Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine HOW DO YOU PERCEIVE THE INCREASING ROLE OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SURF LIFESAVING? Diversity and inclusivity are paramount to the continued success of surf lifesaving. Embracing a broader spectrum of volunteers not only enriches our community but also enhances our ability to serve the public effectively. Initiatives like the all-abilities events at the Aussies demonstrate our commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of background or ability. As our membership becomes I always say – the more colourful our membership, the brighter our future. more diverse, so does our capacity to fulfill our lifesaving mission and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
addressing emerging challenges such as climate change and evolving safety standards while staying true to our core mission of saving lives and promoting beach safety. By embracing innovation, fostering inclusivity, and empowering our Members, we can ensure that surf lifesaving remains a vital and resilient institution for generations to come. WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE BIGGEST THREATS OR CHALLENGES WE’RE GOING TO FACE? One of the foremost challenges that occupies much of our attention is the complexity and compliance inherent in our organisation. As a multifaceted beast that encompasses emergency services, training, sports, and community engagement, we must navigate a raft of regulations and protocols. My focus lies in simplifying processes and reducing the compliance burden for our Members, ensuring they can devote more time to what they love— keeping our beaches safe. This involves leveraging technology, such as mobile apps for easier assessments and patrol management, to streamline our operations without burdening our volunteers with unnecessary hurdles. For those of you that know me well, know that I am an ardent and passionate advocate of Federation. While the federated model is not the most efficient, it is the most effective for keep volunteers engaged, knowing that can influence the movement at the highest level. Our Federation gives us the power of numbers and a common purpose around the country. From Bundaberg to Bernie, from Bondi to Brighton and Broome, we all share a common sense of purpose and pride in our clubs and our mission. We share a common history, culture, and language. I can go on patrol in Queensland one weekend and then Victoria the next, and every Surf Club I walk into a feel like I’m home.
WHAT DO YOU ENVISION FOR THE FUTURE OF SURF LIFESAVING? Creating the best possible experience for our current and future Members is key. Beyond our primary role as an emergency service, we must recognise the importance of fostering enjoyable and fulfilling experiences for our volunteers. Whether it’s the camaraderie on patrols, the excitement of competition, or the sense of achievement in training, we strive to make every interaction memorable. Our goal is to ensure that volunteering with us remains rewarding and enriching, thereby retaining our members’ dedication and enthusiasm. I envision a future where surf lifesaving continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of our changing world. We must remain vigilant in
Surf lifesaving now thrives in over 500 locations around the country and Federation has served us well. We must guard it and nurture it, and always try to put the interest of the Federation and Federated outcomes for members first, before that of states’ rights, or just the personal inclination to do something different because we can.
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