surf belt. You had to be really fit to do that so the equipment has definitely changed for the better.

“One of the things that I think has been lost in recent years is that sense of team work. We used to always travel in the back of a truck to competitions and everybody hung around to watch. People don’t do that anymore they tend to do their own thing.”

These days John is a proud Crowdy Head member which includes winning a NSW Masters Rescue Tube Rescue title in the Over 65s, although he hasn’t forgotten his roots and was actively involved in celebrations for the 100th anniversary of both Coogee and Collaroy, and regularly keeps in contact with his many mates at both clubs. Like many Coogee old boys he was saddened by the damage to the iconic clubhouse caused by the recent storms, but has no doubt they will bounce back.

“John is a fantastic club man who does so much work that he thinks is unnoticed, but I can assure you it isn’t,” said Crowdy Head President Al Davis. “He does so much work fundraising for the club and is generous with his time and knowledge. We’re very fortunate to have him patrol on our beach for the last 15

seasons and I hope he continues to be involved with Surf Life Saving.”

Davis needn’t worry. Although his patrolling days are over, the man himself has no intention of going cold turkey just yet. “I still want to help out with the fundraising where I can and I’ve probably got a year or two as an official in me. The other thing I would like to do is help revive the Sunday swim race that was a regular event when I first moved here.” His more immediate plans involve travelling, both domestically and abroad and catching up with friends and family.

From the boy who never dreamed of becoming a lifesaver to a man who has spent six decades wearing the iconic red and yellow, John Ward’s journey in lifesaving has been an extraordinary adventure. “For me personally I have got so much out of Surf Life Saving the friendships I have made and the people you meet along with all the fantastic memories is what makes it worthwhile. I think 60 years is a nice round number to finish up with.” Yes it is.


We’ve covered some ground since we published the first edition of Beyond The Flags back in the summer of 2013. Take a look back at our covers as we celebrate the 10th edition of our quarterly membership mag. We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing all about the achievements of our clubs and members in each issue.

Beyond The Flags 10th Edition

Beyond the Flags | 1

ISSUE 9Autumn 2016

From Sun To Snow – Meet Youth Winter Olympian Beth Slade

Coogee Legend Clocks Up 76 Years

NZ Adventure For NSW Lifesavers

Full Surf Sport Season Wrap

Busy Patrolling Summer For Lifesavers

Beyond the Flags | 1

ISSUE 8 Summer 2015

New Patrol App Launched

Beach to Bush Wrap Up

Next Gen Leaders Put Through Paces

Champion Runner Leads by Example

– Ali Najem’s Remarkable Story

North Bondi’s Iron Lady: Lizzie’s Time To Shine

Start of Summer Photo Spectacular

Beyondthe Flags

ISSUE 7 Spring 2015 Beyond

the Flags

Awards Of Excellence Wrap

Taree-Old Bar Looks To The Future

A Life On The Water – Caves Beach Boatie Tells All

The Engine Room Returns, A Winter Review

Champion Lifesavers Honoured On Legends Walk

Coogee Clubbie Wins North Pole Marathon

Ironman Ali Day Talks Nutrition

State Champs Photo Extravaganza

Junior Lifesavers of the Year Crowned

Clubs Commemorate Anzac Day

Patrol Season Stats

ISSUE 6 Winter 2015 Beyond

the FlagsBusiest Day of the Year

Lifesavers go on Tour

Making a Splash at Wet ‘n’ Wild

Aussie Honours List

Rescue of the month

The Engine Room

Through the eyes of a Clubbie

ISSUE 5 Summer 2015 Beyond

the Flags

Patrol Season Kicks Off

Australian Lifeguard Service Continues to Expand

Unearthing Talented Athletes

Best of the Best Surf Boat Challenge

Surf Safety Message Spreads

ISSUE 4 Spring 2014

Beyondthe Flags

Busy Season for Lifeguards

First Aid Training Milestone

IRB Champions: Kiama Downs

Athlete Profile: Nathan Foster

Clubbie Profile: Steven Polley

ISSUE 3 WINTER 2014

Beyondthe Flags Wet’n’Wild Nippers

First season success

Athlete Profile

Ben Carberry

Cyril BaldockSwimming the

English Channel

ISSUE 2 AUTUMN 2014Beyond

the FlagsAthlete Profile

Ironman Nathan Smith

Beach to Bush a Big Hit

Training Tips

Get Ready to Race

Emergency Response

A Day in the Life of a Duty Officer

ISSUE 1 SUMMER 2013Beyond

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For over a century the Coogee clubhouse has stood prominently on the rock platform at the southern end of the iconic Sydney beach…Solid, immovable, weathering the worst that Mother Nature could throw at it. That is until June 2016.

By nature of its position the worst of the southern swells usually sail harmlessly past the clubhouse, but on the evening of Sunday 5 June, events turned out differently. A powerful swell from the north east with waves of up to five metres was driven in by an East Coast Low with the clubhouse directly in its path.

At high tide it happened. A strong set of waves came through, decimating the wall and windows of the lower level, destroying the gym and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

The immediate aftermath was a nightmare for club president Mark Doepel and the members of the Coogee club as they anxiously waited to hear if the structural integrity of the building remained intact. The news was positive, the foundations had done their job once more, and the club could begin the arduous task of assessing the damage and cleaning up which had widened to include the storage facilities at the northern end of the beach. More than 250 club members attended a hastily organised working bee where they managed to clear out over a 100 tonnes of sand in the storage shed.

Coogee Rebuilds After Mother Nature’s Fury

Work is progressing rapidly on the rebuilding process. The club has been completely cleaned out, windows have been replaced, along with gym, education and training equipment. The club has been overwhelmed by the community support which has included the Coogee Bay Hotel and the Coogee Chamber of Commerce, during what club president Mark Doepel describes as an “exhausting and

emotional” journey.

“It’s been a roller coast ride and very surreal with how much support we have had. It’s ranged from a local business bringing us coffee to the English Rugby team donating $2000 dollars. What has stood out for me is how much love and affection there is for not only Coogee club but also for the organisation as a whole.

“You don’t have to be a member to identify with what has happened here. The community values what lifesavers stand for and this has just been heartening to see,” Mr Doepel said.

With the unstoppable force of the community behind him the president looks forward to fulfilling patrol commitments at the club throughout the new season.

It’s been a roller coast ride and very surreal with how much support we have had.

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TO ALL OF OUR

AWARD WINNERS

Awards of ExcellenceSurf lifesavers signed off on the 2015-16 season in style at the annual Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence in Sydney on Saturday 13 August. Over 350 surf lifesavers traded their red and yellow patrol uniforms for formal wear at the glittering celebration which was proudly presented by Stramit Building Products.

All sections of the lifesaving movement were recognised with awards presented for outstanding contributions in the areas of education, member services, lifesaving and sport.

Sydney Branch finished with five awards including the overall NSW Surf Lifesaver of the Year, while the Central Coast had four winners within its ranks and earned Branch of the Year honours.

2016 AWARD WINNERS

EDUCATION

Trainer of the Year Kerrie Hammell (Cronulla SLSC)

Assessor of the Year Ben McCormack (North Bondi SLSC)

Facilitator of the Year Ramzy Fawzy (Wamberal SLSC)

Community Education Program of the Year Surf Life Saving Central Coast, Community Surf Education Program

MEMBER SERVICES

Team of the Year Bulli Open Mens Boat Crew

Administrator of the Year Brienna Elford (South West Rocks SLSC)

Initiative of the Year Avalon Beach SLSC Youth Program

SURF SPORTS

Surf Sports Official of the Year Wayne Druery (Cronulla SLSC)

Surf Sports Coach of the Year Peter Spence (Palm Beach SLSC)

Masters Athlete of the Year Laura Thurtell (Forster SLSC)

Young Athlete of the Year Jemma Smith (Umina Beach SLSC)

Athlete of the Year Daniel Collins (Redhead SLSC)

LIFESAVING

Junior Lifesaver of the Year (Male) Byron Vinkovic (Shellharbour SLSC)

Junior Lifesaver of the Year (Female) Ella Cook (Narrabeen Beach SLSC)

Lifeguard of the Year Angus Macphail, Tweed Shire Council

Rescue of the Year Macksville -Scotts Head SLSC

Young Lifesaver of the Year Samantha Hallett (Caves Beach SLSC)

OVERALL

Stramit Club of the Year North Bondi SLSC

Branch of the Year Central Coast

Volunteer of the Year Sussan Hunt (Batemans Bay SLSC)

Surf Lifesaver of the Year Kane Hughes (North Cronulla SLSC)

Pictured: Central Coast Branch, Sussan Hunt, Kane Hughes


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IRB Series Shakes Off Winter BluesIt was another fantastic winter of racing for the state’s Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) racers during the 2016 NSW IRB Series. This year the four-round Premiership series travelled to Caves Beach, Terrigal, Birubi Point and Maroubra Beach while Mollymook hosted the new Championships.

Unfortunately for Birubi Point their turn to host coincided with a weekend of bad weather forcing the cancellation of the event after only a few races, but the Port Stephens based club wasn’t disheartened accepting that sometimes the weather is outside your control.

Throughout the season Kiama Downs SLSC and Caves Beach SLSC renewed their titanic battle of 2015 to cement their place as the top two clubs. Ultimately though, the South Coast club was able to continue their recent dominance of the Premiership making it their fifth consecutive year, and picking up a new IRB engine in the process.

After a dominant 11 seasons of winning the IRB Championships, Caves Beach were finally beaten by Kiama Downs in a fierce battle at Mollymook Beach in the first weekend of July.

“The racing has been a lot tighter this year, and I don’t think the point score reflects how close the races have been. There are a number of clubs who are starting to hit their straps - Caves Beach and Queenscliff are doing particularly well this year,” Kiama Downs Team Manager Steven Guy said.

“We’re not a big club as our IRB team makes up half of our patrolling members so the IRB motor will go a long way towards helping our club continue to provide a safe experience for beachgoers.”

NSW Surf Sports Manager Rob Pidgeon said it was a highly successful season and that all clubs should be congratulated for competing in this gruelling sport. “Congratulations to Kiama Downs for winning the Premiership and

Photo: Andrew Arnott

2016 IRB PREMIERSHIP SERIES TOP 5

Kiama Downs SLSC (30 points)Caves Beach SLSC (26 points)Queenscliff SLSC (23 points)Catherine Hill Bay SLSC (20 points)North Cronulla (16 points)

2016 IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS TOP 5

Kiama Downs (79 points)Caves Beach (62 points) Catherine Hill Bay (29 points) Queenscliff (29 points)North Cronulla (27 points)

Championship, it’s an amazing effort by the club.

“We thank Caves Beach, Terrigal, Birubi Point and South Maroubra for hosting the Premiership rounds as well as the Officials for their contribution over the last two months,” Mr Pidgeon concluded.

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NSW IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS

The NSW IRB Championships were held at Mollymook Beach in early July and came after a very successful Premiership Series which was taken out by Kiama Downs.

It was another brilliant performance from Kiama Downs who claimed overall honours ahead of Caves Beach and Catherine Hill Bay.

Mollymook also hosted the 2016 Australian IRB Championships and Interstate competition and by all reports, were popular hosts with visitors enjoying their time in the picturesque south coast region.

POOL RESCUE CHAMPS

Over 250 competitors representing 24 surf clubs from around NSW featured in the 2016 NSW Pool Rescue Championships. This year there was a slight change in club point score format with the clubs battling it out for honours in the Youth, Masters, and Open divisions as opposed to an overall winner. Umina (208 points) claimed the Youth championships ahead of Terrigal and Wanda. Terrigal finished on top of the Masters ahead of Umina and Wanda, while Umina, Wanda and Bulli finished in the podium positions in the Open Division.

NSW selected a strong Pool Interstate team blending a mixture of youth and experience to take on the best in Australia on the Gold Coast. The team finished second behind Queensland.

AUSSIES FINISH 2ND AT WORLDS

Congratulations to the 12 NSW athletes who were part of the Australian Life Saving Team at Rescue 2016 in The Netherlands. Australia finished second overall behind New Zealand. The Youth Team claimed gold while the Opens took silver in their division.

Rescue 2016 Open Representatives:Georgia Miller Newport SLSC

Dane Farrell Newport SLSC

Tim Schofield Terrigal SLSC/Hills LSC

Bradley Woodward Shelly Beach SLSC/The Hills LSC

Jake Lynch Newport SLSC

Australian Youth Representatives:Jemma SmithUmina SLSC/ Hills LSC

Rachel WoodUmina SLSC /Hills LSC

Lizzie Welborn North Bondi SLSC

Charlie BrooksNewport SLSC

Issac Smith Newport SLSC

Ethan GarlandNorth Cronulla SLSC/ Port Hacking Lifeguard Club

Callum Lowe-Griffiths Queenscliff SLSC/Hills LSC

The Engine Room Winter Update

For full news and results please visit the event’s official website: www.lifesaving2016.com

BOARD RIDERS RIDE WAVE OF SUCCESS

Over 120 competitors from Cudgen Headland in Northern NSW through to Shellharbour on the state’s South Coast made the journey to Soldiers Beach on the NSW Central Coast for the 2016 NSW Board Riding Championships. Competition for spots was fierce with entrants having to qualify through their respective Branch Titles. It was almost perfect weather throughout the three-day event, but unfortunately the swell never really got going. Despite the conditions it was still a highly successful event that was played out in good spirits.

LOOKING AHEAD

A strong Pool Development touring party has recently been announced. The group of U18 athletes will travel to New Zealand in the October school holidays where they will compete against the best Kiwis in the business.

There are a number of development programs in the pipeline including Sweep Schools for Boat Sweeps, and the Junior Development Academy Please keep an eye on our Website for information including circulars.

We hope the winter season has been kind to all of our athletes, and we look forward to welcoming you on a beach soon for another scintillating summer of surf sports.

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Umina Women U14-15 200m Medley Relay winners

NSW Athletes with SLSNSW President, David Murray

NSW IRB Championships


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With the games of the 31st Olympiad officially coming to a close in Rio last month, Surf Life Saving NSW would like to acknowledge the efforts of those current and former members of the lifesaving community who took their talents to the world stage.

It has been a year to remember for Avoca Beach’s Lachlan Tame who after being named the youngest ever inductee into the Surf Life Saving Australia Hall of Fame was able to belatedly make good on a $5000 bet with a mate and become an Olympian.

He returned from Brazil with some extra baggage courtesy of the Bronze Medal he picked up in the K2 1000 after he teamed up with Ken Wallace to finish third behind Serbia and Germany.

Fellow Avoca Beach club mate Riley Fitzsimmons made the most of his Olympic debut. Still young enough to be eligible for Australia’s U23 team for the next several seasons, the 20-year-old teamed up with Jacob Clear, Ken Wallace, and Jordan Wood to finish fourth in the final of the men’s K4 1000.

Competing in his second Olympics, Bronte’s Jarrod Poort won many fans with his gutsy performance in the 10 km Open Swim. The 21-year-old led the pack for almost 9km before finishing 21st before his father delivered one of the most quotable interviews of the Games.

Two years ago Jessica Thorton (Coogee SLSC) won the Open Beach Sprint/Flag double at the NSW Championships at Ocean Beach Umina, now the 18-year-old who was the youngest member of Australia’s Track and Field team is an Olympic finalist after competing in the Women’s 4X400 Relay in Rio.

In 2015 while living and training on the Gold Coast Thomas Fraser Holmes returned to competitive lifesaving and gave

Lifesavers Make Their Mark On Olympic StageShannon Eckstein a scare in the early stages of the men’s Open Surf Race at the Aussies.

In Rio the swimmer took to the blocks as part of the Australian swim team. He made the semi-finals in the 200 metre freestyle, and was part of the 4X200 relay team that finished fourth in the final.

The road to Rio was a long one for Manly’s Naomi Flood, but she ultimately qualified for her second Olympic Games. The champion surf lifesaver competed in the women’s K500 where she made the semi-finals finishing the course in a time of 2:01.91 seconds.

Also lining up for his second Olympics was former Manly and now Northcliffe competitor Murray Stewart. A gold medallist in the K4 1000 in London, Rio was a different experience for the 30-year-old kayaker. This time Murray’s main focus was on the K1 1000 event. He was in red-hot form in the heats (second) and semi-final (first), but unfortunately missed the medals in the final finishing an agonising fourth by around four tenths of a second behind Russian paddler Roman Anoshkin.

NSW Director of Surf Sports Donald van Keimpema said it was fantastic to see so many surf lifesavers compete in the biggest sporting event on earth.

“There is a rich tradition of surf lifesavers competing in the Olympics with those in Rio certainly doing us proud,” Mr van Keimpema said.

Olympian Riley Fitzsimmons competing at the 2016 NSW State Championships.

Our Mission

To save lives, create great Australians and build better communities.

Summary

Surf Life Saving NSW is the state’s major water safety and rescue organisation, and with over 74,000 members, is one of the largest volunteer movements in Australia.The primary role of Surf Life Saving NSW is to save lives on our beaches, while other activities include developing our members through education, leadership and surf sports programs.There are 129 surf clubs and 11 branches in the state which are affiliated with Surf Life Saving NSW, stretching from Fingal Rovers SLSC near Tweed Heads, to Pambula SLSC on the Far South Coast.

For contributions or suggestions for Beyond the Flags please contact SLSNSW Media on 02 9471 8000 or [email protected]

SLSNSW endeavours to ensure all information contained in Beyond the Flags is correct and true, however accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracies or mistakes contained in the publication.

Surf Life Saving New South Wales

T +61 2 9471 8000 F +61 2 9471 8001 E [email protected] Narabang Way Belrose NSW 2085 | PO Box 307 Belrose NSW 2085 AustraliaFundraising Authority No. CFN11033 ABN: 93 827 748 379

Surf Life Saving NSW wishes to thank the following sponsors and supporters for helping our volunteers

save lives on the beaches each year.

@SLSNSW

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