Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine
Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine
“ As U14s, they become leaders and role models within the Nipper arena, they’re also starting their SRC, stepping into their pathway as patrolling members. I felt there was a real need to prepare them - not just with skills, but with confidence.” A Program Built for Growth The camp’s schedule balanced core lifesaving foundations with challenges designed to stretch the group’s teamwork and decision-making. Across the weekend, participants took part in: • CPR and First Aid scenarios • Rescue Tube and board skills • Team-building games and creative activities • Beach-based challenges • Leadership opportunities for both U13s and U15s acting as junior mentors The program was shaped collaboratively by Fiona, the Development Officer for Youth & Membership, age managers, coaches, trainers, and education staff to ensure it supported SRC readiness while still being fun, engaging, and accessible. Stepping Up - and Thriving From the very beginning, the commitment of the U13s exceeded expectations. “The camp was very successful - we were blown away by their interest and knowledge,” Fiona says. “They stepped up to every challenge and were completely engaged.” One of the standout moments came during the First Aid scenarios. Despite the complexity - crocodile bite, asthma attack, bleeding wound, lost child - every group worked together calmly and confidently. “I thought it might be too challenging for them, but they proved us wrong. They handled it as a team.” Even the trainers were surprised by the level of focus during CPR sessions, describing the group’s engagement and teamwork as “amazing.”
• Positive Feedback Across the Board • The response from participants, parents, and volunteers has been overwhelmingly positive. • U13s called for an even longer camp next year. • Junior leaders felt they learned valuable skills and can’t wait for future SLSQ development opportunities. • Parents expressed how much their children enjoyed the weekend , praising both the learning and social experience. • Coaches and trainers were impressed by the group’s knowledge, attention span, and willingness to step outside their comfort zone. “They learnt how to play to each other’s strengths,” Fiona says. “Watching them give everyone a chance to lead was really memorable.” Why These Camps Matter With so much expected of U14s as they move into SRC training, Fiona believes development camps like this are vital. “It can be daunting. Trainers give them the skills and knowledge, but having the confidence to put that into practice as part of a team on patrol can be intimidating. These camps help bridge that gap.” By the time they left Mission Beach, the U13s were not only better prepared - they were excited for what comes next. Looking Ahead The success of the inaugural camp has already shaped future planning. The Branch has locked in a date for 2026, extending the duration in response to participant feedback. There are also early discussions about introducing a U10 workshop to support other key development transitions within the Nipper pathway. “We want to keep building these opportunities,” Fiona says. “If we can help our juniors feel ready, supported, and confident, then we’re setting them - and our clubs - up for success.” The first U13 Development Camp has already made its mark in North Queensland — not just by strengthening skills, but by igniting leadership potential in the next generation of lifesavers.
STANDOUT SUCCESS DEVELOPMENT CAMP A NQ BRANCH’S LIFESAVERS: FIRST U13 PREPARING TOMORROW’S
North Queensland’s future patrolling members took an important step forward this season, with the Branch delivering its first-ever U13 Development Camp - an overnight program designed to build confidence, capability, and leadership in the year before members begin their SRC journey. Hosted at Mission Beach SLSC , the camp brought together U13s from across the Branch for two days of hands-on learning, team building, and practical lifesaving skill development. For North Queensland Branch President Fiona Grant , who spearheaded the program, the goal was simple: prepare young members for the responsibilities that await them next season.
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