Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine • Secondary effects (e.g., shifts in member engagement, resource allocation) • Long-term consequences (e.g., cultural transformation, strategic realignment) The process encouraged collaborative thinking, critical reflection, and creative problem-solving. Members shared real-world experiences and surfaced insights that might otherwise remain hidden. Dr Samantha Fien – Drowning Prevention Dr Samantha Fien’s session on how we can reduce drowning looking at our data to map out the trends in drowning and what methods we should be looking at for prevention. Participants highlighted three major challenges: improving beach safety and public awareness, strengthening drowning prevention strategies through better data use, and expanding swimming education and access. Key findings emphasised the need to clarify beach flag meanings, tailor safety messaging for diverse demographics, and engage tourism stakeholders to bridge gaps in visitor knowledge. Data-driven approaches were recommended to show the impact of preventative measures and address risks outside flagged areas. Additionally, the long-term effects of COVID on school swim programs and the growing demand for open- water skills were noted, alongside calls for councils to maintain beach safety services. Proposed solutions included simplifying safety messages, improving signage, and incorporating non-fatal drowning data to raise awareness of broader risks. CODY ROTH – EXPLORING INDIVIDUALS’ MOTIVATIONS TO ENGAGE WITH SLS ROLES Cody’s session on motivation was structured around the Self-Determination Theory framework, which proposes that satisfaction and sustained engagement within professional and volunteer organisations are driven by three core psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Participants were asked to identify their own intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for undertaking particular roles, with the aim to think more deeply about the factors that influence their involvement. Cody then discussed the Self-Determination
Theory framework, and how identifying and analysing subjective data in a structured, objective manner can generate meaningful insights. When we looked at the responses, the strongest motivations participants mentioned were those connected to relatedness – the sense of connection to others. Themes that were highlighted include collective purpose / collective growth, and knowledge sharing / intergenerational connection. Next was autonomy – the ability to self-direct their role and responsibilities. Themes centred on fostering their identity within the organisation and value-driven personal growth. Lastly was competence – the learned or intuitive abilities to achieve a desired outcome. Themes identified related to teaching and leadership, and transferable lifelong skills. With these broad themes identified, individuals, clubs, branches and every other level can start to explore ways to foster these values so members are achieving and satisfying their needs. Each presentation was followed by lively discussion, with members encouraged to share their own experiences and insights. The bell signalled the end of each round, but the conversations continued well beyond. HOW YOUR CLUB CAN BE RESEARCH- DRIVEN So, what does this mean for you and your club? • Share your stories: If your club is involved in a project, trial, or initiative, • Use data to drive decisions: From patrol stats to member feedback, data can help you identify trends, measure impact, and plan for the future. • Stay curious: Ask questions, challenge assumptions, and look for ways to improve. Research starts with curiosity and every member has a role to play. let the Research Panel know. Your experience could inform broader strategies and spark new ideas.
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