Surf Life Saving Australia Annual Report 2024

REPORT 2023/24

PRESIDENT AND CEO REPORT

Reflecting on the past year, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for the unwavering dedication of our Surf Life Saving community. This annual report shares some of the remarkable achievements made in the 2023/24 year and serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of our volunteers. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, embraced innovation and made significant strides towards creating a safer, more inclusive future for all.

This last year we have seen our membership continue to grow, with a 9% increase in the number of patrolling members. These 45,236 patrolling members contributed a total of almost 1.5 million volunteer hours. Never before have our surf lifesavers worked harder to keep people safe at Australian beaches, carrying out 8,857 rescues and almost 2.5 million preventative actions. More and more is being asked of surf lifesavers each year as beach usage around the country continues to grow and we pass on our

deepest gratitude to all our volunteers for everything they do to keep their communities safe.

This year we have seen continued innovation in the coastal safety space and enhanced collaboration with other emergency services, notably through our Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Southern Service. Our flood and swift water rescue programs have also expanded, providing critical training and specialist operators to support other states during emergencies.

As Australia’s leading authority on coastal safety, our research department remains at the forefront of groundbreaking initiatives. Their focus has been on a broad spectrum of issues, including drowning prevention, rip current safety, bystander rescues, public rescue equipment, community engagement, surf sports safety, disaster resilience, and drowning and injury epidemiology. Our work continues to shed light on the emerging challenges impacting Surf Life Saving and the broader community.

John Baker AM ESM, SLSA President

Using research to underpin our summer campaign was a key priority and our marketing team used research insights and engaged a working group of state representatives to develop a water safety campaign for the 2023/24 summer period. The new SLSA summer campaign TV commercial received lots of positive feedback with the key message to ‘swim between the flags’ clearly conveyed.

This year has seen significant progress made in the fields of diversity, equity and inclusion as we stive to build a strong, inclusive and resilient future for all.

This year saw the introduction of Adaptive Surf Sports Events to the Aussies program with 32 athletes participating in one exciting day of racing at Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast. The introduction of the Adaptive Surf Sports was the culmination of two years of work and saw athletes competing in a range of events including wade, surf race, board race, beach flags, beach sprint and beach run. This program will continue to expand as we work with each of our states to develop and enhance their own programs.

SLSA has been working on a national Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Framework this year which has involved our national committees and several stakeholder workshops. The framework will be launched prior to the 2024/25 season, alongside a number of guidelines to assist clubs to foster a sense of belonging where inclusive practices are the norm and Surf Life Saving is welcome to all.

SLSA proudly received Gold Status in the Pride in Sport Index, putting us among the country’s best sporting organisations, in terms of LGBTQ inclusion. SLSA President John Baker AM ESM was also recognised with the 2024 Pride in Sport Executive of the Year Award.

We remained committed to learning and development this year, running our full suite of development programs including our National Leadership College, Masterclass, and the Women’s Mentoring Program. Innovation in the learning and development space has included an updated IRB training manual and the development of the Nipper App, eliminating the need for paper-based recording during Nippers. Furthermore this year saw a stand-alone sexual harassment and misconduct awareness course be developed and released as a directive of the SLSA Board.

The 2023/24 financial year saw a Consolidated surplus from normal operations of $3,451,570 from revenue of $91,556,325. The Surf Life Saving Foundation returned

$6.6 million in contributions to Surf Life Saving states and territories with total fundraising income increasing by more than 22% on last financial year. This is an amazing achievement, which the team at SLSA is proud to be able to deliver for the benefit of the Federation. The Grant Seeking Unit (GSU) once again delivered outstanding results securing $8.4 million in funding and lodging over 500 grant applications for SLS entities nationally.

Also instrumental to our success this year has been our longstanding major national partners in Ampol, DHL, Isuzu and Westpac. We are tremendously proud of the relationships we have built within our national partnership portfolio and thank each of them for their unwavering support which makes everything we do possible.

SLSA continued to engage strongly with both the NSW and Australian Government to support the strategic priorities of the organisation. We were successful in securing the renewal of our Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter funding through the NSW Government, along with additional funds to assist with the replacement of the hangar door. We thank the NSW Premier, the Hon Chris Minns MP and the NSW Minister for Emergency Services, Hon Jihad Dib MP for their support.

SLSA was successful through the pre-budget submission and its ongoing advocacy to secure core Water Safety and Training and Education funding for a further two years, including additional Beach Safety Equipment funding. We would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, and Minister for Sport, the Hon Anika Wells MP for their support with this funding.

We are also extremely grateful for the ongoing support of our Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving, being led by

Adam Weir, SLSA CEO

our co-chairs the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Member for Kingsford Smith and Ms Angie Bell MP, Member for Moncrieff.

It was a successful sport season which saw record entries to the Australian National championships and an impressive competition series with our elite events. The Australian Lifesaving Team took advantage of many opportunities to dominate on the international stage with Battle of the Tasman, the International Surf Rescue Challenge, German Cup and the Trans-Tasman Surf Boat Test Series.

Over the past 12 months, we have had the pleasure of recognising some incredible members of our movement. From Kings Birthday and Australia Day Governor General Honours. to National Medals to our own Awards of Excellence, we recognised extraordinary efforts across the movement. As we celebrated acts of courage, talented athletes, committed trainers, coaches and officials, the diversity of our movement was on full display.

Adam Weir Chief Executive Officer

Surf Life Saving Australia

John Baker AM ESM President Surf Life Saving Australia

Congratulations and our deepest thank you to each of these award recipients.

We would also like to recognise the efforts of our SLSA Advisory Committee Chairs and Members for their contribution to the strategic goals and operations of SLSA, particularly Chris Jacobson (Lifesaving), Andrew Buhk (Sport), Nancy Joseph (Development) and Tracey HareBoyd (Education).

We also extend our gratitude to all our board members, for their passion, professionalism, and determination to drive our movement forward.

To retiring SLSA Directors, Craig Smith-Gander AM, and Melanie Evans, thank you for your sustained and significant contribution to SLSA and the Federation.

Finally, to all our amazing volunteers, you are the heart and soul of our tremendous movement. Thank you.

Yours in surf lifesaving,

WHO WE ARE

Surf Life Saving Australia Limited (SLSA) is Australia’s peak coastal water safety, drowning prevention and rescue authority.

With 198,916 members of all ages and demographics across 315 affiliated Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs), SLSA represents the largest volunteer movement of its kind in Australia.

Since Surf Life Saving was established in 1907, over 700,000 lives have been saved. In 2023/24 there was an amazing contribution in Surf Life Saving with 8,857 rescues, 49,331 first aid treatments and almost 2.5 million preventative actions. Surf Life Saving volunteers carried out more than 1.46 million volunteer patrol hours.

Surf Life Saving is a unique charitable, community cause that exists through community donations, fundraising, corporate sponsorship and government grants.

OUR MISSION

Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities.

Australian beaches have long occupied a special place in Australian culture. With eighty-five per cent of the population living within 50km of

the coast and more than 650 million visitations annually, the beach is a place where people of all backgrounds can come together to enjoy our vast coastline.

The vision of Surf Life Saving is zero preventable deaths in Australian waters. We are committed to educating and protecting all people to further reduce the number of coastal drowning fatalities.

Despite significant advancements in technology, techniques and knowledge, many still lack a basic level of awareness when it comes to water safety. Because of this, coastal drownings still occur in unacceptable numbers.

WHAT WE DO

Creating safe environments on and off the beach is an integral part of the Surf Life Saving movement with a range of support operations utilised around Australia.

These operations include: 24/7 emergency response groups, rescue helicopter services, jet rescue boats, offshore rescue boats, rescue watercraft, surveillance systems, radio control and coordination centres, and volunteer lifesaving services. Through

the State and Territory Centres, Surf Life Saving operates the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS), the country’s largest lifeguard service. This essential service is provided to local government and other coastal land managers.

OUR STRATEGIES

SLSA has developed a strategic plan that will guide the Surf Life Saving movement through to the year 2025. The focus of the 2025 Strategic Plan is to further enhance the capacity and capability of the movement to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. The four pillars of our current Strategic Plan that guide us to achieve our mission are:

1. Save Lives

2. Develop and support our people

3. Grow and sustain our movement

4. Engage the community

ABOUT THIS REPORT

This is the Annual Report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited ABN 67 449 738 159/ACN 003 147 180, covering the period of 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024. The Surf Life Saving movement is made up of 506 separate legal entities, including State and Territory Centres, Surf Life Saving Clubs, Branches (In Queensland and New South Wales) and support operations. The financial accounts of these entities, whose relationship with SLSA is further described in section four, are not consolidated here. The activities and achievements of all surf lifesavers however are consolidated and reported.

SURF LIFE SAVING STRATEGIC PLAN 2025

VISION

Zero preventable deaths in Australian waters.

SURF LIFE SAVING STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS

SAVE

STRATEGIES

1.1: Always being rescue ready

1.2: Maximizing safety between the flags

1.3: Working to reduce drowning and injury rates

1.4: Leading evidenced based research and innovation

1.5: Having industry best practice risk management systems

1.6: By leading and delivering as the peak coastal safety body

1.7 Supporting drowning prevention internationally, particularly in the Asia Pacific region

SUCCESS FACTORS

• There have been no drowning deaths between the flags.

• The per capita drowning and injury rates are below the 5-year rolling average.

As the peak coastal water safety body, we have leading representation on international and national water safety / drowning prevention bodies. We provide opportunities for our people to participate in activities internationally and within the AsiaPacific and can report and promote these efforts.

• State / Territory entities are included in Emergency Management Arrangements.

• Patrolling membership increases year on year.

• Lifesaving programs and initiatives increase reach into communities year on year.

An increasing proportion of patrolling members are participating in surf sports and / or modified sports activities.

MISSION

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

2.1: Providing and promoting engaging leadership and learning opportunities

2.2: Recognising and rewarding achievement and success

2.3: Developing and promoting great events

2.4: Growing a safety culture

2.5: Promoting the positive contribution of SLS volunteers

2.6: Provide accessible and diverse pathways for members within SLS

3.1: Protecting and enhancing the brand to drive internal and external support

3.2: Developing effective strategic and operational alignment across all levels of the organisation

3.3: Making it easier for volunteers, staff and the community to contribute to the movement

3.4: Ensuring, maintaining and promoting sound financial and governance practices

4.1: Increasing awareness of SLS’s positive contribution to the community

4.2: Encouraging and providing opportunities for the community to engage with SLS

4.3: Being an inclusive organisation that promotes accessibility and diversity

4.4: Being actively engaged in reflecting community expectations particularly in the areas of environmental and sustainability issues

• We will be using best practice technologies to enhance the learning experience for our people and the community.

• Education is meeting the needs of our people, the community and key stakeholders.

We have clearly aligned leadership pathways throughout the movement. We are identifying potential leaders early, providing opportunities for development and mentoring.

We are recognising and celebrating the diverse achievements of our people.

• We are reporting decreasing injury and accident rates involving our people.

• Safety of our people remains first and foremost, with Lost Time Injury (LTI) rates reducing year on year.

• Our events are recording growth in participant and partner support. SLS pathways generate an uplift in membership and participation in SLS.

• Our brand is protected, valued and recognised.

• Our brand is in the top 5 most trusted brands for the NFP sector.

• Strategic financial results are defined and met.

SLS Strategic Plans are aligned at national, state and club level. National and State risk and compliance registers are current, shared and reported.

We are leveraging technology to enable our people, community and partners to easily contribute to SLS.

• Fundraising activities (donor and lottery) are growing revenue annually and growing the return to the movement.

• We are increasing non-government revenue by a minimum 2%.

• Our membership is growing and retention rates increasing.

• We can measure an increasing level of engagement of a diverse range of communities.

Our Champions and Guardians supporters are increasing by 3% annually.

SLSA reports on distribution of funds transparently across the movement annually.

We can update the organisation’s economic impact annually. Proactive initiatives and policy are developed to support community expectations and trends.

2023/24 SCORECARD

2020 STRATEGIC INTENT

1. SAVE LIVES

1.1: Always being rescue ready

WE ACHIEVED IN 2023/24

• Backend changes was the focus this year while migration to the new API service was underway.

WHAT WE WILL ACHIEVE IN 2024/25

• Look to build a self-rostering platform into the Operations app.

• Further review into public rescue equipment and AI cameras on Beaches.

• Developing an annual Innovation Day targeted at new innovative pieces of equipment in medical, rescue and technology.

1.2: Maximising safety between the flags

State delivery of Blackspot programs with the 3-year funding completion in May.

New equipment was provided through the Beach Safety Equipment Fund to SLSC’s.

• Delivered BRP Rescue Equipment Program with 30 successful SLSC’s receiving units.

1.3: Working to reduce drowning and injury rates

1.4: Leading evidencebased research and innovation

Renewal of the core Water Safety Funding through the Australian Government.

Active participant and leader with the Australian Water Safety Council.

Development of Surf Risk Rating to include patrol, water safety and other water environments flat water (non tidal).

• Joint launch of the National Drowning Report with Royal Life Saving Australia at Parliament House in Canberra. National Coastal Safety Report 2023 delivered.

NCIS relationship and approvals maintained. Coordinated a significant representation at the World Conference of Drowning Prevention in Perth.

Renew Blackspot Reduction Drowning Prevention funding for another 2 years.

Obtain national support for the review of Beach Safety Equipment Funding Process to reduce paperwork.

• Continue to work with the various Lifesaving Committees and working groups to ensure the wider lifesaving community is consulted.

Design and implent a new Water Safety Policy and Procedure. Develop further updates to broader education and policies which affect the operations of Lifesavers on beaches.

Look to support States improve Rescue Services operations in reducing drowning and injury rates outside the red and yellow flags.

• Joint launch of the National Drowning Report 2024 with Royal Life Saving Australia at Parliament House in Canberra.

Deliver National Coastal Safety Report 2024.

NCIS relationship and approvals maintained.

Develop a national SLS research working group.

1.5: Having industry best practice risk management systems

1.6: By leading and delivering as the peak coastal safety body

1.7 Supporting drowning prevention internationally, particularly in the Asia Pacific region

• Consulted with Australian Standards and contributed towards discussions.

• Developed i-Risk modules for broader SLS use.

Promoted and developed content for key Coastal Safety activities including National Coastal Safety Report, Coastal Safety Briefs, key awareness days such as National Water Safety Day, World Drowning Prevention Day as well as other opportunities in general around summer.

Maintained ILS representation on Committees/Commissions and working groups.

Successfully hosted as co-organisers the World Conference on Drowning Prevention which was held in December 2023.

Continued to develop relationships within the Asia Pacific area in partnership with ILS.

• Continued to facilitate and provide leadership for international exchanges and developments.

• Review and update SLSA specifications to ensure standards are up to date and current.

• Maintain SLSA Registered Gear & Equipment Manufactures, ensuring Gear and Equipment are at the highest standard. Improve online systems for Lifesaving Equipment.

Enhance promotion and development of content for key Coastal Safety activities including National Coastal Safety Report, Coastal Safety Briefs, key awareness days such as National Water Safety Day, World Drowning Prevention Day as well as other opportunities in general around summer.

Delivery of Japan Exchange Program.

Continue to develop relationships within the Asia Pacific area in partnership with ILS.

Continue to facilitate and provide leadership for international exchanges and developments.

Support Asia / Pacific partners through sharing of resources.

2. DEVELOP AND SUPPORT OUR PEOPLE

2.1: Providing and promoting engaging leadership and learning opportunities

Delivered Masterclass 2023 and National Leadership College 2024 for eligible members.

Continued with Women’s Mentoring Program Cohort 4 (Graduated Nov 2023) and launched Cohort 5 in Nov 2023.

• Renew VET funding for a further two years and will continue to report on our education and training activities to the Government, ensuring ongoing support for VET funding.

• Continued to report on our education and training activities to the Government, ensuring ongoing support for VET funding.

Completed development of an IRB Training Manual and associated resources.

Extended contract with LMS and SMS provider.

Supported all L&D applications and implemented enhancements to minimise paperwork.

Represented SLS interests and provided updates on VET matters which affected the SLSA RTO & wider membership to ensure ongoing compliance.

Continued to work with the various L&D Committees and working groups, and ensured the wider membership was consulted.

• Maintained SLSA Registered Training Organisation Compliance.

• Consultation on necessary compliance and enhancement items in Surfguard.

Deliver Masterclass 2024 and National Leadership College 2025 for eligible members who represent the membership in gender and state distribution.

• Continue with Women’s Mentoring Program Cohort 5 (graduating Oct 2024) and launch Cohort 6 in Aug 2024.

• Resource development as per agreement with relevant stakeholders on time and to budget, with consideration being given to blended learning.

• Establish contract with LMS and SMS provider as current agreement expires.

National support of all IT L&D applications with a view to minimising paperwork.

Represent SLSA in line with the organisational values at relevant national L&D and industry relevant conferences.

Represent SLS interests and provide updates on VET matters which will affect the SLSA RTO & wider membership to ensure ongoing compliance.

Continue to work with the various L&D Committees and working groups to ensure the wider membership is consulted.

• Maintain SLSA Registered Training Organisation compliance, including re-registration.

• Consultation on necessary compliance and enhancement items in Surfguard.

• Promote, process and coordinate the articulated credit model in conjunction with participating states and territories.

2.2: Recognising and rewarding achievement and success

2.3: Developing and promoting great events

Administrated a streamlined National Medal and Patrol Service awards program.

Delivered a successful suite of National Events including IRB Championships, Pool Rescue Championships and Interstate Championships.

Delivered a successful Australian Youth, Masters and Open Championships.

Delivered a successful elite suit of events including an Ironman and Ironwoman Series, Nutri Grain Next Gen, Super Surf Teams League and Coolangatta Gold.

Continued to explore and implement a sustainable model for Beach Warrior.

• Partnered with the ASRL to deliver the Australian Team Selection Trial, National Short Course Surf Boat Championships and Surf Boat Interstate Championships.

• Further developed and delivered athletes, officials and coaches aids through Sports Hub.

Continued to develop digital technology assets in surf sports to drive efficiencies and improve the user experience.

Continued to review models and processes for the Australian Championships.

Developed communications plans including marketing, media, digital and content to promote SLSA sporting events.

Progressed a tiered training program to enhance the role of the SEMC.

Completed a study and introduced inclusive all Abilities/Adaptive events at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

2.4: Growing a safety culture Reviewed the Child Safe Awareness Course. Rolled out updated Integrity Policies.

Rolled out the phase 2 enhancements to the Online Reporting System.

Updated Integrity Policies were rolled out and are in the Members Portal.

Administer a streamlined National Medal and Patrol Service awards program.

Deliver a successful suite of National Sport Events .

Deliver a successful Australian Youth, Masters and Open Championships

Deliver a successful elite suit of events including an Ironman and Ironwoman Series, Super Surf Teams League, Next Gen, Coolangatta Gold, Coolangatta Gold and Ocean Thunder Surf Boat Series.

Partner with the ASRL to deliver the Australian Team Selection Trial, National Short Course Surf Boat Championships and Surf Boat Interstate Championships.

Further develop and deliver Athletes, Officials and Coaches aids through Sports Hub.

• Continue to develop digital technology assets in surf sports to drive efficiencies and improve the user experience.

• Continue to review models and processes for the Australian Championships.

• Develop communications plans including marketing, media, digital and content to promote SLSA sporting events.

Further develop and implement a tiered training program to enhance the role of the SEMC.

Continue to explore and develop further avenues for the introduction of All Abilities/Adaptive events in national sport events.

Develop and explore avenues to drive efficiencies in national sporting events and to improve the stakeholder experience.

Increase members completing the Child Safe Awareness course. Work with Sport Integrity Australia. on the review of all integrity policies prior to updating in June 2025.

2.5: Promoting the positive contribution of SLS volunteers

2.6: Provide accessible and diverse pathways for members within SLS

Provided management oversight of the SLSA Recognition & Appreciation program.

Delivered a successful Awards of Excellence.

SLS Innovation Fund Committee progressed projects as funds became available.

Rolled out the Youth Working Group nationally. Continued to implement recommendations from the National Youth Review.

3. GROW AND SUSTAIN OUR MOVEMENT

3.1: Protecting and enhancing the brand to drive internal and external support

3.2: Developing effective strategic and operational alignment across all levels of the organisation

3.3: Making it easier for volunteers, staff and the community to contribute to the movement

Provided corporate partnership support to all national member events, programs and initiatives.

• Explored opportunities to secure new corporate partners for key flagship member events, programs and initiatives.

• Identified new corporate partner pipeline for member events, programs and initiatives.

States delivered the current national corporate partner contractual obligations (activations and branding) with quarterly reporting.

Provide management oversight of the SLSA Recognition & Appreciation program.

Deliver a successful Awards of Excellence.

SLS Innovation Fund – Committee to agree on the biggest challenge in SLS as submitted by the membership and invite all members to submit ideas to overcome this challenge.

SLS Innovation Fund Committee will continue to engage existing and attract new supporters/donors.

Continue to support the Youth Working Group nationally. Maintain the Junior Development Resources and ensure Age Manager resources are maintained to support their delivery.

3.4: Ensuring, maintaining and promoting sound financial and governance practices

GSU system was delivered.

Maintained a suite of regularly produced standard performance reports accessible for internal purposes.

Created a contact management system for GSU with GSU to provide full scope of requirements to IT.

The existing lottery prize strategy has been reviewed to ensure permit compliance.

Continued regular decline management processes that support optimisation of regular givers and Champions Club members.

Renewed and updated the management accounting suite of reports to ensure the FACC and SLSA Board are provided the most relevant information on the group’s financial performance, position, and risk exposure.

Maintained funding with Tourism and Events QLD around The Aussies and Coolangatta Gold.

Maintained funding with TWA around The Aussies for the off years of Aussies in QLD.

• Engaged with corporate partners to ensure relevant funding is maintained nationally.

Provide corporate partnership support to all national member events, programs and initiatives. Explore opportunities to secure new corporate partners for key flagship member events, programs and initiatives.

• Identify new corporate partner pipeline for member events, programs and initiatives.

States to deliver the current national corporate partner contractual obligations (activations and branding) with reporting quarterly.

Work towards national corporate partners benefits for new partners to be provided to the states within 4 weeks of signing a new partner.

GSU system to be delivered 2024 with additional internal work ongoing. Maintain suite of regularly produced standard performance reports accessible for internal purposes.

Beyond the Lottery and Donations System go-live, review whether a second phase is required for the project and investigate relevant opportunities/channels where donations can be requested as part of a lottery sale and implement where possible.

Review fundraising requirements and resources following implementation of the new Lottery and Donations System.

• Implement more cost-effective lottery supporter sales strategies.

Update the management accounting suite of reports.

Ensure lottery prize home properties are selected/designed to meet customer expectations and sit within the acceptable scope of a prize home as seen by our supporters.

Ensure lottery prize homes are selected, acquired, renovated and maintained as per required timeframes to effectively meet draw timelines.

Maintain funding with Tourism and Events QLD around The Aussies and Coolangatta Gold.

• Maintain funding with TWA around The Aussies for the off years of Aussies in QLD.

• Engage with corporate partners to ensure relevant funding is maintained nationally.

4. ENGAGE THE COMMUNITY

4.1: Increasing awareness of SLS’s positive contribution to the community

4.2: Encouraging and providing opportunities for the community to engage with SLS

Maintained relationships with long term partners Westpac, AMPOL, Isuzu Ute, BRP, Dulux and FINZ. Continued to build relationships with all sides of government, opposition and the cross bench to promote Surf Life Saving’s positive contribution to the community.

• Continued meaningful and regular GSU performance reporting to help inform strategy.

Maintained flexibility in GSU to create capacity to scale up.

GSU grant revenue target achieved, maintained existing client base and the number of SLS clubs engaged with the GSU increased YOY.

National partners actively engaged in fundraising opportunities.

The Innovation Fund projects were presented to existing national partners.

Champions and regular giving budget targets were met.

Donor communication journeys continued and donor tenure as a result increased.

Renewed partnerships with Major National partners in Westpac and Isuzu UTE Australia.

Renewed partnership with BRP.

Liaise with all political parties in the lead up to the 2025 Federal election to promote Surf Life Saving’s positive contribution to the community.

• Maintain meaningful and regular GSU performance reporting to help inform strategy and develop future growth.

Maintain flexibility in GSU to create capacity to scale up.

Achieve GSU grant revenue target, maintain existing client base and number of SLS clubs engaged with the GSU increasing YOY.

Continue to assist the states to operate the Silver Salties program, rolling out a new internal ICT system.

Continue working with existing national partners to identify and collaborate on fundraising opportunities.

Introduce new lottery subscriber retention strategies, including targeted and personalised communications.

• Continue to enhance and improve the supporter user experience (UX) through digital online functionality developments including a supporter online dashboard.

• Continue to acquire new lottery customers and new donors cost effectively online to build the database to increase direct marketing opportunities for champions and RG conversion and/or upsell and cross-sell opportunities.

Introduce subscribers to the lottery online club selling program to increase commissions paid to the clubs and reduce pressure on club resources.

Maintain strong relationships with third-party fundraising partners to grow commercially.

Invest in new areas to sustain philanthropic income, including the implementation of new programs and the continuation of the new bequest strategy.

• SLSWA is integrated back into national fundraising, including GSU opportunities.

4.3: Being an inclusive organisation that promotes accessibility and diversity

4.4: Being actively engaged in reflecting community expectations particularly in the areas of environmental and sustainability issues

Continued to offer the Inclusive Beaches Equipment Grant and supported clubs with up-to-date resources.

Continued to work with Pride in Sport and improved our Pride in Sport Index rating.

Developed a DEI Framework for the organisation.

Continued to assist the states to operate the Silver Salties program.

SLSA to undertake the second year of the ‘Disaster preparedness along Australia’s coastline due to climate change.’

50% of site-specific assessments and reports completed around the country.

Demonstrate our ongoing commitment to DEI through the development and implementation of an Action Plan across all levels of SLS.

Continue to support club disability inclusion programs through the Inclusive Beaches equipment grant.

Continue membership with Pride in Sport with the goal of improving our Index rating.

Explore research opportunities to build a deeper understanding relating to DEI initiatives.

SLSA to finalise the ‘Disaster preparedness along Australia’s coastline due to climate change.’ This includes:

‒ Completion of the remaining site-specific assessment reports

‒ The development of an interactive tool that all clubs can use to understand risk and exposure of natural hazards for their club and explore risk mitigation recommendations that they may want to consider.

‒ Compilation and completion of a national report including state and national level recommendations.

COASTAL SAFETY

The provision of core Surf Life Saving (SLS) services across our coastline is key to maintaining Australia’s status as the peak authority on coastal safety. Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs), Support Operations, and the Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) provide coastal surveillance patrols and search and rescue (SAR) operations. Recognised by emergency services and disaster response agencies, SLS partners in SAR operations, after-hours incidents, and natural disasters. SLS provides a consistent standard of training for 40,868 Bronze Medallion and 6,773 Surf Rescue Certificate holders across 315 clubs. These volunteer surf lifesavers and professional lifeguards patrol the Australian coastline, which extends over 52,000 kilometres and encompasses almost 12,000 beaches. With over 198,000 members, Surf Life Saving ranks among the largest volunteer organisations globally. The diversity and capability of our members are essential to our success. In 2023/24, 45,236 of these members performed patrols, contributing a total of 1,462,533 volunteer hours. Over the 2023/24 season 8,857 rescues were carried out, 2,482,013 preventive actions performed, and 49,331 first aid treatments were provided.

INNOVATION

We are continuously enhancing our Patrol Ops App and SurfCom system, with ongoing updates designed to meet the needs of our members.

In recent years, our flood and swift water rescue programs have been rigorously tested by flood events across the country. The program

developed by Surf Life Saving Tasmania and supported through SLSA’s Centre of Excellence, has expended significantly, providing support to other states through training and by supplying specialist operators during emergencies.

The Surf Risk Rating system and app have this year been integrated into the Silver Medallion Patrol Captain course. This integration includes modules for patrol and water safety, creating a comprehensive resource for risk assessment across all SLS activities, including sport, patrol, and water safety. Future developments aim to extend coverage to inland and both tidal and non-tidal waterways.

COLLABORATION

Over the past year, collaboration has been a cornerstone of our approach, enhancing our effectiveness and outcomes.

The Lifesaving Advisory Committee and Management Committee have actively engaged with other SLS departments at both state and national levels. This cooperation is crucial, with states handling the delivery of essential frontline services and the national level focusing on standardisation, policy development, and resource creation. Together, these efforts ensure we effectively prevent injury and save lives.

FRONTLINE EQUIPMENT

The Coastal Safety Team has made significant strides in maintaining the integrity and safety of lifesaving equipment. They conducted crucial annual compliance checks to ensure equipment safety and reliability. These audits identified any deviations from standards, allowing for prompt corrections and reducing the risk of non-compliance. The team also worked closely with manufacturers to ensure all equipment adhered to the highest safety standards and incorporated the latest technology.

BLACKSPOT FUNDING

The Beach Drowning Blackspot Reduction Program (BDBRP) aimed to reduce drowning incidents at highrisk coastal locations through targeted infrastructure improvements, additional resources, and enhanced services. With $3 million allocated over three years (2021/22 to 2023/24), the program focused on addressing drowning in high-risk areas and regions with projected population growth. The program has now concluded for this funding period.

This initiative employed a rigorous assessment process to address drowning incidents in identified blackspot locations. It included community awareness efforts, rescue watercraft additions, and public signage, all tailored to the specific needs of Australian coastal areas.

BEACH SAFETY EQUIPMENT FUND

The Beach Safety Equipment Fund played a vital role in supporting Surf Life Saving’s mission to save lives, foster community spirit, and build better communities. This fund enabled SLSC’s to acquire essential safety equipment, contributing to a reduction in coastal drowning incidents. Key purchases included 322 rescue tubes, 247 rescue boards, 52 Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRBs) and 49 Sideby-Side Vehicles (SSVs). The fund’s impact aligns closely with the priorities outlined in the Australian Water Safety Strategy, aiming to mitigate water-related injuries and fatalities.

WESTPAC LIFE SAVER RESCUE HELICOPTER SERVICE – SOUTHERN

Over the 2023/24 season saw an increase in activity by the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service across both bases in Sydney and Moruya, with the aircraft deployed to many parts of the state during this period.

The continued development of partnerships with NSW Police and Ambulance has been extremely positive with support provided across the services in times of need. Several incidents have led to the deployment of multiple agencies, which has been instrumental in saving lives and ensuring people return home safely. We also work collaboratively with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Rural Fire Service, Marine Rescue NSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, State Emergency Service (SES) and of course Surf Life Saving NSW.

The pilots and crews continue to deliver above and beyond expectations and we acknowledge Helistar for the work they undertake in supporting us to deliver this essential service.

Westpac as our naming rights partner is always looking at new opportunities to assist in promoting what we do and creating opportunities for the service to be recognised and raise further funds. Without the support of Westpac we simply would not be able to deliver the service we do.

To the NSW Government, Randwick Council, Club Liverpool and other supporters and donors, thank you for your support in helping us do what we do best – saving lives.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

In September 1973, the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service commenced its first ever patrol. In September 2023 the service celebrated a huge milestone, 50 years of operations.

A celebration of this milestone was held at Maroubra, with Lifesaver 21 and 23 aircraft joined by an original style aircraft, the Bell 47. All three aircraft performed a flyover and landing at Maroubra beach. A mural was commissioned and is still proudly displayed on the external wall of Maroubra SLSC.

Other celebrations were held at Bondi SLSC with crew, engineers and staff, past and present, attending and joining in the celebration of 50 years. We recognise Ian Badhams as one of the initial pioneers of the service, bringing the idea to life with others in 1973, and creating history with the

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service taking to the skies in 1973. fifty years later and there are 15 Westpac Rescue Helicopters and one Westpac Offshore Rescue Boat around the country.

AVIATION OPERATIONS

Emergency response, rescues, searches and support to other emergency service agencies and the community has continued to be the main focus of our operations. Taskings through Police and Surf Life Saving NSW made up the majority of activity during the past 12 months.

The missions have ranged from searches and support at aviation accidents including both fixed wing and rotary aircraft; searches, rescues and recovery of persons from bush, mountain, alpine and regional areas across the state; assisting police and SES members in access to areas through to performing rescues, first aid and resuscitation to a range of incidents. Often these incidents include swimmers, rock fishers, boaters, watercraft, divers and those recreating around our waterways.

In a number of emergencies we have been tasked by AMSA and worked with them and other emergency service agencies for aviation and boating incidents, missing bushwalkers and EPIRB (Beacon) alerts.

Public awareness programs and promotions have been undertaken including numerous school visits, where we have been able share what the service does and important safety messages. Similarly, landings at lifesaving development and leadership programs have been undertaken, providing our future leaders an insight to the service.

Promotional activities have included the delivery of a young family to Allianz Stadium on Anzac Day to deliver the match ball and to honour their father who served, through to media stories on the service with various media agencies. The Westpac Open Air Cinema promoted the partnership, with Lifesaver 21 involved with a flyover for one of the events. Father Christmas took to the air for the Carols by the Sea with Randwick Council, and we have filmed a variety of stories with media. Further funds and awareness were raised through Rescue Helicopter Month and a collaboration with NRL State of Origin.

EMERGENCY SERVICE DELIVERY

The past 12 months have seen an increase in engagement with the emergency service agencies with more regular meetings and collaboration with our service and that of the NSW Police and NSW Ambulance. This has resulted in improved communications, the opportunity to undertake more training exercises together and ultimately a better outcome for the general public.

The Sydney base is host to the NSW Emergency Services for the Metropolitan Regional Emergency Management meetings, training and workshops. The base also hosts other emergency service groups including that of NSW Ambulance.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

The service is also a training provider for a range of courses and throughout the past 12 months courses have been delivered to agencies including Fire and Rescue NSW, State Emergency Services (SES) and other groups. Courses have been delivered at Sydney, Moruya and across the state. In particular HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) courses, Helicopter Emergency Egress Device (HEED) courses, Safety and Movement Around Aircraft and Human Interactions with Aircraft make up some of those that have been delivered.

SRHRS SNAPSHOT 2023/24

Number

SPORT

EVENTS

The 2023 Australian IRB Championships was hosted by Cudgen Headland SLSC in July and the Australian Pool Rescue Championships returned to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre in August. Both SLSA events experienced a growth in competitor numbers, setting the stage for a successful year in surf sports. The Shaw and Partners Financial Services Coolangatta Gold kicked off the summer season in an explosive fashion with a 40% increase in entries from the previous season. Key developments this year included an increase of $60,000 in prize money allocated to the short course teams events and the introduction of the U17 individual short course event. Both developments helped to drive entries and create a whole new level of excitement to the weekend. The junior event continued to grow as did the downwind paddle. The traditional long course was held in hot conditions and saw Lana Rogers take out the female race while Ali Day continued his dominance over the male event.

The 2023/24 Nutri-Grain Ironman & Ironwoman Series continued to be a success with a return to Tugun, Queensland for the trial in November followed by a six-round series across three weekends at iconic locations – Manly, Maroubra and Kurrawa. Lana Rogers and Ali Day continued their success from the Coolangatta Gold and were crowned as the series champions. All 6 rounds of the series were broadcast live on the SBS network.

The Super Surf Teams League (SSTL) continued to go from strength to strength with 8 person teams, selected by the states, racing in a teams league format. This year saw a team from California – the California Bears race over the 3 rounds.

The Nutri-Grain Next Gen Series continued to thrive as a development pathway for U19 competitors with 3 rounds of racing held at Kurrawa in February in conjunction with the Nutri-Grain Ironman & Ironwoman Series. Kalani Ives and Ethan Callaghan were crowned Next Gen Champions.

The Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (the Aussies) returned to the Sunshine Coast from 13 to 21 April. The Youth, Masters and Open Championships were conducted over Mooloolaba, Alexandra Headland and Maroochydore beaches with the board riding event based in Coolum. Just under Over 7,000 competitors attended the championships across nine days of exciting competition.

This year saw the introduction of Adaptive Surf Sports Events to the Aussies program with just under 40 athletes participating in one day of exciting racing at Mooloolaba. The introduction of the Adaptive Surf Sports was the culmination of 2 years of work and saw athletes competing in a range of events including wade, surf race, board race, beach flags, beach sprint and beach run. This program will continue to expand as we work with states to support them to develop and enhance their own programs.

The bulk of the Aussies continued to be livestreamed while ‘finals day’, on Sunday 21 April, included a three-

hour live broadcast across the SBS network.

The SLSA Surf Boat Interstate Championships were conducted alongside the ASRL Open at Lorne (VIC) while the Australian Short Course Surf Boat Championships were held at Blacksmith Beach (Swansea Belmont) in December. Interstate Championships were successfully conducted over a range of disciplines including beach/surf events, surf boats, pool rescue and IRB racing.

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Sport Advisory Committee (SAC) continued to meet over the course of 2023/24 under the Chair of Sport –Andrew Buhk. The SAC met virtually on a quarterly basis with the Annual Surf Sports Conference being held on the Sunshine Coast (Alexandra Headland SLSC) in June. The conference continued to have a major focus on the future of surf sports with a keynote presentation from Bonnie Hancock on her extraordinary journey when she circumnavigated the coastline of Australia on a surf ski.

SPORT MANAGEMENT GROUP

The Sport Management Group comprised of the various state sport managers and chaired by the SLSA Sport Manager - Wayne Druery met virtually on a monthly basis with a one-day conference attended by all states in June 2024. The State Sport Management group has a strong focus on improving and sharing information regarding the operational delivery of surf sports across the country.

HIGH PERFORMANCE, PATHWAYS & PARTICIPATION

The Australian Life Saving Team (ALT) had another jam-packed season with four international racing opportunities and a number of Australian-based camps.

A new ‘Battle of the Tasman’ event concept was created in conjunction with SLS New Zealand with both nations selecting a team of youth and pathways athletes to compete. The event followed a similar program format to the Lifesaving World Championships by having pool, beach and ocean disciplines on offer. The New Zealand team put their best foot forward in the pool events only to experience what a home-game advantage the Aussies had at Kurrawa beach. The Australian team won 292 to 229, and the new event concept was deemed a great success.

Twenty athletes were selected by Royal Life Saving Australia to attend the Commonwealth Life Saving Championships in Canada in September. The strong team proved

dominant across the competition by claiming 22 gold, 14 silver and 7 bronze medals with both the development and national teams winning their point score for the Championships. Chelsea Jones and Callum Brennan received the overall top female and male point score title.

The ALT travelled to South Padre Island, Texas – USA for the International Surf Rescue Challenge in September and emerged victorious for the 9th consecutive time. The team was a mix of seasoned ALT team members and Open team debutantes who charged across the finish line with a clean sweep of the point score and an overall win of 372 points, which was 39 points ahead of closest rivals, New Zealand.

A 20-strong team of pool athletes were selected to represent Australia and enhance their international racing experience at the 2023 New Zealand Pool Rescue Championships in Auckland. The tour was great exposure for the athletes to quality international racing competition.

The ALT returned to the German Cup in November for the first time since 2019 and was a real highlight for the team. The 10-person strong team of Aussies proved to be a powerhouse against the rival nations and won the overall point score with 37.473 points, with closest rival NZ with 36.233 points. Harrison Hynes men’s 100m Manikin Tow in a time of 45.38 was a World Record performance. Mariah Jones was awarded 2nd female of the meet and Harrison Hynes was awarded 3rd overall male of the meet.

Our 2024 Australian Surf Boat Team was all class at this year’s TransTasman Surf Boat Test Series held in Lorne, Victoria. The Open Teams were dominant with both men and women’s crews winning all three rounds. The Development Team racing saw both the men and women’s crews winning two of three rounds in some exciting racing.

We wish to thank our dedicated team of selectors Shayne Baker OAM, Kristyl Smith and Sean Davis for all of their hard work this season.

Thanks also to the ALT coaches, managers and support team for your tireless work. Zayne Hamill, Ky Hurst, Andrew Bowden, Craig Holden, Rachelle King, Sam Dick, John Brennan OAM, Melinda Jackson, Craig Law, Dr Natalie Hood, Matthew Palmer, Josh Carter and Nick Marshall. Without the home coaches’ tremendous preparation of athletes for tours, we would not have the same success on the domestic and international stage.

Our Sports Hub platform continues to grow and provide valuable resources and information for all things surf sports. The Coolangatta Gold Training Support Program was very well-received to assist athletes prepare for the iconic event. We also moved the ALT team inductions across to Sports Hub to streamline the onboarding process.

LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

The electronic official’s logbook was formally launched in early 2024, developed to eliminate the need for a paper logbook and improve recordkeeping for officials. The Officials Scholarship Program continues to grow with an expansion to include powercraft operators at this year’s Aussies. To date, 27 members have either completed the program or are partway through. Special thanks to Jenny

Kenny, National Officials Advisor, and many other senior officials for their ongoing support of the program.

eLearning and associated resources are continually reviewed, with efforts underway to streamline coach and sweep reaccreditation. Attendance at the Australian Sports Commission’s Coaching and Officiating Conference and the Participation Leaders Network Conference provided valuable knowledge and insights into up-to-date trends in national sporting organisations.

SPORTS RESULTS

2023 INFLATABLE RESCUE BOAT (IRB) CHAMPIONSHIPS

Kingscliff Beach, NSW 20-23 July 2023

2023 POOL RESCUE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, QLD 4-6 August 2023

2023 COOLANGATTA GOLD

Coolangatta, QLD, 14-15 October 2023

Male Down Wind Paddle Tom Norton

Femal Downwind Paddle Kylie Allen

Mixed Downwind Paddle (Double Ski) Andrew James

2024 OCEAN INTERSTATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Maroubra, NSW, 11 January

2024

THE AUSTRALIAN SURF LIFE SAVING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sunshine Coast, QLD 13-21 April 2024

NUTRI-GRAIN IRON SERIES 2023/24

Rounds 1 - 2 Manly; Rounds 3-4 Maroubra; Rounds 5-6 Kurrawa

- 3, Maroubra,

LEARNING, DEVELOPMENT & PARTICIPATION

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

Our development programs continue to be well subscribed among the membership, with the National Leadership College in Sydney in February 2024 having 24 participants, and Masterclass in July 2023 at the University of South Australia having 23 participants. A participant from SLSNZ was included in both programs.

This year we supported our Surf Lifesaver of the Year Shannon Fox to attend the SLSNZ Leaders for Life Program which involves five workshops held over 10 months in various parts of New Zealand.

The Women’s Mentoring Program cohort five is set to graduate in October 2024 and makes almost 200 women who have completed the 12-month program. The target of 40% women in leadership positions within club, state and national committees is still to be achieved, however the Women’s Mentoring Program provides the structure for our members to be supported in their aspirations to be leaders who make a difference within SLS. The program is sponsored by McCarthy Mentoring who provide an online leadership development platform accessible by mentors and mentees. Financial support and ongoing guidance are provided by Suzanne Storrie and Kerryn Briody; without whom the program would not be possible.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

SLSA has been working on a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Framework which has involved our national committees and several stakeholder workshops. The framework will be launched during the 2024/25 season season, alongside a number of guidelines to assist clubs to foster a sense of belonging. We are committed to ensuring everyone feels respected, valued and safe.

We continue our membership with Pride in Sport, this year achieving Gold Status in the annual Pride in Sport Index, a testament to our growth as an organisation. Our president was the recipient of the Executive Leader Award at the 2024 Pride in Sport Awards. This achievement speaks volumes to his commitment in fostering LGBTQIA+ inclusion in surf lifesaving. We continue to work with specialists to ensure our members and staff are equipped to achieve best practice in this space.

TECHNOLOGY

This year we have moved away from the bulk allocation of courses to our members. This is evidenced in the reduction in ‘number of courses enrolled’ in the table below. As a result, our completion percentage has increased, as members are choosing to enrol themselves into courses which they are committed to completing. Numbers overall have decreased with Victoria and Queensland now utilising their own learning management system.

OVERALL SNAPSHOT

* Skills maintenance not included

TECHNOLOGY SNAPSHOT

This year we introduced the SLSA Nipper App, which has been developed across two existing IT platforms –Surfguard and the Members Area. Whilst there is no actual ‘app’ downloadable from online stores, mobile optimisation in the Members Area enables approved users to easily view the Nipper Sessions and Awards on any type of device. The SLSA Nipper App eliminates the need for paper-based recording during Nippers, and gives more flexibility to those authorised to record attendance and approve awards directly on the app.

EDUCATION RESOURCES

The focus this year was the release of an updated IRB Training Manual and resources for IRB Crew and Silver Medallion IRB Driver. The resources were reviewed as part of the ongoing SLSA course review schedule which ensures national resources continue to achieve their intended purpose, meet best practice, and align with applicable units of competency. As with all course reviews, working groups were established from the membership; one for course design and one for the training manual. Both worked closely with the Powercraft Advisory Group and the Lifesaving and Education Committees throughout the review process.

The new techniques introduced have been practiced over a number of years through some state-based professional development programs such as the Australian Lifesaving Boat Emergency Rescue Training (ALBERT). During the review, consideration was also given to reducing the number of major incidents and injuries which occurred with IRBs.

The new courses are designed to be delivered with a blended learning approach, including eLearning and

face-to-face sessions. Over 600 trainers, assessors and facilitators have attended a webinar hosted by members of the working group which have updated them on the changes to the resources. The digital IRB Training Manual is available for free to SLS members, as is the PSAR35 Training Manual. The Rescue Water Craft (RWC) resources will now be reviewed, with a planned release of July 2025. There will be a separate RWC Training Manual developed in conjunction with this review.

Refinements were also implemented to the Age Manager and Age Manager Assistant course to simplify and streamline processes with the introduction of the SLSA Nipper app.

A stand-alone sexual harassment and misconduct awareness course was developed and released as a directive of the SLSA board. This provides members with an understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment and misconduct, the impacts, and how to respond to and report incidents of sexual harassment and misconduct within Surf Life Saving. All active award members will complete this course as an element of their skills maintenance during the 2024/25 season, and it has also been added as a module in the Surf Rescue Certificate and Bronze Medallion courses.

We would not have achieved this progress without the support and hard work of our Education (led by Tracey Hare-Boyd) and Development (led by Nancy Joseph) Advisory and Management Committees, who we thank for their time and commitment.

Across all these units it has been an impactful year as we strive towards our goal of zero preventable drowning deaths.

Peter George AM Head of Mission

FUNDRAISING & CORPORATE PARTNERS

FUNDRAISING & CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

FUNDRAISING AND PHILANTHROPIC ACTIVITIES

The 2023/24 financial year saw the Surf Life Saving Foundation return more than $6.6M to the Surf Life Saving States and Territories through fundraising and philanthropic activities. Despite difficult economic times, supporters once again showed their support for Surf Life Saving, with total fundraising income increasing by more than 22% on last financial year. Regular givers generously contributed more than $4,097,000 as part of our monthly giving program, Guardians of the Surf. We also recorded 4,610 active donors who contributed more than $862,000 in singular donations with an average gift of $126.80.

Each year, we conduct fundraising appeals in collaboration with national SLSA partners and this year was no exception. Isuzu UTE Australia matched donor’s generous gifts (up to a certain giving level) as part of our Tax Appeal campaign; helping us raise more than $527,000.

SLS Foundation once again collaborated with reputable online Will writing services to provide supporters with the opportunity to write or update their simple Will at no cost. Some 52 new online pledges were received across the year as a result, with an estimated future income of approximately $3,469,455.00

The SLS Foundation also implemented a new legacy program to better connect supporters with the lasting impact that a gift in Will can provide. An information pack has been sent to almost 300 supporters keen to learn more. Those who choose to leave a

gift in their Will to Surf Life Saving can have their remarkable generosity displayed on a legacy board. The boards will be proudly showcased at SLSA’s Bondi Beach headquarters, above the Bondi Icebergs pools and the spectacular Pacific Ocean and will be unveiled in FY25. The bequest program currently has a total of 643 confirmed pledges.

The SLS Foundation operates Surf Life Saving Lotteries - one of Australia’s largest ‘House and Land’ charitable lottery programs. We are pleased to advise that Surf Life Saving Lotteries experienced significant growth of its subscriber program, Champions Club, for a fourth consecutive year. This contributed to a total income increase of almost $9M or 23% on last financial year. Loyal subscribers now make up 80.3% of total annual income for Surf Life Saving Lotteries.

In 2023/24, Surf Life Saving Lotteries introduced a SLSC web referral program to assist the clubs with time and cost-efficient fundraising. Fifty percent of each lottery ticket sold through a dedicated SLSC web lottery page, goes directly to the club. This year more than $26,400 was raised by participating clubs.

At the SLS Foundation, we express our gratitude to all of Surf Life Saving’s supporters. It is only with their generous support that we can distribute funds to the Surf Life Saving State entities around the country. The entities direct these funds to where they are needed most to support the efforts of our volunteer surf lifesavers. Your donation has an incredible impact on and off the beach in saving lives, fostering stronger communities, and championing water safety.

GRANT SEEKING UNIT

The 2023/24 financial year has seen the Grant Seeking Unit (GSU) deliver outstanding results, securing $8.4 million in funding and lodging over 500 grant applications for SLS entities nationally.

Continued investment by Surf Life Saving over the past 10 years has seen funding for the frontline increase with our expanded capacity. In comparison to this year, the 2013/14 year saw the GSU lodge 171 grants delivering $1.4m in support to the frontline.

This year, we have continued to build on our strong foundations, focusing on innovative approaches to secure funding. By leveraging new opportunities and fostering robust partnerships, we have been able to meet and exceed our targets, helping to ensure that SLSC’s have the resources they need to operate effectively.

Our success is driven by the solid relationships we maintain with Surf Life Saving state entities and grassroots SLSC’s. A notable example of our impactful collaboration is with Forrest Beach SLSC.

Helen Stanton from Forrest Beach SLSC described the benefit to their club:

“The Forrest Beach SLSC U17 and U19 Beach Teams have achieved outstanding success in 2024. With a strong partnership formed with St Teresa Abergowerie College, an Indigenous boarding college west of Ingham, lifesavers competed and medaled in the Australian Interbranch Championships at Maroubra, the Australian Senior Championships on the Sunshine Coast and the Queensland Youth and Senior Championships on the Gold Coast. A small club in North Queensland would be unable to support member travel of this extent without significant grant support and we thank the Grant Seeking Unit for the extraordinary service they provide completing funding applications and for their ability to connect with the aspirations of the projects they enable.”

The GSU takes great pride in the important role we play in enabling volunteers to protect their communities and visitors to beaches and waterways. As we move forward, we are dedicated to continuing our support and expanding our impact through the development of effective grant applications and strategic partnerships.

SURF LIFE SAVING RESCUE FUND

The Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is a charitable investment scheme operated by the SLS Foundation. The fund can accept investments only on behalf of Surf Life Saving entities that are members of, or affiliated with, SLSA. The objective of the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is to maximise the net (after fees) earnings of the funds under management at an acceptable level of risk that protects the capital value of the investments.

The Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund has total funds of $40.3M under management as of 30 June 2024. The long-term fund achieved a return of 14.27% outperforming its benchmark by 4.08%. By pooling funds, the fund is able to access large scale and specialised investment resources that would not otherwise be available to individual Surf Life Saving entities, to maximise their net investment returns.

The cost of administering the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund is borne by the SLS Foundation, with no fees charged to investors or retained by the fund. An independent investment committee provides oversight and strategic advice on the effective investment of the fund. Sincere thanks to our committee members Ed Prendergast, Darrin Bragg, and Ian McLean for their commitment and support during the past year.

Forrest Beach SLSC U17 and U19 Surf Sports Team

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

Corporate partnerships are an integral part of our not-for-profit emergency service organisation and help to provide vital funding for essential lifesaving services, training and equipment. Our partner relationships go beyond traditional sponsorships and are based on true partnership built on strategic foundations and shared core values of strengthening communities and keeping people safe. As an organisation, SLSA aims to form and maintain partnerships that echo our own values and vision for the future amid an ever-changing social landscape.

Our partners live and breathe the movement and not only provide funding, but also help to create leveraging opportunities that benefit both parties by showcasing the partnership message, spreading important water safety messaging and ultimately, saving lives. A partnership with SLSA allows a business to position themselves alongside one of Australia’s most iconic community organisations and one of the top 5 most trusted charities in the country. SLSA is extremely proud of our partnership portfolio, and we recognise and appreciate the valuable contributions that our partners make to the organisation.

The long-standing relationships we

have with our major national partners Ampol, DHL, Isuzu UTE Australia and Westpac are examples of SLSA’s commitment to the longevity and growth of our corporate connection and building a solid foundation to carry our organisation into the future. We are also honoured to continue our relationships with our Sponsors BRP, Dulux, FINZ and Kellogg who are also deeply committed to the movement. Their support allows us to concentrate on what we do best, saving lives and keeping our beaches and communities safe. We continue to actively seek new partners to support the movement and help fund these vital services that we provide to the Australian community

LICENSING AND MERCHANDISE

Surf Life Saving’s intellectual property (IP) has been built up over a 117-years of service to the Australian community. SLSA owns various registered trademarks, which we manage on behalf of the entire organisation including: the Surf Life Saving logo, red and yellow patrol flags, patrol caps, the iconic red and yellow patrol uniform worn by tens of thousands of volunteers, and terms such as ‘Surf Rescue’ and ‘Nippers’. It is our responsibility to ensure that the use of our brand is protected.

Surf Life Saving uses these images and marks in several places, including on our patrol uniforms and equipment,

designating that they are official surf lifesavers and surf lifesaving property, as well as on carefully selected licensed product.

Licensed application on retail merchandise assists in generating revenue for the organisation through royalty payments and brings greater awareness of our organisation and mission.

The online store is an avenue that we are growing and allows SLSA licensees a channel to sell their products to members and the general public, alongside their own retail channels. The public facing side of the online store allows SLSA to connect with a global audience, increase licensed merchandise revenue and awareness of our brand. We continue to seek appropriate, complementary product categories for the SLSA brand and welcome enquiries from interested parties.

SLSA thanks our corporate and government partners who have supported us in 2023/24.

John Brennan OAM Head of Fundraising and Commercial

PARTNERSHIPS

Surf Life Saving Australia thanks our corporate and government partners who have supported us in 2023/24.

MAJOR NATIONAL PARTNERS

PARTNERS

SPONSORS

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

SHARED SERVICES

COMMUNICATIONS

The Communications Team works to positively enhance the awareness, brand and profile of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA). It supports each internal department on their events, campaigns and activations through media, public relations, digital strategies and content.

The National Coastal Safety Report and the National Drowning Report were two key documents produced this year to reinforce SLSA as the peak body for coastal water safety and drowning prevention in Australia. The National Coastal Safety Report showcases our capacity as an organisation and is a valuable resource for awareness, education, research and advocacy.

This year we again partnered with Royal Life Saving Society to produce the National Drowning Report which provides the annual assessment of drowning in Australia against historical data from both Royal Life Saving and SLSA. During summer we introduced a national drowning tally on our website that was updated weekly on a monday morning which saw high interest and engagement and at the end of summer, we produced a Summer Drowning Snapshot. These three reports were launched with an accompanying media and digital communications strategy to maximise impact and integrate coastal safety messaging.

The communications team also worked to promote key research activities undertaken by SLSA including beach safety workshops and papers published on non-drowning coastal fatalities, and increased drowning risk during school holidays. The World Conference on Drowning Prevention, held in Perth in December was another important opportunity highlight the depth, breadth and work undertaken by our organisation to a global audience. Over the summer period, SLSA promoted a range of timely coastal safety messages in the media through spokesperson interviews and accompanying digital safety messages. Using real-time coastal drowning data, the messages were tailored to current drowning trends to maximise impact.

Our sporting events continue to attract national and international interest with the Coolangatta Gold Documentary broadcast in over 100 countries whilst our finals day of the Aussies was broadcast live on free to air television, SBS, for the first time in many years.

Our Nutri-Grain Iron Series continued to engage new audiences via our broadcast partnership with SBS and via our social media channels. Of particular media interest was the role our Elite Iron Competitors played after the Maroubra round when they were on hand to help with a mass rescue – showcasing the unique nature of our sport, and volunteer surf lifesavers.

This year also saw the introduction of two unique partnerships in Memorandums of Understanding, expanding the pathways and options available to our members. The communication team launched these partnerships both externally and internally to our members. Throughout the year we worked closely with our national partners including milestone celebrations and activations for Westpac (50 Years) and DHL (20 Years).

We were also able to promote the achievements and stories of our volunteer surf lifesavers through programs such as National Leadership College, Masterclass, Women’s Mentoring Program, National Medals and King’s Birthday/ Australia Day honours.

Digital growth and engagement were a key focus throughout the year with strong growth across all metrics and platforms. Communications with members remains a strong priority with all volunteers encouraged to stay connected and up to date with the latest information by following our social channels.

111,895

104,443 FOLLOWERS

@SLSAUSTRALIA

13,974 FOLLOWERS

@SLSAUSTRALIA

46,729 FOLLOWERS

@SLSAUSTRALIA

8,789 FOLLOWERS @SLSAUSTRALIA

MARKETING

A stand-alone Marketing Team was established in September 2024, with an objective to increase brand marketing capability, provide cross-functional marketing and design services and provide oversight of paid media activity across SLSA and its partners.

NATIONAL WATER SAFETY CAMPAIGN

In Q4 2023, the SLSA Marketing Team engaged a working group of state representatives and creative agency, Banter, to develop a water safety campaign for the 2023/24 summer period. The overall objective of the 2023/24 Summer Safety campaign was to reinforce the key coastal safety message of “swim between the flags” and raise awareness of key evidence-based issues to reduce drownings. As such, the key theme of the campaign, following the collaboration of the Working Group the new campaign “Give an F about the flags” was developed, targeting the following demographic groups:

• Primary demographic: Males 15-39 and 55+ (making up 90% of costal drownings in Australia last summer)

• Secondary demographic: All people (and/or families of people) visiting a beach in Australia. CALD communities (including refugee and migrant communities)

CAMPAIGN PERFORMANCE

CAMPAIGN RESEARCH SUMMARY

• The SLSA summer campaign TVC was well understood and appreciated and the key message “swim between the flags” was clearly conveyed.

• 79% of people liked the ad/the campaign (37% like it a lot), whilst only 4% dislike it.

• 90% of people agreed that the ad made them think about how to stay safe at the beach and made them want to swim between the red and yellow flags where possible.

• 80% agree with the statement this ad reminds them how fun visiting the beach can be.

• There was no negative effect on intention to visit the coast/ beach.

The coast (before exposure to the TVC)

The coast (after exposure to the TVC)

ADDITIONAL MARKETING HIGHLIGHTS:

The coast (before exposure to the TVC)

The beach (after exposure to the TVC)

Hazardous perception of the coast and the beach are significantly higher after being exposed twice to the 30sec video:

The marketing team also worked in collaboration with other departments to achieve a range of positive outcomes for the SLSA brand. Highlights include:

• Leveraging of $415,000 in bonus/CSA advertising for national water safety campaign.

coast (before exposure to the TVC)

The coast (after exposure to the TVC)

The beach (before exposure to the TVC)

The beach (after exposure to the TVC)

The coast (before exposure to the TVC)

The coast (after exposure to the TVC)

The beach (before exposure to the TVC)

• Integration of adaptive events into mainstream marketing for Australian Championships.

The beach (after exposure to the TVC)

• Implementation of successful campaigns for key events Coolangatta Gold, Kellog’s Nutri-Grain Iron Series and The Aussies.

• Pilot Kangaroo Beach schools/nipper recruitment program.

• Support key partnership activities with Westpac, DHL, Ampol, LifeSaver’s, Step One, and Shaw and Partners Financial Services.

• Support of Lifesavers with Pride partnership and Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi-Gras activation.

• Negotiation and execution of supporting partner, Sea FM, for The Aussies Ocean Swim event at Mooloolaba resulting in $20,000 in-kind support.

• Rebranding of logo and visual assets for Shaw and Partners Iron Series 2024/25.

RESEARCH

SLSA uses research to underpin our strategic objectives, with the SLSA research department driving a range of innovative projects. This includes research initiatives focused on drowning prevention, rip current safety, bystander rescues, public rescue equipment, community engagements, surf sports safety, disaster resilience and community preparedness, and drowning and injury epidemiology to highlight current and emergent challenges and factors facing Surf Life Saving across the country. SLSA research is uniquely placed to support SLSA’s commitment to evidence-informed practice, where research outcomes guide the development of education, technology, communications, and operations to reduce coastal drowning deaths and other fatalities around Australia.

COASTAL INCIDENT AND MORTALITY REPORTING

SLSA monitors all deaths that occur on, in, or around water across the country. This is so we have a holistic perspective of drowning and other deaths that occur around the country. This strengthens our relationship with other data custodians and research teams and enables us to view the coastal burden proportionally to national numbers.

NATIONAL DROWNING REPORT 2024

For the second year, SLSA prepared the National Drowning Report in partnership with Royal Life Saving Society Australia, which serves as stark reminder to keep water safety top of mind. The National Drowning Report 2024 was launched by Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Immigration and the co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving. The report found there were 323 drowning deaths over the past 12 months, which is 15% higher than last year (n=281), and 16% above the ten-year average (n=278). Almost half occurred in coastal and ocean waters (46%, n=150).

NATIONAL COASTAL SAFETY REPORT 2024

Tragically, 2023/24 recorded 258 deaths across coastal and ocean locations, 17% above last year and 12% above the 10-year average. 150 coastal deaths were due to drowning (58%), the highest number since records began in July 2004. Of the remaining 108 coastal deaths, 64 fatalities were unintentional. 150 coastal drowning deaths equates to an $810 million loss to Australia.

Males accounted for 86% of coastal drowning deaths, drowning at a rate 6.5 times greater than that of females. Adults aged 45-49 years accounted for 11% of coastal drowning deaths, followed equally by 20-24 and 40-44 year olds (10% each). Those aged 50+ years old accounted for 50% of coastal drowning deaths (n=75).

2023/24 recorded a 49% increase in swimming-related coastal drowning deaths, while beach drowning increased 46% from the ten-year average. Swimming away from lifesaving services and at unpatrolled locations was again highlighted as a major risk to beachgoers. Rip currents remain the number one coastal hazard, known to contribute to at least one in three beach drowning deaths.

Most coastal drowning deaths occurred during the afternoon (49%) and proportionally on weekend days (40%). One in two incidents occurred in regional/remote areas (49%), and 69% occurred more than one kilometre away from a Surf Life Saving service. The majority of coastal drowning deaths occurred in Summer (43%) followed by Autumn (25%). Winter months accounted for 17% of the coastal drowning burden, 24% higher than the 10year average. Similarly, March and February recorded 23 incidents each, 64% above average, reaffirming the need to extend services and messaging beyond traditional holiday periods.

Each one of these tragic incidents has a devastating toll on families and friends, with enduring impacts to all affected. However, drowning numbers could have been much greater if not for the 8,857 rescues, 2,482,013 preventative actions, and 49,331 first aids performed by surf lifesaving personnel, preventing an estimated 1,684 additional drowning deaths and 1,010 critical injuries. These efforts in preventing injury and death on our coast provide a $9.5 billion-dollar economic impact for the community. Trend analyses on rescue and preventative actions suggest that rescue numbers are declining, but preventative actions are increasing, suggesting that community interactions are becoming more prevention-focused rather than reactive responses, with greater preventions leading to fewer rescues. Even so, any serious incident can have long lasting impacts, with each fatal incident leaving behind loved ones, a family and a community.

1,462,533

49,331

SUMMER COASTAL DROWNING REPORT 2024

The Summer Coastal Drowning Report 2024 described the coastal drowning burden during our peak season of risk. This summer accounted for 43% of the annual coastal drowning number, above the 10-year average of 39%. For the first time this year, coastal drowning and lifesaving statistics were tracked daily and published on the sls website.

Males continue to be overrepresented, accounting for more than four in five summer coastal drowning deaths (84%). Rip currents, the number one coastal hazard, contributed to at least 29% of summer coastal drowning deaths, and three in four occurred at a beach. Swimming, especially away from lifesaving services, and within regional or remote locations were highlighted as a major risk, accounting for two in three summer drowning deaths. Coastal drowning risk over summer 2023/24 was 4.26 times greater on public holidays.

Over summer alone 5,716 rescues, 1.3 million preventative actions, and more than 25,000 first aid treatment were provided to the community by surf lifesavers. It is estimated that these actions equate to 936 lives saved and 561 critical injuries avoided, with an overall value of over $5.4 billion to the community.

COLLABORATION

Collaboration is crucial to drowning prevention research and SLSA research has built a strong collaborative network to achieve research outcomes that benefit the organisation. We work across multiple projects with the Australian Fire and Emergency Services Council (AFAC), the Bureau of Meteorology, Flinders University, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne, Central Queensland University, OmniPoll, La Trobe University, James Cook

University, and many more to achieve the best outcomes possible. We also initiated an Australasian SLS research working group with representatives from the states and SLSNZ to encourage stronger research cooperation between the organisations, reduce duplication and build collective research capacity within Surf Life Saving.

SLSA research has also had the opportunity to present papers at key forums as well as attend workshops, seminars and symposiums that showcase and drive initiatives around water safety and drowning prevention. Last year SLSA research shared our insights about mental health and trauma exposure in adult surf lifesavers at the Frontline Mental Health Conference, as well as presenting various topics at the Australasian Injury Prevention and Disaster and Emergency Conferences. Notably, early December 2023 saw SLSA and Royal Life Saving Society – Australia co-host the World Conference of Drowning Prevention, an international conference offered by the International Life Saving Federation. The global conference was held in Perth with more than 750 drowning experts from over 50 countries, with daily poster galleries, workshops, panels, and presentations. SLSA research coordinated a strong representation by SLS entities presenting more than 40 abstracts to the world stage, sharing exciting innovations and research from across the movement, and contributing their efforts to the global movement to prevent drowning.

THE DISASTER RESILIENCE PROJECT

SLSC’s across Australia are highly exposed to the changing effects of climate change and natural hazards such as bushfire, flooding, tropical cyclones and coastal erosion. Natural hazards have already had significant impacts on SLSC assets, services, members and their communities. SLSA is committed to understanding how SLS can strengthen our ability to prevent, prepare for, respond to,

MALE 84% COASTAL DROWNING DEATHS 55 6 0 10 1 14 19 5

5,716 RESCUES 25,563 FIR

AID TREATMENTS 1,363,588 PREVENTATIVE

$5,474,336,835 VALUE TO COMMUNITY

and recover from these events, while also building resilience to adapt to future challenges, in a changing climate.

In late 2022, SLSA and consultants ResilientCo and Meridian Urban commenced the Disaster preparedness along Australia’s coastlines due to climate change project (2022 to 2025) to assess the impacts and consequences of natural hazard events on the operational capacity and capability of SLSCs. The project is also assessing the opportunities for SLSCs to strengthen their emergency response capabilities to provide additional support to emergency services and the community, now and in the future.

Through this project, a national natural hazard exposure assessment determined baseline natural hazard exposure impacts and vulnerability for all 315 SLSCs, while detailed site assessments are being conducted at 50 SLSCs around the country. These two components are guiding the development of a suite of relevant recommendations at the SLSC, state and national levels that aim to improve resilience to natural hazards and climate change across the Surf Life Saving (SLS) movement. These assessments sought to provide a holistic understanding of the effect of natural hazards across three integral components of SLSCs: Services, Assets and People.

Based on the results of the national natural hazard exposure assessment and the impact and vulnerability assessment component of the detailed site assessment, the SLSCs will be provided with the overarching natural hazard risks to the overall operation and functioning of the SLSC holistically. In addition, potential opportunities are identified that could support and strengthen the SLSC’s emergency management capabilities through prevention, preparedness, response and recovery, while simultaneously building resilience and enhancing the adaptation of the SLSC.

The detailed site assessment process is being undertaken for 50 SLSCs with differing hazard exposure profiles. This process is currently on track to be complete later this year, with SLSC representatives being amazing, with case studies being developed from the unique SLSC responses to certain challenges showcasing the ingenuity and resilience within SLS communities. The insights shared throughout this process has been truly inspiring and will inform the

development of tools to be made available to all 315 SLSCs to assist with identifying individual natural hazard impacts, consequences and vulnerabilities. These tools will also propose recommendations and support actions that can be implemented to improve their resilience and preparedness for changing climate conditions and natural hazard the future.

A secondary outcome of this process will be to increase awareness of disaster resilience and preparedness within the SLSA membership, with a focus on practical recommendations. This collective information will help improve the resilience and preparedness for natural hazard events for all SLSCs and better equip them to continue supporting the communities they serve. The project team sincerely appreciates the time and effort given to the project by members and SLSCs, and we look forward to sharing the final outcomes of the project next year with you all.

HUMAN RESOURCES

SLSA’s staff are dispersed across multiple offices at Bondi Beach and Cape Banks in Sydney, as well as Brisbane. In response to the evolving work landscape, SLSA has embraced a hybrid working model, allowing our employees the flexibility to work remotely when needed.

This past year, SLSA has placed a strong emphasis on providing more flexible and supportive work arrangements. This was off the back of a funding grant from the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) whereby SLSA undertook a Gender Equity Audit developed from an assessment across ten diversity standards informed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Following this audit, SLSA implemented an action plan that involved improving our workplace policies and practices, which saw the introduction of paid parental and fertility leave and more flexible work arrangements.

SLSA has actively enhanced our work environment and workplace practices to better support our staff and have provided training and education to ensure that we are managing psychosocial hazards. Earlier in the year, SLSA staff undertook Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination training, and we have also provided Cultural Awareness, and Peer Support Training.

Over the past year, SLSA has undertaken a comprehensive review and revision of our policies to ensure they align with best practices and the evolving needs of our organisation. These policy updates are crucial for maintaining

a robust governance framework, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. By refining our policies, we provide clear guidance to our staff, promote consistency in decision-making, and safeguard the integrity of our operations. These efforts underscore our commitment to fostering a transparent, accountable, and resilient business environment, which ultimately supports our mission and strengthens our service to the community.

REMUNERATION

In the 2023/24 year, SLSA has continued to uphold its commitment to fair and competitive remuneration practices aligned with the not-forprofit sector. Our remuneration packages include fringe benefits that, within Australian Taxation Office guidelines, allow us to provide a portion of an employee’s income as a tax-exempt fringe benefit. While wage increases have been modest, due to our inability to compete with the corporate sector, we have been able to offer our employees increased flexibility and supportive arrangements.

PERFORMANCE REVIEWS AND INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS

All staff members participate in formal biannual performance reviews, which are supplemented by regular progress meetings with their respective managers throughout the year. Each employee is provided with an individual performance development plan tailored to the

SLSA business plan. These individual plans are designed not only to align with the SLSA business plan and values but also to enhance employees’ behaviours and competencies. As part of the development plan, employees and their managers jointly identify personal and professional growth opportunities.

We recognise the importance of investing in our staff’s professional development, and as such, SLSA includes professional development as part of our appraisal process and managers are encouraged to support their staff members professional development. This commitment to performance reviews and individual development plans reflects our dedication to fostering a skilled and motivated workforce, ensuring that our employees are equipped to achieve both personal and organisational success.

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY

SLSA continues to promote a healthy and safe work environment, which is ergonomically sound. This financial year, we had 1 WorkCover injury resulting in 1.5 days lost; however, the employee has returned to work without any limitations on duties and is recovering well.

SLSA has created a comprehensive Work Health and Safety Management Plan, which covers hazard reporting, audit checks, responsibilities, committees, and emergency plans for the organisation. This system is set to be implemented imminently.

REMUNERATION

Turnover for all staff, including casuals, during FY 2023/24 was 23.7%, which is a increase from 18.1% in the previous year. SLSA has several key metrics within the annual business plan focused on increasing employee satisfaction rates and developing and implementing retention strategics. The average tenure of all current employees is nearly 5 years.

Looking ahead to 2024/25, SLSA remains dedicated to the ongoing improvement of our workforce and fostering a positive and inclusive work culture. We are confident that these efforts will lead to significant benefits for our staff and the communities we serve.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

SLSA continued to engage strongly with both the NSW and Australian Government to support the strategic priorities of the organisation, particularly with SLSA’s major funding agreements due for completion at the end of this financial year. SLSA worked tirelessly to advocate for the renewal of the core Water Safety funding and our training and education funding. Both funding agreements were renewed for a further two years, including additional Beach Safety Equipment Funding, as part of the Federal Government budget announcements in May 2024. SLSA would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, and Minister for Sport, the Hon Anika Wells MP for their support with this funding.

This year, SLSA was successful in renewing our funding agreement for four years with the NSW Government for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter (Southern Region) which saw an increase in funding for the replacement of our hangar door. SLSA thanks the NSW Premier, the Hon Chris Minns MP, and Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon. Jihad Dib MP for their support, and acknowledges the support of the Hon Michael Daley MP, Member for Maroubra, for his support.

SLSA would like to acknowledge the support of the Department of Health and the Australian Sport Commission in supporting our core water safety and participation activities. SLSA continues to be well represented with our CEO actively involved in the Sport Volunteer Coalition which forms

a key part of the Australian Sport Commission’s Sport Volunteering National Plan.

PARLIAMENTARY FRIENDS OF SURF LIFE SAVING

SLSA is extremely grateful for the ongoing support of our Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving, being led by our co-chairs the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Member for

Kingsford Smith and Ms Angie Bell MP, Member for Moncrieff.

Over the last year, our Parliamentary Friends of Surf Life Saving supported the launch of the National Drowning Report, National Coastal Safety Report, National Water Safety Day, our partnership with the Invictus Games, and have been strong supporters in our bid for the 2032 Olympic Games. We are fortunate to have this bipartisan support across Government.

SPORT INTEGRITY

SLSA was proud to become the first National Sporting Organisation to meet the updated integrity policies from Sport Integrity Australia (SIA). SLSA has continued to work closely with SIA and participated in quarterly National Integrity Managers forums

and conferences to foster knowledge sharing among national sporting organisations. The goal is to enhance integrity in the sporting landscape and improve education around child safety and member protection matters.

SLSA continues to work with the SIA Education Team to ensure that SLSA and its athletes meet and understand the Anti-Doping Education requirements.

SLSA was invited to present on child safety at an SIA Conference for over 900 sporting clubs in February this year and looks forward to working with SIA on their Continuous Improvement Program for Child Safety and Member Protection.

SLSA’s Online Reporting System has continued to be enhanced and our system has been showcased to other National Sporting Organisations.

ANNUAL POLICY REVIEW

In adherence to SLSA’s commitment to continuous improvement and effective governance, the annual policy review process continues to take place on an annual basis. SLSA also undertakes annual governance reporting as part of our funding arrangements with the Australian Sports Commission and continues to be a leader in this space.

Michelle Bainbridge Head of Shared Services

FINANCE & SYSTEMS

FINANCE & SYSTEMS

FINANCE AND RISK

The finance team is responsible for the day-to-day management of the organisation’s finances including income, expense, asset management, cash flow, and payroll. Annual budgets, medium-term forward estimates, and reforecasts are prepared for each entity in the group. Ongoing analysis of the group’s financial performance is conducted to ensure funds are used efficiently, and to aid in strategic decision making. The procurement function includes acquisition of prize homes, procurement support to cost-centre managers, management of tender processes, and supplier negotiations. The management of the SLSA web store also falls within the finance team including order processing, inventory management, patrol uniform rollouts, and club support. The team is also responsible for the general administration of SLSA’s offices, insurances, organisational risk and compliance, and management of the Surf Life Saving Rescue Fund. The organisation fulfilled all its obligations to relevant regulatory bodies including the ACNC, and the Australia Taxation Office. We completed acquittal reports for funding provided by government departments, and prepared annual financial statements for each entity in the group and the consolidated entity which were audited with an unmodified audit opinion. We also prepared financial reports for lotteries and managed the audit process for each lottery. Working with the lottery team, we acquired and processed the transactions for 6 prize homes

during the year. We improved process and reduced paperwork by implementing an online AP approval workflow system. Investors in the SLS Rescue Fund were provided monthly performance reports and statements; deposits into and withdrawals from the fund were processed. We renegotiated the lease for our office in Brisbane and successfully managed administration costs under budget for the year. Cost centre managers were provided monthly expense statements including analysis of variances and support was provided to assist in keeping program spend to budget. The department is accountable to the SLSA Board through the Finance Audit and Compliance Committee (FACC). A suite of reports is presented to the FACC at monthly meetings including consolidated management accounts, risk and compliance registers, and human resource metrics.

NATIONAL ICT UNIT (NICTU)

The National Information and Communications Technology Unit (NICTU) develops, maintains, and supports IT systems to be accessed by clubs and members nationally. This extensive suite of systems includes Surfguard, Members Area, SurfCom, eLearning systems, SLSA website and ecommerce store, and member help desk. The NICTU also provides ICT infrastructure for SLSA offices.

The NICTU has made good progress on modernising the Core Systems of SLSA and has completed stage 1 of the project which paves the way for stage 2, and 3, which will see an updated version of the Members

Area (to be called SLS HUB). This will be delivered in Q2 of 2025 and will be followed by incremental updates to SurfGuard to the new platform which uses a modern technology architecture. Stage 3 will not be as visible to the members but will see the migration of data to resilient cloud infrastructure securing the organisation’s data security and availability well into the future.

The implementation of a new fundraising system built for the SLS Foundation will provide greater functionality to support the fundraising efforts of the community fundraising team. This has been a long and strenuous project that the project team has worked hard to complete and we’re all looking forward to reaping the benefits of the new service.

Cyber security is never far from our minds and the NICTU has a continuous improvement program to keep reviewing our Cyber Security measures and whenever required take steps to keep us ahead of adversaries and keep our data safe.

James Cameron Head of Finance and Systems

SLSA ORGANISATIONAL CHART

SECTION 06

GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT

GOVERNANCE & OVERSIGHT

OVERVIEW

Since 1907, when a small number of Sydney Surf Life Saving Clubs formed the organisation now known as SLSA, we have evolved into a highly federated and geographically dispersed organisation, made up of 506 entities/ groups including 315 separately incorporated SLSCs, 17 regional Branches (in NSW and Queensland), 80 Support Operations (regional rescue and response teams), seven VMRS, 76 paid Lifeguard services and seven state and territory centres.

These various, separate, legal entities are not subsidiaries of SLSA and have a variety of legal and reporting structures; therefore, their financial results are not consolidated here.

SLSA is the peak policy and decision-making body for the Surf Life Saving movement. Under our Constitution, our members are:

• State and Territory Centres, represented by their appointed directors have the right to be present, debate and vote at our general meetings.

• Affiliated Clubs, which shall be represented by an individual nominated from time to time in writing by the club to the relevant state centre. The nominee shall have the right to be present and to debate on behalf of the Affiliated SLSC’s at General Meetings but shall have no voting rights.

• Life Members of SLSA, have the right to be present and to debate at general meetings, but with no voting rights.

• All individual members of affiliated SLSC’s who have the right to be present at general meetings, but with no voting or debating rights.

Each year, prior to the commencement of the season, individual members sign an application for joint membership of SLSA, their state centre and their club. Where the members are less than 18 years of age, the membership form is signed by a parent or legal guardian. This detailed membership form sets out a number of legal requirements, including indemnification of SLSA if a claim arises from a surf lifesaving activity, as well as outlining a member’s individual liability in the unlikely event of SLSA winding up.

SLSA also operates one subsidiary company to provide rescue helicopter services in NSW. Other rescue helicopter

services operate in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia through their respective state centres. The SLS Foundation, which is also a wholly owned subsidiary, undertakes a national fundraising role on behalf of the movement. Surf Sports Australia Pty Ltd which is also a wholly owned subsidiary, undertakes and provides surf sports events and activities for SLSA .

PATRONS OF SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA

Chief Patrons

His Royal Highness King Charles III KG, KT, GCB, OM, AK, QSO, CC, PC, ADC King of the United Kingdom

His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd)

Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Patrons

Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC, KC Governor of New South Wales and Mr Dennis Wilson

Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM Governor of Queensland

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC Governor of South Australia

His Excellency, The Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM Governor of Western Australia

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC Governor of Tasmania

His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM Administrator of the Northern Territor y

Vice Patron

The Honourable Anthony Albanese MP Prime Minister of Australia

Life Governor Alan Whelpton AO

GOVERNANCE REPORTING – AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION

As per the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Governance Standard 6.5., the highest level of governance maturity requires that National Sports Organisations (NSOs) report annually on their governance activities to members, providing an overview of performance for the year.

Overall SLSA has performed strongly in the Sport Governance Standards and had the second highest score amongst NSO’s.

Please see the graph below representing our performance for 2024, which shows the scoring out of 4 across the 9 principles and 35 standards. The average score (top left graph) shows SLSA’s score of 3.71 out of 4, which was an increase of 3% on that of last years performance. The top right graph shows our scores out of 4 across the 9 Principles. The bottom table illustrates our expected maturity level (orange bar), vs our self-assessment score (red) and maturity gap (light yellow).

AVERAGE SCORE BY YEAR

AVERAGE OF SCORE BY PRINCIPLE

Following a meeting with the ASC, SLSA has committed to continual improvement and has determined the six priority focus areas through to June 2025 are:

• Strategic Plan

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

• Governance Education

• Governance Reporting

• Board evaluation SLSA will report against these items next year to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to governance performance. It is important to remember that good governance is never static.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA BOARD

OVERVIEW

As one of the largest volunteer organisations in Australia, we depend on the contribution of our volunteer members for everything from patrolling beaches, to providing input for the strategic direction for the organisation. Board and committee members freely give up their time for the benefit of Surf Life Saving.

SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA BOARD

The peak policy and decision body for SLSA is made up of the President of SLSA, seven appointed directors from each State and the Northern Territory, four independent directors and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SLSA. The board delegates the management of SLSA to the CEO who seeks support and advice from the Executive Management Group (EMG).

NAME POSITION

John Baker AM, ESM President (Chair)

Peter Agnew AM, ESM SLSNSW Appointed Director

Gerard O’Brien SLSQ Appointed Director

Paul James ASM LSV Appointed Director

Craig Smith-Gander AM SLSWA Appointed Director until September 2023

Heidi Gan SLSWA Appointed Director from September 2023

Sarah Cutbush SLSSA Appointed Director

Stuart Paine SLST Appointed Director

Adam Traugott SLSNT Appointed Director

Toni Bache Independent Director

Darrin Bragg Independent Director

Jennifer Cook Independent Director

Melanie Evans Independent Director until November 2023

Jules Scarlett Independent Director from November 2023

Adam Weir Chief Executive Officer

SLSA ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SLSA’S KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE:

a. The global relationship with ILS. Coordination of activities in the Asia Pacific region. Tracking international activities undertaken by SLS movement.

b. Relations with allied agencies (AUSTSWIM, RLSSA, Swimming Australia, Australian Coastal Alliance, etc.) And other peak organisations (e.g., Australian Water Safety Council, National seachange Taskforce, etc.).

c. The relationship, management and delivery of all representation to Federal government.

d. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative programs in insurance.

e. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative programs in Information Technology and Communications (ITC).

f. The facilitation, coordination and delivery of agreed national administrative framework in disciplinary and grievance.

g. Coordinating the development of a safety framework and guidelines to ensure the protection and benefit of our members.

h. The facilitation, coordination and development of a national lifesaving, sport and education/leadership development framework and facilitation of National Committees.

i. The coordination of the development of member training and education through curriculum and resource development with and through the State Centres.

j. All national sporting events and delivery of the national high performance programs with and through the states.

k. Coordinating relevant research to foster innovation and achieve our vision.

l. Developing the national member development programs (such as leadership, recognition and history) and aligning with the states through the creation of national resources to support these programs.

m. SLSA brand protection, reputation and development.

n. The management and delivery of national marketing, sponsorship and business development programs.

o. The management and delivery of national fundraising in accordance with agreed national and state business outcomes.

p. Facilitating communication between State Centres.

JOHN BAKER AM, ESM

President (Chair)

John was appointed as a Director on the SLSA Board in January 2012 and served as the Deputy President of SLSA for five years until he was elected as President of SLSA in 2021. John served as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia for 10 years and he has been a member of the Brighton SLSC in SA since 1977. He is a former State Director of Lifesaving and is a current Senior Aircrewman with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter. John is a Life Member at club and state levels, and he was recently inducted in the Surf Life Saving SA Hall of Fame. John brings a wealth of experience with him to SLSA as a Partner/Company Director with KWP Communications Group and his experience on the boards of the Advertising Council Australia (SA), Australian Red Cross (SA), the Virtual War Memorial Australia and the Smith Family.

PETER AGNEW AM, ESM

SLSNSW Appointed Director

Peter Agnew AM, assumed the position of President of Surf Life Saving New South Wales in May 2023. With a nearly 40-year membership at North Bondi SLSC, Peter also served as the President of Sydney Branch from 2019 - 2023. Peter was awarded the Emergency Service Medal in 2015. Outside of his involvement in Surf Life Saving, Peter is the Director of People Development Australia, where he plays a key role as a Lead Facilitator for the Australian Institute of Management. He further imparts his expertise by lecturing at a master’s level.

GERARD O’BRIEN

SLSQ Appointed Director

Gerard was appointed a Director of SLSA in September 2022 after being elected President of Surf Life Saving Queensland. He joined Noosa Heads SLSC in 2001 and has held various positions at club, branch and state. Gerard received Life Membership of his club and is still a patrolling member. Gerard enjoyed an extensive executive career, with more than 30 years in CEO/General Manager roles in the consumer goods sector in Australia and overseas, including 10 years as CEO/MD of an ASX-listed public company. He has a financial background, featuring a commerce degree (Griffith) and an MBA from Georgetown University, USA.

PAUL JAMES ASM

LSV Appointed Director

Paul is an area manager for Ambulance Victoria (AV) in Gippsland, overseeing quality emergency ambulance operations. A registered paramedic, he has received the Ambulance Service Medal and National Emergency Medal. Paul has served on AV’s Medical Standards Committee and the Australian Resuscitation Council, and held directorships with the Royal Life Saving Society - Australia (RLSSA). With over 45 years in lifesaving, he is a life member at Hampton LSC, a two-time club president, and currently serves as a director of Surf Life Saving Australia. He received an RLSSA Certificate of Merit from HRH Prince Michael of Kent.

STUART PAINE

SLSTAS Appointed Director

Stuart was elected President of Surf Life Saving Tasmania in 2021, and was appointed as a Director of the SLSA Board in October 2021. Stuart has been involved within Surf Life Saving since 1981 and is currently an active Life Member of Burnie SLSC, of which he has held various Management Committee positions since 1993. On a professional level, Stuart currently is a Business Development Manager for WEG Australia and has a background in finance, compliance, human resources and management.

SARAH CUTBUSH

SLSSA Appointed Director

Sarah Cutbush was elected to the role as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia and commenced in May 2023. With a longstanding involvement in SLSSA, Sarah has been an SLSSA Director since 2018 and Vice President. At Somerton SLSC, she has been an active member since 2012, as a patrol vice-captain and actively contributing to the club’s activities. Currently serving as the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at the University of South Australia, Sarah’s professional background as an MBA-qualified executive manager and senior strategic marketer brings a wealth of experience in business and marketing across diverse industries.

JENNIFER COOK

Independent Director

Jennifer is a commercial property consultant specialising in customer experience and innovation. She brings over 20 years diverse leadership experience from roles in property, retail, major events and festivals, arts and culture, professional services and tourism. Her skillset includes corporate governance, risk management, strategic planning, culture change and marketing. Jennifer is on the Board of ASX200 listed Centuria Industrial REIT (CIP) and the Advisory Board of proptech startup Vennu. She has a MBA and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She is an active patrolling member of Coogee SLS in Sydney.

SLSNT Appointed Director

Adam assumed the role of President of Surf Life Saving NT in May 2023. Since 2001, he has been an active member of SLS, joining Mindil Beach SLSC in 2011 and making contributions in the portfolios of Education, Administration and Finance. For the past seven years, Adam has served as the Director of Lifesaving on the SLSNT board, leading impactful projects to increase operational capability. Professionally Adam has served in the Royal Australian Navy for over 14 years.

MELANIE EVANS

Independent Director to November 2023

Melanie is currently CEO of ING Bank Australia. Previously she was at the Westpac Group where she had worked for over 14 years. Having grown up in the surf club, Melanie has kept abreast of our organisation over many years and brings with her expertise and experience of Board and Committee corporate governance, financial management, risk management, strategic planning and compliance.

ADAM TRAUGOTT

TONI BACHE

Independent Director

Toni has extensive leadership experience in business strategy and human resources roles. She has worked across healthcare, technology, hospitality, government, and fast-moving consumer goods in over 30 countries. She is currently the Vice President, Business Strategy, International for Stryker’s Trauma & Extremities division. Toni has been involved in Surf Life Saving for over 20 years within the Burleigh Heads, Mowbray Park SLSC. She obtained her Bronze Medallion in 1997, Silver Medallion in 2001, represented her club as Summer Surf Girl in 2003 and is an active patrolling member.

JULES SCARLETT

Independent Director from November 2023

Jules has over 20 years of commercial experience gained through senior ASX20 roles. This includes leadership of Telstra’s wholesale telecommunications infrastructure business. A legal background forms the foundations of Jules’ career and complements her Board member experience. Her tenure as Telstra’s Chief Sustainability Officer underscores the expertise she brings in ESG matters. Jules actively supports grass-roots, regional surf life saving initiatives. She is a member of the Raspins Beach SLSC Committee, a Nippers Age Manager and undertakes Community Education through delivery of the Beach to Bush program to schools in Tasmania. Jules obtained her Bronze medallion in early 2023 and loves braving cold waters.

DARRIN BRAGG

Independent Director

Darrin has been part of the Surf Life Saving movement since he joined as a nipper more than 42 years ago. Having spent most of his life in North Queensland, the respected Townsvillebased accountant has been a member of Townsville Picnic Bay SLSC for over 20 years and is now their President. Prior to that, he held positions as Treasurer and Club Captain with both Mackay and Townsville Picnic Bay SLSCs. Darrin is a Life Member of both Surf Life Saving Queensland and the North Barrier Surf Life Saving Branches. He has also previously served as a Board Member for Surf Life Saving Queensland.

HEIDI GAN

SLSWA Appointed Director

Appointed to the SLSWA Board in September 2017 and elected President in September 2023, Heidi is a respected leader and commercial lawyer with over 10 years’ experience in corporate law and disputes. Heidi is currently a Principal in BHP’s Business Development team and was previously Senior Legal Counsel and Assistant Company Secretary at Lynas Rare Earths, and an Associate at international law firm Clifford Chance. She is also a tribunal panel member for Football West and a member of the Australian Bravery Decorations Council. Heidi is a two-time Olympian in open water swimming and has been an active surf lifesaver since 2005.

SLSA BOARD GOVERNANCE CHARTER

The SLSA Board has an adopted a Board Governance Charter that was updated in March 2024. Key aspects of the charter are detailed below.

THE ROLE OF THE BOARD AND COMMITTEES

SLSA’s Board and Committee structure is critical to ensuring volunteer representation in key decisions. The various committees outlined in this section are advisory only. They can however be empowered by the Board and meet as required. Their recommendations are considered by either the CEO, the Executive Management Group or in some instances the Board. The Board, through the CEO, has ultimate supervision of the committees.

THE ROLE OF THE DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT

The day-to-day business of SLSA is managed by the CEO, under the direction of the Board. The Board may exercise all the powers of the company, except for any power the Corporations Act or the Constitution requires the company to exercise in a general meeting of members.

The Board is responsible for the appointment of a CEO to manage and administer the organisation. The CEO is ultimately accountable to the Board; however, the CEO is accountable to the President (as Chair of the Board) on a day-to-day basis.

BOARD COMPOSITION

The Board is comprised of the President, seven State Centre appointed directors, one from each State and the Northern Territory and up to four additional Independent Directors who may also be appointed to the Board.

BOARD MEETINGS AND ACCESS TO MANAGEMENT

The Board meets at least five times each year. The appointed directors are selected and appointed by their respective State or Territory Centres.

MANAGEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT BUSINESS RISKS

SLSA is committed to the formal, systematic, and structured proactive management of risks across the organisation. The Board conducts an annual risk management workshop where it sets or reviews the Risk Management Policy and confirms its Risk Appetite

Statements. Risks are managed on an ongoing basis in accordance with SLSA’s Risk Management Framework. The Risk Management Committee meet monthly to review the risk register and update mitigation strategies and perceived level of risk as appropriate. New risks are added to the register through a formal notification process from staff, management and directors to the Head of Finance and Systems. A risk reporting scorecard along with a “Top Ten” list of major risks (as agreed by the Board) is discussed as a standing agenda item at the monthly FACC meeting, together with any significant new or emerging risks.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The code of conduct for Directors, setting out expectations and limitations is contained within the SLSA Board Governance Charter. In March 2024 the SLSA Board approved an updated Code of Conduct to ensure it is meeting best practice.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Board is accountable to the members of SLSA. The Constitution lists the following categories of membership:

• State Centres – debating and voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

• Affiliated Clubs – debating but not voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

• Life Members – debating but not voting rights at SLSA general meetings.

All members of Affiliated Clubs – can be present, but no debating or voting rights at SLSA general meetings. The individual membership category is divided into various other sub-categories set out in the Regulations.

INDEPENDENCE

At the commencement of each board meeting, the chair asks for directors to declare conflicts of interest in any agenda items. Under the board’s structure, seven directors are appointed by their respective state centre. The chair ensures that all state appointed directors fulfil their fiduciary duties to SLSA.

ETHICAL STANDARDS

The board acknowledges the need for, and continued maintenance of, the highest standards of corporate governance practice, ethical conduct by all directors and open and transparent processes. Declaring any conflict of interest and/or pecuniary interest in agenda items of board meetings ensures that, where appropriate, directors leave the meeting until discussion on the matter is concluded. In March 2024 the SLSA Board endorsed an updated Board Governance Charter which further strengthened the ethical standards by which the board operates.

COMPLIANCE ISSUES

SLSA is a registered charity under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth), a registered charitable institution under the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) and a company limited by guarantee under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth). The advisors noted earlier, General Counsel Counsel Ian Fullagar, BDO and Marsh Advantage Australia Pty Ltd also ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulation.

OBTAINING INDEPENDENT ADVICE

The board is assisted in aspects of its operations with external advice. Ian Fullagar continues to provide legal services. Our auditors, BDO conduct an annual internal audit, giving the board independent assurance and advice on financial management matters. Marsh Advantage Australia Pty Ltd continues to provide insurance advice and services.

COMPENSATION

Directors receive no compensation for their services. Travel and accommodation costs associated with meetings are met by SLSA.

TRAINING

At times, presentations by outside experts on strategic matters are made to the board. Directors have also been

given the opportunity to attend workshops and other conferences relating to corporate governance at SLSA’s expense.

SUBSIDIARY ENTITIES

As noted elsewhere, SLSA wholly owns a number of subsidiary bodies. The SLS Foundation raises funds nationally and in each state for Surf Life Saving. Southern Region SLSA Helicopter Rescue Services P/L provided helicopter rescue services in NSW. Surf Sports Australia P/L is another subsidiary of SLSA, primarily concerned with professional sports events. The financial results of these three subsidiaries are included in SLSA’s accounts.

FIDUCIARY DUTIES

Monthly financial statements for SLSA and subsidiary companies are provided to the Finance Audit and Compliance Committee (FACC). These monthly statements together with monthly accounts, are submitted to Directors for endorsement at the subsequent board meeting. All financial accounts and reports are overseen by the FACC and, on itstheir recommendation, adopted or otherwise by the board throughout the year. The FACC also oversees risk management, compliance and governance, including HR reporting.

PATHWAYS TO BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP

As one of the largest volunteer organisations in Australia, SLSA is dependent on the contribution of its volunteer members for everything from patrolling beaches, to providing the overall management and operational delivery of frontline services and activities. Broadly speaking a person can become a member of the board or a committee by being appointed by either SLSA or by a State Centre. The skills base required for these positions is set out in the SLSA Board Governance Charter and in the SLSA Regulations. SLSA provides multiple avenues and pathways to leadership roles within SLS including the Women’s Mentoring Program, National Leadership College and Masterclass.

GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE OF SLSA

BOARDS & COMMITTEES

1. EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT GROUP

This is the management authority approved by the SLSA Board and is made up of the SLSA CEO, State CEOs with advice from SLSA Leadership Team and SLSA’s Legal Counsel.

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT GROUP

Adam Weir Chair, CEO, SLSA

Steven Pearce AFSM CEO, SLSNSW

Dave Whimpey CEO, SLSQ

Catherine Greaves CEO, LSV

James O'Toole CEO, SLSWA

Damien Marangon CEO, SLSSA

Tony van den Enden CEO, SLST

Samantha Farrow CEO, SLSNT until October 2023

Andrew McGuiness CEO, SLSNT from December 2023

2. GOVERNANCE COMMITTEES

APPOINTMENTS & REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

Recommends the appointment of the CEO to the SLSA Board, reviews and reports proposed remuneration packages for the CEO and senior executives to the SLSA Board and ensures adequate human resource levels within the organisation.

APPOINTMENTS AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

John Baker AM ESM President, SLSA

Melanie Evans Independent SLSA Director & Chair of FACC until November 2023

Darrin Bragg Independent SLSA Director & Chair of FACC from November 2023

FINANCE, AUDIT & COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE

Assists the SLSA Board in the oversight of the reliability and integrity of accounting policies, financial reporting and disclosure practices.

FINANCE, AUDIT & COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE

Melanie Evans Independent SLSA Director & Chair of FACC until November 2023

Darrin Bragg Independent SLSA Director & Chair of FACC from November 2023

Jennifer Cook Independent SLSA Director from November 2023

Stephen Bennett Independent Member

Warrick Ranson Independent Member

Vincent Sheehan Independent Member

NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE

Interviews nominations for Independent Directors and senior volunteer roles and makes recommendations to the SLSA Board.

NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE

Toni Bache Chair, Independent SLSA Director

Jennifer Cook Independent SLSA Director from March 2023

Vacant Independent Member

Vacant Independent Member

Vacant Independent Member

ICT GOVERNANCE GROUP

This Committee makes recommendations to the Board on IT&T strategy, architecture, standards and policy with Surf Life Saving.

ICT GOVERNANCE GROUP

Adam Weir Chair, CEO, SLSA

Scott Randall National ICT Manager, SLSA

John Baker AM ESM President, SLSA

Sarah Catbush President, SLSSA

Steven Pearce AFSM CEO, SLSNSW

Kerrie Barnes General Manager Ethical Standards & Enterprise Risk, SLSQ until April 2024

Gabe Gossage Independent Member

Jonathon Golan Independent Member

Michael Ewald Independent ICT Business Strategist

3. EDUCATION

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to education.

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tracey Hare-Boyd Chair of Education

Ingrid Cobiac Deputy Chair of Education

Dean Dudley NSW Representative

Tonya Pade QLD Representative until February 2024

Jeremy Kay QLD Representative from February 2024

Katrina Antony VIC Representative

Michael Shaw WA Representative until August 2023

Shelly Rourke WA Representative from August 2023

Kate Perry SA Representative

Philippa Lohrey TAS Representative

vacant NT Representative

Hannah Darling National Trainer of the Year until November 2023

Gary Williams National Trainer of the Year from November 2023

Ian Grant National Assessor of the Year until November 2023

Steve Westcott National Assessor of the Year from November 2023

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

Coordinates the operations of the Australian Lifesaving Academy and discusses issues relating to education.

EDUCATION MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Pamela Simon Chair, Learning & Development Manager, SLSA

Joanne Massey NSW Representative until September 2023

Louise Cooke NSW Representative from September 2023

Jonathan Donnelly QLD Representative until February 2024

Tonya Pade QLD Representative from February 2024

Micah Spedding VIC Representative

Domenic Cowdell WA Representative

Miriam Scherer SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Sam Edwards NT Representative

4. DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to development.

DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Nancy Joseph Chair of Development

Michael Henderson Deputy Chair of Development

Kerry Clancy NSW Representative

Kirsten Phillips QLD Representative

Rebecca Schot-Guppy VIC Representative

Angela Razvi WA Representative

Adam Luscombe SA Representative

Allison Kable TAS Representative

Alison Snowden NT Representative

Richard Lissett

National Volunteer of the Year until November 2023

Luke O’Garey National Volunteer of the Year from November 2023

Hayley Hosking

Sophie Carne

Development Advisors

National Youth Surf Life Saver of the Year until November 2023

National Youth Surf Life Saver of the Year from November 2023

Gary Driscoll Diversity and Inclusion Advisor

Sam Fien Wellbeing Advisor

Simon Steinhofer Leadership Advisor

Susan McCaughtrie Junior Participation Advisor until October 2023

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

Responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of development within SLS.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Pamela Simon Chair, Learning & Development Manager, SLSA

Claire Bevis NSW Representative

Sam Clutterbuck QLD Representative until March 2024

Zoe Breitkreutz QLD Representative from March 2024

Emma Atkins VIC Representative

David Somers WA Representative

Georgia Brazenall SA Representative

Riley Palmer TAS Representative until November 2023

Meg Knowles TAS Representative from November 2023

Sam Edwards NT Representative until September 2023

Maddie James NT Representative from September 2023

5. LIFESAVING

LIFESAVING ADVISORY COMMITTEE:

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to lifesaving.

LIFESAVING ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chris Jacobson Chair of Lifesaving

Joel Wiseman NSW Representative

Simon Richards QLD Representative

Kane Treloar VIC Representative

Liam Burke WA Representative

Mike Hartas SA Representative

Philipa Lohrey TAS Representative

Nathan McCarthy NT Representative

Cheryl McCarthy Surf Life Saver of the Year

Lifesaving Advisors

Scott McCartney Lifeguard Advisor until December 2023

Katie Dixon Independent Member

Prof David Reid Independent Member

Dr Ned Douglas Medical Advisor

Matthew Thompson Power Craft Advisor

LIFESAVING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE:

The Lifesaving Management Committee is responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of lifesaving plans, programs and activities.

LIFESAVING MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Shane Daw ESM Chair, GM Coastal Safety, SLSA until December 2023

Peter George AM Chair, Head of Mission SLSA from December 2023

Brent Manieri NSW Representative until December 2023

Oliver Munson NSW Representative from December 2023

Natalie Edwards QLD Representative

Liam Krige VIC Representative

Cameron Robbins WA Representative

Sean Faulkner SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Tameya Martin NT Representative

POWERCRAFT ADVISORY GROUP:

Responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of Powercraft.

POWERCRAFT ADVISORY GROUP

Andrew McAuliffe Chair Power Craft Advisor

Oliver Munson NSW Representative

Tea Domeracki QLD Representative

Ash Baxter VIC Representative

Garry Williams WA Representative

John Charles SA Representative

Ned Reardon TAS Representative

Andrew McGuiness NT Representative

MEDICAL ADVISORY GROUP:

Responsible for providing expert guidance on medical standards and practices related to surf life saving operations.

MEDICAL ADVISORY GROUP

Dr Ned Douglas Chair, Medical Advisor

Dr Paul Hotton NSW Representative

A/Prof. Ogilvie Thom QLD Representative

Dr Natalie Hood VIC Representative

A/Prof. David Reid WA Representative

Dr Leesa Equid WA Representative

Dr Lucinda Remilton SA Representative

6. SPORT

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

To represent the views of Surf Life Saving members nationally on matters relating to sport.

SPORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Andrew Buhk Chair of Sport

Rachael Rylance Deputy Chair of Sport

Don van Keimpema OAM NSW Representative

Nigel Ward QLD Representative

Aaron Green VIC Representative

Sandy Clarke WA Representative

Pat Larven SA Representative

Jacqueline DeJonge TAS Representative

Maddi James NT Representative

Sport Advisors

Graham Rice Technical Advisor

Darren Warrener HP & Sport Integrity Advisor

Jennifer Kenny Officiating Advisor

Sharlene Kelly Coaching Advisor

Kurt Wilson ALT Head Coach

Nicholas Sampson Surf Boat Advisor

Stephen Leahy OAM Risk and Safety Advisor

Dr Shayne Baker OAM ALT Selection Chair

SPORT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Sport Management Committee is responsible for the implementation and continual improvement of sport, programs and activities.

SPORT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Wayne Druery Chair, Sport Manager, SLSA

Jim Pinnington NSW Representative

Stuart Hogben QLD Representative

Chris Schleusener VIC Representative

Sandy Clarke WA Representative

David Visockis SA Representative

Meg Knowles TAS Representative

Maddi James NT Representative

7. COMMERCIAL & PARTNERSHIPS

COMMERICAL WORKING GROUP

The Marketing and Communications Working Group is responsible for the discussion and management relating to member and external communications, marketing and for the discussion and management relating to national partnerships.

MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS WORKING GROUP

Jo Banning Chair, Strategic Communications Manager, SLSA

Cherie Kellett Chair, Partnerships Manager, SLSA

Kym Richardson Community Fundraising Manager, SLSA

Brett Morgan Senior Marketing Manager, SLSA

Donna Wishart NSW Representative

Helen O’Connor NSW Representative

Brittany Peabody QLD Representative

Andrew English VIC Representative

Minda Penn WA Representative

Darren Horne SA Representative

Alison Stubbs TAS Representative

Sarah Fisher NT Representative

8. SPECIAL PURPOSE COMMITTEES

HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE

The Panel meets to discuss SLSA Hall of Fame nominations and makes recommendations to the SLSA Board about inductions to the Hall of Fame.

HALL OF FAME COMMITTEE

John Baker AM ESM Chair, President, SLSA

Alan Whelpton AO Life Governor, SLSA

Warren Rennie AM Independent Member

Kristy Munro AM Independent Member

Heather Thompsons AM Independent Member

Sas McNamara Independent Member

HONOURS COMMITTEE

Initiates nominations to the appropriate authorities on behalf of SLSA members considered eligible for civil, sporting, community and other awards.

HONOURS COMMITTEE

Graham Ford AO Chair, SLSA Life Member

Darryl Pope OAM Independent Member

Heather Thomspon AM Independent Member

David Stogdale RFD Independent Member

Kirsten Phillips Independent Member

Darren McLeod ESM Independent Member

MERITORIOUS AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE

Selects individuals, lifesavers, and/or groups for Meritorious Awards. Selects individual lifesavers and/ or groups for the Lifesaver of the Year Award and other associate programs, awards and educational tours.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS SELECTION COMMITTEE

Chris Jacobson Chair Lifesaving

Nichloas Wood Deputy Chair Lifesaving

Darren McLeod ESM Independent Member

Katie Dixon Independent Member

Darryl Pope OAM Independent Member

Shane Daw ESM Executive Officer

SURF BOAT COMMITTEE

Advises SLSA and relevant Sport committees on matters relating to Surf Boats.

SURF BOAT COMMITTEE

Natasha Tunney ASRL President

Sue Hunt

Secretary

Rory Gillespie Treasurer

Geoff Wilson Vice President - Event Portfolio

Stephen Bryen Vice President - Event Portfolio

Scott Edwards Vice President - Sweep Portfolio

Greg Heard Vice President - Officials Portfolio

Edwina Wright Vice President – Athlete Development Portfolio

Grant Wilkinson Vice President - Athlete Development Portfolio

ATHLETE SELECTION PANEL

Responsible for the selection of national teams in accordance with SLSA selection policy.

ATHLETE SELECTION PANEL

Dr Shayne Baker OAM Chair

Sean Davis Independent Member

Kristy Smith Independent Member

YOUTH WORKING GROUP

Represents youth member views, needs, concerns, values, and ideas to shape the future of the organisation for the next generation.

YOUTH WORKING GROUP

Hayley Hosking Chair

Sophie Carne Deputy Chair

Taylah Moffitt SLS NSW Representative

Samuel Terry SLS NSW Representative

Matilda Stone SLS QLD Representative

Cooper Anderson SLS QLD Representative

Jackson Comrie SLS VIC Representative

Memphis Johnson SLS VIC Representative

Jazmin Kalmar SLS WA Representative

Tadhg Bryan SLS WA Representative

Tom Breen SLS SA Representative

Huei Strelan SLS SA Representative

Lachlan MacKinnon SLS TAS Representative

Heidi Kable SLS TAS Representative

Samuel Ricketts SLS NT Representative

9. AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS COMMITTEES

COMPETITION COMMITTEE

The Competition Committee directs all matters relating to the actual conduct of the competition.

COMPETITION COMMITTEE

John Brennan OAM Chair – Australian Championships

Andrew Buhk Chair of Sport, SLSA

Don Van Keimpema OAM Championships Referee - Opens and Masters

Jennifer Kenny Championships Referee – Youth Officials Advisor

Nathan Fife Safety & Emergency Management Coordinator

Paul Chivers Independent Risk Advisor

Terry Barber Powercraft Coordinator

Wayne Druery Sport Manager / CEO Delegate

Jess Mensforth Event Manager

Neil Grimshaw Host Club Representative – Alexandra Headland

Rob Elford Host Club Representative – Maroochydore

Julie McIvor Host Club Representative - Mooloolaba

Jo Banning Media Liaison Officer (Observer)

Geoff Wilson Athletes Representative (Surf Boats)

Naomi Flood Athletes Representative (Opens)

Zayne Hamil Athletes Representative (Opens)

Jade Berg Athletes Representative (Youth)

10. HISTORY COMMITTEE

Advises, comments and submits recommendations on the collection, conservation, management and documentation of the history of surf lifesaving in Australia.

HISTORY COMMITTEE

Tim Tucak Chair

Prue Webber Independent Member

Ken Knight BEM Independent Member

Ray Petersen Independent Member

Raelene Donnell Independent Member

Prof Ed Jaggard OAM Independent Member

* Dr Peter Orlovich Honorary Archivist until April 2024

* Denotes deceased

FINANCIAL REPORT

FINANCIAL REPORT

SUMMARISED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

The summarised financial statements are an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2024. The financial statements and specific disclosures included in the summarised financial statements have been derived from the 2024 financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries.

The summarised statements report cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries as the full financial report.

The full financial report and the auditor’s report will be submitted to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

1. STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The consolidated entity recorded an operating surplus before Trust Funds for the financial year ended 30 June 2024 of $3,451,570 (2023: $413,651). The Foundation Perpetuity Trust (FPT) made a number of distributions during the year which resulted in a consolidated deficit of $2,206,538 after Trust Funds (2023: $1,381,258 surplus).

Consolidated revenue for 2024 was $91,556,325 (2023: $83,125,823). Sponsorship decreased to $12,698,306 (2023: $13,646,918), while government Grants increased to $14,776,665 (2023: $13,921,731). We continued to build the Foundation’s lottery program with revenue increasing to $47,388,896 (2023: $38,522,864) as a result of another significant annual increase in the number of members in our Champions Club. Fundraising and donations collected during the year decreased to $9,841,889 (2023: $11,789,674).

Consolidated expenditure for 2024 increased to $87,948,880 (2023: $82,491,523) largely due to the continued investment in the lottery program. Expenditure on lifesaving, development and education of $22,208,589 (2023: $22,513,520) is fairly consistent with 2023. Expenditure on competitions of $6,606,981 (2023: $6,802,019) is also consistent with the prior year. Overall expenditure for helicopter administration and operations including finance costs increased to $4,326,919 (2023: $3,977,168). Foundation commercial expenditure, which includes the cost of prizes for lotteries, increased to $39,524,800 (2023: $33,447,721) as we continued our investment in attracting new members to our Champions Club. Philanthropic expenses decreased to $2,501,125 (2023: $2,767,590) as did distributions to states as a result of fundraising activities to $6,087,364 (2023: $6,648,832).

2. STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

The consolidated deficit after trust distributions decreased net assets to $44,779,724 (2023: $46,986,262). Total assets decreased to $62,366,100 (2023: $65,728,567) due to the reduction in investments held by the FPT. The current ratio (current assets: current liabilities) which reflects the short-term liquidity of the organisation is a healthy 3.50 (2023: 3.95). Property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets increased to $9,665,535 (2023: $7,790,376) as we replaced the hangar door at our helicopter base and continued to develop new software systems to support surf lifesaving and to enhance our fundraising capabilities. Trade payables, accrued expenses, deferred revenue and lease liabilities make up the bulk of liabilities which decreased to $17,586,376 (2023: $18,742,305). The consolidated entity has no borrowings.

3. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the consolidated group, cash decreased by $1,686,449 (2023: $309,932 increase) to $16,163,511 (2023: $17,849,960).

Net cash outflow from operating activities which includes Trust distributions was $3,389,151 (2023: $1,414,698 inflow). Net cash inflow from investment activities was $4,573,876 (2023: $1,650,913) which represent net investment proceeds in the Foundation Perpetuity Trust, offset by payments for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. Outflows of

$2,871,174 (2023: $2,755,679) for financing activities represent repayments of principal on leases.

The Directors are satisfied that the consolidated entity has sufficient cash reserves to meet its liabilities as and when they fall due for a period of at least twelve months following the date of authorisation of the financial statements.

STATEMENTS OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the year ended 30 June 2024

The above statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income are to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at 30 June 2024

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 30 June 2024

The above statement of changes in equity is to be read in conjunction with the attached

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

As at 30 June 2024

FLOWS FROM

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Summary Financial Statements have been prepared from the audited financial report for Surf Life Saving Australia Limited (‘company’, ‘parent entity’ or ‘registered entity’) and the entities that it controlled (‘consolidated entity’ or ‘group’) during and at the end of the year ended 30 June 2024. The audited financial report for the year ended 30 June 2024 is submitted to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission, and is available to Surf Life Saving Australia Limited’s voting members on request from Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries. The financial statements are presented in Australian Dollars which is Surf Life Saving Australia Limited’s functional and presentation currency. The financial statements, specific disclosures and other information included in the summary financial statements are derived from and are consistent with the full financial statements of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries. The summary financial statements cannot be expected to provide as detailed an understanding of the financial performance, financial position and financing and investing activities of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries as the full financial report.

2. REVENUE

Revenue has been disaggregated by revenue type in the below table, with sales outside of Australia representing less than 1% of revenue.

* Timing of revenue recognition represents goods and services transferred at a point in time

** Timing of revenue recognition represents services transferred over time

*** Timing of revenue recognition disclosed in Sources of Government funding

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

4. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES

5. OTHER ASSETS (CURRENT)

6. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS (NON-CURRENT)

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

7. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES

Recognition and Measurement

Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the future for goods and services received, whether or not billed to the consolidated entity. The liabilities are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Liabilities are also recognised as income in advance relating to any unfulfilled performance obligations at the period end (refer Note 2).

The public liability claims pool is administered by the parent entity on behalf of the parent entity and all its State Centres to manage part of the public liability risk for all of Surf Life Saving Australia’s entities covered by the parent entity’s public liability insurance. Current estimates by insurance broker (Marsh Advantage) calculated a potential liability of $823,700 related to reported claims that are currently outstanding (2023: $676,986). This amount makes up the current liability portion shown above.

8. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

* On 1 October 2022 all staff employed by The Surf Life Saving Foundation became employees of the parent entity Surf Life Saving Australia. Employee benefits liabilities recorded by the parent entity include those staff previously employed by the Surf Life Saving Foundation.

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

9. LEASES

The consolidated entity recognises leases for the use of assets under AASB 16 Leases. These are recognised as right-of-use assets and associated liabilities split between current and non-current liabilities.

Expenses incurred include the following amount specific to the leases:

lease payments not included in the measurement of lease liabilities

lease payments (undiscounted)

The consolidated entity leases land and buildings for its offices, aircraft hangar, and warehouse under agreements of three years. On renewal, the terms of the leases are renegotiated. The consolidated entity also leases plant and equipment under an agreement of four years. The consolidated entity has an agreement for the provision of helicopter services which is recognised as a lease under AASB 16. Lease payments include a fixed daily charge as well as variable payments dependant on the number of hours flown by the aircraft. The initial term of the current lease agreement is for a period of 5 years, expiring on 31 July 2025 with an option to extend for a further 5 years. As of the date of this report, the consolidated entity is not reasonably certain that an option to extend this lease arrangement will be exercised to recognise a modification under AASB 16.

The consolidated entity’s office at 1 Notts Avenue Bondi Beach is occupied under a 40 year lease for $70 per year. The premises are used as the head office for Surf Life Saving Australia and the terms of the lease restrict its usage to this purpose. The consolidated entity is dependent on the lease to the extent that it does not incur the cost of commercial rents to occupy office space and can therefore allocate those funds to its charitable purposes.

The consolidated entity occupies the helicopter base at Cape Banks Reserve, Botany Bay on a 99 year lease with no lease payments, under the Crown Lands Act (1989). The consolidated entity is dependent on its right to occupy the base in order to operate the service.

These lease arrangements have been recognised at cost; as a not-for-profit entity, the consolidated entity has elected to take relief from recognising its concessionary leases at fair value.

10. REMUNERATION OF AUDITORS

During the financial year the following fees were paid or payable for services provided by BDO Audit Pty Ltd, the auditor of the company, its network firms and unrelated firms:

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

11. CONTINGENCIES

Public Liability Claims Pool

The parent entity manages a public liability claims pool on behalf of the parent entity and all Surf Life Saving Australia’s State Centres. A review has indicated that the funds held in the pool will be sufficient to cover the cost of all expected claims.

12. MEMBERS’ EQUITY ISSUED CAPITAL

The parent entity is a company limited by guarantee and as such does not have any issued capital. If the company is wound up, the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 each towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the company. As at 30 June 2024 the number of members was 198,916 (2023: 193,009).

13. DETAILS OF SUBSIDIARIES

The Surf Life Saving Foundation Limited

(1) Compliance with the financial disclosure requirements of the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW) has been disclosed in the financial statements of these entities.

(2) The Surf Life Saving Foundation is a company limited by guarantee with Surf Life Saving Australia Limited as the sole voting member. The Foundation Perpetuity Trust is a charitable trust which has been consolidated by the Group from 1 November 2022 (refer note 15).

The parent entity acts as manager for the Surf Life Saving Child Safe Trust, a charitable trust registered with the ACNC. The parent entity has not received any fees for acting as manager. The parent entity has assessed the elements of control of the Trust under AASB 10 and has made a key accounting judgement that it does not control the Trust and has therefore not consolidated the Trust’s financial statements into its own.

14. RESERVES

The purpose of the SLSA Financial Reserves Policy is to contribute to the long-term financial stability of the organisation. Reserves should provide balance sheet stability, enable SLSA to continue to achieve its strategic objectives in cases of temporary shortage of operating funds, and provide additional returns for capital investment outside of its normal operating budget.

The Operating Reserve is intended to provide an internal source of funds for situations such as a short-term cash shortage caused by a delay in receipt of government funding or major sponsorship instalment. Operating Reserves are not intended to replace a permanent loss of funds or eliminate an ongoing budget gap. If Operating Reserves are used it is the intention that they be replenished within a reasonably short period of time.

The Capital Reserve is intended to provide low risk returns that SLSA can access to fund additional capital expenditure or new initiatives that require funding from outside SLSA’s regular operating budget. Secondary to this, principal funds can be called upon for larger capital requirements or to allow the organisation to continue operating through a loss of significant funding or restrictive economic environment.

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

15. FOUNDATION PERPETUITY TRUST

The Surf Life Saving Foundation (SLSF), a subsidiary of the parent entity (SLSA), acts as trustee for the Foundation Perpetuity Trust, a charitable trust which is maintained and applied solely for specific purposes outlined in its Trust Deed. The SLSF Board endorsed an amendment to the Trust deed effective November 2022 which confirmed SLSA as an eligible recipient of distributions from the Trust. SLSA has assessed the elements of control of the Foundation Perpetuity Trust under AASB 10 and has determined that it has subsequently assumed control of the Trust from the date of this amendment. SLSA’s consolidated financial statements therefore include the financial statements of the Foundation Perpetuity Trust from this date onward and are summarised below:

Foundation Perpetuity Trust Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 30 June 2024

Net

Surplus from continuing operations before income tax expense and trust distributions

Income tax expense relating to continuing operations

Trust distributions paid** (7,700,671) (474,504)

Net surplus from continuing operations after income tax expense and trust distributions (5,658,108) 967,607

Other comprehensive income -

Total comprehensive (deficit) / income for the period (5,658,108) 967,607

* 2023 Profit or Loss figures are from 1 November 2022 to 30 June 2023 ** Trust distributions in 2024 exclude $1,000,000 distributed to Surf Life Saving Australia Limited which has been eliminated on consolidation.

Perpetuity Trust Statement of Financial Position

NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 30 June 2024

16. EVENTS OCCURRING AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD

No matter or circumstance has arisen since the end of the financial year that has significantly affected, or may significantly affect the consolidated entity’s operations, the results of those operations, or the consolidated entity’s state of affairs in future financial years.

17. COMPANY DETAILS

The registered office and principal place of business of the consolidated entity is 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach NSW 2026.

DIRECTORS’ DECLARATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

In accordance with a resolution of the directors of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited, the directors of the company declare that the summary financial statements of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries for the financial year ended 30 June 2024, as set out on pages 73 – 84, is an extract from the full financial report for the year ended 30 June 2024 and has been derived from and is consistent with the full financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and its subsidiaries.

On behalf of the Directors by

John Baker AM ESM

Director

Sydney, 27 September 2024

Darrin Bragg Director

Sydney, 27 September 2024

Tel: +61 2 9251 4100

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

To the members of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited

Report on the Audit of the Summary Financial Statements

Opinion

The summary financial statements, which comprises the statements of financial position as at 30 June 2024, the statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statements of changes in equity and the statements of cash flows for the year then ended, and related notes, are derived from the audited financial report of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited for the year ended 30 June 2024

In our opinion, the accompanying summar y financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report, on the basis described in the summary financial statements.

Summar y Financial Statements

The summary financial statements do not contain all the disclosures required by Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures and the financial reporting requirements of the Australian Charities and Not -for-profits Commission Act 2012 . Reading the summary financial statements and the auditor's report thereon, therefore, is not a substitute for reading the audited financial report and the auditor's report thereon. The summary financial statements and the audited financial report do not reflect the effects of events that occurred subsequent to the date of our report on the audited financial report.

The Audited Financial Report and Our Report Thereon

We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on the audited financial report in our report dated 27 September 2024.

Directors’ Responsibility for the Summar y Financial Statements

The Directors are responsible for the preparation of the summar y financial statements on the basis described in the summary financial statements

Auditor's Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on whether the summar y financial statements are consistent, in all material respects, with the audited financial report based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Auditing Standard ASA 810 Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements .

BDO Audit Pty Ltd

Martin Coyle Director

Sydney, 27 September 2024

Tel: +61 2 9251

Fax: +61 2 9240

www.bdo.com.au

Level 11, 1 Margaret Street Sydney NSW 2000 Australia

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

BY

MARTIN COYLE TO THE DIRECTORS OF SURF LIFE SAVING AUSTRALIA LIMITED

As lead auditor of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited for the year ended 30 June 2024, I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, there have been:

1. No contraventions of the auditor independence requirements of section 60 -40 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and

2. No contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

This declaration is in respect of Surf Life Saving Australia Limited and the entities it controlled during the period.

Martin Coyle Director

27 September 2024

AWARDS AND HONOURS

SLSA HALL OF FAME

SLSA HALL OF FAME SURF LIFESAVING ADMINISTRATION SPORT SPORT

Major John Bond

Harold John Brown OAM

Michael Burke BEM

Professor Tess Cramond OBE AO

Currumbin Patrol Competition team

Jack Dearlove MBE

Bob Gear AM

Alan Kennedy MBE

Dr Ian Mackie AM

Graham McKenzie OAM

Hector McDonald OAM

Warren Allen Rennie AM

Earle Smith AM Ainslie

W ‘Sprint’ Walker OBE

Peter George AM

Mark Fife OAM

Hayden Kenny

Arthur Parkyn OAM

Gregory Arthur Allum AM

Cornelius Kennedy Asmussen MBE

Sir Adrian Curlewis CVO CBE

Roy Doyle

Theo Haywood

Cliff Marsh OAM

Donald D McIntyre

John West (Jack) McMaster AM DFC

Tom Meagher OBE

Lyster Ormsby

Charles Davidson Paterson

Ronald E Rankin AM

Paul Smith OAM

Barry Bede (Gus) Staunton MBE

Ron Tallon OAM

FO (Frank) Venning MBE

Ken WC Watson MBE

Alan Brian Whelpton AO

Dan White OAM

Jack Winders OBE

SW (Bill) Winders MBE

Ian (Rick) Wright OAM

Robert Brydon AM

Graham Ford AO

John Bliss

Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore Open Boat crew

Bondi R&R team

Bundaberg March Past team

Graham Carlisle OAM

Jon Donohoe AM

Harold C Evans

Karla Gilbert

Kristy Harris

Trevor Hendy AM

Dennis Heussner

John Robert Holt

Ky Hurst

Brian Hutchings

Grant Kenny OAM

Bruce Kolkka

Peter Lacey

Killcare Open Mens Beach Relay Team

Maroubra SLSC Double Ski Team

Northcliffe Open Patrol Competition Team

Mona Vale Black Open AW Surf Boat Crew

Kate Czerny

Andrew Kelckhoven

Geoff Waters

Melissa Cracroft-Wilson (nee Howard)

Simon Harris

Elizabeth Pluimers

Clint Robinson OAM

Kristy Munroe AM

Ken Murray

Bob Newbiggin

Harry Nightingale

Clint Robinson OAM

Barry Rodgers

Noel P Ryan

Peter Douglas Tibbitts

Ken Vidler

Wanda Six Man R&R team

Stephen Warren

Graham Ross White OAM

Steve Wilkes

Shannon Eckstein

Michael Jones

Naomi Flood

North Cottesloe Open Surf Boat—Crew

Lenore Grice

Lachlan Tame

Alison O’Toole

South Port Open March Past Team

Andrew Bowden

Don Morrison OAM

Robert (Rob) Mayo AM

Elly Miller

Darren Mercer OAM

James (Harvie) Stansell

Peter Milburn

Dean Mercer OAM

Murray Braund

Michael White

Alexandra Headland Open Champion Patrol

NATIONAL AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

YOUTH SURF LIFESAVER OF THE YEAR

Sophie Carne – Lorne SLSC, LSV

Sophie has had a breakthrough season, sharing her passion and innovating with new ways that surf life saving can have an impact within her club and community. In addition to leading patrols and training new members, Sophie pioneered a new lifesaving pathways night at her club. She has introduced new club roles in mental health and sustainability which has already had a positive impact on her fellow members. When asked how to engage effectively with older members around change and innovation in her club, Sophie said “ Approach them with curiosity, offer your time and enthusiasm, and include them in brainstorming”.

Sophie shared an authentic passion for being inclusive, seeking new perspectives and continuing her growth inside and outside of Surf Life Saving. Sophie is an inspiring ambassador for the youth of Surf Life Saving Australia.

DHL LIFEGUARD OF THE YEAR

Mariah Jones – NSW

Mariah’s commitment to helping people and ensuring the safety of beachgoers through employment with the ALS and at her local Surf Life Saving Club made her this year’s DHL Lifeguard of the year.

Mariah’s leadership and innovation as a Lifeguard and Supervisor as well as multiple rescue of the month nominations, shows her commitment to going above and beyond in all situations. She has shown willingness to promote the ALS in a positive light and share her knowledge and skills to water safety agencies overseas. She has played an important role in identifying diversity and creating groups to help voice, support and strengthen diverse perspectives within her workplace and community. Mariah has shown she is a worthy role model to receive the DHL Lifeguard of the year title.

DHL VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Luke

O’Garey – Burnie SLSC , TAS

Luke, a long-standing member of Burnie SLSC, has dedicated 40 years to Surf Life Saving Tasmania, holding various leadership roles at the club, state, and international levels, including delegations to the USA, Singapore, and New Zealand.

In the 2022/23 season, Luke served as Club Captain, Club Coaching Coordinator, Junior and Senior Team Manager, and mentor to the JAC. He rebuilt membership after a significant loss, coordinated two statewide carnivals, developed and trained three new coaches, and strengthened the club’s culture, making it an inclusive and safe environment.

Luke’s unwavering commitment has led to safer beaches, more members, better-equipped coaches, and well-rounded athletes. His dedication to both lifesaving and surf sports exemplifies the SLSA philosophy of rescue-ready lifesavers, highlighting the connection between a strong community-minded club and a healthy community

DHL SURF LIFESAVER OF THE YEAR

—

Cheryl McCarthy – Bermagui SLSC, NSW

Cheryl joined the organised as a way to meet people in her community. She began with contributions at the grassroots level, helping out with nippers. From there her passion grew.

Cheryl now contributes across club, branch, state and national level. Cheryl managed the Far South Coast Branch emergency call out team and has been integral in inter-club and interagency relationship development and with RWC blackspot training.

Cheryl derives the most satisfaction from her involvement in surf lifesaving through seeing the smiles on the faces of those she has helped in their own personal lifesaving journeys.

Without a doubt Cheryl is an outstanding ambassador for surf lifesaving.

DHL CLUB OF THE YEAR

North Haven SLSC, SA

North Haven SLSC has embraced challenges with a solution-focused approach, fostering collaboration, inclusion, and diversity. Their proactive attitude, including reaching out to other clubs on their Peninsula, has strengthened their lifesaving and training programs, benefiting all involved.

Ahead of the 2022/23 season, North Haven engaged with a local First Nations community to incorporate storytelling into the club’s identity. This collaboration resulted in a mural that now adorns the clubhouse and is featured on club uniforms and merchandise. The club was selected to participate in the “Ocean Water Kids” program, which aims to reduce drowning risks by offering free swimming lessons and transitioning participants into Nippers. This initiative led to 34 First Nations families joining the program, highlighting North Haven’s commitment to inclusion. Their efforts have been recognized by Clubs SA, awarding them “Most Inclusive Club” for two consecutive years.

Central to their initiatives is the Youth Employment Program, offering structured traineeships to SRC and Bronze qualified cadets. This program, which includes practical training like first aid and barista courses, guarantees four months of employment and has significantly boosted youth patrol attendance and retention. North Haven also introduced an Environmental Officer, who educates Nippers, manages a community garden, and partners with Friends of the North Haven Dunes to sustain the local environment.

Demonstrating their not-for-profit ethos, North Haven invested over $7,000 in free First Aid Training for the local community and over $90,000 in Surf Life Saving equipment last season. They continue to support their volunteers with initiatives like fuel vouchers, coffees, and breakfasts, ensuring their club remains strong and community-focused.

TRAINER OF THE YEAR

Gary Williams - Ellis Beach SLSC, QLD

Gary diligently upholds the training standards required of a club and branch trainer. His IRB Crew and Driver camp was highly successful, with Gary meticulously covering all necessary aspects. He also excels in mentoring local Indigenous youth through the Clontarf Foundation, delivering a live-in Bronze Medallion course for at-risk boys.

This program significantly boosts their confidence and life skills, positively impacting their lives both short and long term. Gary’s collaborative approach builds trust with the boys, allowing him to adapt his methods to create an inclusive and safe training environment, ensuring their success. He is always eager to share his knowledge with club members and the wider community.

ASSESSOR OF THE YEAR

Steve Westcott – Fingal Beach SLSC, NSW

Steve is the Chief Training Officer of Fingal Beach SLSC and is responsible for all facets of clubs SLS Education. He takes the role of being an Assessor seriously, bringing an encouraging and supportive attitude to all assessments.

He offers positive, emotive support to the candidates by being considerate and unbiased. He strives to inspire additional assessors and candidates by naturalising all to the task, using a variety of methods, ensuring everyone is fully aware of their role before commencing.

Steve is able to frankly relay first-hand accounts of real-life experiences he has both witnessed and experienced during his SLS career, delivered in a manner that keeps his audience both engaged and contemplating the topic.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAM OF THE YEAR

North Cottesloe SLSC, WA

The Sea Lions Program is an all-abilities program for teenagers. Over the course of 8-weeks, teens are paired with a volunteer mentor and given the opportunity to develop valuable water safety skills, build confidence and become part of a supportive and connected community.

Many teens with a disability need to remain in a lower age group nipper program so they can continue to enjoy SLS activities with the level of support they require. Sea Lions was developed to fill this need and is the first of its kind.

After 12 months of operation, there was a 100% return rate in participants and mentors as well as many new families and mentors joining. The positive impact for the participants include improvements in physical health, community connection, mental well-being, relationships, confidence and self-esteem. At Sea Lions everyone is supported, everyone is celebrated, and everyone is welcome

INNOVATION OF THE YEAR

Off Grid Surf Beach Precinct, Beachport SLSC, SA

Beachport SLSC worked closely with community groups, sponsors, grants and their own members to build a Surf Beach Precinct from shipping containers and a 30-year-old dilapidated toilet block.

The precinct is cost effective, sturdy, secure, functional and aesthetically pleasing. It is more than just a storage facility; but club rooms, first aid room, meeting and training area. It is also environmentally friendly and capable of being off grid.

They achieved their goal by having a robust committee that stuck together to achieve the five-year strategic plan that they developed come to life. From a dream, to a belief, to an achievement.

Phase 2 in their strategic plan is a patrol tower, function room and observation deck. Through club spirit, robust governance and a clear strategic vision anything is possible when there is a collective goal.

SURF SPORT OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR

John Brennan OAM – Currumbin SLSC, QLD

Amongst the many roles undertaken at Club, State, National and International level, John Brennan is an experienced Senior Official, who has worked a senior level in 2022-2023 and has taken on roles as an Officials’ Mentor and Assessor.

In the 2023/23 season John has officiated at events and carnivals across all age categories, and all disciplines, taken on senior roles in IRB, Pool, Surf and Beach events. While he excels in some of the hardest jobs, as competition liaison and appeals, he is also known for his willingness to take on carnival and secv ional referee roles and his ongoing commitment to the development of all officials with whom he works.

We congratulate John for his work this season as a member of a team developing training materials and running a Senior Officials course in Far North Queensland. He used his extensive experience in managing complex surf sports situations to focus the training on the skills required of a senior official that fall outside the rule book. He also supported and mentored many of the officials with whom he worked at carnivals this year. The selection panel were impressed with John’s work to develop others and to improve Surf Sports for all athletes, coaches, volunteers and officials.

SURF SPORT COACH OF THE YEAR

Peter Tidswell – Glenelg SLSC, SA

Peter’s focus on cultivating a strong team culture, setting high standards, and leading by example earned him the title of this year’s Surf Sport Coach of the Year.

His influence extends beyond his own club, encompassing South Australia and national events. This season, his crews achieved remarkable success, securing multiple medals in SA State, Interstate, ASRL, and Australian Championships.

Furthermore, they earned recognition at both the South Australian and Australian Development Surf Boat Teams, particularly his U23 Female crew, The Glenelg Grenades.

In addition to his competitive achievements, Peter dedicates extensive effort to nurturing the grassroots of the sport. He serves as a mentor, offering guidance and support to emerging rowers and sweeps not only within his club but also in other clubs throughout South Australia and even the Northern Territory, where he has actively conducted rowing and sweeping clinics for the past five years.

SURF SPORT YOUTH ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Conner Maggs – Newport SLSC, NSW

Conner was the standout performer of this year’s Australian Championships, making twelve finals and claiming an incredible eight gold medals and one silver medal. He completed the firstever ‘clean sweep’ in the U17 category, winning individual championships in the swim, board, ski, and ironman events – along with surf teams, ski relay and Taplin relay championships with his Newport teammates.

Adding to this tally, he combined with Charlie Brooks to claim the highly coveted open men’s board rescue event and contributed to a silver medal in the open men’s Taplin relay. His success in the 2022/23 season was not limited to the national championships, having previously claimed three gold, three silver, and a bronze medal at the NSW State Championships.

Conner won the Open Short Course event at the 2022 Coolangatta Gold and in the Nutri-Grain Ironman series, debuted as the youngest ever male competitor and finished the series in 14th position overall.

SURF SPORT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

Jake Smith – Trigg Island SLSC, WA

Jake was a standout member of the Australian Lifesaving Team (ALT) that competed in the 2022 World Lifesaving Championships in Italy, where he was the highest-scoring male athlete in the pool. Jake won two individual world titles in the 100m rescue medley and 50m manikin carry, and teamed up with his national squad to secure world championships in the line throw, medley relay, and mixed lifesaver relay. Additionally, he earned silver medals in the obstacles relay and rescue tube rescue, and a bronze in the manikin relay.

Showcasing his versatility, Jake also reached the finals in the beach relay and was a B-finalist in the individual beach sprint. At the 2022 Australian Pool Rescue Championships, as captain of the Western Suns State Team, Jake claimed three individual golds and three team golds, each setting new Australian record times.

As the Competition Captain and Ocean Swim coach at Trigg Island SLSC, Jake manages and coordinates year-round activities, fostering strong member participation. His passion for expanding the recognition of lifesaving as a sport globally has led to his role as the athlete representative for the Australasian Region on the International Lifesaving Federation Athlete Commission. He also serves as a member of the WA Sports Committee.

MERITORIOUS AWARDS

Meritorious Awards are awarded to affiliated clubs and/or their members and/or members of the public for outstanding deeds of bravery performed in the sphere of surf lifesaving operations. This includes lifesaving, both in and outside designated patrol hours. At the Awards of Excellence, Certificates of Merit were awarded to the following:

INDIVIDUAL CERTIFICATE OF MERIT WITH BRONZE INSERT

Paul Gibson, Westpac Lifesaver 45 Helicopter Service, QLD. 2 January 2023

Paul Brennan, Westpac Lifesaver 45 Helicopter Service, QLD. 2 January 2023

Johnathan Hagan, Westpac Lifesaver 45 Helicopter Service, QLD. 2 January 2023

INDIVIDUAL CERTIFICATE OF MERIT

Liam Drake, Ocean Beach SLSC, NSW. 26 March 2023

Logan Specht, North Stradbroke Island, Australian Lifeguard Service, QLD. 25 February 2023

Keith Weinert, Operations Support, Gold Coast, QLD. 25 February 2023

John Bourn, OAM, North Cronulla SLSC, NSW. 26 March 1972

Terry Tierney, North Cronulla SLSC, NSW. 26 March 1972

Stewart Cameron, North Cronulla SLSC, NSW. 26 March 1972

Brian Vassarotti, North Cronulla SLSC, NSW. 26 March 1972

Maxwell Lewis, North Cronulla SLSC, NSW. 26 March 1972

GROUP CERTIFICATE OF MERIT

Christies Beach SLSC & Glenelg SLSC, SA. 23 October 2022

Avoca Beach SLSC, NSW. 12 November 2022

Chiton Rocks SLSC, SA. 7 January 2023

Avalon Beach SLSC, NSW. 16 October 2022

Rainbow Bay SLSC, QLD. 30 April 2023

Operations Support & Australian Lifeguard Service Gold Coast, QLD. 2 January 2023

SLSA LIFE MEMBERS

RECOGNISING DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

Life Membership of SLSA is awarded to members who have contributed distinguished voluntary service to SLSA for more than 20 years. To be considered as distinguished service, the service must be both sustained, and provide an evident contribution.

115 Staunton MBe GKn, BB

129 Whelpton Ao GKn, AB

138 Heywood oBe , nJ

140 Knight BeM, Kc

141 McGee, e J

148 Bruce oAM, BD

149 Blackley, Dt

154 Smith oAM, RA

159 Stapleton AM, PR

161 thorburn, AJ

162 Rennie AM GKn, WA

165 Watson AM, RJ

166 Reeves oAM, JA

168 Scott oAM, iD

178 Little oAM, RA

181 Stephens oAM, eB

182 Butler oAM, RJ

192 Davis oAM, e

193 Whitmore oAM, Rt

194 Pears oAM, Re

196 Priest, Kc

197 Beasley oAM, JB

198 Smith oAM, BJ

207 Wright oAM, iJ

208 Rankin AM, Re

211 Devlin AM Kc, RP

215 Lyons oAM, GR

Deceased

1. * Doyle, RD

2. * Rathborne, HB

3. * Burke BeM, MJ

4. * Mcintyre, DD

5. * Windon, SJ

216 Allum AM GKn, GA

217 Jaggard oAM Prof., eKG

218 Gaynor oAM RFD, We

221 McGibbon, PJ

222 Morarty oAM, nW

224 edstein oAM, Jt

226 Meehan oAM, JV

227 George AM Kn, PB

228 Wood eSM, RS

230 Mayo AM, RJ

231 Fenner AM, PJ

232 Young oAM, iJ

233 Bird oAM, Kc

234 inwood AM, AJ

235 Kelk oAM, nt

237 Donohoe AM, Jt

238 owen, GB

239 Grant oAM, iJ

241 Kennedy oAM, KA

243 Fitzgerald oAM, JB

247 Smith oAM, RA

249 Bartlett oAM, Me

250 Boulton oAM, DJ

251 Fraser oAM, JS

252 Martin AM, MJ

253 Mitchell oAM, RA

257 Strange oAM, SR

259 thompson AM Kn, DP

260 Burling oAM, Je

262 White, c

264 Welch oAM, R

265 Jamieson oAM AFSM, WB

266 Haven AM, FA

267 Farmer oAM, eK

268 Bruce AM, G

269 Blake oAM, RA

271 Goode oAM, iA

272 Smith oAM, AM

273 Pearce oAM, PM

274 Fife oAM, MA

275 connell, PJ

276 Bignold oAM, RB

277 Ford Ao Kn, GB

278 Larkins, K

279 Boardman oAM, tP

280 Hoyland oAM, DP

281 Fife, MA

282 Restuccia oAM, J

283 thompson AM, HA

284 Barratt, LA

285 Kirkwood AM, P

286 Kenny, PJ

287 creek, RW

288 Grice oAM, LM

289 Hood eSM, nA

290 Joseph, nR

291 Storrie, SK

292 Farmer AM eSM GKn, nH

293 Hopton oAM, cJ

294 Kenny, JA

295 Laing oAM, c W

296 Miller, G

298 Brennan oAM, JJ

300 Wyeth, R

301 Gowing, GP

302 Harrod, B

303 van Keimpema oAM, DJ

304 Baker AM eSM, JRi

305 Bate, MJ

306 Marsh, D

307 McLennan, WJ

309 Seeney, A

310 Buhk, A

311 Smith-Gander AM, c

312 Jeanneret oAM, c

ILS Knight - KN

ILS Grand Knight - GKN

ILS Commander – COM

6. * McRorie, JS

7. * canning, Jt

8. * Goold, WJ

9. * cohen, GS

10. * Holmes, capt A 11. * Dart, GW

12. * Moran, tF

13. * taylor, ce

14. * Dargan, FH

15. * Whitehead, c W

16. * Dellit, GS

17. * Gordon, JL

18. * englert, cG

19. * Gray, Je

20. * Winders MBe , SW

21. * cohen, M

22. * cronin, VS

23. * Watson MBe , KW

24. * curlewis c Vo cBe , Sir AH

25. * Dillon, JB

26. * cameron, JR

27. * turner, LD

28. * Sutherland, Ac

29. * cahill, J

30. * Marshall BeM, eR

31. * Hanley, GR

32. * Millar, G

33. * Hayton oBe KStJ, n

34. * Webb, GR

35. * Figtree, AS

36. * thompson, DH

37. * Hodge, Jn

38. * Small, HA

39. * emms, FG

40. * Mack, c

41. * Heath, e A

42. * Gadsdon Kt, Sir LP

43. * costa, SV

44. * Williams, AM

45. * Kennedy MBe , AeR

46. * Winders oBe , JR

47. * White oAM, DG

48. * Jaggard oAM, eFK

49. * Johnson, GH

50. * Moroney, DRB

51. * Woodroffe, nS

52. * Becher oAM, MH

53. * Betts, JJ

54. * Stephens, PR

55. * Donaldson, AR

56. * Daley, WJ

57. * Sloane, AD

58. * Besomo, VA

59. * Foerster, WH

60. * Loton, AR

61. * McDonald oAM, LS

62. * Paterson, A

63. * Denison, AG

64. * Lindsay, GA

65. * McGrath, HF

66. * castleman MBe , AW

67. * Prior BeM, Ae

68. * Haywood MBe , FSt

69. * Frizzell oBe oAM, AB

70. * Mccarthy, JG

71. * Spender oBe , JR

72. * Bullpitt MBe , nF

73. * Brydon, Rc

74. * Shanahan, RP

75. * Williams MBe , VJ

76. * Walker oBe , AW

77. * Meagher oBe , t W

78. * Wilson oAM, nB

79. * olson, Ao

80. * Lucas oBe , Dc

81. * Avery, ec

82. * ovens oAM, e J

83. * Payne, F t

84. * Wilson, GJ

85. * Stewart, JJ

86. * nicklin KcMG, GFR

87. * Johnson MBe , SJc

88. * Richards, cF

89. * Williams, G

90. * Dempster, JW

91. * Saunders, RA

92. * Flanagan BeM, nJ

93. * tier, FB

94. * newman, JP

95. * Dearlove MBe GKn, JB

96. * McMaster AM DFc, JW

97. * Riley MBe , HK

98. * Asmussen MBe , cK

99. * Molyneux, D

100. * crain MBe , WAt

101. * Bennett, Pi

102. * Smith AM, e J

103. * Humphris-clark oAM, H

104. * Grant oAM, GF

105. * Hatchett, JG

106. * Howells oAM, RM

107. * McDonald oAM, Hn

108. * Peacock, RJ

109. * tallon oAM, Rc

110. * o'Reilly BeM, Je

111. * Switzer oAM, JR

112. * Vaughan oAM, JK

113. * claybourn oAM, Mc

114. * Klingner oAM, MJ

116. * Field oAM, Rc

117. * Slaven, P

118. * Rosewell oAM, JWA

119. * Weimer, HJ

120. * Honey, c

121. * Burrell oAM, RA

122. * Wilkes, BF

123. * Rector AM, ce

124. * Sellars, JPW

125. * Fitzgerald MBe , Ae

126. * Singleton oAM, WJ

127. * Brown oAM, GM

128. * Morrison oAM, DP

130. * Moseley oAM, A

131. * Pittard, HA

132. * Parkyn oAM, AB

133. * Brown oAM, HJ

134. * Dann, GL

135. * Bowman, BH

136. * Worrell oAM, JG

137. * Martin, We

139. * Hofmaster, e V

142. * trethowan, J

143. * Windmill, Hc

144. * Webb oAM, MA

145. * Rodgers oAM, DG

146. * critcher, Gt

147. * conlin oAM, DR

150. * Sabien, M

151. * chesher oAM, Rc

152. * Morrison, KA

153. * Paton oAM, LS

155. * Gear AM, RJ

156. * Buist, RV

157. * Marsh oAM, c W

158. * Johnson, DL

160. * Wilson BeM, HB

163. * McKenzie oAM, GD

164. * Mcneilly MBe , MD

167. * Marshall oAM, WG

169. * Byrnes oAM, MJ

170. * Dixon, nA

171. * Mcnaughton oAM, G

172. * Donnell oAM, BF

173. * trigg oBe , RJ

174. * Jones oAM, JM

175. * Dewey, Jc

176. * King oAM, Bc

177. * Henshaw oAM, nJ

179. * Brown oAM, RM

180. * Burchill oAM, DS

183. * McGrory oAM, FH

184. * Hoskins oAM, KF

185. * taylor oAM, cJ

186. * Millett MBe , Rc

187. * Mackie AM FRAcP GKn, iJ

188. * Davidson oAM, RJ

189. * cramond Ao oBe Prof, tRo

190. * Smith oAM GKn, PW

191. * taylor oAM, PF

195. * Murray, K

199. * Waters oAM, M

200. * Bermingham oAM, PJ

201. * Fielder oAM, cD

202. * Halliday oAM, We

203. * Harding oAM, RJ

204. * Menico oAM, JA

205. * Somers, JF

206. * Wilcox oAM, St

209. * conrick, c

210. * Jackson oAM, RA

212. * Purcell oAM, nR

213. * Worth oAM, WJ

214. * collins, KJ

219. * clark eSM, De

220. * Griffiths, JA

223. * Bond, KJH

225. * Finch AM, the Hon FA

229. * Lyne AM, cR

236. * Weldon AM GKn, Ke

240. * Goetz, AW

242. * o'Rorke oAM, PJ

244. * Stanford oAM, KH

245. * Barlow, J

246. * Green BeM, DA

248. * Godbee oAM, nM

254. * Singleton , Mc

255. * Sargeant, RJ

256. * Howard oAM eSM , RJ

258. * Roberts oAM, RG

261. * Lytham oAM, RJ

263. * Brennan oAM, R

270. * Doig oAM, VA

297. * White, PJ

299. * caldwell, K

308. * Mills oAM, nJP

SLSA NEW LIFE MEMBERS

ANDREW BUHK

Alexandra Headland SLSC, QLD – SLSA Life Member #310

Andrew joined Alexandra Headland SLSC (AHSLSC) as an U7 Nipper, a thirdgeneration family member of the club and patrolling member since 1980, Andrew gained his AHSLSC Life Membership in 2002.

Andrew’s sporting prowess as a youth competitor stretched across the many sporting disciplines of SLS. Later Andrew went on to coach within his club, Sunshine Coast and State areas, frequently touring representing Australia in Japan, Great Britain, and Canada.

Andrew commenced officiating in 1990. Since that time, he has officiated at every Australian Championships since 1991. He was the Kellogg’s Nutri Grain Referee for 16 years, spent eight years as Aussies Sectional Referee, seven years as Deputy Referee and six years as Aussies Referee from 2012-2017.

Andrew sat on the National Education and Development Committee for four years, was the National Event Advisor for two years, and is the current SLSA Chair of Sport, a position he has held since 2017.

Andrew is known for his dedication, sustained and distinguished commitment to surf sports. His focus on the strategic direction, grassroots development and sustainable financial strategies have seen national surf sports continue to prosper. Andrew’s knowledge of events, stake-holder engagement and innovation have seen SLSA separate the Australian Youth titles into a stand-alone event. During the tragedies of 2010 and 2012, Andrew’s conspicuous leadership was responsible for the cultural shift at surf sports events and was instrumental in SLSA’s approach to safety. Andrew instilled in our Officials the principle of presumption of ‘good intent’ a philosophy under-pinned by all voices being heard, ensuring that any concern raised on the beach from a parent, competitor or spectator be addressed and managed within SLS due process. Andrew is an innovative and transformative leader within surf sports.

CRAIG SMITH-GANDER AM

North Cottesloe SLSC, WA – SLSA Life Member #311

Craig has had a significant impact on Surf Life Saving across Australia, from the grassroots level through to the development of national strategy and policy. For 50 years he has been a patrolling member, a surf boat competitor at the highest level and an office bearer at Club, State and National levels. As a SLSA Director for a decade, Craig has been one of 11 senior leaders leading the Federated movement. He has been an exemplary director in that time, working extremely hard to improve the experience for our volunteers.

Craig’s background made him the perfect SLSA Board Director to sit on the Helicopter Oversight Group and provide sound advice to the SLSA Board on the operations of SLSA’s owned helicopter company. His value and input were instrumental in decisions regarding future operations.

As the Chair of The ICT Governance Group committee, Craig drove technological advancements through the ICT Upgrade Project where the technology used to save lives in surf lifesaving was upgraded and enhanced to make the lives of members easier.

As a Director, Craig understands intimately the needs of the volunteers and he is passionate about reducing complexity and improving the experience for our members. Craig is a lifesaver first and foremost, but he has always had a love of all surf sports. He was on the SLSA Surf Sports Committee for 3 years and then, as the SLSA appointed Director, he led the 2016 National Surf Sports Review, which resulted in several significant innovations across the movement.

One of Craig’s innovations provided flexibility in patrol hours and proficiency that had previously been barriers to competition. Another assisted returning members and non-qualified members to use surf equipment for lifesaving and surf sports provided they met the prerequisites of the proficiency standard.

This allowed returning members to assist in water safety such as nippers and “try before you buy” on sports equipment such as surf boat rowing. Both innovations led to successful national implementation.

CLAUDE JEANNERET OAM

Northcliffe and Surfers Paradise SLSC, QLD – SLSA Life Member #312

Claude has distinguished himself as an active surf lifesaver, competitor, coach, and administrator, making an immeasurable impact on the Surf Life Saving movement.

Claude’s dedication has always been marked by a willingness to help and get the job done without seeking recognition. His sustained service was acknowledged with Life Membership at Surfers Paradise SLSC in 1964, Northcliffe SLSC in 2002, and every SLSA service award from 25 to 70 years.

Joining the South Coast Branch in 1953, Claude has served in various roles, including Examiner, Official, Superintendent, Officer, District Supervisor, and Delegate. From 1999 to 2023, he was the longest-serving Councillor for the QLD South Coast Branch.

For 40 years, Claude was a quiet achiever behind the scenes as a Gear Steward and Official at state-run competitions. His outstanding service at the state level earned him Life Membership of SLSQ in 2021.

Claude also played a pivotal role in pioneering and implementing the groundbreaking mouth-to-mouth resuscitation method. In 1958, the Queensland state center held its first meeting of the Resuscitation Committee, which conducted crucial research into resuscitation methods for the apparently drowned.

From 1958 to 1960, Claude was part of the Queensland Resuscitation Committee, alongside prominent lifesavers, that pioneered “Mouth to Mouth, Expired Air Resuscitation” (EAR). On 13 December 1959, Claude demonstrated the first public display of EAR on ABC Channel 2 Brisbane, which was later endorsed globally.

Claude was deeply involved in rolling out this new method, retraining all active surf lifesavers in EAR. His contributions to this pioneering work are a testament to his lasting impact on surf lifesaving.

Surf Life Saving Australia proudly recognizes Claude Jeanneret OAM as its 312th Life Member for his remarkable and sustained service.

VALE - SLSA LIFE MEMBERS

LINDSAY PATON OAM

Mona Vale SLSC, NSW - SLSA Life Member #153

Lindsay became a member of the Surf Life Saving Association in 1948 when he joined Mona Vale SLSC. He held various positions within the club including Treasurer and President. Mona Vale SLSC recognised Lindsay for achieving 60 years of service by naming a surfboat after him and he received his SLSA 70 Year Long Service Award in 2019.

Lindsay has an outstanding record of service within the Manly Warringah / Sydney Northern Beaches Branch. He undertook numerous roles including Gear Steward and was also a member of the Gear Improvement Committee. During this time, and prior to the use of IRBs at competitions, he improved and innovated new ways to lay and store buoys and anchors in surf boats. Over the years, he was a member of the Gear Inspection Committee, Meritorious Awards Committee, Competition Committee and the Board of Examiners Registrar.

He was the first Hon Assistant Secretary of the branch following the break away from Sydney Branch in 1960. He held the positions of Board of Examiners Hon. Secretary and Hon. Superintendent. Lindsay also served as the Branch Treasurer and Secretary.

Lindsay was an Examiner and Competition Official for over 50 years where he concentrated on the R&R and March Past events. He was a well-known and very highly respected Senior Official. Lindsay refereed many local carnivals and was appointed to numerous senior positions at Branch, State and National Championships.

Lindsay was awarded Life Membership of Mona Vale SLSC in 1961, Sydney Northern Beaches Branch in 1974, SLSNSW in 1980 and SLSA in 1982. Lindsay was the Manly Warringah Life Saver of the Year in 1982. He was awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2000 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia OAM in 2007.

RICHIE LYTHAM OAM

Collaroy SLSC, NSW - SLSA Life Member #261

Richie first became involved in Surf Life Saving as a member of Collaroy SLSC in the 1983/84 season, obtaining his Bronze Medallion shortly afterwards.

Within two seasons he was on the Club Premises Committee, a position he held for nine seasons.

It was the start of many achievements at his beloved club that included stints on several committees, Touring Manager, a term as President (199396), and most notably, six years as organiser for the Collaroy Masters Event; later to become East Coast Masters.

For his efforts he was awarded Life Membership at Collaroy in 2008.

At a Branch Level he became heavily involved, serving four years as Sydney Northern Beaches President among many other positions.

In the 1999/2000 season he was elevated to Branch Life Membership.

Richie also made an incredible and sustained contribution at both State and National level.

For Surf Life Saving NSW he served as a Deputy President, spent a decade as a Surf Sports Adviser, was a member of multiple committees, including a stint chairing the Life Members Review Committee, and was an accredited official for 25 years.

He was also the co-founder of Dad’s Army, a wonderful group of retirees who do so much for surf sport in NSW maintaining gear and equipment among many other thankless tasks.

While he stepped away in 2018, his contribution and legacy lives on through the current Dad’s Army members.

Some of his achievements at an Australian level included five years as a boat referee at The Aussies, and a member of the Life Membership and Honours Committee.

Richie was awarded SLSA Life Membership in 2010 and in 2012 was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia.

KEVIN WELDON AM GKN

Pacific SLSC, QLD – SLSA Life Member #236

Kevin joined the Surf Life Saving movement at 15 years of age, joining Pacific Surf Life Saving Club in Queensland as a cadet, rising rapidly through the ranks with roles including Vice-Captain, Club Captain, Chief Instructor and Club President.

Kevin then progressed to share his talent and knowledge at a State and National level, earning Life Membership of Surf Life Saving Australia for his dedication to surf lifesaving in key areas including administration, fund raising and innovation through technology.

Kevin was part of the team that introduced the rescue tube into surf lifesaving and pioneered the use of drones in beach operations as Founder and Executive Chairman of The Ripper Group. Since its inception in 2016, the Little Ripper Lifesaver drone has become a world-renowned search and rescue device. The use of drones has enabled lifesavers to cover an extended area for both surveillance and search missions. The Little Ripper Lifesaver performed the world’s first surf rescue using a drone off the coast of Lennox Head in 2018.

Kevin is also a Fellow of Surf Life Saving and received his life membership in 2003/04. He was recognised by the Australian Government for his service to lifesaving and appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). Kevin’s work and influence extended into the international realm where he was elected President of World Live Saving (WLS) and was instrumental in the formation of the International Life Saving Federation (ILS), becoming the inaugural President in 1993. For services to international lifesaving, he became a Grand Knight in the Order of Lifesaving and inducted into the ILS Hall of Fame.

STATISTICAL SUMMARIES

MEMBERSHIP

198,916 MEMBERS 8.99% INCREASE IN PATROLLING SURF LIFE SAVERS

2022/23 SEASON

2023/24 SEASON

MEMEBERSHIP TOTAL

CLUBS & SUPPORT OPS

5,274 SLS RESCUES

661,831 PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PERFORMED BY SURF LIFESAVERS

25,262 FIRST AID TREATMENTS ADMINISTERED BY SURF LIFESAVERS

1,462,533

HOURS

CLUBS, SUPPORT OPS AND LIFEGUARDS

8,857 RESCUES

2,482,013 PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS PERFORMED

49,331 FIRST AID TREATMENTS

GEAR & EQUIPMENT

ACCREDITATION

SERVICE AWARDS

5

AWARDS & QUALIFICATION

Lifesaver Awards

Contribute to team effectiveness BSBFLM312

Training and Assessing

SLS LEADERSHIP

SURF LIFE SAVING ENTITIES

SURF LIFE SAVING ENTITIES

NATIONAL

11 NATIONAL, STATE AND TERRITORY CENTRE, SLSA SUBSIDIARIES

315 Clubs

17 Branches

80 Support Operations Groups & 7 VRM'S

76 Australian Lifeguard Service Operations

506 Surf Life Saving Entities/Groups

NEW SOUTH WALES

129 Clubs

Austinmer SLSC

Avalon Beach SLSC

Avoca Beach SLSC

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC

Batemans Bay SLSC

Bellambi SLSC

Bellinger Valley-North Beach SLSC

Bermagui SLSC

Bilgola Beach SLSC

Birubi Point SLSC

Black Head SLSC

Bondi SBLSC

Bronte SLSC

Broulee Surfers SLSC

Brunswick SLSC

Bulli SLSC

Bungan Beach SLSC

Burning Palms SLSC

Byron Bay SLSC

Cabarita Beach SLSC

Camden Haven SLSC

Cape Hawke SLSC

Catherine Hill Bay SLSC

Caves Beach SLSC

Clovelly SLSC

Coalcliff SLSC

Coffs Harbour SLSC

Coledale SLSC

Collaroy SLSC

Coogee (NSW) SLSC

Cooks Hill SLSC

Copacabana SLSC

Corrimal SLSC

Cronulla SLSC

Crowdy Head SLSC

Cudgen Headland SLSC

Dee Why SLSC

Dixon Park SLSC

Elouera SLSC

Era SLSC

Evans Head/Casino SLSC

Fairy Meadow SLSC

Fingal Beach SLSC

Fingal Rovers SLSC

Forster SLSC

Freshwater SLSC

Garie SLSC

Gerringong SLSC

Hat Head SLSC

Helensburgh Stanwell Park SLSC

Kempsey Crescent Head SLSC

Kiama Downs SLSC

Kiama SLSC

Killcare SLSC

Lennox Head Alstonville SLSC

Long Reef SLSC

Macksville-Scotts Head SLSC

MacMasters SLSC

Manly LSC

Maroubra SLSC

Merewether SLSC

Minnie Water Wooli SLSC

Mollymook SLSC

Mona Vale SLSC

Moruya SLSC

Nambucca Heads SLSC

Narooma SLSC

Narrabeen SLSC

Newcastle SLSC

Newport SLSC

Nobbys (NSW) SLSC

North Avoca SLSC

North Bondi SLSC

North Cronulla SLSC

North Curl Curl SLSC

North Entrance SLSC

North Narrabeen SLSC

North Palm Beach SLSC

North Steyne SLSC

North Wollongong SLSC

Nowra Culburra SLSC

Ocean Beach SLSC

Pacific Palms SLSC

Palm Beach (NSW) SLSC

Pambula SLSC

Port Kembla (NSW) SLSC

Port Macquarie SLSC

Queenscliff SLSC

Red Rock Corindi SLSC

Redhead SLSC

Salt SLSC

Sandon Point SLSC

Sawtell SLSC

Scarborough Wombarra SLSC

Shellharbour SLSC

Shelly Beach SLSC

Shoalhaven Heads SLSC

Soldiers Beach SLSC

South Curl Curl SLSC

South Maroubra SLSC

South Narrabeen SLSC

South West Rocks SLSC

Stockton SLSC

Sussex Inlet SLSC

Swansea Belmont SLSC

Tacking Point SLSC

Tamarama SLSC

Taree Old Bar SLSC

Tathra SLSC

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest SLSC

Terrigal SLSC

The Entrance SLSC

The Lakes SLSC

Thirroul SLSC

Toowoon Bay SLSC

Towradgi SLSC

Umina SLSC

Urunga SLSC

Wamberal SLSC

Wanda SLSC

Warilla Barrack Point SLSC

Warriewood SLSC

Wauchope Bonny Hills SLSC

Whale Beach SLSC

Windang SLSC

Wollongong City SLSC

Woolgoolga SLSC

Woonona SLSC

Yamba SLSC

11 Branches

Central Coast Branch

Far North Coast Branch

Far South Coast Branch

Hunter Branch

Illawarra Branch

Lower North Coast Branch

Mid North Coast Branch

North Coast Branch

South Coast Branch

Sydney Branch

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch

29 Support Operations Groups

Central Coast Branch Duty Officers

Central Coast Branch RWC Group

Far North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Far North Coast Branch RWC

Far South Coast Branch Duty Officers

Far South Coast Branch RWC

Hunter Branch RWC

Hunter Branch Duty Officers

Illawarra Branch Duty Officers

Illawarra Branch RWC Team

Lower North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Lower North Coast RWC

Mid North Coast Branch Duty Officers

Mid North Coast Branch RWC

North Coast Branch Duty Officers

North Coast Branch RWC

South Coast Branch Duty Officers

South Coast Branch RWC

Surf Life Saving NSW State Duty Officers

Surf Life Saving NSW SurfCom Team

Surf Rescue 30

Surf Rescue 40

Surf Rescue 50

Sydney Branch - Duty Officers

Sydney Branch - RWC service

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Duty Officers

Sydney Northern Beaches Branch RWC Service

Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service (Life Saver 21)

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service (Lifesaver 23)

18 Australian Lifeguard Services

Ballina Shire Council

Bega Valley Shire Council

Bellingen Shire Council

Byron Shire Council

Clarence Valley Council

Kempsey Shire Council

Magenta Shores

Mid Coast Council

Munmorah Conservation Area

Nambucca Shire Council

Northern Beaches Council

Port Macquarie - Hastings Council

Port Stephens Council

Richmond Valley Council

Royal National Park

Shoalhaven City Council

Tweed Coast Holiday Parks

Tweed Shire Council

88 UAV Services

Avoca Beach SLSC

Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore SLSC

Batemans Bay SLSC

Birubi Point SLSC

Black Head SLSC

Broulee Surfers SLSC

Brunswick SLSC

Byron Bay SLSC

Cabarita Beach SLSC

Cape Hawke SLSC

Catherine Hill Bay SLSC

Coledale SLSC

Cudgen Headland SLSC

Evans Head/Casino SLSC

Fingal Beach SLSC

Fingal Rovers SLSC

Forster SLSC

Garie SLSC

Gerringong SLSC

Helensburgh Stanwell Park SLSC

Kempsey Crescent Head SLSC

Kiama SLSC

Lennox Head Alstonville SLSC

Macksville-Scotts Head SLSC

Maroubra SLSC

Mollymook SLSC

Narooma SLSC

Nobbys (NSW) SLSC

North Entrance SLSC

Nowra Culburra SLSC

Ocean Beach SLSC

Palm Beach (NSW) SLSC

Pambula SLSC

Redhead SLSC

Salt SLSC

Sawtell SLSC

Sharpes Beach (Ballina)

Shellharbour SLSC

Shelly Beach (Ballina Shire)

South Narrabeen SLSC

South West Rocks SLSC

Tacking Point SLSC

Tamarama SLSC

Tathra SLSC

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest SLSC

Town Beach (Port Macquarie)

Urunga SLSC

Wanda SLSC

Yamba SLSC

Central Coast (Duty Officer)

Central Coast (Duty Officer)

Dee Why UAV (DPI)

Far North Coast (Duty Officer)

Far North Coast (Duty Officer)

Far North Coast (Duty Officer)

Far North Coast (Duty Officer)

Far North Coast (UAV Supervisor Vehicle)

Far South Coast (Duty Officer)

Far South Coast (Duty Officer)

Hunter (Duty Officer)

Hunter (Duty Officer)

Hunter/Central Coast (UAV Supervisor Vehicle)

Illawarra (Duty Officer)

Illawarra (Duty Officer)

Illawarra (Duty Officer)

Lower North Coast (Duty Officer)

Mid North Coast (Duty Officer)

Mid North Coast (Duty Officer)

Mid North Coast ALS Supervisor

Mid North Coast/Lower North Coast (UAV Supervisor Vehicle)

North Coast (Duty Officer)

North Coast (UAV Supervisor Vehicle)

South Coast (Duty Officer)

South Coast (Duty Officer)

Sydney (Duty Officer)

Sydney (Duty Officer)

Sydney (Duty Officer)

Sydney (Duty Officer)

Sydney Northern Beaches (Duty Officer)

Sydney Northern Beaches (Duty Officer)

Sydney Northern Beaches (Duty Officer)

UAV 11 (FNC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 12 (NC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 13 (MNC/LNC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 14 (HUN/CC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 15 (ILL/SC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 16 (FSC UAV Supervisor)

UAV 17 (SNB/SYD UAV Supervisor)

QUEENSLAND

58 CLUBS, 6 BRANCHES, 12 SUPPORT OPERATIONS GROUPS, 18 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES, 4 UAV SERVICES

58

Clubs

Agnes Water SLSC

Alexandra Headland SLSC

Arcadian SLSC

Ayr SLSC

Bribie Island SLSC

Broadbeach SLSC

Bundaberg SLSC

Bilinga SLSC

Burleigh Heads Mowbray Park SLSC

Cairns SLSC

Forrest Beach SLSC

Etty Bay SLSC

Coochiemudlo Island SLSC

Coolangatta SLSC

Coolum Beach SLSC

Currumbin SLSC

Dicky Beach SLSC

Emu Park SLSC

Eimeo SLSC

Elliott Heads SLSC

Ellis Beach SLSC

Hervey Bay SLSC

Kawana Waters SLSC

Kirra SLSC

Kurrawa SLSC

Mackay SLSC

Marcoola SLSC

VICTORIA

Maroochydore SLSC

Mermaid Beach SLSC

Metropolitan Caloundra SLSC

Miami Beach SLSC

Mission Beach SLSC

Mooloolaba SLSC

Moore Park SLSC

Mudjimba SLSC

Nobbys Beach SLSC

Noosa Heads SLSC

North Burleigh SLSC

North Kirra SLSC

Northcliffe SLSC

Pacific SLSC

Palm Beach QLD SLSC

Peregian SLSC

Point Lookout SLSC

Port Douglas SLSC

Rainbow Bay SLSC

Rainbow Beach SLSC

Redcliffe Peninsula SLSC

Sarina SLSC

Southport (Qld) SLSC

Sunshine Beach SLSC

Surfers Paradise SLSC

Tallebudgera SLSC

Tannum Sands SLSC

Townsville Picnic Bay SLSC

Tugun SLSC

Tweed Heads Coolangatta SLSC

Yeppoon SLSC

6 Branches

North Barrier Branch

North Queensland Branch

Point Danger Branch

South Coast Branch

Wide Bay Capricorn Branch

Sunshine Coast Branch

12 Support Operations

Brisbane Lifesaving Service -

Dawn and Dusk Patrols - Gold Coast

Emergency Response GroupsStatewide

Gold Coast Duty Officers

Operational

SLSQ RWC - Gold Coast

SLSQ RWC - Sunshine Coast

SLSQ RWC - Wide Bay Capricorn

State Operations Centre Gold Coast

Sunshine Coast Duty Officers

Sunshine Coast Surfcom

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter

Service - Gold Coast

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue

Helicopter Service - Sunshine Coast

Bundaberg Regional Council

Cairns Regional Council

57 CLUBS, 20 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES, 13 SUPPORT OPERATIONS, 3 UAV SERVICES

57 Clubs

Altona LSC

Anglesea SLSC

Apollo Bay SLSC

Aspendale LSC

Bancoora SLSC

Barwon Heads Thirteenth Beach SLSC

Beaumaris LSC

Black Rock LSC

Bonbeach LSC

Brighton LSC

Cape Paterson SLSC

Carrum SLSC

Chelsea Longbeach SLSC

Dromana Bay LSC

Edithvale LSC

Elwood LSC

Fairhaven SLSC

Frankston LSC

Gunnamatta SLSC

Half Moon Bay SLSC

Hampton LSC

Inverloch SLSC

Jan Juc SLSC

Kennett River SLSC

Lorne SLSC

Mallacoota SLSC

Mentone LSC

Mildura LSC

Mordialloc LSC

MorningtonLSC

Mount Martha LSC

Ocean Grove SLSC

Point Leo SLSC

Point Lonsdale SLSC

Port Campbell SLSC

Port Fairy LSC

Port Melbourne LSC

Portland SLSC

Portsea SLSC

Rosebud & McCrae LSC

Sandridge LSC

Cassowary Coast Regional Council

Douglas Shire Council

Fraser Coast Regional Council

Gladstone Regional Council

Gold Coast City Council

Gympie Regional Council

Livingstone Shire Council

Mackay Regional Council

Moreton Bay Regional Council

Non-Local Government Areas

Noosa Council

Redland City Council

Southbank Corporation

Sunshine Coast Council

Townsville City Council

Whitsunday Regional Council

10 UAV Services

Bribie Island SLSC

Ellis Beach SLSC

Emu Park SLSC

Etty Bay SLSC

Forrest Beach SLSC

Hervey Bay SLSC

Miami Beach SLSC

Nobbys Beach SLSC

Port Douglas SLSC

Tallebudgera SLSC

Sandringham LSC

Seaford LSC

Seaspray SLSC

SLS Lakes Entrance

Sorrento LSC

South Melbourne LSC

St Kilda LSC

Torquay SLSC

Venus Bay SLSC

Waratah Beach SLSC

Warrnambool SLSC

Williamstown Swimming and LSC

Wonthaggi LSC

Woodside Beach SLSC

Woolamai Beach SLSC

Wye River SLSC

13 Support Operations

Bass RWC Service

Geelong West RWC Service

Kingston RWC Service

LSV Comms

Marine Search & Rescue - Waratah

Beach

Peninsula RWC Service

Geelong East RWC Service

Port Phillip RWC Service

Gippsland RWC Service

Surf Coast East RWC Service

Surf Coast West RWC Service

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter - LS30

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter - LS31

Sunshine Coast Surfcom

SLSQ RWC - Wide Bay Capricorn

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service - Gold Coast

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service - Sunshine Coast

20 Australian Lifeguard Services

Borough of Queenscliffe (Geelong)

City of Greater Geelong

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

31 Clubs

Albany SLSC

Alkimos SLSC

Binningup SLSC

Broome SLSC

Busselton SLSC

Champion Bay SLSC

City of Bunbury SLSC

City of Perth SLSC

Coogee Beach (WA) SLSC

Cottesloe SLSC

Dalyellup Beach SLSC

Dampier SLSC

Denmark SLSC

Dongara-Denison SLSC

Esperance-Goldfields SLSC

Floreat SLSC

Fremantle SLSC

Geraldton SLSC

Mandurah SLSC

Margaret River SLSC

Mullaloo SLSC

North Cottesloe SLSC

Port Bouvard SLSC

Quinns Mindarie SLSC

Scarboro SLSC

Secret Harbour SLSC

Smiths Beach (WA) SLSC

Sorrento (WA) SLSC

Swanbourne Nedlands SLSC

Trigg Island SLSC

Yanchep SLSC

12 Support Operations

Abalone Patrol

Esperance-Goldfields Support Operations

Great Southern Support Operations

Kimberley Support Operations

Mid West Support Operations

North Metropolitan Support Operations

Peer Support Operations

SLSWA Drone Patrol

SLSWA Surfcom

South Metropolitan Support Operations

South West Support Operations

City of Port Phillip

City of Warrnambool

Colac Otway Shire

Corangamite

East Gippsland Shire

Frankston City Council

Glenelg Shire

Hobsons Bay

Mornington Peninsula Shire

Shire of Bass Coast

Shire of Moyne

South Gippsland Shire

Surf Coast Shire

Wellington Shire

Wyndham City Council

Barwon Coast (Land Manager)

Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks

Authority (Land Manager)

Parks Victoria (Land Manager)

3 UAV Services

Central Service - LSV Port Melbourne

East Service - Venus Bay SLSC

West Service - Lorne SLSC

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service

12 Australian Lifeguard Services

Binningup

City of Perth

Coogee Beach

Cottesloe

Esperance Goldfields

Floreat

Fremantle

Mullaloo

North Cottesloe

Port Bouvard

Quinns Mindarie

Scarboro

Secret Harbour

Swanbourne

Trigg Island 15 UAV Services

Bribie Island SLSC

City of Albany

City of Busselton

City of Joondalup

City of Rockingham

City of Wanneroo

Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Shire of Broome

Shire of Denmark

Town of Cambridge

Town of Cottesloe

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

22 CLUBS, 6 SUPPORT OPERATIONS GROUPS, 3 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES, 1 UAV SERVICES

22 Clubs

Aldinga Bay SLSC

Beachport SLSC

Brighton SLSC

Chiton Rocks SLSC

Christies Beach SLSC

Elizabeth LSC

Glenelg SLSC

Goolwa SLSC

Grange SLSC

Henley SLSC

TASMANIA

Moana SLSC

Normanville SLSC

North Haven SLSC

Port Elliot SLSC

Port Noarlunga SLSC

Robe SLSC

Seacliff SLSC

Semaphore SLSC

Somerton SLSC

South Port SLSC

West Beach SLSC

Whyalla SLSC

6 Support Operations

SLSSA Drone Program

SLSSA JRB Service

SLSSA RWC Service

SLSSA State Duty Officers

SLSSA Surfcom

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service

Australian Lifeguard Services

Alexandrina – Goolwa

Holdfast Bay - Glenelg

15 CLUBS, 4 SUPPORT OPERATIONS GROUPS, 2 AUSTRALIAN LIFEGUARD SERVICES, 7 MARINE RESCUE SERVICES

15 Clubs

Bicheno SLSC

Boat Harbour Beach SLSC

Bridport SLSC

Burnie SLSC

Carlton Park SLSC

Clifton Beach SLSC

Devonport SLSC

Kingston Beach SLSC

Launceston LSC

NORTHERN TERRITORY

3 Clubs

Darwin SLSC

Gove Peninsula SLSC

Penguin SLSC

Port Sorell SLSC

Raspins Beach SLSC

Scamander SLSC

Somerset SLSC

Ulverstone SLSC

4 Support Operations

Surf Life Saving Tas JRB Service

Surf Life Saving Tas RWC Service

Mindil Beach SLSC 4 Support Operations

SLSNT Support Operations

SLSNT RWC Service

SLSNT RHIB Service

SLSNT Westpac Offshore Rescue Boat

Surf Life Saving Tas Flood Rescue Service

Surf Life Saving Tas RPA

Australian Lifeguard Services

Southern Lifeguard and Community Program Service

Clifton Beach Lifeguard Service

7 Marine Rescue Services

Dodges Ferry Volunteer Marine Rescue

Water-cover services

1 UAV Services

SLSSA West Beach

Lifeguard Services City of Darwin City of Palmerston Litchfield

Freycinet Volunteer Marine Rescue

Kingborough Volunteer Marine Rescue

St Helens Volunteer Marine Rescue

Tamar Sea Rescue

Ulverstone Volunteer Marine Rescue

Wynyard Volunteer Marine Rescue

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Blackspot An area with a concentration of coastal/ocean incidents and a high probability/ risk of ongoing recurrence.

Coastal Describes the foreshore, seabed, coastal water and air space above a large body of water (harbour/bay/inlet), including areas up to 3nm offshore and of which the landward boundary is the line of mean high water, except where that line crosses a river/inlet, the landward boundary at that point shall be the point upstream that is calculated by multiplying the width of the river/inlet mouth by five (adopted from the Resource Management Amendment Act 1993 New Zealand).

Drowning The process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion/ immersion in liquid; outcomes are classified as death, morbidity, and no morbidity.

Drowning death Fatal drowning incident arising from the process of respiratory impairment as a result of submersion/immersion in liquid.

First aid Assessments and interventions that can be performed by a bystander (or by the victim) with minimal to no equipment.

Lifeguard An individual who undertakes patrols at a beach or another aquatic environment. He/ she is typically a salaried member, qualified in public safety and aquatic rescue.

Lifesaving service A coordinated group that exists to provide aquatic safety services to the public. This includes Surf Life Saving Clubs, Lifeguards, SurfCom, RWCs, RIBs, JRBs, ORBs, Rescue Helicopters and 4WD units.

Patrolled location A location supervised by a lifesaving service.

Preventative action Direct action taken to reduce or eliminate the probability of a specific rescue, first aid or other reportable incident from happening in the future.

Rescue The retrieval of a person in distress, delivering them to a place of safety and the application of first aid and basic life support as may be required

Resuscitation Prevention or restoration of life by establishing and maintaining a person’s airway, breathing and circulation.

Rip current A seaward flowing current of water moving through a surf zone.

Surfcom Surf Life Saving radio communications centre that assists in managing the communications of lifesaving operations and data collection.

Total service plan An assessment of current and future lifesaving resources, trends, national blackspots and coastal safety issues combined with evidence-based mitigation strategies to address these issues.

Common acronyms

ACNC Australian Charities and Not-For-Profit Commission

ACPSG SLSA Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines

AEMVF Australian Emergency Management Volunteer Forum

ALS Australian Lifeguard Service

ARC Australian Resuscitation Council

ASC Australian Sports Commission

CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

EMA Emergency Management Australia

EMG Executive Management Group

FACC Finance, Audit & Compliance Committee

HRS Helicopter Rescue Service

ILS International Life Saving Federation

IRB Inflatable Rescue Boat

JRB Jet Rescue Boat

RWC Rescue Water Craft (aka jet ski/Sea Doo)

SAR Search and Rescue operations

SIA Sport Integrity Australia

SLSA Surf Life Saving Australia

SLS Surf Life Saving

SLSC Surf Life Saving Club

SSV Side by Side Vehicle

Surf Life Saving Australia Ltd

Level 1, 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026 Australia

P.O. Box 7773, Bondi Beach, NSW 2026

Ph: +61 2 9215 8000 | Fax: +61 2 9215 8180 | Web: sls.com.au | Email: info@slsa.asn.au |

Limited additional copies of this annual report are available upon request from SLSA. This report is available online at sls.com.au/publications

HIGHLIGHTS