Written by “The surf lifesaving movement … is truly Australian in spirit. Its character savors [sic.] of sun-drenched sand and a free and boisterous surf. In it we see democracy function as it was meant to. There are no barriers of creed, class or colour. All these things are forgotten in the wonderful spirit of humanitarian mateship.” – History of Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club, 1956
Australia’s heroes of the beaches have risen from a loose band of self-starters; local businessmen, councillors, and surf bathers, who could see both the commercial and ethical value of providing safety on our shores.
The first surf lifesaving club was founded at Bondi in February 1907 and was soon to be joined by many others as they began to populate the coastline. These valiant protectors were, and still are, volunteers, who work hard to maintain an atmosphere of well-trained and knowledgeable care for all in a playful, recreational setting.
Today anyone over the age of 15 can qualify as a surf lifesaver but first must pass a series of tests including a first aid exam and a simulated rescue. Candidates must also complete a 200-metre run, a 200-metre swim then another 200-metre run in less than eight minutes. Given these parameters, the surf lifesaving culture is one that imbues athleticism and strength while also being steeped in health, safety, education, and protection.
The inclusivity of the organization is one that has arisen from need; Australia is known for its fantastic beaches and we are certainly a nation of swimmers but our coastline can very quickly become a very scary place to be. Any beach in Australia can be occupied by people from a vast array of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds at any given time, surf lifesaving Australia is astute enough to have successfully developed a diverse and tolerant culture that can see beyond the elements that divide us in other circumstances, on the beaches we are all equal.
Extending from protection and rescue, the Nippers program was officially initiated in the 1960’s. Nippers are junior surf lifesavers aged between 7 and 14 and they learn about surf awareness and safety and compete in swimming and beach events. Surf Lifesaving as an organization has committed to having an inclusive and diverse membership that reflects the community. Since 2019 this commitment to providing greater access and opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in surf lifesaving, has seen to the establishment of new programs like the Starfish Nippers and events like the Inclusive State Championships which is open to members over the age of six with a disability and has been developed in collaboration with Autism Spectrum Australia.
“As a society we should all view disability as just an expected part of human diversity and accommodate it accordingly. This will result in a truly inclusive environment for people with disability that empowers them to participate in society and all that it offers to the same extent as people without a disability.” – Australian Local Government Association.
“Inclusion is an attitude. It is about being an organisation where everyone feels welcome and valued. This starts from when a potential new member comes into contact with the club for the first time, through to the member actively participating in club activities.” – Surf Life Saving Australia
The surf lifesaver continues to represent the best of Australia to ourselves and to the world.
https://www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/between-the-flags/birth-of-surf-lifesaving
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