Volunteer surf lifesavers were at the heart of it all as the spotlight agency at the Sydney Roosters’ 3rd Annual Emergency Services Match at Allianz Stadium on 23 August – the stadium a sea of red and yellow as everything Surf Life Saving was celebrated.
A fixture many have come to look forward to, the annual match brings the rugby league community together to recognise and thank NSW’s emergency services community.
All eight official NSW emergency service agencies were represented, with a major precinct activation on Driver Avenue featuring vehicles, equipment, displays and activities for fans.
Each year one agency is given the spotlight, with Surf Life Saving NSW being recognised in 2026. It proved a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible work of 86,000 members across the state.
“This is a very special fixture on the calendar every year and we we’re extremely proud to be given the opportunity to highlight the efforts of our dedicated volunteer membership,” SLSNSW CEO, Steve Pearce said.
“There was so much appreciation around the stadium for what our volunteers do, and we are very grateful for the platform the Roosters provide our emergency services through this match.”
Among the many highlights of the day included the half time show, which saw all elements of Surf Life Saving recognised and celebrated – lifeguards, drone pilots, flood rescue personnel, Nippers, and the volunteer lifesavers themselves were all showcased in an extravaganza of colour and joy – culminating in a Nipper race that saw the whole stadium rise to their feet to cheer them on.
The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter also delivered the NRL match ball to NSW ironman, North Bondi SLSC volunteer, and Coogee shark incident hero, Charlie Verco.
This ultimately marked a poignant moment in the day – an impromptu standing ovation from the crowd when the stadium announcer read out who he was giving goosebumps to all who watched on.
“Surf Life Saving fosters a love for the ocean in so many people, I’m so grateful to be a part of it,” Charlie said.
The 2026/27 season is just under a month away, with flags to be raised at beaches all over NSW on 26 September. Your local surf club is recruiting now – click here to find out more about how you can make a difference in your community.
Thursday 27 August 2026