After that, you will need to work out what what surf life saving club you'd like to join. You can click here for contact details.

The next step is to fill out your details here. This information will be accessed by the club you have nominated and they will contact you with information about the next training courses. (If you don't hear from them after a week or so, feel free to give them a call direct - remembering that not all clubs are staffed all year round.)

What are the benefits of being a surf lifesaver?

Surf lifesaving is about satisfaction. Having fun, being physically fit, learning teamwork and aquatic safety skills, competing in surf sports, and helping make surfing a safer pastime. Surf Life Saving can offer a range of opportunities which will promote:
• A healthy lifestyle
• A sense of pride
• A sense of responsibility and purpose
• Positive social relationships

There is a place for everyone in the surf lifesaving movement. If you are unable to perform the duties of an active surf lifesaver, then perhaps assistance in the administration, communications or fundraising areas is for you.

Who can join SLSA?

Membership of SLSA is open to anybody, regardless of age, race, religion or gender.

What do I have to do to be a surf lifesaver?

The Bronze Medallion is the minimum requirement for an active surf lifesaver. To obtain this award you must be over the age of 15 and demonstrate proficiency in surf awareness, survival, patrol and rescue procedures, emergency care plus anatomy and physiology.

Before commencing training for the Bronze Medallion you will be required to complete a 400-metre swim in nine minutes or less, in a swimming pool of no less than 25m, or over a measured open water course. Once this has been completed, all clubs provide qualified instructors who will train you to the level of a proficient surf lifesaver.

At the completion of your training, which will take a couple of months, your physical fitness will be tested by a run-swim-run (a 200m run followed by a 200m swim and then another 200m run) which has to be completed in under eight minutes. You will also be examined on theory, basic resuscitation and first aid and participate in a simulated rescue situation using a rescue board and tube.

All these skills combine to train you to be an effective member of a patrol team.

Are there any other ways I can join SLSA without doing a Bronze Medallion?

Yes. SLSA offers a wide range of awards to its members and the community.

For example, by gaining basic awards in radio operations, you can assist with patrol observation and communication duties without having to perform water-based rescues.

If you are less than 15 years of age you can obtain a Surf Rescue Certificate. Probationary surf lifesavers can achieve this award from the age of 13. The award trains candidates in rescue skills, first aid and patient management, resuscitation, plus a theoretical component exploring safety knowledge and surf awareness.

If you are looking for a way to entertain your children during the summer season then why don't you join them up in our ‘nippers’ program. The Junior Activities Program is for children aged between 5 and 13 years and provides basic surf skills.

For further information:info@slsa.asn.au
Page updated: May 2009