Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine
Can you describe your role as State Lifesaving Officer in a few sentences? As the State Lifesaving Officer and Chair of the Research Panel for Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ), I help guide strategic direction and evidence- based decision-making for patrol operations across the state. My role involves collaborating with members, volunteers, staff, and national committees to ensure our lifesaving services are safe, effective, and future-focused.
I’m honoured to be the first female State Lifesaving Officer for SLSQ. What’s one initiative you’re most proud of? I’m proud of the new Strategic Priorities document. It represents a bold, forward-thinking vision for lifesaving in Queensland, created through collaboration across the entire LSC portfolio. It reflects values I believe in — inclusion, innovation, collaboration and evidence-based decision- making — and gives me confidence we’re building a resilient, adaptive and inclusive lifesaving culture. What are the biggest challenges facing patrol operations, and how is the committee addressing them? One of the biggest challenges is balancing volunteer capacity with increasing cost-of-living pressures, public demand, and environmental risks such as extreme weather and coastal hazards. These pressures make it challenging to maintain consistent, high-quality patrol coverage. We’re addressing this through improved data collection, targeted training, and supporting clubs with resources that help member retention and operational readiness. It’s complex, but grounded in collaboration and innovation. How do you see technology shaping the future of patrols? Technology is a game-changer. Drones improve surveillance and response times, e-bikes increase mobility across long beaches, and data systems help us track incidents and member engagement more effectively. These tools make lifesaving more proactive and efficient. What advice would you give to members wanting to get more involved in operational or leadership roles? Say yes to opportunities! Get involved in committees and seek mentors. Lifesaving is built on community and growth — there is always room for passionate members to step up. Looking back on your lifesaving journey, what moments stand out most? Patrolling with my dad and my three sisters is something I will always treasure. Dad passed away in 2023, and those patrols together are some of my favourite memories. They taught me teamwork, resilience and the true spirit of volunteerism. What do you enjoy most outside of this role? Mentoring members and watching them grow into confident leaders. It’s fulfilling to see someone take on new responsibilities or excel in their patrols. I also love the camaraderie — whether we’re meeting, patrolling or just catching up on the beach, there’s a strong sense of shared purpose. Are you more of a morning or afternoon patrol lifesaver — and why? Nothing beats a morning patrol! The calm before the crowds and the sense of starting the day with purpose — it’s unbeatable.
MEET OUR STATE OFFICERS
SAMANTHA FIEN State Lifesaving Officer
What motivated you to take on this position and represent lifesaving at a state level? I was born and raised into lifesaving — Dad was a Life Member of Rainbow Bay SLSC, Point Danger Branch, and SLSQ — so I’ve been involved since I was five, starting as a Nipper. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the impact our movement has on individuals and communities. I’ve proudly dedicated myself to Surf Life Saving, contributing over 780 patrol hours in frontline roles such as Patrol Captain (2010–current), Emergency Response Callout Team Member (2011–2018), and Peer Support Officer (2011–current). These experiences shaped my commitment to safety, wellbeing and community resilience. In leadership, I currently serve as Chair of the SLSQ Research Panel and as the National Wellbeing Advisor for Surf Life Saving Australia. I’ve held many roles including Deputy Director of Lifesaving (SLSQ), Director of Lifesaving for Point Danger Branch, Youth Development Officer, and Vice Club Captain at Rainbow Bay SLSC. I’ve also contributed to award panels at both the state and national levels since 2017. I hold qualifications including the Bronze Medallion, Senior First Aid, ART, and the Silver Medallion in Basic Beach Management. I’ve served as a Duty Officer and Trainer & Assessor, helped develop national water safety policy, and participated in leadership programs like SLSA’s National Leadership College and SLSQ’s YEP and LEP. Facilitation and mentoring have been central to my service. I’ve coordinated leadership programs, mentored emerging leaders, and regularly contributed as a guest speaker. I’ve also been recognised with awards including U18 Young Lifesaver of the Year (2011), a 10-Year National Patrol Service Award (2021) and a 5-Year Assessing Service Certificate (2017). Taking on this role felt like a natural progression — a way to give back, advocate for our members, and help shape the future of lifesaving in Queensland.
Surf Life Saving Queensland is shaped not only by the thousands of volunteers on the beach each weekend, but by the leaders working behind the scenes to support, guide and strengthen our movement. This season, we shine a spotlight on two of those leaders — State Lifesaving Officer Samantha Fien and State Membership Officer Kirsten Phillips. With decades of combined experience, both women bring deep passion, lived experience, and a clear commitment to supporting our members, elevating our standards, and building a vibrant, inclusive surf lifesaving community. Their stories reflect the heart of our organisation: service, leadership, and a shared belief in the power of people.
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