Surf Life Saving NSW’s 18-25 Program returned for the first time in more than a decade on November 28-30, with 19 participants from 10 Branches and even a member from across the Bass Strait networking with likeminded volunteers and enhancing their leadership skills.
While not expressly focussed on leadership, the program’s dynamic, hands-on nature supports personal and professional growth, which members can then take back to their clubs and use as a platform for their lifesaving journey and, potentially, to inspire the lifesaving journey of others.
Over three high-energy days, participants explored diverse pathways and formed lasting connections that transcend club and Branch borders, opening their eyes to the breadth of possibilities available to volunteers within the movement beyond traditional roles and awards.
Active sessions included a visit to the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter base at La Perouse, a swim at the iconic Bondi Beach and breathwork in Barangaroo.
“How great it was to see the strong networks forming between members right across the state – and the strengthening of this network places our clubs and state in strong hands,” SLSNSW Membership Manager, Claire Bevis said.
“SLSNSW has so many more pathways with the expansion into emergency management, first class sporting events and improving cultural leadership – it’s great to showcase this to this enthusiastic cohort.”
2025 PARTICIPANTS
Alice Coleman – Wollongong City SLSC
Anna Davidson – Long Reef SLSC
Annelise Turner – Tacking Point SLSC
Beau Henry – Copacabana SLSC
Callum Redrup – Wanda SLSC
Cooper Smeaton – Cape Hawke SLSC
Eloise Parker – Freshwater SLSC
Erin Domeny – Broulee Surfers SLSC
Iris Hobbins – Evans Head-Casino SLSC
Jack Paterson – Swansea Belmont SLSC
Jade Vlatkovic – Narooma SLSC
Jai Mollison – Tasmania
Kane Doull – Narooma SLSC
Logan Stewart – Fingal Beach SLSC
Mia Bolte – Shellharbour SLSC
Michael Griffiths – Batemans Bay SLSC
Olly Tucker – Ocean Beach SLSC
Oscar Trisley – Byron Bay SLSC
Rose Date – Ballina Lighthouse & Lismore SLSC
FACILITATORS
Shelley Smith – Lead
Andrew Edmunds ESM
Rohan Fisher
Jake McDonald
Friday 5 December 2025
