Vale Kevin Stanford OAM

He was 88.

For seven decades Kevin Stanford significantly contributed to the movement with lifesaver, competitor, and official among some of his many achievements that he made over a lifetime on the beach.

His journey began at South Curl Curl SLSC, where as a 17-year-old he obtained his Bronze Medallion in 1947.

Over the coming years he would hold many leadership positions including Club Captain and Assistant Secretary, while also cutting his competition teeth as a respected member of the R&R, March Past and Senior Surf Boat Team.   

By 1977 he would become a founding member of North Entrance SLSC and a year later would sign on for duty at Shelly Beach.

He continued to excel as a competitor and in the many leadership positions he would hold at club level.

Surf Sports would continue to be a passion of his throughout his lifesaving career, and once he obtained the necessary qualifications he would go on to become a familiar and respected face at IRB, Pool, and Summer competitions.

Stanford would officiate a branch, state, national, and on the world stage in countries including Canada, Germany, The United Kingdom and New Zealand.  

While he could be found giving a helping hand wherever was needed it was arguably as an instructor and teacher that he would have the greatest impact.

Kevin achieved his instructor certificate in 1954 and would spend the next 60 years acting as a mentor and friend to aspiring lifesavers.

One of his greatest strengths was his willingness to always update his own knowledge and skills, never content to rest on his laurels.

It was this drive and determination that would lead him to accumulate an impressive 85 awards over his career.

A modest man the turn of the millennium brought many deserved honours.

In 2000 he was made a Life Member of the Central Coast Branch and the following season was included among those who had achieved the honour for NSW.

National recognition would follow in 2005 when he became an SLSA Life Member, and in 2008 he was awarded an OAM for Services to Surf Life Saving.

Last year he was honoured in front of the Central Coast lifesaving family with his 70 years of service certificate.

“Kevin Stanford made a significant contribution to lifesaving at all levels and was well respected not only on the Central Coast but all those who came into contact with him,” said Branch President Stuart Harvey.

“He was still officiating and educating others well into his 80s, and it was only health reasons that eventually forced him to slow down.

“Above all else he was an impressive individual, and I would like to extend our sincere sympathies to Kevin’s family and friends at this difficult time,” he said.

SLSNSW would also like to extend our sympathies to his family and friends.

A funeral service followed by a celebration of Kevin's life will be held on Monday June 4 at the Palmdale Hillside Chapel. The service will commence at 2:30pm

Vale Kevin Stanford OAM

Yours is a legacy that won’t be forgotten.

Monday 28 May 2018