Almost 500 of the state’s Surf Life Saving leaders and emerging youth members came together to share ideas and build on existing skillsets over the weekend, with the bi-annual SLSNSW State Conference providing a platform for collaboration between individuals, clubs and Branches.
Many of NSW’s 129 surf clubs were represented at the conference in Sydney, where the challenges facing the membership were tackled in spirited and engaging workshop formats while key successes, upcoming initiatives and lived experiences were highlighted through presentations across the two days.
It all tracked back to the core theme of the event – how clubs can Strengthen and Consolidate their existing practices through member engagement, upskilling, responsibility sharing and future planning.
Those principles were echoed right throughout the presentations delivered by internal and external presenters; from the opening of the program, where Penrith Panthers coach, Ivan Cleary laid bare the ideas and values behind an historic four-peat of Championships in the NRL, to former Australian Diamond and netball royalty, Liz Ellis AO who closed it out with a humorous and, at times, raw take on leadership throughout her career.
“It’s been wonderful seeing so many people wanting to better themselves and their clubs through this Conference,” SLSNSW President, Elissa Hancock said.
“When members from all over the state come together and learn from each other, share ideas and collaborate, it’s just so great to see.”
Popular breakout sessions over the weekend included practical AI for clubs and how to approach using artificial intelligence in Surf Life Saving, a deep dive into what youth members value most and the key factors keeping them involved in the movement, and an exploration of community education and how clubs can make an impact beyond the beach.
“It’s so good to see everyone and get that burst of excitement heading into the new season,” 2025 NSW Surf Lifesaver of the Year and Fairy Meadow SLSC member, Michael Russo said.
“It’s definitely a good place to collaborate. A lot of the time we’re all battling the same battles or succeeding in the same successes, so it’s good to take on ideas from other clubs and make it work for you.”
Tuesday 28 July 2026