ISSUE 10 Spring 2016

Beyond the Flags ISSUE 10 Spring 2016

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 club is a proud supporter of Surf Life Saving NSW.

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15 OCT Welcome to the 10th edition of our quarterly members magazine Coolangatta Gold, Beyond The Flags. Gold Coast 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 16 OCT celebrate the start of the 2016/17 patrol season. Surf Club Open Day A lot has been going on in Surf Life Saving since the season Surf Clubs in NSW 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 11-13 NOV compete over winter in the IRB and Pool Rescue Competitions. Senior Performance Many of our patrolling members have been involved in the Academy emergency callout system and have responded to requests for Narrabeen, Sydney assistance during winter, and we thank them for their efforts. We’ve also welcomed two new members to the Board after our 18-20 NOV recent elections. Former Sydney Northern Beaches President Development David Murray (North Curl Curl SLSC) was elected NSW President, Networking Program while Donald van Keimpema (Shelly Beach SLSC) was elected Sydney CBD 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 27 NOV years. Both he and former Surf Sports Director Michael Bate, Beach Development Clinic who elected not to recontest his position, brought experience Newport, Sydney 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 10-11 DEC NSW Awards of Excellence in Sydney, and this was a fantastic Interbranch night to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our members. Championships Our thanks go to Stramit Building Products who supported the The Lakes, awards, and have been wonderful long-time supporters of Surf Central Coast Life Saving, and Mr Adam Crouch MP, Member for Terrigal who 17 DEC represented the Minister for Emergency Services, David Elliott. SLSNSW Race Day Beyond The Flags is a vital communication tool for our members Randwick Racecourse, and we aim to produce a publication that encompasses the Sydney whole spectrum of Surf Life Saving, whether your involvement is in lifesaving, sport, coaching, administration, junior activities 4-5 FEB or volunteering in support of your club. We appreciate your Stramit Country dedication and time spent in any volunteer capacity. Championships Enjoy the read! South West Rocks, 25 FEB- Mid North Coast 12 MAR NSW Surf Life Saving Phil Vanny AM Championships Chief Executive Officer Swansea Belmont, Hunter Surf Lifesavers Brave Wild Weather The 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 Photo: Anne-Marie Ladegaard 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. New Season Launched A kayaker who became stranded in big seas Sydney’s famous Bronte Beach after he became separated from his craft on was the setting for the NSW the North Coast was extremely lucky that an season opening, the traditional experienced IRB crew from Macksville Scotts Raising of The Flags ceremony Head was able to launch a rescue effort and coincided with the release of the come to his aid. inaugural NSW Coastal Safety On the Far North Coast Australian Lifeguard Report on Friday 23 September. Service personnel were disappointed by the SLSNSW President David Murray, behaviour of some swimmers and surfers Bruce Notley-Smith, Member for who decided to take to extremely messy Coogee, Waverley Mayor Sally Betts and Bronte club waters off Byron Bay when there was a break members all raised the flags on the new patrol season. in the rain. Over 21,000 active surf lifesavers from the 129 surf clubs along the Local Lifeguard Supervisor Ruben NSW coastline will patrol during the season. Roxbourgh said surfers were ignoring warnings and obviously still hazardous “It’s a pleasure to be at Bronte to officially launch the new patrol conditions to head out on the water, making season. I know that every single lifesaver patrolling throughout the job of lifeguards even more difficult. the state will be doing their best to keep beachgoers safe,” said SLSNSW President David Murray. NSW Lifesaving Director John Restuccia commended all volunteers who lent a hand. Following a season where tragically 53 people drowned in NSW “The community is lucky to have volunteers coastal waters, the NSW Coastal Safety Report contains a realistic including surf lifesavers who have the skills and honest look at the current and historical drowning situation and commitment to help others at times like on our beaches as well as an overview of surf lifesaving assets and this,” he said. operations. Photos: David Field

4 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 5 Vietnam Nippers Visit Hailed A Success

It was a school holiday with a difference for a group of has really promoted the lifesaving development project Cudgen Headland Nippers and their parents who recently far more effectively than can be done with one lifesaving got to demonstrate their skills and knowledge about water development officer,” said David Field. “The next challenge safety to an enthusiastic audience in Vietnam. for the project is to get local public authorities to accept Drowning is a major issue in the South East Asian the importance of education in promoting water safety and nation with young children the group at significant risk. the role their lifeguard staff can play offering activities like Conservative estimates put the number at about 32 Nippers over the summer. “ drowning deaths a day across the nation, a truly alarming This is where the Cudgen tour has been so important to statistic, especially when seen through the perspective the Vietnam lifesaving development project. Locals can see of the Australian experience where beach awareness and the games and activities first hand and the skill the young safety is something drummed into young children from a Australians have in the water. “We’ve also been very lucky very early age. to have the support of the Far North Coast Branch for not In 2015 Surf Life Saving Vietnam Development Officer only this project, but also ones we have in Thailand and the David Field set up junior water safety programs in the Philippines,” he concluded. South Central City of Nha Trang. Through his ties with As part of the 2016 tour, the young Nippers from Cudgen Far North Coast Surf Life Saving, Cudgen Headland SLSC participated in a joint activities day with their Vietnamese offered to enter into a sister club relationship with the counterparts. They also had the opportunity to pass on their fledgling Nha Trang SLSC. knowledge and skills gained from many hours spent on Photo: Anne-Marie Ladegaard David and his wife, fellow trainer Susan Eke, have been Kingscliff Beach with the famous Thung boats manned by busy developing relationships with local communities local lifeguards putting in an appearance. throughout Vietnam and have helped train lifeguards to For further information follow Surf Life Saving Vietnam on hopefully assist to reduce the drowning toll. “The tour Facebook. Photos: David Field

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

MYRIL BUNT (OAM) JOHN TAPLIN (OAM) For service to the community of the Sapphire Coast For service to the community of Cronulla through Myril Bunt OAM began her involvement in Surf Life Saving back charitable organisations in the mid 1960s, and has made significant contributions at both John Taplin OAM has been heavily involved in the Cronulla Club and Branch level. Between 1983-92, Myril was secretary of community and in Surf Life Saving between 1996 and 2004. Far South Coast Branch, and also served as Treasurer for seven During this time he was a Nippers Age Member and Committee seasons and as assistant gear steward. She served as secretary Member at Wanda SLSC. on the George Bass Marathon organising committee four times ROBYN WRIGHT (OAM) between 1995 and 2001. At Moruya SLSC she spent a decade For service to the community of Moruya as club secretary, and was deservedly awarded a Branch Life Membership in 1998. Robyn Wright OAM is something of a community icon in Moruya through her involvement in a variety of activities.She is best PETER LOZAN (OAM) known in Surf Life Saving as Secretary at Moruya SLSC and for For service to swimming, and to Surf Life Saving her volunteer contribution to the Nippers group. She was also a Peter Lozan OAM was heavily involved with the Coalcliff SLSC for Branch Delegate throughout much of the 1970s and 80s. almost 50 years before pursuing other interests. In two separate EDNA MAY (OAM) stints he patrolled the popular Illawarra beach from 1959- For service to the community of the Nambucca Valley 1988, and again from 1997-2009. As someone who took a keen interest in the administrative side of his club he served in various Edna May OAM continues to be heavily involved in many positions on the management committee, spent six years as different aspects of the Nambucca Valley community. She has President and was club captain for the 1966/67 season. He was been a long term patron and supporter of Nambucca Heads Surf made a Life Member of the club in 1974. Life Saving Club.

RACING INTO SUMMER

Surf Life Saving NSW Race Day Presented by Segenhoe Stud

DECEMBER 2016 17 ROYAL RANDWICK RACECOURSE Get involved! surflifesaving.com.au/raceday 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 Surf Clubs To their Bronze Medallion within the last three seasons. One of those who attended the program was Cheryl Throw Open Doors McCarthy from Bermagui SLSC who is looking forward to taking the lessons learned back to her club and Surf Clubs around NSW will throw open their doors on branch. “It was fantastic to meet a new network of Sunday 16 October to show the public what we’re all like-minded lifesavers, and I gained lots of new ideas,” about. Cheryl McCarthy said. She said that she was attracted 89 clubs have registered for the annual Open Day which to lifesaving because of the community spirit and hopes is designed to attract members and give the public an to become more involved as a leader at her club in insight into the role of Surf Life Saving in our community. the future. “Lifesaving was a way to contribute to the Some of the many activities on the day include clubs community and meet new people. It’s an internationally conducting demonstrations such as rescues and how renowned organisation that everyone has heard about to spot a rip, highlighting their Nipper programs and and I really wanted to be part of it. My ambition is to hold fundraising through barbeques. Information packs are a senior position on the club board and in the future, being sent to all participating clubs, and our Member being involved at a branch level in some way as well.” Services team are happy to address any inquires. During the program the participants were introduced In a first for the Surf Club Open Day, former Wallaby front to the many opportunities that are available within rower and Bronte SLSC member Al Baxter has signed lifesaving, attended workshops that focused on on as ambassador for the event. In a career spanning 69 leadership skills and public speaking, and participated tests and over 100 Super Rugby appearances, Al was in bonding activities. regarded as a tough competitor on the field, but a true gentlemen off it. Al invites everyone to come along and 2016 BEYOND MY CLUB 26 + enjoy the 2016 Surf Club Open Day. DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS James Irwin, Umina SLSC – Central Coast SURF CLUB Adam Wright, Salt SLSC – Far North Coast Cheryl McCarthy, Bermagui SLSC – Far South Coast OPEN Bruce Mcaslan, Bermagui SLSC – Far South Coast Jason Horadam, Redhead SLSC – Hunter DAY Daniel Maddocks, Sandon Point SLSC – Illawarra 16 October, 2016 Rodney Croker, Crowdy Head SLSC – Lower North Coast Mylina Clancy, Hat Head SLSC – Mid North Coast Sandra Slattery, Tacking Point SLSC – Mid North Coast Eloise Starr, North Bondi SLSC – Sydney Thomas Simpson, North Bondi SLSC – Sydney Lisa Croudace, North Bondi SLSC – Sydney Holly Ross, Freshwater SLSC – Sydney Northern Beaches Geraldine Clarke, Manly LSC – Sydney Northern Beaches

FACILITATORS: Nixy Krite, South Maroubra SLSC – Sydney Gayl Ellis, Wauchope-Bonny Hills SLSC – Mid North Coast Three Clubs, 60 Summers, A Lifetime Of Memories It’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.

John Ward provides a tangible connection to the history of Conditions were awful; it was really breaking up and quite heavy lifesaving having been trained and assessed by those who surf. I actually heard one of the examiners asking another one if learned their craft from the pioneering names within the they’d put the buoys out too far,” Ward said. “The other man’s movement. As one of the custodians of lifesaving knowledge he answer was ‘well let the Coogee kid have a go he’s a good belt feels it is important to share his experiences and insights with a swimmer.’ So I was first in the water and my only instruction was new generation. to not beat the patient to the buoy. I turned around when I got Like many club members who have achieved such longevity out there and he was still floundering in the surf – they moved within the Surf Life Saving ranks, the yarns that John can spin the buoys in after that!” would fill multiple volumes. As a child growing up in Sydney’s The Bronze Medallion safely acquired, John’s interest and east with the shadow of war still fresh in the city’s memory, involvement in Surf Life Saving began to intensify. Throughout joining a surf club was never really on a young John’s radar. the 1960s he won four successive club championships where “Like most of my friends I played sport and enjoyed the social you had to accrue points over two swims and two belt races and side of it,” John Ward said. “I grew up playing rugby and water regularly competed at club and state carnivals. polo and I was a pretty handy swimmer and did a lot of training In 1971 he shifted to Collaroy where he would remain on patrol at Coogee Swim Club where I was a member, but really I had and compete for the next 30 seasons. As part of the club’s all never even considered joining a surf club.” conquering March Past team he would win medals at state His aptitude in the water did not go unnoticed for long. Summer and national level. The introduction of a Masters competition 1955 was hot – so much so that a 16-year-old John was putting in reignited a passion to race within him and he won 17 of the plenty of hours in the pool alongside a group of friends. It wasn’t club’s first 20 Masters Championships and was crowned club long before his obvious talents caught the eye of an interested champion as well. Collaroy’s innovative approach to new ideas patron. That man turned out to be Ron Day who at the time was indirectly led him to his third and final club. the Chief Instructor of Coogee surf club and was in the process “Every year Collaroy hosted a Masters Championship type of trying to put together a Junior R&R team. In short order John, carnival and a boat crew from Crowdy Head used to come down Tom Nickson, Ross Hardy, Peter Jospe, and John Cunningham with a couple of other athletes. The opportunity to move north were in a squad training for their Bronze Medallion under the for work came up in 2001 and I wanted to stay involved in Surf watchful eye of Tony Farthing. Life Saving, so the Crowdy Head club seemed a natural fit,” Ward Within a month the group were confident in their ability to said. A natural fit it may have been, but for a man used to the handle the surf, but judgment day would have to wait with hustle and bustle of Sydney it was quite a culture shock. seven squads from across Sydney Branch being held back to “When I joined I thought, what have I got into here as there participate in a carnival type event on Christmas Eve as part of a didn’t seem to be enough people to operate. The club has wider exhibition. fantastic leadership though and gets things done in the way that “There was a Fair on the grasslands from memory and I think the country clubs always do.” organisers wanted to show off the skills of the local lifesavers. Season Stats (2015/16):

6,673 157,986 14,708 735 RESCUES PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS FIRST AID CALLS TO EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEM 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 seasons and I hope he continues to be involved with Surf Life do that so the equipment has definitely changed for the better. Saving.” “One of the things that I think has been lost in recent years is Davis needn’t worry. Although his patrolling days are over, the that sense of team work. We used to always travel in the back of man himself has no intention of going cold turkey just yet. “I a truck to competitions and everybody hung around to watch. still want to help out with the fundraising where I can and I’ve People don’t do that anymore they tend to do their own thing.” 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 These days John is a proud Crowdy Head member which a regular event when I first moved here.” His more immediate includes winning a NSW Masters Rescue Tube Rescue title in plans involve travelling, both domestically and abroad and the Over 65s, although he hasn’t forgotten his roots and was catching up with friends and family. actively involved in celebrations for the 100th anniversary of both Coogee and Collaroy, and regularly keeps in contact with From the boy who never dreamed of becoming a lifesaver his many mates at both clubs. Like many Coogee old boys he was to a man who has spent six decades wearing the iconic red saddened by the damage to the iconic clubhouse caused by the and yellow, John Ward’s journey in lifesaving has been an recent storms, but has no doubt they will bounce back. extraordinary adventure. “For me personally I have got so much out of Surf Life Saving the friendships I have made and the “John is a fantastic club man who does so much work that he people you meet along with all the fantastic memories is what thinks is unnoticed, but I can assure you it isn’t,” said Crowdy makes it worthwhile. I think 60 years is a nice round number to Head President Al Davis. “He does so much work fundraising finish up with.” Yes it is. 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

Season Stats (2015/16):

53 681,372 6,822 061 591 DROWNINGS VOLUNTEER HOURS BEACH ATTENDANCE AMBULANCES Beyond The Flags 10th Edition

We’ve covered some ground since we published the first edition ofBeyond The Flags back in the summer of 2013.

ISSUE 9 Take a look back at our covers as we Autumn 2016 celebrate the 10th edition of our quarterly membership mag. We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing all about

From Sun To Snow – Meet Youth Winter the achievements of our clubs and Olympian Beth Slade Coogee Legend Clocks Up 76 Years NZ Adventure For NSW Lifesavers Full Surf Sport Season Wrap Busy Patrolling Summer For Lifesavers members in each issue. Beyond the Flags | 1 Photo: Doug Hawkins

ISSUE 8 ISSUE 7 ISSUE 6 ISSUE 5 Summer 2015 Beyond Spring 2015 Beyond Winter 2015 Beyond Summer 2015 Beyond the Flags the Flags the Flags the Flags

Coogee Clubbie Wins North Pole Marathon Busiest Day of the Year Ironman Ali Day Talks Nutrition Lifesavers go on Tour State Champs Photo Extravaganza Making a Splash at Wet ‘n’ Wild Junior Lifesavers of the Year Crowned Aussie Honours List Rescue of the month Clubs Commemorate Anzac Day The Engine Room Patrol Season Stats Through the eyes of a Clubbie

New Patrol App Launched

Beach to Bush Wrap Up Awards Of Excellence Wrap Next Gen Leaders Put Through Paces Taree-Old Bar Looks To The Future Champion Runner Leads by Example A Life On The Water – Caves Beach Boatie Tells All – Ali Najem’s Remarkable Story The Engine Room Returns, A Winter Review North Bondi’s Iron Lady: Lizzie’s Time To Shine Champion Lifesavers Honoured On Legends Walk Start of Summer Photo Spectacular Beyond the Flags | 1

ISSUE 3 ISSUE 2 ISSUE 1 Beyond WINTER 2014 Beyond AUTUMN 2014 Beyond SUMMER 2013 the Flags Beyond the Flags the Flags Wet’n’Wild Nippers ISSUE 4 First season success Spring 2014 the Flags Athlete Profile Athlete Profile Ironman Nathan Smith Busy Season for Lifeguards Ben Carberry First Aid Training Milestone Beach to Bush a Big Hit Cyril Baldock IRB Champions: Kiama Downs Swimming the Training Tips Athlete Profile: Nathan Foster English Channel Get Ready to Race Clubbie Profile: Steven Polley Emergency Response A Day in the Life of a Duty Officer

Patrol Season Kicks Off Australian Lifeguard Service Continues to Expand Unearthing Talented Athletes Best of the Best Surf Boat Challenge Surf Safety Message Spreads

10 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 11 Photo: Doug Hawkins

Coogee Rebuilds After Mother Nature’s Fury

For over a century the Coogee clubhouse has stood Work is progressing rapidly on the rebuilding process. prominently on the rock platform at the southern end of the The club has been completely cleaned out, windows have iconic Sydney beach…Solid, immovable, weathering the worst been replaced, along with gym, education and training that Mother Nature could throw at it. That is until June 2016. equipment. The club has been overwhelmed by the By nature of its position the worst of the southern swells usually community support which has included the Coogee Bay sail harmlessly past the clubhouse, but on the evening of Hotel and the Coogee Chamber of Commerce, during what Sunday 5 June, events turned out differently. A powerful swell club president Mark Doepel describes as an “exhausting and from the north east with waves of up to five emotional” journey. metres was driven in by an East Coast Low It’s been a roller “It’s been a roller coast ride and very with the clubhouse directly in its path. surreal with how much support we have At high tide it happened. A strong set of coast ride and very had. It’s ranged from a local business waves came through, decimating the wall surreal with how bringing us coffee to the English Rugby and windows of the lower level, destroying team donating $2000 dollars. What has the gym and leaving a trail of destruction in much support we stood out for me is how much love and its wake. affection there is for not only Coogee club have had. but also for the organisation as a whole. The immediate aftermath was a nightmare for club president Mark Doepel and the “You don’t have to be a member to members of the Coogee club as they anxiously waited to hear identify with what has happened here. The community if the structural integrity of the building remained intact. The values what lifesavers stand for and this has just been news was positive, the foundations had done their job once heartening to see,” Mr Doepel said. more, and the club could begin the arduous task of assessing With the unstoppable force of the community behind him the damage and cleaning up which had widened to include the the president looks forward to fulfilling patrol commitments storage facilities at the northern end of the beach. More than at the club throughout the new season. 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.

10 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 11 TO ALL OF OUR AWARD WINNERS 2016 AWARD WINNERS EDUCATION Trainer of the Year Kerrie Hammell (Cronulla SLSC) Awards of Excellence Assessor of the Year Ben McCormack (North Bondi SLSC) Surf lifesavers signed off on the 2015-16 season in style at the annual Surf Life Facilitator of the Year Saving NSW Awards of Excellence in Sydney on Saturday 13 August. Over 350 Ramzy Fawzy (Wamberal SLSC) surf lifesavers traded their red and yellow patrol uniforms for formal wear at the glittering celebration which was proudly presented by Stramit Building Products. Community Education Program of the Year All sections of the lifesaving movement were recognised with awards presented Surf Life Saving Central Coast, for outstanding contributions in the areas of education, member services, Community Surf Education Program lifesaving and sport. Sydney Branch finished with five awards including the overall NSW Surf Lifesaver MEMBER SERVICES of the Year, while the Central Coast had four winners within its ranks and earned Team of the Year Branch of the Year honours. 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 Pictured: Central Coast Branch, Sussan Branch of the Year Hunt, Kane Hughes Central Coast Volunteer of the Year Sussan Hunt (Batemans Bay SLSC) Surf Lifesaver of the Year Kane Hughes (North Cronulla SLSC) NEW FIRST AID BUMBAG Surf Life Saving NSW provides SOP compliant first aid kits. BUY 4 GET 1 PRACTICAL BUMBAG SOFT PACK FREE! Lightweight portable bumbag FANCM35 with waist strap and internal pockets for ease of use. NEW STYLE PVC backed fabric for water resistance. New improved design, now includes reflective tape, drink holder and foam padding for comfort.

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14 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 15 1300 766 257 | surflifesaving.com.au/shop | [email protected] Photo: Andrew Arnott

IRB Series Shakes Off Winter Blues

It was another fantastic winter of racing After a dominant 11 seasons of winning Championship, it’s an amazing effort by for the state’s Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) the IRB Championships, Caves Beach the club. racers during the 2016 NSW IRB Series. were finally beaten by Kiama Downs in a This year the four-round Premiership fierce battle at Mollymook Beach in the “We thank Caves Beach, Terrigal, Birubi series travelled to Caves Beach, Terrigal, first weekend of July. Point and South Maroubra for hosting the Premiership rounds as well as the Officials Birubi Point and Maroubra Beach “The racing has been a lot tighter this while Mollymook hosted the new for their contribution over the last two year, and I don’t think the point score months,” Mr Pidgeon concluded. Championships. reflects how close the races have been. Unfortunately for Birubi Point their turn There are a number of clubs who are to host coincided with a weekend of bad starting to hit their straps - Caves Beach 2016 IRB PREMIERSHIP SERIES weather forcing the cancellation of the and Queenscliff are doing particularly well TOP 5 event after only a few races, but the Port this year,” Kiama Downs Team Manager Kiama Downs SLSC (30 points) Stephens based club wasn’t disheartened Steven Guy said. Caves Beach SLSC (26 points) accepting that sometimes the weather is “We’re not a big club as our IRB team Queenscliff SLSC (23 points) outside your control. makes up half of our patrolling members Catherine Hill Bay SLSC (20 points) Throughout the season Kiama Downs so the IRB motor will go a long way North Cronulla (16 points) SLSC and Caves Beach SLSC renewed towards helping our club continue to their titanic battle of 2015 to cement their provide a safe experience for beachgoers.” 2016 IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS TOP 5 place as the top two clubs. Ultimately NSW Surf Sports Manager Rob Pidgeon though, the South Coast club was able said it was a highly successful season and Kiama Downs (79 points) to continue their recent dominance of that all clubs should be congratulated Caves Beach (62 points) the Premiership making it their fifth for competing in this gruelling sport. Catherine Hill Bay (29 points) consecutive year, and picking up a new “Congratulations to Kiama Downs Queenscliff (29 points) IRB engine in the process. for winning the Premiership and North Cronulla (27 points)

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(*conditions apply) NSW IRB CHAMPIONSHIPS AUSSIES FINISH 2ND AT WORLDS For full news and results please visit the event’s official website: The NSW IRB Championships were held Congratulations to the 12 NSW athletes www.lifesaving2016.com at Mollymook Beach in early July and who were part of the Australian Life came after a very successful Premiership Saving Team at Rescue 2016 in The BOARD RIDERS RIDE Series which was taken out by Kiama Netherlands. Australia finished second WAVE OF SUCCESS Downs. overall behind New Zealand. The Youth Over 120 competitors from Cudgen It was another brilliant performance Team claimed gold while the Opens took silver in their division. Headland in Northern NSW through to from Kiama Downs who claimed overall Shellharbour on the state’s South Coast honours ahead of Caves Beach and Rescue 2016 Open Representatives: made the journey to Soldiers Beach on Catherine Hill Bay. Georgia Miller the NSW Central Coast for the 2016 NSW Mollymook also hosted the 2016 Newport SLSC Board Riding Championships. Competition for spots was fierce with entrants having Australian IRB Championships and Dane Farrell to qualify through their respective Branch Interstate competition and by all reports, Newport SLSC were popular hosts with visitors enjoying Titles. It was almost perfect weather their time in the picturesque south coast Tim Schofield throughout the three-day event, but region. Terrigal SLSC/Hills LSC unfortunately the swell never really got Bradley Woodward going. Despite the conditions it was still a POOL RESCUE CHAMPS Shelly Beach SLSC/The Hills LSC highly successful event that was played out in good spirits. Over 250 competitors representing Jake Lynch 24 surf clubs from around NSW Newport SLSC LOOKING AHEAD featured in the 2016 NSW Pool Rescue Championships. This year there was Australian Youth Representatives: A strong Pool Development touring party a slight change in club point score Jemma Smith has recently been announced. The group format with the clubs battling it out Umina SLSC/ Hills LSC of U18 athletes will travel to New Zealand for honours in the Youth, Masters, and Rachel Wood in the October school holidays where Open divisions as opposed to an overall Umina SLSC /Hills LSC they will compete against the best Kiwis winner. Umina (208 points) claimed the Lizzie Welborn in the business. #anadventuretoremember Youth championships ahead of Terrigal North Bondi SLSC and Wanda. Terrigal finished on top of There are a number of development the Masters ahead of Umina and Wanda, Charlie Brooks programs in the pipeline including Sweep while Umina, Wanda and Bulli finished Newport SLSC Schools for Boat Sweeps, and the Junior in the podium positions in the Open Issac Smith Development Academy Please keep an Division. Newport SLSC eye on our Website for information including circulars. NSW selected a strong Pool Interstate Ethan Garland team blending a mixture of youth North Cronulla SLSC/ We hope the winter season has been kind and experience to take on the best in Port Hacking Lifeguard Club to all of our athletes, and we look forward Australia on the Gold Coast. The team Callum Lowe-Griffiths to welcoming you on a beach soon for finished second behind Queensland. Queenscliff SLSC/Hills LSC another scintillating summer of surf sports. ccusa.australia ccusaaustralia @CCUSAAustralia 1300 859 040 www.ccusa.com.au 16 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 17

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SYDNEY MEDICAL SERVICE CO-OPERATIVE LTD SYDNEY MEDICAL SERVICEP 8724 6300 CO-OPERATIVE F 8724 6301 www.homegp.org LTD P 8724 6300 F 8724 6301 www.homegp.org 18 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 19 Olympian Riley Fitzsimmons competing at the 2016 NSW State Championships.

Lifesavers Make Their Mark On Olympic Stage

With the games of the 31st Olympiad officially coming to a Shannon Eckstein a scare in the early stages of the men’s Open close in Rio last month, Surf Life Saving NSW would like to Surf Race at the Aussies. acknowledge the efforts of those current and former members of the lifesaving community who took their talents to the In Rio the swimmer took to the blocks as part of the Australian world stage. 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 It has been a year to remember for Avoca Beach’s Lachlan Tame final. who after being named the youngest ever inductee into the Surf Life Saving Australia Hall of Fame was able to belatedly make The road to Rio was a long one for Manly’s Naomi Flood, but good on a $5000 bet with a mate and become an Olympian. she ultimately qualified for her second Olympic Games. The champion surf lifesaver competed in the women’s K500 where He returned from Brazil with some extra baggage courtesy of the she made the semi-finals finishing the course in a time of 2:01.91 Bronze Medal he picked up in the K2 1000 after he teamed up seconds. with Ken Wallace to finish third behind Serbia and Germany. Also lining up for his second Olympics was former Manly and Fellow Avoca Beach club mate Riley Fitzsimmons made the now Northcliffe competitor Murray Stewart. A gold medallist most of his Olympic debut. Still young enough to be eligible for in the K4 1000 in London, Rio was a different experience for the Australia’s U23 team for the next several seasons, the 20-year- 30-year-old kayaker. This time Murray’s main focus was on the old teamed up with Jacob Clear, Ken Wallace, and Jordan Wood K1 1000 event. He was in red-hot form in the heats (second) and to finish fourth in the final of the men’s K4 1000. semi-final (first), but unfortunately missed the medals in the final finishing an agonising fourth by around four tenths of a second Competing in his second Olympics, Bronte’s Jarrod Poort won behind Russian paddler Roman Anoshkin. many fans with his gutsy performance in the 10 km Open Swim. The 21-year-old led the pack for almost 9km before finishing NSW Director of Surf Sports Donald van Keimpema said it was 21st before his father delivered one of the most quotable fantastic to see so many surf lifesavers compete in the biggest interviews of the Games. sporting event on earth.

Two years ago Jessica Thorton (Coogee SLSC) won the Open “There is a rich tradition of surf lifesavers competing in the Beach Sprint/Flag double at the NSW Championships at Ocean Olympics with those in Rio certainly doing us proud,” Mr van Beach Umina, now the 18-year-old who was the youngest Keimpema said. 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

18 Beyond the Flags | SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU SURFLIFESAVING.COM.AU | Beyond the Flags 19 SURF CLUB OPEN DAY Sunday 16 October, 2016

Come and be part of the family!

Surf Life Saving NSW wishes to thank the following Our Mission sponsors and supporters for helping our volunteers To save lives, create great Australians save lives on the beaches each year. 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 SURF LIFESAVING NSW for any inaccuracies or mistakes contained in the publication. Surf Life Saving New South Wales @SLSNSW T +61 2 9471 8000 F +61 2 9471 8001 E [email protected] 3 Narabang Way Belrose NSW 2085 | PO Box 307 Belrose NSW 2085 Australia @ Fundraising Authority No. CFN11033 ABN: 93 827 748 379 SLSNSW