INSIGHTS FROM THE SLSQ 2025 CONFERENCE By Dr Elissa Farrow, Dr Samantha Fien and Cody Roth At this year’s SLSQ Conference, one message rang loud and clear, research isn’t just important, it’s essential. Under the banner “Why Research Matters - More Than Ever!!”, a panel of experts, practitioners and actual patrolling surf life savers and guards came together to explore how evidence-based insights are shaping the future of lifesaving in Queensland and beyond. Facilitated by Professor John Lowe, the session brought together Dr Samantha Fien, Cody Roth, Dr Elissa Farrow, for a practical discussion on the role of research in our movement. WHY RESEARCH MATTERS Professor John Lowe opened the session with a simple but profound question: Why does research matter? His answer was equally clear: because it helps us answer questions, address issues, and solve problems. Whether it’s understanding emerging risks on our beaches or improving the way we train and support our volunteers, research gives us the tools to make smarter, safer, and more strategic decisions. THE ROLE OF THE RESEARCH PANEL With the term of the Research Panel coming to a close, the SLSQ Research Panel plays an important role in ensuring that lifesaving in Queensland is underpinned by strong evidence and effective governance. Their responsibilities include: • Promoting and conducting relevant research • Enhancing the quality and impact of research outputs • Providing leadership and guidance across the organisation • Engaging with committees and panels to embed research into decision-making • Ensuring cohesion and accountability in research efforts
This isn’t research for research’s sake— it’s research with purpose, aligned to the real-world needs of clubs, members, and communities. ROUND TABLE DEEP DIVES The heart of the session was an interactive round table featuring three 10-minute live research deep dive presentations, each offering a unique lens on how research is driving change: Dr Elissa Farrow – Change Impact Analysis Using the Futures Wheel Dr Elissa Farrow’s session on change used the Futures Wheel to map out the ripple effects of decisions in lifesaving. Participants explored how a single change, like introducing new drone technology, can impact learning, member engagement, working instructions and long-term strategy. The futures wheel is a great workshop tool that encourages collaborative thinking and helped participants see change as a chance to lead with purpose, not just react. Six topics were explored by participants where they mapped out (within their 10 minute round) the first, second and third order consequences of change scenarios including: • The change in under 16 access to social media • A new supporters club or functions space • A larger gear shed • Change to skills maintenance programmes • New drones for clubs • The beach has significant erosion • Dr Farrow invited participants to consider a specific change scenario relevant to lifesaving operations. Through guided discussion, attendees identified: • Immediate impacts (e.g., training needs, role adjustments)
Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine
WHY RESEARCH MATTERS MORE THAN EVER
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